Democrats are projected to win a special election for a Florida legislative district that includes Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, marking another upset in the president's backyard.
Democrat Emily Gregory, a first-time candidate, defeated Trump-backed Republican Jon Maples in a race for the open Florida District 87 state House seat.
The result is a reversal from 2024, when a Republican won the district by 19 percentage points.
Democrats have performed well in special elections during Trump's second term, and Gregory's victory could indicate momentum for the party heading into this year's midterm elections.
Ken Martin, chair of the Democratic National Committee, celebrated the victory on X, stating voters sent a strong message. He noted, If Democrats can win in Trump's backyard, we sure as hell can win anywhere across the country. Onward to November!
Trump himself endorsed Maples, urging great patriots to vote in the special election, while Republican Congressman Byron Donalds, now running for governor, endorsed Maples through a campaign video.
The president reportedly voted for Maples, according to NBC News.
These elections offer a critical opportunity for Democrats, as they have flipped several state house seats in special elections since Trump took office in 2025. The upcoming midterm elections in November will feature races for the US House of Representatives, a third of the US Senate, and numerous significant state races.
As the political landscape evolves, this victory in Florida could serve as a referendum on public sentiment leading into the critical electoral year.
