Story perspectives

DeSantis Calls Special Session Amid Redistricting Controversy

1/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis plans a late-April special session to revise congressional maps.
The move heightens a conflict with the Florida House, which prefers redistricting in the regular session.
DeSantis will wait for a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that could affect race in districting.
Florida's current map favors Republicans, with 20 of 28 seats.
Senate President Ben Albritton backs the session and urges potential election deadline changes.

History

Historical Context

In 2010, California voters approved Proposition 20, transferring redistricting authority to an independent commission to combat partisan gerrymandering. This reform followed a decade of increasing partisan manipulation, exemplified by the Republican-led REDMAP initiative, which aimed to secure legislative control through strategic districting. The ongoing debates over redistricting practices, including Florida's current congressional map, highlight the significance of fair representation in U.S. elections.

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Story summary

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis plans a late-April special session to revise congressional maps.
The move heightens a conflict with the Florida House, which prefers redistricting in the regular session.
DeSantis will wait for a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that could affect race in districting.
Florida's current map favors Republicans, with 20 of 28 seats.
Senate President Ben Albritton backs the session and urges potential election deadline changes.

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