representative Florida. Hillary Cassel Goes Republican ‘For Israel’

A Florida state representative has left the Democratic Party to join the Republicans because of GOP power support for Israel.

Hillary Cassel announced on social media Friday that she is changing her party affiliation, citing her concerns about Democrats’ “failure to unequivocally support Israel” and what she described as the party’s disconnection from ordinary voters.

The move makes Cassel the second Florida Democrat this month to switch to the Republican Party, following Rep. Susan Valdés of Tampa.

It comes after MPs took part in a trip to Israel in June as part of first mission of South Florida legislators to Israelwhich was organized by the lobby group of the Jewish Federation.

“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,” Cassel wrote in a public statement.

I will join the Florida House Republican Conference because I believe in their vision for a better and more prosperous Florida,” she said.

Based on the initial reactions on social media to her decision to switch parties, she is already facing backlash.

“Ma’am, you were elected to represent your district, not Israel,” read one comment.

“You should not be allowed to continue without a new election. Your constituents did not vote for a Republican,” said another comment.

On X, Cassel shared an image of the Florida state legislature, depicting a sea of ​​red seats in what was once a purple state.

She pointed to her Jewish background as a key reason for switching parties, saying Democrats were too tolerant of extremism within their party. Although American Jews tend to favor the Democratic Party, many in Florida are Republican.

Describing herself as a “proud Jew,” she said: “I have become increasingly troubled by the failure of the Democratic Party to unequivocally support Israel and its willingness to tolerate extremely progressive voices that justify or condone acts of terrorism”.

“I am continually troubled by the inability of the current Democratic Party to relate to ordinary Floridians. I can no longer stay in a party that does not represent my values,” she added.