Judge declares DeSantis-backed congressional map unconstitutional.
Florida Judge Rules Congressional Map Unconstitutional, Orders Alternative
A Florida judge has made a significant ruling regarding the state’s congressional map, backed by Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL). Circuit Judge J. Lee Marsh declared the map unconstitutional and has ordered lawmakers to create a new alternative.
“This is a significant victory in the fight for fair representation for Black Floridians. As a result, the current discriminatory map should be replaced with a map that restores the Fifth Congressional District in a manner that gives Black voters the opportunity to elect a candidate of their choice,” said Olivia Mendoza, director of litigation and policy for the National Redistricting Foundation, which initiated the lawsuit.
The ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by various groups, including Black Voters Matter, Equal Ground, Florida Rising, and the League of Women Voters of Florida. They sued over the new maps after DeSantis signed them into law in April 2022.
According to Circuit Judge Marsh, the redrawn districts in northern Florida violated the state constitution’s Fair Districts Amendments. These amendments prohibit the redrawing of congressional districts in a way that diminishes minority voters‘ ability to elect candidates of their choice.
Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd disagrees with the ruling and plans to appeal it to the state Supreme Court. However, the Fair Districts Amendment is enshrined in the state constitution, making it a crucial factor in the case.
Last year, the Florida GOP gained four congressional seats after Governor DeSantis redrew the state’s districts. The new map also resulted in the dismantling of a North Florida seat previously held by Representative Al Lawson, a Black Democrat.
DeSantis vetoed a redistricting map that would have favored Republicans in 16 out of 28 districts. Instead, he convinced the state legislature to enact his map, which ultimately benefited them in 20 out of the 28 seats.
Florida’s Fight for Fair Representation
The ruling by Circuit Judge Marsh is a significant victory for advocates of fair representation in Florida. It highlights the importance of ensuring that minority voters have the opportunity to elect candidates who truly represent their interests.
The lawsuit brought by various groups, including Black Voters Matter, emphasizes the need to address discriminatory practices in redistricting. By challenging the unconstitutional map, they aim to restore the Fifth Congressional District in a way that gives Black voters a fair chance to elect their preferred candidate.
As the case moves forward to the state Supreme Court, the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the future of congressional districting in Florida. It will shape the electoral landscape and determine whether the state upholds the principles of fair representation for all its citizens.
Stay tuned for updates on this important legal battle.
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