REP. AL LAWSON ISSUES STATEMENT ON THE PARTISAN CONGRESSIONAL REDISTRICTING MAP MADE BY GOV. DESANTIS

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Al Lawson (FL-05) issued the following statement on the congressional redistricting map proposed by Governor Ron DeSantis:

"Governor DeSantis' involvement in the Congressional map redistricting process is unprecedented. During my many years in the Florida Legislature a Governor would never submit a map in the redistricting process. In fact, it was my leadership and others that helped create three minority access seats that allowed the first African Americans from Florida to be elected to Congress when I served in the State House. It is evident that DeSantis is trying to restrict minority representation, specifically African American voters.

"I will ensure the people of Florida's 5th District have the representation in Congress they rightfully deserve. My district includes a large minority and urban core, protecting minority voting access is critical to serving the needs of this area.

"I am confident that this attempt by the Governor to dilute the voting rights of my constituents is in clear violation of the Voting Rights Act and the Constitution. Voting rights advocacy organizations like Fair Districts, the NAACP and other community interest groups have not had the opportunity to weigh in on the Governor's partisan proposed map which would negatively affect people of color. More importantly, the voters have not weighed in.

"I have been fortunate to represent the people of Florida's 5th District for many years and I look forward to continuing to do so now and in the future."

Source