A Southwest Florida radio station has reported a major boost in its ratings after rebranding with a pro-America, pro-Trump focus.
Since March, the station has operated under the name “Trump Country,” with programming centered on conservative values and patriotism.
The rebrand included the launch of a new slogan, “Make Country Great Again,” and a lineup combining country music with political messaging.
🚨 BREAKING: A southwest Florida radio station rebranded to “TRUMP COUNTRY” radio – and their ratings immediately TRIPLED.
The outlet’s new slogan: “Make Country Great Again”
Ratings have tripled in the key demographic since March!
Programming includes satirical promotions… pic.twitter.com/rNfKXr1ZiG
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) September 16, 2025
According to station leaders, the format change has tripled ratings in key demographic groups.
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Programming features a mix of music and commentary along with promotional spots voiced by a Donald Trump impersonator.
In one example, listeners were offered a “trip to Mexico” aboard a “big, beautiful cruise ship,” with the catch that winners would be “deported back to Florida” at the end.
“You want to be deported? You’ve got to listen. That’s how it works. Legal listening only, folks,” the voiceover stated.
The station’s transformation was spearheaded by Jim Schwartzel, a conservative businessman who has also entered the race to succeed Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) in Congress.
Schwartzel said the decision to rebrand reflected an effort to meet the demand for programming aligned with the community’s values.
By emphasizing conservative themes and using branding directly tied to Trump, the station has distinguished itself from more generic radio outlets.
Executives credit the sharp increase in ratings to its direct appeal to audiences seeking content that prioritizes American pride and conservative viewpoints.
The move comes at a time when traditional media outlets continue to struggle with declining viewership and revenue.
By contrast, niche conservative media platforms have seen growth by tailoring their message to a defined audience.
Schwartzel has argued that the station’s success demonstrates a broader point about public demand.
While national media companies often pursue neutral or corporate branding, “Trump Country” has leaned into political identity as a way of building a loyal base of listeners.
The success of the rebranded station has been noted beyond Florida, with observers pointing to its growth as an example of how regional outlets can build an audience by aligning with cultural and political movements.
“Trump Country” continues to broadcast its mix of country music, satirical promotions, and America-first messaging across Southwest Florida, with leaders expressing confidence that the upward trend in ratings will continue.
Schwartzel’s dual role as both a media owner and congressional candidate has also drawn attention, particularly as he campaigns to represent the district currently held by Rep. Donalds.
His work at the station is likely to remain a central part of his pitch to voters as he seeks to transition from broadcasting to public office.
For now, the station’s rebrand has turned it into one of the fastest-rising outlets in the region, marking a notable shift in the Florida radio market.
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