Following Florida State Representative Hillary Cassel’s announcement that she was leaving the Democratic Party and registering as a Republican, Donald Trump has spoken out in support of her decision.
“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!” the president-elect wrote in a Truth Social post on Saturday.
“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,” he said. “THANK YOU HILLARY!” he added.
In her X statement announcing her departure, Cassel, who is Jewish, attributed the decision to “the Democratic Party’s failure to unequivocally support Israel and its willingness to tolerate extreme progressive voices that justify or condone acts of terrorism.”
Cassel added that she is “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.”
Despite Trump’s enthusiasm, reactions to her defection have been mixed, with many voicing their dismay on social media.
“This should be illegal. Another election should be held. When will politicians be held accountable for being liars?” an X user asked.
“After reading this statement, I find your move fraudulent, deceitful, and it should be illegal. You ran on Democrat principles. Your constituents elected you as a Democrat. You were funded as a Democrat. This decision should result in losing a term,” another added.
Earlier this month, Susan Valdés, a Tampa Rep., switched from Democrat to Republican.
“I’m tired of being the party of protesting when I got into politics to be part of the party of progress. I know that I won’t agree with my fellow Republican House members on every issue, but I know that in their caucus, I will be welcomed and treated with respect,” Valdes wrote on X at the time.
