Another Democratic Representative Switches To Republican Party

Florida State Representative Hillary Cassel announced her decision to leave the Democratic Party on Friday and join the Republican Party. Cassel, a Democrat-turned-Republican, marks the second state representative to make the jump in Florida following the 2024 elections.

Her switch strengthens the Republican supermajority in the Florida House of Representatives, now boasting two additional seats. Cassel, who represents parts of Broward County, cited a growing disconnect with the Democratic Party and a renewed commitment to aligning with her constituents’ values.

In a statement explaining her decision, she said, “Today, I am announcing my decision to change my party affiliation from Democrat to Republican. This decision was not made lightly but comes from a deep sense of responsibility to my constituents and my commitment to the values that guide my service. I will be joining the Republican Conference of the Florida House of Representatives because I believe in their vision for a better, more prosperous Florida.”

See statement below. pic.twitter.com/YJbqjpt8Kh

— Rep. Hillary Cassel (@RepCassel) December 27, 2024

She assumed office following her election in 2022, with her term set to conclude on November 3, 2026. During the 2022 election, Cassel secured 53% of the votes, prevailing over Republican challenger Guy Silla, who garnered 46% of the vote. Cassel is the second Democrat to take this step, following Rep. Susan Valdés from Tampa, who flipped earlier this month.

“As a mother, I want to help build a world where our children are judged on their character and their actions, not on their labels,” she wrote. “As a proud Jewish woman, I have been increasingly troubled by the Democratic Party’s failure to unequivocally support Israel and its willingness to tolerate extreme progressive voices that justify or condone acts of terrorism. I’m constantly troubled by the inability of the current Democratic Party to relate to everyday Floridians. I can no longer remain in a party that doesn’t represent my values.”

Florida Republicans, led by House Speaker Daniel Perez, welcomed Cassel to their ranks.

“I know I won’t always agree on every detail with every Republican, but I do know that I will always have input, collaboration, and respect,” Cassel wrote. “The House Republican Conference empowers members to find common sense solutions to real issues facing all Floridians. They welcome different ideas and collaboration, which is the cornerstone of effective government. Those are my values.”

Democrats have struggled to regain their footing after significant losses in the 2024 elections, with the GOP solidifying its dominance across the state, and nation. Cassel’s defection is yet another blow to a party that already faced challenges in connecting with Florida’s diverse electorate. Cassel concluded her statement with a reaffirmation of her dedication to public service: “I ran for office to make my community and this state better. I want my constituents to know my resolve to deliver on these promises has never been stronger. I know the best way to accomplish this is to join Speaker Perez and the Republican Conference in the Florida House of Representatives.”

The defection of two state representatives since the 2024 elections signals a growing trend of dissatisfaction among moderate Democrats in the state.

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