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Trump’s Home District Elects a Democratic Representative in Florida Special Election

March 26, 2026

SOURCE_URL::https://reason.com/2026/03/26/trumps-home-district-elects-a-democratic-representative-in-florida-special-election/||SOURCE_NAME::Hit & Run (“Governor” OR “Lieutenant Governor” OR “Attorney General” OR “Secretary of State” OR “State Treasurer” OR “State Auditor” OR “State Comptroller” OR “Comptroller” OR “Controller” OR “Commissioner of Ag)

Florida — A Democrat will now represent President Donald Trump’s backyard in the state House of Representatives after a high-profile Florida special election. Earlier this week, the Associated Press reported that Democratic candidate Emily Gregory won Florida’s 87th State House District, which is home to Mar-a-Lago, by approximately 2.4 percentage points, or 797 votes. The seat was left open when Republican Mike Caruso, the incumbent since 2022, stepped down to become Palm Beach County clerk of the Circuit Court and comptroller. Caruso won his 2024 election in the district by 19 percentage points, and the district went for Trump by 11 points in the 2024 presidential election.

Gregory, a first-time candidate, beat Republican Jon Maples, who had received Trump’s endorsement in the race back in January and again the day before the election. (He also voted for Maples by mail after calling for restrictions on mail-in voting.)

Gregory’s win was not the only Democratic victory in Florida. Brian Nathan, also a first-time candidate, won his special election against Republican state Rep. Josie Tomkow for a Hillsborough County Senate seat, which includes Tampa, by 408 votes, the Florida Phoenix reported.

Some Democrats quickly began reading the tea leaves after Gregory’s win, including state Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried, who said, “This victory reiterates an undeniable trend…”

Why it matters: This election marks a significant shift in a district long considered a Republican stronghold. Gregory’s victory could indicate changing political sentiments in Florida as voters respond to national political dynamics.

What to watch:

  • Future elections in traditionally Republican districts as Democrats gain momentum.
  • The response from Trump and his allies to this unexpected loss.
  • Potential policy shifts in the Florida legislature with a Democratic representative in this district.

Source credibility: Hit & Run is a reliable source known for its critical analysis of political events, with a focus on accountability and transparency.

Published: March 26, 2026 8:08 PM

Source: Reason — https://go.noligarchy.us/gEuJeM