In a surprising turn of events, Emily Gregory has emerged victorious in a special election held on March 24, 2026, for Florida’s 87th state house district. Gregory, a first-time lawmaker with a background in public health, defeated Republican candidate Jon Maples, who was notably endorsed by former President Donald Trump. The election results indicate a narrow victory for Gregory, who led by just 2 percentage points.
The seat became available after the previous occupant, GOP State Representative Mike Caruso, was appointed to a county clerk position by Governor Ron DeSantis. This shift opened the door for a special election, which has now been characterized as a pivotal moment for Florida Democrats. The Democratic Party hailed Gregory’s win as an “earth-shattering victory,” suggesting it could signal a shift in voter sentiment ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
During her campaign, Gregory focused on issues that resonate with Florida families, such as the rising cost of living and affordability. She emphasized the burden of high gas prices, which have reached $4 per gallon, and positioned herself as a candidate who prioritizes the needs of her constituents over partisan politics. In contrast, her opponent, Jon Maples, centered his campaign around his connection to Trump, who voted by mail in the election despite previously criticizing mail-in voting.
Key moments
The election result is particularly significant given that the seat was previously held by a Republican who won by 19 percentage points in the 2024 election. This dramatic shift in voter preference is seen as a referendum on the performance of national Republicans, with many observers noting that Gregory’s victory could indicate broader trends in the state. Heather Williams, a prominent Democratic strategist, remarked, “If Mar-a-Lago is vulnerable, imagine what’s possible this November,” highlighting the potential implications for the upcoming elections.
Gregory’s victory is not just a personal achievement; it reflects a larger trend of Democratic gains in Florida. Since Trump’s election, Democrats have flipped 29 districts, showcasing a growing discontent with the Republican Party among Florida voters. Ken Martin, a local Democratic leader, stated, “Donald Trump’s own neighbors just sent a crystal clear message: They are furious and ready for change.” This sentiment appears to be resonating with a significant portion of the electorate.
In her victory speech, Gregory expressed gratitude for the support she received, stating, “I think my opponent put it front and center, and I focused on the issues that matter most to Florida families.” Her approach to the campaign, which emphasized local concerns over national party politics, seems to have resonated with voters looking for tangible solutions to their everyday challenges.
As a community-focused candidate, Gregory runs a fitness center for pregnant and postpartum women, further demonstrating her commitment to health and wellness issues. Her background in public health likely played a role in her campaign’s messaging, appealing to voters who prioritize health-related policies. With this victory, she is poised to bring her unique perspective to the Florida legislature, where she aims to advocate for policies that benefit families and communities across the state.
As the dust settles on this election, the reactions from both parties will be closely monitored. The Republican Party may need to reassess its strategies in Florida, especially as the midterms approach. With the political landscape shifting, Gregory’s win could serve as a catalyst for change, encouraging more Democratic candidates to enter the race and challenge established Republican incumbents. The coming months will be crucial as both parties prepare for what promises to be a competitive electoral season.
