Associated Press
U.S. Rep. Dan Webster is asking state legislators to vote down a map that would upend his congressional district.
Webster testified on Tuesday before a legislative panel. The Florida Legislature is holding a Special Session to adopt a new map for the state’s 27 congressional districts.
The Orlando Republican is upset that legislative staff members have proposed a map that would make his central Florida district overwhelmingly Democratic.
Webster asserted the change violated the state’s “Fair Districts” standards because it would make it impossible for him to win re-election. Voters approved an amendment in 2010 that says legislators can’t draw districts to favor or “disfavor” an incumbent.
Legislators are holding a Special Session because the state Supreme Court ruled that the Legislature violated the state constitution while drawing up the current districts.
Webster would not say whether he would seek re-election if legislators approve the map drawn up by legislative staff.
Republished with permission of The Associated Press.
