There may be not party in the America that has been more defeated than Florida Democrats, and now it’s just gotten worse. In a suprise announcement, Florida State Representative Hillary Cassel revealed that she’s leaving the Democratic Party, citing dissatisfaction with its stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict and a broader disconnect from the concerns of everyday Floridians.
Elected in 2022, Cassel shared her decision in a public letter on X, declaring her intent to join the Republican Party.
See statement below. pic.twitter.com/YJbqjpt8Kh
— Rep. Hillary Cassel (@RepCassel) December 27, 2024
Cassel expressed frustration with what she sees as the Democratic Party’s failure to provide steadfast support for Israel and its growing tolerance for what she described as “extreme progressive voices” that downplay or justify acts of terrorism. Drawing on her Jewish heritage, she highlighted her deep personal connection to the issue.
“I’m constantly troubled by the inability of the Democratic Party to relate to everyday Floridians,” Cassel wrote. “I can no longer remain in a party that doesn’t represent my values.”
Her departure further solidifies the Republican supermajority in the Florida House, widening their advantage to 87-33 in the 120-seat chamber, reports The Washington Examiner. Republican House Speaker Daniel Perez welcomed Cassel with a public statement and a celebratory photo marking her transition.
Cassel’s decision follows a similar move by state Rep. Susan Valdes just weeks earlier. Valdes cited frustrations with the Democratic Party’s emphasis on protest over practical policymaking. Both representatives said the Republican Party encourages a more collaborative and solutions-oriented political culture.
While acknowledging potential policy disagreements with her new Republican colleagues, Cassel expressed optimism about her future within the GOP.
“The House Republican Conference empowers members to find common-sense solutions to real issues facing all Floridians,” she said. “They welcome different ideas and collaboration, which is the cornerstone of effective government. Those are my values.”
Cassel’s departure reflects a broader trend of political realignment in Florida, where Republican influence continues to grow. The Daily Caller noted that her district encompasses Dania Beach and parts of Broward County. She secured the seat in 2022 with 53 percent of the vote, defeating Republican challenger Guy Silla, who garnered 46 percent. Notably, the district shifted 16 points toward the GOP, moving from a 14-point advantage for Joe Biden in 2020 to a 2-point lead for Donald Trump in 2024, according to a tweet from @Uncrewed, a Substack writer focused on statewide elections.
[Read More: Two Fox News Stars Announce Engagement]
