BREAKING: Dem Florida state rep becomes second to switch to GOP ahead of 2025 session

Florida State Representative Hillary Cassel has become the second Democrat in the state legislature to switch to the GOP ahead of the 2025 session.  

Cassel posted in a statement on Friday, "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," she added. 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." 

“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 added.  

Cassel said that she will not “always agree on every detail with every Republican,” however, she saw the move as something necessary as the GOP in the state legislature “empowers members to find common sense solutions to real issues facing all Floridians.” 

She later added, “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.” 

House Speaker Perez posted in response, I am proud to share that Rep. Cassel has joined our House Republican Conference. Welcome to the team!"

This comes after State Representative Susan Valdes announced her switch to the GOP earlier this month. Valdes made similar comments about Perez, writing in an official statement, "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. That's what I want to be a part of."