Florida Democrat Captures GOP Stronghold Near Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Resort

Emily Gregory, a Democratic candidate, secured victory in a Florida state House special election Tuesday, taking control of a traditionally Republican district that includes President Trump's Mar-a-Lago property. The upset comes despite Trump's endorsement of Gregory's Republican opponent Jon Maples.

A Democratic candidate has successfully captured a Florida state House district that encompasses President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, marking a significant political shift in what has been considered Republican territory.

Emily Gregory secured the special election victory on Tuesday, defeating her Republican challenger Jon Maples, who had received backing from Trump himself.

The electoral outcome represents a notable reversal for the district, which had been solidly in Republican hands. In the 2024 general election, Republican Mike Caruso had claimed the seat with a commanding 19-point margin before stepping down to take the position of Palm Beach County clerk. Additionally, Trump had carried the same district by approximately 10 percentage points during the 2024 presidential race.

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