Following the example of Texas and at the request of the current administration, Florida is pursuing efforts to redraw our Congressional maps outside of the regular redistricting cycle.
I’m the president of the League of Women Voters of the Upper Keys. We believe voters, not politicians, should decide who represents us. There are a number of solid reasons to say NO to mid-decade redistricting in Florida.
Redistricting is meant to reflect population changes captured in the census. The 2021 redistricting cycle completed the process started with the 2020 Census. Preparation has long been underway for the 2030 Census and 2031 redistricting cycle. Rushing that process or doing it in secret breaks trust with voters and undermines the idea that we all deserve fair representation.
In 2010, Florida voters passed Amendments 5 & 6, also called the “Fair Districts” Amendments, to stop partisan gerrymandering. The state Constitution specifically states that “Congressional districts or districting plans may not be drawn to favor or disfavor an incumbent or political party.” So far, this mid-decade process has been behind closed doors, without hearings, draft maps or public explanation. Fair maps should be created in a way that is transparent and community-driven. When elected officials rewrite the rules, it’s the public that loses.
On the home front, Keys families are understandably worried about urgent issues such as skyrocketing insurance costs, housing and infrastructure. Taxpayer dollars should be spent on fixing these problems instead of unnecessary redistricting. The last redistricting process cost taxpayers millions of dollars. At a time when state and local governments are slashing funding to cover new budget needs, it doesn’t make economic sense to waste tax dollars on an unnecessary and untimely partisan effort.
Redrawing maps for political gain is dangerous. It silences our voices and weakens our democracy.
Let your elected officials know you oppose mid-district redistricting.
Barbara Overton
President, Upper Keys League of Women Voters
Tavernier
