Florida Legislature Approves DeSantis-Backed Redistricting Map; GOP Gains Massive Edge

The Florida Legislature has officially approved a new congressional district map proposed by Governor Ron DeSantis, setting the stage for a significant shift in the state's political landscape. On Wednesday, the Florida House and Senate passed SB 8-D, a bill that redraws the state's 28 congressional districts to favor Republican candidates heavily.

The Florida House of Representatives passed the measure first with a 83-28 vote, largely along party lines. Hours later, the Florida Senate followed suit with a narrow 21-17 margin. Governor DeSantis is expected to sign the map into law shortly, further solidifying the GOP’s grip on the state’s representation in Washington.

Under the new map, Republicans are projected to hold an advantage in 24 of Florida’s 28 congressional districts. Currently, Florida’s delegation consists of 20 Republicans and 8 Democrats. If the map holds, Democrats could lose their advantage in four of their currently held districts.

Republicans argue the redistricting was a necessary administrative move to account for the population growth revealed in the 2020 U.S. Census. Because the state gained enough residents to warrant an additional seat, GOP leadership says the lines had to be adjusted to reflect those demographic shifts.

However, Democrats and voting rights advocates have blasted the effort as a politically motivated power grab. They argue that the DeSantis-backed map intentionally dismantles minority-access districts and creates an unconstitutional partisan advantage.

The approval comes as both parties gear up for the 2026 midterm elections, where Florida’s delegation will play a critical role in the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Click here for the Florida Division of Elections

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