Black leaders are taking issue with U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz’s decision to run in a plurality Black seat. And the complaints extend beyond opponents running in Florida’s 20th Congressional District
State Sen. Shevrin Jones, a Miami Gardens Democrat, has long called Wasserman Schultz a political ally. But he said he will not support her run.
“Debbie has been a friend for many years. We have spoken over recent days, though my stance on this remains the same: Black representation is a non-negotiable for me,” Jones said.
“Everyone deserves to have a seat at the table to ensure our communities are represented by those with their same lived experience. This is not about Debbie because she has shown that she can lead; that’s not the argument nor should it be the fight, at least not mine. My fight is for Black representation, and I am in the business of expanding it, not diminishing it.”
Black Democrats took issue because even under a “race-neutral” map approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis, CD 20 boasts a predominantly Black population. About 42% of the voting age population is Black, more than 23% is Hispanic and almost 4% is Asian, while 30% of voting age residents are White.
The map dismantled Wasserman Schultz’s seat, but she chose the safe Democratic CD 20 over vacant battleground seats.
The Florida Legislative Black Caucus took issue with the choice.
“For generations, Black Floridians have fought tirelessly for the right to vote and for that vote to result in meaningful representation. This fight has not been easy, marked by sacrifice, organizing, and the courage to overcome various forms of racial discrimination and exclusion. Today, as we face a crucial juncture in our history, we must reaffirm our commitment to protecting the political power of Black communities,” reads a caucus statement.
“With only two remaining Black access congressional districts in Florida, the significance of representation in District 20 cannot be overstated. This district was established to remedy decades of racial exclusion and to ensure that Black communities have the opportunity to elect leaders who truly reflect their experiences and needs.”
The concerns reach beyond the decisions of Republicans.
“Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz’s decision to pursue reelection in this historically Black district, despite explicit requests from the Black community to seek candidacy in a neighboring district, is disheartening,” the caucus statement reads.
“Prior to her announcement, Chair of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus, Representative Felicia Robinson, sought a meeting to discuss these pressing concerns. The absence of that dialogue demonstrates a lack of respect and engagement with the very constituents who are most affected by her candidacy.”
