Florida Approves Electoral Map That Favors Republicans

Florida Approves New Redistricting Map

Favors Republicans

Controversy Over Representation

The legislature in Florida has approved a new electoral map that could reshape the state’s political balance.

The measure, backed by Governor Ron DeSantis, aims to strengthen the Republican Party ahead of the midterm elections.

Why it matters: The Florida redistricting map Republicans 2026 could directly influence control of the United States House of Representatives in Washington.

The new map was approved by both state chambers, which are dominated by Republicans.

The proposal now goes to Governor Ron DeSantis for final approval.

Florida Electoral Map Favors Republicans

Florida aprueba un nuevo mapa del Congreso destinado a impulsar a los republicanos en las elecciones intermedias https://t.co/c6TFymSahK

— CNN en Español (@CNNEE) April 29, 2026

According to the organization Voto Latino, the redesign could give Republicans up to four additional seats.

This would represent a direct loss for the Democratic Party in the state.

The organization also pointed out a disparity between votes and representation.

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Although 43% of voters supported Democrats in 2024, they would receive only 14.3% of the seats.

Currently, Florida has 20 Republican seats and 7 Democratic seats.

One Democratic seat became vacant after the resignation of Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick on April 21.

Supreme Court Decision Influences Change

Florida House passes DeSantis-led redistricting map that may allow Republicans to gain up to 4 new seats. pic.twitter.com/oq8Hu4nz3L

— Leading Report (@LeadingReport) April 29, 2026

The approval of the new Florida redistricting map came minutes after a ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States.

The decision reduced longstanding protections for racial and ethnic minorities under the Voting Rights Act.

Governor DeSantis stated that the ruling invalidates certain provisions of Florida’s constitution.

He aligned the proposed map with the court’s interpretation.

Florida’s redistricting process began last December.

However, it was delayed while awaiting the federal court’s decision.

The ruling also affected other states.

The court struck down Louisiana’s electoral map for relying too heavily on racial criteria.

This was seen as a win for Republicans and a setback for civil rights organizations.

María Teresa Kumar criticized the decision.

She said it makes it harder to protect voters of color from discrimination.

She also warned that it allows manipulation of electoral maps and silencing of voices.

Florida Redistricting Reflects a National Trend

Florida is the eighth state to modify its maps ahead of the November elections.

Other states include Virginia, Utah, Ohio, North Carolina, Missouri, California, and Texas.

In Texas, the process began in June 2025 following an order from Donald Trump.

These changes are happening in a context of intense national political competition.

The US midterm elections will fully renew the House of Representatives.

Currently, Republicans hold 217 seats compared to 212 for Democrats.

There is also one independent and five vacancies.

Additionally, one-third of the United States Senate will be up for election.

Republicans currently control that chamber as well.

Potential seat gains in Florida could be decisive in this scenario.

Redistricting has become a key factor in the broader electoral battle.