WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The recent electoral struggles for Florida Democrats have intensified with the announcement of a party switch by one of their members. State Representative Susan Valdés, who previously served on the school board and was re-elected as a Democrat in last month’s elections, revealed on social media that she is changing her party affiliation.

Valdés expressed her frustrations on X, stating that she is “tired of being the party of protesting.” Earlier this month, she sought to become the chair of her county’s Democratic executive committee. Although she won her latest election by a margin of nearly 5 percentage points, upcoming term limits will prevent her from seeking re-election.

Since 1999, the Republican Party has maintained control over the governor’s office and both legislative chambers. Valdés is now completing her final two years in office due to these term restrictions. The current composition of the House is heavily skewed, with Republicans holding an 86-34 majority.

In her statement about the party switch, Valdés remarked that she entered politics to be part of a progressive movement. She acknowledged that while she might not see eye-to-eye with all her new Republican colleagues on every issue, she feels that she will be welcomed and treated with respect within their ranks.

House Speaker Daniel Perez welcomed Valdés to the Republican caucus, reaffirming their current stronghold with a supermajority in the House. On the other hand, House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell expressed her surprise and disappointment regarding Valdés’ decision. In a statement on X, Driskell articulated her perspective, indicating it was unfortunate that Valdés seemed to prioritize her personal ambitions over the needs of her district.