Chicago – April 27, 2026
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has proposed a new congressional map that could give Republicans control of four more U.S. House seats in Florida. The plan, released just before a special legislative session, would redraw several districts in a way that could shift the state’s delegation from 20 Republicans and eight Democrats to as many as 24-4.
DeSantis said the map reflects Florida’s population growth and argues the current lines are outdated. The proposal targets Democratic-held seats in populous areas including Miami, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, while Republicans in the Legislature are expected to move quickly to approve it.
The effort is part of a broader national redistricting battle tied to the 2026 midterms. Reuters reported that Florida’s move could help President Donald Trump’s party gain up to five seats, though legal challenges could delay or block the map’s use.
Some Republicans have raised concerns that redrawing the lines could make existing GOP districts less secure. Democrats, meanwhile, argue the plan is a partisan gerrymander designed to tilt the congressional map before voters cast ballots.
