Florida State Representative Hillary Cassel announced on Friday that she is leaving the Democratic Party to join the Republican Party. Cassel’s switch makes her the second Florida state representative to change parties following the 2024 elections. Her move bolsters the Republican supermajority in the Florida House of Representatives, adding another seat to their ranks. Representing parts of Broward County, Cassel attributed her decision to a growing disconnect with the Democratic Party and a desire to better align with the values of her constituents.
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.”
Cassel assumed office after her election in 2022, with her term scheduled to end on November 3, 2026. In the 2022 election, Cassel won 53% of the vote, defeating Republican opponent Guy Silla, who received 46%. She follows Rep. Susan Valdés of Tampa, who also switched parties earlier this month, becoming the second Democrat to join the Republican Party in Florida.
“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,” Cassel 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.”
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.”