Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz Faces Pushback for Running in Newly Redistricted Area

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz faces criticism from Black Democrats due to her decision to run in a newly redrawn district in South Florida. The district includes a majority of Black voters and has a crowded primary field. The changes arose after Gov. Ron DeSantis approved new congressional maps, altering the political landscape in Florida.

Rather than seeking reelection in the 22nd Congressional District, where she resides, Wasserman Schultz chose the more Democratic-leaning 20th District. This district has traditionally been represented by a Black Democrat. Her decision has caused anger among Black leaders and candidates in the area, especially in light of recent Republican efforts to eliminate districts long held by Black Democrats following a Supreme Court decision that limits the use of race in drawing maps.

Four Black candidates in the primary are considering coalescing around one or two candidates to avoid splitting the Black vote, according to one meeting participant. Wasserman Schultz, an 11-term incumbent and former Democratic National Committee chair, announced her run last month. She emphasized her seniority, arguing that her experience could benefit the district if Democrats gain control of the House, where she could chair a key committee.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries from New York, a potential first Black speaker if Democrats win the House, has not decided on endorsing in the race. As caucus leader, he would typically support an incumbent. Asked about Jeffries’ reluctance to endorse, Wasserman Schultz expressed gratitude for her existing support, stressing her dedication to connecting with Broward voters.

Black Congressional members have criticized her decision. Rep. Jasmine Crockett from Texas stated she would not have made the same decision. Florida’s Black Democrats have uniformly criticized Wasserman Schultz’s choice. Elijah Manley, a candidate in the district and the first to enter the race, expressed disappointment at a white Democrat potentially taking a historically Black-held seat.

Other candidates in the race include rapper Luther “Luke” Campbell and former Broward County Mayor Dale Holness. Manley has raised $780,000, less than Wasserman Schultz, who raised $2.5 million by March, giving her a significant financial edge. The 20th Congressional District has been held by a Black Democrat for almost 30 years. The position became open when Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigned due to ethics violations and faces federal indictment.

Luther Campbell warned in a video about Wasserman Schultz entering a Black-plurality seat. Candidates discussed consolidating support to strengthen their position against her. Manley mentioned that their consensus was reducing candidates to improve their chances.

A South Florida Black Democratic official, anonymous for candid expression, highlighted the need for unity over individual ambitions to prevent fragmentation. Holness shared that he had shown Wasserman Schultz polling data indicating she could win in the 22nd District and urged her to run there.

At a candidate meeting about consolidation, the collective belief was that without changes, Wasserman Schultz might win. Holness suggested decisions could be reached the following week. Wasserman Schultz implied a lack of opposition from the Congressional Black Caucus during conversations with them. CBC Chair Yvette Clarke acknowledged being informed of Wasserman Schultz’s decision but noted the absence of deeper discussion. Clarke also defended Jeffries’ neutrality given the district’s non-incumbent nature.

The Democratic Black Caucus of Florida stated that safeguarding Black political representation is crucial amid aggressive redistricting efforts that have weakened minority voting strength across Florida.