Florida Representative Hillary Cassel’s switch from the Democratic to the Republican Party, with backing from Donald Trump, has ignited political discourse across Florida.
At a Glance
- Hillary Cassel changes her party affiliation from Democrat to Republican.
- Cassel cites misalignment with Democratic values as a reason for her switch.
- Donald Trump supports Cassel’s move and encourages others to follow suit.
- Florida Democratic Party expresses criticism over these political shifts.
Political Shifts in Florida
State Representative Hillary Cassel of Dania Beach, Florida, has changed her political allegiance, moving from the Democratic to the Republican Party. Cassel’s decision highlights ongoing shifts in Florida’s political landscape, following a similar action by Representative Susan Valdés. Cassel stated her decision stemmed from a growing misalignment with Democratic Party values and an alignment with the majority party as a means to better fulfill her promises.
House Speaker Daniel Perez expressed his enthusiasm for Cassel joining the Republican ranks, noting her intelligence and energy will aid in advancing policies that promote opportunity for Floridians. President-elect Donald Trump expressed public support, congratulating Cassel on social media and extending an invitation to other Democrats disenchanted with their party.
Congratulations to Hillary Cassel for becoming the second State Representative from the Great State of Florida to switch her Party affiliation from Democrat to Republican, once more expanding the GOP Supermajority in the State House! I would further like to invite other…
— Trump Posts on 𝕏 (@trump_repost) December 28, 2024
Cassel’s Motivations
Cassel, who represents House District 101, emphasized the district’s conservative shift in recent elections as one reason she chose to switch parties. She had previously been elected unopposed and continues to serve while aligning with the new political majority. Her concerns over the Democratic Party’s stance on issues like Israel and extreme progressive voices also influenced her decision.
Despite her switch, Cassel remains critical of certain Republican measures, such as the state’s insurance crisis approach. However, she expressed an appreciation for the Republican Party’s focus on collaboration and openness to diverse ideas, believing this change would better reflect her commitment to her constituents.
President-elect Donald Trump welcomed Florida State Representative Hillary Cassel to the Republican Party in a Saturday social media post. Trump’s Truth Social post was shared on X/Twitter one day after the Broward politician announced her departure from the Democrat Party.…
— RED BROWARD (@RedBroward) December 28, 2024
Democratic Reactions
Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried was vocal in her criticism of Cassel’s and Valdés’ decisions, calling it misleading to their constituents. Fried’s response signals the tension these party shifts have created within state politics. Meanwhile, House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell has yet to make public comments on the developments.
The Republican Party’s 87-33 supermajority in the Florida House grows stronger with such moves, potentially leading to more aligned thinking regarding the state’s future policies. Whether this trend will continue with more Democratic members remains to be seen, but Trump’s encouragement for others to join suggests it might not stop here.
Sources
1. Trump hails Florida Dem’s decision to ditch party, join GOP: ‘THANK YOU HILLARY!’
2. Another Democrat in the Florida House is joining the Republican Party. Here’s why.
