Trump praises Florida Dem's defection to GOP: "THANK YOU HILLARY!"

Florida state Rep. Hillary Cassel was congratulated and thanked by President-elect Donald Trump after she announced her decision to leave the Democratic Party and join the GOP.

""I am announcing my decision to switch from Democrat to Republican and join the Republican Conference of the Florida House of Representatives because I believe in their vision for a better, more prosperous Florida," Cassel stated."

In a statement hailing the move, Trump urged more Democrats to defect.

Trump congratulated Hillary Cassel on becoming the second Florida state representative to switch from Democrat to Republican, thereby expanding the GOP supermajority in the state house. He invited other disillusioned Democrats to join them in their quest to save the country and make America great again. Trump thanked Cassel for her decision.

Florida state Rep. Susan Valdés announced earlier this month that she was switching her registration from Democrat to Republican, prompting Cassel to make a similar announcement.

In her bid for office in 2022, Cassel identified herself as a devoted Democrat, staunch advocate for reproductive rights, and steadfast supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.

She vowed to confront climate change deniers and fight for a ban on military-style assault rifles and high-capacity ammunition.

But now Cassel says the Democratic Party does not reflect her values.

As a mother, I want to help create a world where our children are evaluated based on their character and actions rather than their labels," she stated. "As a Jewish woman, I am deeply concerned about the Democratic Party's lack of clear support for Israel and its tolerance of extreme progressive voices that condone acts of terrorism. I am also troubled by the party's inability to connect with everyday Floridians. I can no longer remain a part of a party that does not align with my values.

"Although I may not always agree with every Republican on every detail, I am confident that I will always have a voice, collaboration, and respect. The House Republican Conference values input and empowers members to find common-sense solutions to the challenges facing all Floridians. They welcome diverse perspectives and collaboration, which is essential for effective governance. These are my beliefs," Cassel stated.