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2d ago

Florida Senate Democrat Leader Resigns, Declares Party 'Dead'

Jason Pizzo steps down as minority leader, leaves Democratic Party, and registers as an independent, further reducing the party's ranks in the state legislature.

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Sen. Jason Pizzo, D-Miami, on the Senate floor during the discussion of a bill, in Tallahassee, Fla., on March 10, 2022.
FILE - Sen. Jason Pizzo, D-North Miami Beach, speaks to the media in the Senate Office Building at the Capitol in Tallahassee, Fla., on Monday, Feb. 6, 2023. (AP Photo/Phil Sears, File)

Overview

  • Jason Pizzo, Florida Senate Minority Leader, announced his resignation from leadership and departure from the Democratic Party on April 24, 2025, calling the party 'dead.'
  • Pizzo officially changed his voter registration to no party affiliation, citing disillusionment with both major parties and a desire for greater independence.
  • His resignation reduces the Democratic caucus in the Florida Senate to 10 members, further weakening the party's legislative presence in a Republican-dominated state.
  • Florida Democrats elected Lori Berman as the new minority leader hours after Pizzo's announcement, with Party Chair Nikki Fried asserting the party is stronger without him.
  • Pizzo is rumored to be considering a 2026 gubernatorial run as an independent, though no formal announcement has been made.