Lawsuit challenges Florida governor's special session on redistricting

Voting rights advocates say Gov. Ron DeSantis doesn't have the authority to call a special session on redistricting.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A lawsuit filed by the National Redistricting Foundation challenges Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' proclamation to hold a special legislative session in April to redraw congressional district boundaries. The lawsuit argues that the governor lacks the authority to call a special session for redistricting, which the lawsuit says is the power of the state legislature under the Florida Constitution.

Why it matters

The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant political implications, as redrawn congressional districts in Florida could impact the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives. The state's current congressional map, which was upheld by the Florida Supreme Court last year, has been criticized for unfairly favoring Republicans.

The details

The lawsuit alleges that DeSantis' proclamation for a special session on redistricting violates the 'separation of powers doctrine' in the Florida Constitution. It asks the state's Supreme Court to either force DeSantis to prove he has the authority to call the special session, or to declare his redistricting proclamation unenforceable. The lawsuit was supported by the National Redistricting Foundation, a voting rights group.

  • DeSantis issued the proclamation for a special legislative session on redistricting in April 2026.
  • The lawsuit was filed on February 6, 2026.

The players

Ron DeSantis

The Republican governor of Florida who issued the proclamation for a special legislative session on redistricting.

National Redistricting Foundation

A voting rights group that is supporting the lawsuit challenging DeSantis' authority to call the special session.

Cord Byrd

The Florida Secretary of State who issued a directive to county supervisors of elections to implement rules used only in years when Florida districts are redrawn.

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What’s next

The Florida Supreme Court will decide whether to force DeSantis to prove he has the authority to call the special session on redistricting, or to declare his proclamation unenforceable.

The takeaway

This lawsuit highlights the ongoing battle over redistricting and gerrymandering in Florida, which could have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress. The outcome will depend on whether the courts determine the governor has the authority to unilaterally call a special session on redistricting, or if that power belongs solely to the state legislature.