In a remarkable turn of events, Emily Gregory has won a special election for Florida House District 87, flipping the seat from Republican to Democrat. This election, held on March 24, 2026, saw Gregory leading by 2.4 percentage points, or 797 votes, with almost all ballots counted.
The district, which notably includes Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, was previously held by Republican Mike Caruso, who resigned to become Palm Beach County clerk. Caruso had won the district by a substantial 19 percentage points in the 2024 election, making Gregory’s victory all the more significant.
Trump had endorsed Gregory’s opponent, Jon Maples, in this election, which many see as a reflection of shifting voter sentiment against Trump and the Republican Party as the midterm elections approach. This victory is part of a broader trend, with Democrats flipping 29 seats from Republican control since Trump took office.
Gregory, a small business owner and first-time candidate, received 51.2% of the votes compared to Maples’ 48.8%. Her win in this district, which had been redrawn two years ago to expand its size, indicates a potential vulnerability for Republicans in areas previously thought to be secure.
“If Mar-a-Lago is vulnerable, imagine what’s possible this November,” said Heather Williams, highlighting the implications of this election for the upcoming midterms.
Ken Martin added, “Donald Trump’s own neighbors just sent a crystal clear message: They are furious and ready for change.” This sentiment is echoed by other Democratic leaders, including Nikki Fried, who expressed her excitement, stating, “I’m thrilled to congratulate Representative-Elect Emily Gregory on this monumental victory.”
Christine Hunschofsky noted, “This victory also reflects the broader momentum building across Florida,” suggesting that Gregory’s win could be a harbinger of further Democratic successes in the state.
Gregory is expected to seek election to a full two-year term in the upcoming November elections, as she steps into this new role with a clear mandate from her constituents.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of Gregory’s victory will be closely watched, particularly as 650 seats are in play for the upcoming midterm elections.
Details remain unconfirmed.
