Florida congressional map survives first court test, keeping GOP advantage alive

Florida congressional map survives first court test

A Leon County Circuit judge ruled Tuesday that Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Florida congressional map remains in effect while three state lawsuits proceed. The decision keeps a Republican‑leaning blueprint on track for the 2026 elections. In 2010 nearly ↓ 63% of voters approved a ban on partisan gerrymandering, yet DeSantis’ counsel argues the state is not bound by that amendment. Plaintiffs argued mapmaker Jason Poreda ignored the Fair Districts Amendment, citing partisan data and a statement that he drew districts “not having to comply.” Judge Joshua Hawkes, a DeSantis appointee, said the challengers failed to show a substantial likelihood of success. He warned that overturning the map now would upend election logistics less than three months before the primary.

“Forcing Florida back to its 2022 map on a rushed record would be improper,” Hawkes wrote.

The case is poised for the Florida Supreme Court, where DeSantis appointed six of seven justices. Nationwide, the redistricting battle is tilting toward GOP‑favored outcomes; the U.S. Supreme Court recently bolstered arguments against race‑based districts, while states like Virginia and Louisiana see similar shifts (Reuters). DeSantis first overhauled the map in 2022, turning a Democratic registration edge into a ↑ 1.5 million Republican advantage. Critics link the aggressive redrawing to post‑pandemic political calculations. The plaintiffs have filed appeals; the litigation will likely extend into the 2028 cycle, Hawkes noted.

Analysis by Eleanor Cross (Chief Washington Correspondent).