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Trump praised Maples as a proven leader in both business and civic life, adding:
“Jon is a very successful Businessman and Civic Leader, who is known and loved, and also endorsed by so many of my Palm Beach County friends, including by Great State Representative “MAGA” Meg Weinberger. Jon will be a terrific Legislator!”
The former president also outlined Maples’ priorities as state representative:
“As your next State Representative, Jon will fight tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Stop Migrant Crime, Safeguard our Elections, Support our Military, Veterans, and Law Enforcement, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment.”
Trump concluded his endorsement with a rallying cry to voters:
“TO ALL GREAT PATRIOTS IN FLORIDA STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 87: GET OUT AND VOTE FOR JON MAPLES! Polls are open from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. JON WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!”
Despite Trump’s high-profile backing, Maples fell short. Emily Gregory defeated him, securing 51% of the vote to Maples’ 49%, with all precincts reporting. The seat had been vacant since August when Republican Mike Caruso resigned to become Palm Beach County clerk.
NBC News confirmed the result, reporting:
“Democrat Emily Gregory won a special election Tuesday for the Florida state House district that includes President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, flipping the seat from Republican control, The Associated Press projects.”
Political analysts are pointing to this result as a warning sign for Republicans, particularly in areas that were once considered reliably red. The fact that Trump carried this district by a significant margin in 2024 highlights the surprising nature of Gregory’s victory.
As Democrats celebrate a narrow win in a district anchored by one of the most recognizable Republican strongholds, Republicans are left searching for answers. The upset signals that even districts thought secure are not immune to political shifts, especially in volatile, high-turnout special elections.
Florida State House District 87 now has a Democrat in charge, and observers say this could reshape local political calculations heading into 2026. For Republicans, the loss serves as a reminder that victories aren’t guaranteed—even in the heart of Trump territory.
