​Open Letter to the Tampa Bay Democratic Community

 Florida Representative Susan Valdes recently switched her party registration from Democrat to Republican—just days after running to be the Hillsborough County Democratic Executive Committee Chair and barely a month after being elected as a Democratic representative by her constituents. Her defection has left many feeling betrayed, disappointed, and discouraged, as it comes at a time when Democrats are already facing the worst super-minority in Florida House history. The loss of even one seat adds to the already daunting challenge of making progress under these conditions. Some are questioning how we can recruit strong candidates to run in such a hostile environment and whether the Democratic voice still matters in the Florida legislature.
 
Representative Valdes has chosen to join a party that continues to enact policies that harm the people of Florida. They have weakened labor unions, dismantled public schools, and pushed to pave over state parks. They’ve created the worst housing crisis in the state’s history while empowering the insurance industry and selling out clean energy to benefit corporate interests. Right here in Tampa, Governor DeSantis’ hand-picked Public Service Commission just voted to allow Tampa Electric to enact an "egregiously excessive" rate hike of 69 percent, placing the burden of higher costs on residents and small business owners. This is not progress—it’s exploitation—and it’s been happening for the thirty years Republicans have been in charge of Florida. This is the party Susan Valdes chose to join.
 
Even in a super-minority, Democrats have opportunities to make an impact. Persistence, strategic collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to the people we represent can pave the way for meaningful change. As Mike Tyson famously said, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.” Well, we’ve been punched repeatedly over the last few election cycles. But smart fighters adapt—they train harder, develop new strategies, and fight like there’s no tomorrow. That’s exactly what we must do, because with Florida Republicans at the helm, our tomorrow is looking incredibly bleak for the millions of Floridians counting on us to make their voices heard in Tallahassee. 
 
Now is not the time to quit. Now is the time to act. If you’re frustrated with the state of our party or past election outcomes, channel that energy into productive action. Organize in your neighborhood—precinct organizing is where it all begins. If Representative Valdes’ defection has you feeling betrayed, support candidates who inspire you and work to help their campaigns succeed. If you’re feeling discouraged, build coalitions with like-minded organizations and individuals to create broader momentum. If you’re tired of fighting the Florida GOP, volunteer for voter registration drives and help bring fresh voices into the electorate to carry on that fight. Mentor young leaders, invest in civic engagement, and stay involved to ensure the Florida Democratic Party evolves to meet the needs of a changing state.
 
This will not be a short fight. It will require a long-term commitment and relentless effort. And at times, we will lose. But we have tens of millions of people on our side and the soul of a great state hanging in the balance. If we quit, we will always lose. Now is the time to summon the courage, make the commitment, and get involved. 
 
Will Atkins is a retired Air Force colonel with 22 years of service and two Bronze Stars. He knows a thing or two about fighting for good, and his oath of service didn’t come with an expiration date. His views are his own, and do not represent the opinions of any Democratic organization.