Democrats have won a special election in Florida, flipping a state legislative seat in a district that includes President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence, in a symbolic setback for the Republican Party.
Emily Gregory, a small-business owner, defeated Republican candidate Jon Maples in a closely watched race for the Palm Beach-area district. The seat had previously been held by a Republican and was carried by Trump by 11 percentage points in the 2024 presidential election.
Gregory centred her campaign on cost-of-living pressures, including rising property insurance, healthcare affordability and public services, while her opponent ran on a platform strongly backed by Trump.
The result is likely to fuel Republican concerns ahead of November’s midterm elections, while giving Democrats momentum after a series of gains in recent off-year and special elections during Trump’s second term.
Republican Mike Caruso, who previously held the seat, vacated it in August after being appointed Palm Beach County clerk.
Speaking after her win, Gregory downplayed the influence of the president in the district. “I don’t think all of that much about it. He’s one of 115,000 registered voters in District 87,” she said.
“My opponent made him forefront in his campaign, and I focused more on the voters in District 87… what all of us will do better with lower property insurance, with expanded healthcare and with strong public schools.”
The race comes amid broader political headwinds for Republicans, with polling showing declining approval ratings for Trump nationally. The president’s approval stands at 41 per cent compared with 56 per cent disapproval, according to the RealClearPolitics average.
Rising petrol prices, driven by global energy market volatility linked to tensions involving Iran, have also added pressure on household budgets. In Florida, average fuel prices rose sharply in recent weeks, increasing voter concern over living costs.
Democratic National Committee chair Ken Martin said the result sent a wider message to Republicans.
“Donald Trump’s own neighbours in Florida just sent a message,” he wrote on X. “If Democrats can win in Trump’s backyard, we sure as hell can win anywhere across the country.”
The result is expected to intensify early political positioning ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, where control of Congress will be at stake.
via FT
