Florida State Representative Hillary Cassel, an attorney from Dania Beach, announced on Friday that she is leaving the Democratic Party and joining the Republican Party. This is the second time a Democrat in Florida’s House has switched parties since the November elections. This change strengthens the Republicans’ control of the state legislature, giving them 87 out of 120 seats.
In a post on X, Cassel explained that she supports the Republicans’ “vision for a better, more prosperous Florida” and expressed concerns about the Democratic Party, especially its position on Israel.
“As a mother, I want to help create a world where our children are judged by their character and actions, not by labels, Cassel wrote. As a proud Jewish woman, I’m troubled by the Democratic Party’s failure to fully support Israel and its acceptance of extreme progressive voices who justify terrorism.”
Cassel also criticized the Democratic Party for being disconnected from the everyday lives of Floridians and said it no longer aligns with her values. She expressed confidence in the Republican Party’s willingness to work together, even when they disagree.
Her announcement follows that of Tampa Representative Susan Valdes, who switched from Democrat to Republican earlier this month after losing a leadership race in the Hillsborough County Democratic Party. These defections have weakened the Florida Democratic Party, which struggled to gain ground in the November elections.
Republican leaders welcomed Cassel’s decision. House Speaker Daniel Perez and Republican Party of Florida Chairman Evan Power praised her, calling her a valuable addition to the GOP.
Democratic leaders sharply criticized Cassel’s switch. Representative Angie Nixon called it a “betrayal” of voters who elected her as a Democrat. Kristen Browde, president of the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus, accused Cassel of abandoning the principles she once supported, especially equality.
Cassel’s switch highlights the struggles Florida Democrats are facing, as they failed to weaken the Republican supermajority in the November elections. Cassel, who was a leader on property insurance issues, won reelection without opposition in District 101 in Broward County.
Her defection strengthens the Republican Party and raises questions about the Democratic Party’s ability to keep elected officials loyal. With Republicans already in control of the legislature, this move helps them push their agenda more easily. As Florida Democrats regroup, Cassel’s decision shows the widening divides within the party and the growing power of Republicans in the state.