President-elect Donald Trump congratulated Florida state Representative Hillary Cassel after she announced her decision to leave the Democratic Party and join the GOP.
“Today, I am announcing my decision to change my party affiliation from Democrat to Republican,” Cassel said in her statement. “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.”
Trump celebrated the announcement and encouraged more Democrats to follow her lead.
“Congratulations to Hillary Cassel for becoming the second State Representative from the Great State of Florida to switch her Party affiliation from Democrat to Republican, once more expanding the GOP Supermajority in the State House! I would further like to invite other Disillusioned Democrats to switch Parties, and join us on this noble quest to Save our Country and Make America Great Again—GREATER THAN EVER BEFORE. THANK YOU HILLARY!” Trump posted on Truth Social.
Cassel’s switch comes shortly after Florida state Representative Susan Valdés also moved from the Democratic Party to the GOP earlier this month.
During her 2022 campaign, Cassel described herself as a “proud Democrat,” “pro-choice champion,” and “faithful ally of the LGBTQ+ community.” She also vowed to stand against “climate change deniers,” oppose the NRA, and fight for stricter gun control.
Now, however, Cassel says her values no longer align with the Democratic Party.
“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 said in her statement. “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.”
She emphasized that her new affiliation with the GOP reflects her commitment to respectful collaboration and practical solutions.
“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. 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.
