Florida Voters Challenge DeSantis on Mid-Decade Redistricting

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two South Florida voters have petitioned the state Supreme Court to review Gov. Ron DeSantis's authority to call for mid-decade congressional redistricting. The petition questions if the governor overstepped his power by directing the legislature to redraw districts and delaying candidate qualifying, which supporters believe could help Republicans gain several seats in the U.S. House.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing partisan battle over redistricting in Florida, with Democrats arguing the governor's actions violate the state's separation of powers, while Republicans believe redrawn lines could benefit their party. The outcome could set an important precedent for how and when states can redraw congressional districts outside the normal decennial census process.

The details

The petition, filed by Miami-Dade County resident Elizabeth Pines and Broward County resident Eugene Pettis, asks the state Supreme Court to determine if DeSantis exceeded his authority by calling a special legislative session in April to redraw congressional districts and delaying candidate qualifying. Supporters of the redistricting effort believe it could help Republicans gain several seats in the U.S. House, while Democrats and voting rights groups warn it would lead to costly litigation over the state's Fair Districts amendments.

• On Jan. 7, DeSantis issued a proclamation calling for a special legislative session the week of April 20 to redraw congressional districts.
• DeSantis also directed the Secretary of State to delay Congressional qualifying from the week of April 20 to June 8–12.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Florida Supreme Court will determine if Gov. DeSantis had the authority to call for mid-decade congressional redistricting and delay candidate qualifying.