<TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — In an unexpected move, Florida's Senate Minority Leader announced his departure from the Democratic Party, claiming, "The Democratic Party in Florida is dead." Jason Pizzo, who revealed on the Senate floor Thursday that he is changing his registration to no party affiliation, added to the challenges facing a party struggling with its identity after enduring a string of significant electoral defeats in recent years.
Pizzo criticized modern partisanship as “a mess” and stressed the need for “practical leaders” over “political hacks.” Florida, once considered a pivotal swing state, has seen its political landscape shift drastically. The narrow margins that used to define presidential elections in the state no longer exist, as Republicans have gained considerable ground, especially in Miami-Dade County, a traditional Democratic stronghold. Registered Republicans in Florida exceed Democrats by over 1.2 million, reflecting this shift.
Speculation surrounds Pizzo as a possible candidate for governor in 2026, with current Republican Governor Ron DeSantis facing term limits. “Removing a party label from myself allows me to operate more openly and genuinely, and to support many more people,” Pizzo stated on Thursday.
In response to Pizzo’s announcement, Nikki Fried, chair of Florida’s Democratic Party, branded him “ineffective and unpopular.” Fried said, “Jason’s lack of support within our party for a gubernatorial bid has led to this final embarrassing outburst. While I’m not sad to see him leave, I do wish him well in the political wilderness he has chosen.”
Pizzo, with a background as a prosecutor and a representative of parts of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, is recognized for his articulate debating skills and willingness to critique both sides, despite holding a leadership position. His fellow Democrats in the Senate expressed surprise at his decision but noted that it aligns with his reputation as an “independent thinker.”
Sen. Shevrin Jones of the Democratic Party described the current situation as a time for refocusing. “I wouldn’t say we are dead. I will acknowledge that Democrats have substantial work ahead, and I won’t sugarcoat that,” Jones stated.
Despite the surprise, Republicans were informed of the news beforehand, with the office of Florida’s Republican Senate President Ben Albritton receiving notification Thursday morning.
Earlier this year, Pizzo had mentioned to the press that he had no plans to run for governor as an independent and welcomed the challenges within the Democratic framework. However, recent trends show a series of Democratic lawmakers defecting from their party, such as state Reps. Susan Valdés and Hillary Cassel, who joined the GOP. On Thursday, Valdés, embracing her new political affiliation, presided over a House session wearing red.