Ex-Democratic Lawmaker Recalls ‘Non-Negotiable’ Issue That Pushed Her To Join GOP

A series of officials and other high-profile figures have exited the Democratic Party in recent years, with many of them opting to realign with Republicans.

For one Florida lawmaker who falls into that category, she can trace the impetus back to one troubling factor plaguing her former party.

As the Daily Caller reported:

Republican Florida Rep. Hillary Cassel explained her decision Monday on Fox News to switch from the Democratic to the Republican Party.

During an appearance on “The Ingraham Angle,” Cassel discussed the moment she realized she doesn’t want to be a part of the Democratic Party anymore. Cassel, who is Jewish, pointed to experiences of anti-Semitism within her former party as a factor.

“It’s a moment that will live with me forever. You know, I joined the Democratic Party with the understanding that this was a big tent that allowed diverse ideas and beliefs,” Cassel said. “Shortly after October 7, we were on the floor of the House of Representatives arguing and debating a bill in support of Israel. And I was forced to debate a Democratic colleague who filed a resolution while we still have hostages there, but this was shortly after October 7. ”

The debate that took place was around a bill supporting Israel. During the debate, a resolution was filed by a Democratic colleague—a move Cassel found unsettling given the ongoing hostage crisis involving Israeli citizens.

Here’s Cassel’s official statement about the decision:

See statement below. pic.twitter.com/YJbqjpt8Kh

— Rep. Hillary Cassel (@RepCassel) December 27, 2024

If that post is difficult to read, here is a transcript:

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.

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. | can no longer
remain in a party that doesn’t represent my values.

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.

I ran for office to make my community and this state better. 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.

Other social media users similarly reacted to the news:

BREAKING: Florida State Rep. Hillary Cassel is switching parties from Democrat to Republican, increasing Republicans already supermajority in the state house.

LETS GO!!! 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/bgyXqjl7MC

— Ian Jaeger (@IanJaeger29) December 27, 2024

I would like to welcome Florida Democratic State Representative Hillary Cassel to the REPUBLICAN PARTY!!!

She is the second Democrat to switch parties!!! pic.twitter.com/rSR6b4vfJm

— snowflake.tears (@snowflaketearss) December 27, 2024

Representative Hillary Cassel has decided to switch from Democrat to Republican.

As a Jew, Cassel found it terrifying that her party allowed extremist voices to celebrate and call for terrorism against Jews.

This should be an alarming sign for the Democratic Party. pic.twitter.com/X2SOWqL0lB

— Hen Mazzig (@HenMazzig) December 27, 2024

President Donald Trump was among those who responded positively to her decision, per Fox News:

“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 exclaimed in a Truth Social post.

Cassel’s announcement came after fellow Florida state Rep. Susan Valdés announced earlier this month that she was switching her registration from Democrat to Republican.

While seeking office in 2022, Cassel described herself as a “proud Democrat,” “pro-choice champion,” and “faithful ally of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Here’s a clip of Cassel’s discussion during a recent Fox News Channel segment: