Story perspectives

DeSantis Pushes Redistricting Ahead of 2026 Elections

12/7/2025

Summary

Story summary

Florida's mid-decade redistricting intensifies as Ron DeSantis, Florida's governor, pushes for new maps, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s call to secure GOP seats.
The Florida House's select committee on redistricting met recently, while the Senate has not engaged.
DeSantis says Florida was undercounted in the 2020 Census and may call a special session if redistricting is not completed during the regular session starting in January, as the 2026 elections approach.

History

Historical Context

The Redistricting Act of 1965 aimed to combat racial discrimination in voting, establishing protections for minority representation. Following the 2020 Census, states like Florida, which saw a 14.5% population increase, are revisiting district maps. Governor Ron DeSantis's redistricting efforts reflect ongoing partisan strategies, as both parties seek to influence electoral outcomes ahead of the 2026 elections, continuing the legacy of the 1965 Act.

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Story summary

Florida's mid-decade redistricting intensifies as Ron DeSantis, Florida's governor, pushes for new maps, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s call to secure GOP seats.
The Florida House's select committee on redistricting met recently, while the Senate has not engaged.
DeSantis says Florida was undercounted in the 2020 Census and may call a special session if redistricting is not completed during the regular session starting in January, as the 2026 elections approach.

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