DeSantis Unveils New Florida Congressional Map That Wipes Out Democrats’ Gerrymander Gains in Virginia

April 28, 2026

Republican Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled Florida’s newly drawn congressional map that could significantly expand Republican representation in the U.S. House.

The new map positions the state as a central battleground in the escalating redistricting fight ahead of the 2026 midterms.

If approved, the proposal would give Republicans four additional seats.

It shifts Florida’s congressional delegation to 24 Republicans and just three Democrats.

DeSantis Frames Map as “Fair Representation”

Gov. DeSantis said the new map reflects Florida’s changing political landscape.

The governor noted that it addresses what he described as imbalances stemming from the 2020 census.

“Florida got shortchanged in the 2020 Census, and we’ve been fighting for fair representation ever since,” DeSantis said.

“Our population has since grown dramatically, and we have moved from a Democrat majority to a 1.5 million Republican advantage.”

He also criticized existing districts, arguing they were drawn with unconstitutional considerations.

“Drawing maps based on race, which is reflected in our current congressional districts, is unconstitutional and should be prohibited,” he added.

“Our new map for 2026 makes good on my promise to conduct mid-decade redistricting, and it more fairly represents the makeup of Florida today.”

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis unveiled a new Florida congressional map that could hand Republicans up to four additional House seats. The plan still needs approval from the GOP-controlled legislature before it can take effect for the 2026 midterms. Florida’s current delegation stands… pic.twitter.com/6tiNelzjKN

— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) April 27, 2026

Move Follows Democrat-Backed Virginia Redistricting

The Florida proposal comes just days after Virginia voters narrowly approved a referendum that would heavily tilt that state’s congressional map in Democrats’ favor, potentially delivering a 10–1 advantage.

That effort is already facing legal challenges, with a circuit court in Tazewell County declaring the measure unconstitutional.

The Virginia Supreme Court has heard arguments as the case moves forward.

Democrats currently hold six seats in Virginia, compared to five for Republicans.

Nationwide Redistricting Battle Intensifies

Florida’s move is part of a broader national push by both parties to redraw congressional maps ahead of the midterms.

The U.S. Supreme Court recently upheld Texas’s redistricting map, which is expected to give Republicans additional seats in Congress.

Meanwhile, California has implemented Proposition 50, allowing Democrats to redraw congressional districts in an effort to secure gains.

High Stakes for House Control

With control of the House expected to hinge on a narrow margin, Florida’s 28-seat delegation represents one of the largest opportunities for Republicans to offset Democrat gains elsewhere.

DeSantis’s proposal signals a more aggressive approach to mid-decade redistricting.

The move in Florida comes as Republicans seek to counter moves by Democrats in states like Virginia and California.

The outcome of these competing efforts could play a decisive role in determining control of Congress in 2026.