Florida Lawmaker Protests New Congressional Map

A Florida state representative used a bullhorn in the House chamber on Wednesday to voice her opposition to newly proposed congressional district maps that Republican Governor Ron DeSantis supports.

On Monday, DeSantis revealed a map that could secure four congressional seats for Republicans. A video shared on Wednesday captured Democratic Rep. Angie Nixon, bullhorn in hand, passionately protesting during the bill vote. She exclaimed, “This is an attack on democracy! It’s unconstitutional!” This outburst came as she responded to the Democratic nomination for a special election for a Senate seat currently held by Republican Sen. Ashley Moody. Nixon admitted that there was “disorder” during the debate but asserted that the “illegal” redrawing of districts was the fault of Republicans.

Despite her vocal protest, the Florida House passed the new congressional map with a substantial 83-28 vote, moving it forward to the Florida Senate.

In a related ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court recently blocked Louisiana’s congressional map, which was deemed a “racial gerrymander” due to its representation of predominantly black districts.

New York plans to redraw its congressional districts following the 2022 midterm elections, potentially endangering the positions of six out of eleven Republican representatives elected that year. Meanwhile, after Texas established a new congressional map, California and Virginia initiated referendums to do the same. However, a court recently halted Virginia’s efforts, citing violations of the state constitution during the process.

With the Supreme Court’s decision, Republicans anticipate gaining around twelve additional seats in the House.