TALLAHASSEE, Florida — The trend of diminishing support for Florida Democrats continues as another lawmaker has declared her intention to leave the party and join the Republicans.
Representative Hillary Cassel announced her change of party affiliation on social media, expressing concerns that the Democratic Party has fallen out of sync with the voters it represents. She emphasized that aligning with the Republican Party would provide her with a better opportunity to pursue her legislative priorities.
Cassel shared her frustrations, stating, “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,” on her post on X.
A Jewish member, Cassel further criticized the Democrats for not showing unequivocal support for Israel, highlighting a key concern for many constituents in her district. She opted not to respond to requests for an interview on the matter.
Representing sections of Broward County, a region noted for its strong Democratic leanings, Cassel recently secured reelection without opposition, meaning she did not need to campaign actively.
Nikki Fried, the chair of the Florida Democratic Party, expressed disappointment over Cassel’s shift, stating, “Now is not the time to back down and walk away, it’s time for leadership and self-reflection.”
Cassel’s party switch follows a similar announcement by Rep. Susan Valdés from Tampa, who also cited dissatisfaction with the direction of the Democratic Party. Valdés, reelected as a Democrat in November, noted her frustration at feeling like the party was primarily focused on protests rather than policy.
With Cassel’s departure, Republicans will solidify their supermajority in the state House of Representatives, increasing their advantage to 87-33 over Democrats. Florida has undergone a significant shift to the political right these past few years, moving away from its past identity as a major battleground state.
Susan MacManus, a political science professor emeritus at the University of South Florida, commented on the implications of such party switches, suggesting it highlights the diminishing influence of Democrats in a state dominated by a Republican trifecta for over two decades. “Democrats weren’t able to secure breaking the supermajority. So what choice do they really have?” MacManus observed.
In summary, the changing political landscape in Florida continues to favor Republicans as they expand their control in both the legislature and state leadership, while discontent among Democrats raises questions about the future direction of the party.
