Florida lawmakers have approved a new congressional district map backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, advancing a plan that could significantly reshape the state’s political landscape.
The proposal, known as SB 8-D, passed the Florida House of Representatives with an 83-28 vote, largely along party lines. It later cleared the Florida Senate by a 21-17 margin, sending the measure to the governor’s desk where he is expected to sign it into law.
Republicans, who hold supermajorities in both chambers, supported the redistricting effort as a necessary adjustment following population growth since the 2020 census. They argue the updated map better reflects shifts in where Floridians live.
Democrats opposed the measure, contending the redraw is politically motivated and designed to strengthen Republican control. Under the new map, Republicans could gain an advantage in 24 of Florida’s 28 congressional districts, potentially flipping several seats that currently lean Democratic.
At present, Florida’s congressional delegation includes 20 Republicans and eight Democrats. The proposed changes could widen that gap heading into upcoming elections.
The legislation was introduced during a special session focused specifically on redistricting, a process that typically occurs once every decade following the release of census data. However, lawmakers say the state’s rapid growth justified revisiting district lines ahead of schedule.
With final legislative approval secured, the map now awaits DeSantis’ signature, which would formally enact the changes and set the stage for future elections under the new district boundaries.
The post Florida Legislature Approves Ron DeSantis-Backed Redistricting Map appeared first on Real News Now.
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