South Florida Voters Challenge DeSantis' Power to Redraw Congressional Districts

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Two South Florida voters have filed a petition with the state Supreme Court, challenging Gov. Ron DeSantis' proclamation for a special legislative session to redraw congressional district lines and his directive to delay candidate qualifying. The petitioners argue that DeSantis exceeded his authority and violated the state's separation of powers.

Why it matters

This case could have significant implications for the balance of power in Florida politics and the state's congressional representation. Mid-decade redistricting is highly unusual and could be seen as a partisan attempt to gain Republican advantage ahead of the 2024 elections.

The details

The petition, filed by Miami-Dade County resident Elizabeth Pines and Broward County resident Eugene Pettis, asks the court to determine if DeSantis had the authority to call for the special legislative session and delay candidate qualifying. The petitioners argue that the governor's actions encroached on the power of the Legislature, which had already started its own redistricting review.

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

What’s next

If the court determines that the governor exceeded his authority, they want his proclamation and directive to be not binding or enforceable unless the Legislature passes a reapportionment plan or enacts legislation to undergo redistricting this year.