In a stunning turn of events, Emily Gregory has emerged victorious in a special election for Florida’s 87th state house district, defeating Republican Jon Maples, who was notably endorsed by former President Donald Trump. The election, held on March 24, 2026, has been characterized as a pivotal moment for the Democratic Party in a state that has leaned Republican in recent years.
Gregory’s win, which came by a narrow margin of just 2 percentage points, is particularly significant given that the seat was previously held by a Republican who won by 19 percentage points in the 2024 election. This shift not only reflects changing voter sentiments but also raises questions about the Republican Party’s hold on Florida as the midterms approach.
In the lead-up to the election, Gregory focused her campaign on affordability issues, steering clear of direct confrontations with Trump, who had criticized mail-in voting even as he opted to vote by mail himself. Her strategy appears to have resonated with voters, as she emphasized the pressing concerns of Florida families, including rising gas prices, which she highlighted at $4 per gallon.
Key moments
The seat opened for a special election after the previous occupant, GOP State Representative Mike Caruso, was appointed to a county clerk position by Governor Ron DeSantis. This change created an opportunity for Democrats, who have successfully flipped 29 districts since Trump’s election, indicating a potential shift in the political landscape.
Gregory, a first-time lawmaker with a background in public health, has been hailed as a fresh voice for her constituents. Her victory has been described by Democratic leaders as an “earth-shattering victory for Florida Democrats,” signaling a possible resurgence for the party in a state that has often favored Republican candidates.
Reactions to the election results have been swift. Heather Williams, a prominent Democratic strategist, remarked, “If Mar-a-Lago is vulnerable, imagine what’s possible this November,” suggesting that Gregory’s win could be a bellwether for upcoming elections. Similarly, Ken Martin, a Democratic National Committee member, stated, “Donald Trump’s own neighbors just sent a crystal clear message: They are furious and ready for change.”
Shaughnessy Naughton, another Democratic figure, emphasized the importance of Gregory’s approach, saying, “Emily won because Floridians trust her to make decisions based on evidence not ideology.” This sentiment underscores a growing desire among voters for pragmatic solutions over partisan rhetoric.
As Florida gears up for the midterms, Gregory’s victory may serve as a referendum on the performance of national Republicans. With the Democratic Party gaining momentum, the implications of this election could extend far beyond the 87th district, potentially reshaping the political dynamics in Florida for years to come.