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In a significant political shift, two Florida Democratic state lawmakers have recently switched their allegiance to the Republican Party, with one citing concerns over her former party’s stance on Israel.
State Representative Hillary Cassel, representing District 101 near Miami, revealed her decision to join the Republican Party through a social media announcement on Friday. Cassel, who has served since 2022 and secured an unopposed reelection, emphasized that her choice stemmed from careful consideration of her responsibilities to constituents.
BREAKING: Florida State Rep. Hillary Cassel is switching parties from Democrat to Republican, increasing Republicans already supermajority in the state house.
LETS GO!!! 🔥🔥
Why is Use Code: FREEBIE trending? pic.twitter.com/oNWh9S2Cfa
— ABC Gum is Good (@ABCGumisGood) December 27, 2024
“The 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,” Cassel said.
As a Jewish legislator, Cassel expressed growing concerns about the Democratic Party’s position on Israel, noting, “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.”
Earlier this month, State Representative Susan Valdés from District 64 in West Tampa made a similar move. She announced an immediate transition to the Republican Party, expressing enthusiasm about working with Republican House Speaker Daniel Perez.
“Effective immediately, I will change my registration from a Democrat to Republican and will join the Republican Conference in the Florida House of Representatives,” Valdés announced on X. “Our Speaker, Rep. Daniel Perez, has laid out a vision for the House that focuses on empowering House members to work on real problems facing our communities.”
Florida State Representative Hillary Cassel has announced she's switching party affiliation from Democrat to Republican.
This will now increase the Republican supermajority in the Florida House of Representatives. pic.twitter.com/SRyLaXBThT
— TEAM USA (@__TEAM_USA) December 28, 2024
Both representatives acknowledged that while they might not align with all Republican positions, they believe the party better represents their values and offers a more respectful environment for collaboration. Cassel mentioned her commitment to finding common-sense solutions, while Valdés emphasized her desire to actively address issues affecting West Tampa.
The party switches drew criticism from Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried, who expressed disappointment in both representatives’ decisions. Fried claimed that Valdés had misled her constituents and described Cassel’s party change as “deeply disappointing.”
