Orlando City Commissioner Tony Ortiz, a U.S. military veteran, former police officer, and dedicated public servant, announced that he is officially ending his affiliation with the Republican Party and joining the Democratic Party.
“For more than three decades, I’ve devoted my life to service — in uniform, on patrol, and in public office,” said Commissioner Ortiz. “That service has never been about politics. It’s been about people. And I can no longer remain aligned with a party whose priorities no longer reflect the needs and values of the people I serve.”
Ortiz emphasized that his decision stems from a growing disconnect between the Republican Party’s direction and the realities facing the diverse, working-class communities of Orlando. He cited harmful efforts to suppress voting rights, limit healthcare access, marginalize immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals, and ignore the urgent threat of climate change.
“These aren’t distant issues. They shape the lives of families in our neighborhoods every single day,” Ortiz said. “This is about people. It’s about the daily struggles, dreams, and dignity of those I’ve sworn to serve. My decision is guided by the values I’ve always lived by: service, compassion, and integrity.”
Ortiz also spoke out against rhetoric and policies that demonize immigrants. “Immigrants are the backbone of countless industries. They work the fields in scorching heat, care for our children and elders, build our homes, and contribute to our economy in vital but often invisible ways. A nation built by immigrants should never turn its back on them.”
With climate change already affecting Central Florida through rising temperatures and extreme weather events, Ortiz highlighted the need for urgent, science-based action: “Our region is one of the most vulnerable in the country. We cannot afford leaders who dismiss the environmental crisis. Our children deserve clean air, safe water, and a future we can be proud of.”
Ortiz says his decision to join the Democratic Party is not about politics but about purpose.
“This isn’t about rejecting my past — it’s about reaffirming my purpose,” he said. “I’m choosing the path I’ve always followed: one grounded in service, putting people first, defending the dignity of every community, and taking action where it matters most.”
He added: “My loyalty has never been to a political party. It has always been, and will continue to be, to the people I serve. Leadership isn’t about staying comfortable. It’s about standing up when it matters most — and that’s what I intend to keep doing for every person who calls Orlando home”.
STANDING TOGETHER: MESSAGES OF SUPPORT
“Commissioner Tony Ortiz has spent 30 years serving his country and community. Now he’s leaving the GOP and joining our Democratic family. We welcome him and all others. As he put it: “This is not at rejection on my past––it’s a reaffirmation of my purpose,” said Ken Martin, Democratic National Committee Chair.
“I’m happy to welcome Commissioner Ortiz to the Florida Democratic Party,” said FDP Chair Nikki Fried. “As Trump and the Republican Party move forward with their extreme antiimmigrant, anti-veteran, and anti-worker agenda, we’re building a coalition that can fight back — one that’s based on a dedication to people and to democracy. Anyone who’s willing to join us in that fight will be welcomed with open arms,said Nikki Fried, Chair of the Florida Democratic Party.
“Commissioner Ortiz’s decision reflects true courage and conviction. He is putting people over politics; and that’s the kind of leadership our communities need.” — José Álvarez, Florida House of Representative.
“Commissioner Tony Ortiz has built a long record of public service and advocacy. We welcome him to the Democratic Party and look forward to working together to advance policies that reflect the needs and values of our communities. In Orange County, we are building a strong, inclusive Democratic party — a big tent coalition committed to protecting our democracy and improving people’s lives,” said Samuel Vilchez Santiago, Chair of the Orange County Democratic Party.
“We welcome Commissioner Ortiz to the Democratic Party. His voice, grounded in years of honorable service, will strengthen our shared commitment to equity, dignity, and opportunity for all,” said Buddy Dyer, City of Orlando Mayor.
“I have known Commissioner Tony Ortiz since his tenure as an Orlando police officer. He has always been known to be balanced in his decision-making as a public servant, regardless of his political affiliation.” sais Jerry Demings, Orange County Mayor.
Una versión en español pude encontrarse aquí: Tony Ortiz, cambia de Partido Republicano a Demócrata: “liderazgo significa dar la vuelta cuando más importa”