Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried released the following statement in response to the Florida Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Governor Ron DeSantis’ congressional map:

“The Florida Supreme Court just greenlit Ron DeSantis’ political power grab — one that strips Black voters in North Florida of their power. This ruling violates the Fair Districts Amendment, passed by Florida voters to protect minority representation and keep partisan gerrymandering in check.

The court had an opportunity to uphold fair representation. Instead, the majority chose to side with the Governor’s rigged map.

We commend Justice Jorge Labarga for his dissent, for naming what the majority refused to: this map diminishes the power of Black voters and violates the very rules voters demanded be followed.

Florida Democrats will continue to fight for fair maps and equal representation for every Floridian — not just the ones Ron DeSantis chooses.”