Democrat Emily Gregory won a special election in Florida on Tuesday, flipping a state legislative district that includes Mar-a-Lago, the Palm Beach estate of President Donald Trump.
A Shift in Florida Politics
The victory marks a significant moment for Democrats, who have seen a series of recent successes in special elections across the country since President Trump returned to the White House over a year ago. This particular win is notable as it occurred in a district President Trump carried by 17 percentage points in 2024.
President Trump endorsed Gregory’s rival, Jon Maples, urging voters to support him in a social media post. However, following the election results, Trump stated, “I’m not involved in that.”
Gregory, a first-time candidate and owner of a fitness company specializing in prenatal and postpartum care, expressed shock at her win, describing it as an “out-of-body experience.” She secured the seat with 51.2% of the vote, winning by 2.4 percentage points, or 797 votes.
The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee highlighted the win as the 29th seat Democrats have flipped from Republican control since President Trump took office. Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin stated that Trump’s “own neighbors just sent a crystal clear message: They are furious and ready for change.”
This election follows other recent Democratic successes in Florida, including Eileen Higgins’s victory in the Miami mayoral race in December, marking the first time a Democrat had held the position in nearly three decades. A similar trend was observed in Texas, where Democrat Taylor Rehmet flipped a reliably Republican state Senate district in January.
Notably, President Trump himself voted by mail in Tuesday’s election, despite his repeated public criticisms of the practice and calls to curtail it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted this special election?
The special election was triggered after Republican Mike Caruso vacated the seat to become Palm Beach County clerk, and comptroller.
What did Democrats say about the outcome?
Democrats celebrated the victory as a sign voters are turning against Trump and Republicans ahead of the midterm elections in November, and as evidence that Democrats can win in traditionally Republican areas.
How did President Trump respond to the loss?
President Trump distanced himself from the loss, stating, “I’m not involved in that,” despite having endorsed the Republican candidate.
As Democrats gain momentum in traditionally Republican strongholds, what impact might this have on the upcoming midterm elections?
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