Representative Hilary Cassel of Boynton Beach will leave the Democratic Party and join the incoming House Republicans.
“Today, I am announcing my decision to change my party affiliation from Democratic to Republican,” Cassel said in a prepared statement.
“This decision was not made lightly and comes from a deep sense of responsibility to my constituents and my commitment to the values that guide my service. I join the Republican Conference in the Florida House of Representatives. Because I believe in the Republican vision for a better, more prosperous Florida.”
Earlier this month, Cassel wrote in a post on “This is the key to meeting those needs,” he added. ”
That seems to have been a foreshadowing of Cassel’s decision. But she also expressed concern about changes in the Democratic Party in recent years.
“As a mother, I want to help build a world where children are judged by their character and actions, not by labels,” Cassel continued.
“As a proud Jewish woman, I have become increasingly troubled by the Democratic Party’s inability to unequivocally support Israel and its willingness to tolerate ultra-progressive voices that justify or condone acts of terrorism. I am continually troubled by the current Democratic Party’s inability to relate to everyday life in Florida. I cannot remain in a party that does not represent my values.”
Mr. Cassel is the second Democrat to hold the seat, following Rep. Susan Valdez of Tampa.
“Our Speaker, Rep. Daniel Perez, has laid out a vision for the House of Representatives focused on empowering members to address real issues facing our communities,” said Valdez. wrote earlier this month while explaining his move. “That’s what I want to be a part of. I want to roll up my sleeves and go to work. I want to be a part of solving problems in West Tampa.”
Indeed, both shifts are major victories for Speaker Perez, who continues to grow his Republican majority after November’s election. Perez confirmed the move in a statement to lawmakers Friday obtained by Florida Politics.
“Today, Congresswoman Hillary Cassel will leave the Democratic Party and join the House Republican Conference. She will be an invaluable resource as we work together to improve the lives of all Floridians. We encourage you to contact Congresswoman Cassel and welcome her to our team, giving us a historic Republican supermajority of 87 members (73% of the House). ” Perez wrote.
“I hope you enjoy the rest of your vacation and get some rest. We have a lot to do together as we look towards 2025.”
Mr. Cassel concluded his remarks by looking ahead to the next fiscal year.
“We know we won’t always agree with every Republican on the details, but we know we will always have input, cooperation, and respect. I empower legislators to find common-sense solutions to real-world problems. They welcome different ideas and cooperation, which is the basis of effective government. Those are my values. ” Cassel said.
“I ran to make our communities and this state better. I want voters to know that my determination to deliver on these promises is stronger than ever. I know the way to go is to join Speaker Perez and the Republican conference in the Florida House of Representatives.”
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