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Democrat Emily Gregory flipped a Republican-held Florida state House seat Tuesday, defeating a candidate backed by Donald Trump in a district that includes his Mar-a-Lago estate.
Gregory’s victory over Republican Jon Maples in Palm Beach County will not alter the GOP’s supermajority in the state Legislature. But the upset is expected to energize Democrats after years of Republican dominance in the Florida.
The district, which includes Mar-a-Lago, had been considered safely Republican. In 2024, then-state Rep. Mike Carusowon the seat by nearly 20 percentage points.
Democrats capitalize on momentum
Gregory, a first-time candidate with a background in public and mental health who now runs a fitness center for postpartum mothers, campaigned on affordability and tax issues. Her campaign was bolstered by significant Democratic investment and organizing efforts.
The race grew increasingly contentious in its final days, with both parties exchanging attacks through mailers and text messages.
The victory continues a string of strong Democratic performances in recent special elections, even after Trump carried Florida comfortably in the 2024 presidential race.
“This victory reiterates an undeniable trend in Florida: With year-round organizing and infrastructure investment, Democrats can run and win anywhere — including Donald Trump’s backyard,” said Nikki Fried, the state’s Democratic Party Chair.
Trump’s role and voting controversy
State election records show Trump, along with Melania Trump and Barron Trump, voted by mail in the election.
The revelation comes as Trump has continued to criticize mail-in voting, calling it “mail-in cheating” during remarks Monday while promoting the GOP-backed SAVE America Act, which would impose new restrictions on voting procedures.
Other races across the state
Voters also decided other legislative contests Tuesday, including a state Senate race in the Tampa area.
Democrat Brian Nathan held a narrow lead over Republican Josie Tomkow, a former state representative who sought the seat after relocating to the district.
Tomkow’s departure from her House seat created another vacancy, which was filled Tuesday by Republican Hilary Holley.
The Senate seat had previously been held by Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, who was appointed last year by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
What it means
While the outcome does not shift control of the Legislature, the result highlights potential vulnerabilities for Republicans in suburban districts and could signal stronger Democratic engagement heading into future elections.
