In a significant political development, Emily Gregory has won a special election in Florida on March 24, 2026, flipping a state legislative district that includes the high-profile Mar-a-Lago estate. This victory marks a pivotal moment for Democrats, as Gregory, a first-time candidate, defeated Republican Jon Maples, who was notably endorsed by former President Donald Trump.
With almost all votes counted, Gregory led by 2.4 percentage points, translating to a margin of 797 votes, securing 51% of the total votes cast in District 87. This district had been vacant since August 2025, following the resignation of Republican Mike Caruso, who had previously won the seat by a substantial 19 percentage points in the 2024 election.
Gregory’s campaign focused on addressing the rising costs of living, steering clear of direct attacks on Trump, despite the former president’s significant influence in the area. The election results suggest a shift in voter sentiment, particularly in a district that has long been a Republican stronghold. As Heather Williams, a local Democratic leader, remarked, “If Mar-a-Lago is vulnerable, imagine what’s possible this November.”
Growing up in Stuart, Florida, north of Palm Beach, Gregory is not only a political newcomer but also the owner of a fitness company catering to pregnant and postpartum women. Her grassroots approach and focus on community issues resonated with the 115,000 voters in District 87, as she emphasized her commitment to all constituents, stating, “It’s impacted people’s interest in talking to me about it. He is a constituent. But I am more focused on all 115,000 voters in District 87, not just one.”
The significance of Gregory’s victory extends beyond the immediate election results. This marks the 29th seat flipped by Democrats from Republican control since Trump took office, indicating a potential shift in the political landscape as the nation approaches the next election cycle. Ken Martin, a prominent figure in the Democratic Party, noted, “Donald Trump’s own neighbors just sent a crystal clear message: They are furious and ready for change.”
In a surprising twist, Trump himself voted by mail in this election, despite his previous criticisms of mail voting. His involvement in the district, particularly with Mar-a-Lago being a focal point, adds another layer of complexity to the political dynamics at play. When asked about the election results, Trump stated, “I’m not involved in that,” reflecting a distancing from the local political climate.
Key moments
As the dust settles on this election, reactions continue to pour in from both sides of the political spectrum. Supporters of Gregory celebrate her victory as a sign of changing tides in Florida politics, while Republicans are left to reassess their strategies in a district that once seemed secure. The implications of this election could reverberate throughout the state and beyond, as both parties prepare for the upcoming electoral challenges.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full impact of this election on future political contests, but one thing is clear: Emily Gregory’s win is a testament to the power of community engagement and the importance of addressing the pressing issues that matter to voters. As Florida continues to evolve politically, all eyes will be on how this shift influences the broader national landscape.
