Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has drawn a new congressional map that defies the state's anti-gerrymandering amendments, a move that angers many voters but could bolster his potential 2028 presidential campaign. While the map may be blocked in court, DeSantis appears willing to openly flout the law to secure a Republican advantage, a tactic that resonates with a party led by former President Donald Trump.
DeSantis Ignores Fair Districts Amendments
DeSantis ignored the Florida Fair Districts Amendments when he proposed redrawing the state's congressional map, which was already a heavily gerrymandered 20-8 Republican advantage. His staff and outside lawyers argued that the constitutional prohibition against partisan gerrymandering was null and void. A recent poll found that 56% of Floridians oppose the new map, with only 44% in support.
“I would very much look at this as DeSantis trying to posture for 2028,” said Rick Wilson, a former GOP consultant who left the party after Trump's rise. “DeSantis is so desperate to please Trump that he is willing to sell his soul and violate the Florida Constitution,” added Florida Democratic Party chair Nikki Fried.
Fear of Trump Drives Legislative Approval
Both Democratic and Republican observers note that the swift passage of the map by the GOP-controlled legislature was driven more by fear of Trump than respect for DeSantis. “He's a lame duck. They're not afraid of [DeSantis],” said state Senate Democratic leader Lori Berman. “What can [Trump] do to them? He can primary them.”
DeSantis has publicly taken credit for the map's passage, mocking Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries. He is widely expected to run for president again in 2028, having raised about $6 million in each of his political committees. In his 2024 campaign, he touted his Florida achievements, and the new map could become a key talking point.
Potential Impact on 2028 Race
While DeSantis's redistricting push may appeal to GOP primary voters, it remains unclear if it will overcome his well-known difficulties connecting with people. “It can help you in Iowa and South Carolina and get you ahead in a multi-candidate field in New Hampshire,” said one top Florida Republican. However, some observers doubt its significance. “I just don't think redistricting is going to ring the bell in 2028 with everything that will be going on,” said longtime GOP consultant Mac Stipanovich.
DeSantis may also face competition from Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Fried warned that the map could backfire if Democrats gain seats in a year when Trump's poll numbers decline. “When not only all eight Florida Democrats get re-elected but we pick up seats because of his maps and Floridians overwhelmingly disagree with partisan maps, it will be the final nail in DeSantis' political coffin.”
