Photo: Kryssia Campos / Moment / Getty Images
Tallahassee, FL - Debate over Florida’s congressional redistricting process intensified at the Capitol as lawmakers and residents gathered for an informational committee meeting that ended without public participation.
The session, held Thursday in a crowded hearing room, focused on existing redistricting laws and the steps the Legislature would follow if it decides to revisit the current map.
Committee Chair Mike Redondo of Miami said the House intends to approach redistricting without influence from other states or partisan motivations.
His remarks were met with audible skepticism from attendees who said residents have been excluded from meaningful involvement.
Despite the large turnout, the meeting concluded early and no public comment was allowed.
Genesis Robinson of Equal Ground Florida said the early adjournment was disappointing, noting the hearing had time remaining and residents had traveled from across the state to participate.
State leaders remain divided on the timing of the process.
House members have expressed interest in beginning discussions soon, while the Senate has adopted a slower pace.
Governor Ron DeSantis said he expects the Legislature will have to redraw the map and indicated support for a potential special session in the spring.
He pointed to anticipated effects of future Voting Rights Act related court decisions that could impact the current congressional boundaries.
Redondo said delaying map creation until after the regular legislative session would not be responsible and emphasized the need for timely action.
The House has scheduled another committee meeting for Wednesday, December 10, as the debate continues.