In a move that could have significant implications for this year’s elections, the Florida Supreme Court has declined to expedite a challenge to Governor Ron DeSantis’ congressional redistricting plan. This decision means that the disputed map, pushed through the Legislature in 2022, is likely to remain in effect for the upcoming elections.
The challenge, brought forth by voting rights groups and other plaintiffs, focuses on the overhaul of a North Florida district previously held by Black Democrat Al Lawson. The redistricting plan, passed during a special legislative session, shifted the district to the Jacksonville area, resulting in the election of white Republicans in North Florida congressional seats in 2022.
Despite arguments that the overhaul violated the Fair Districts Amendment of 2010, which aimed to prevent the diminishment of minority voting power, the 1st District Court of Appeal ruled in favor of the state. Now, with the Supreme Court’s refusal to expedite the case, the disputed map is set to stand.
