Florida redistricting special session: What’s at stake for control of Congress?

Fight over Florida's congressional maps

Dr. Patrick Rickert, an assistant professor of political science at Rollins College, joined FOX 13 News to explain why the stakes extend beyond simple map-making.

TAMPA, Fla. - State lawmakers return to the capital Tuesday for a special legislative session focused on redistricting, a process that could prove pivotal in the fight for control of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Dr. Patrick Rickert, an assistant professor of political science at Rollins College, explained why the stakes extend beyond simple map-making. The session, convened by Gov. Ron DeSantis, puts Florida at the center of a national partisan battle ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

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What they're saying:

"What's at stake is the House of Representatives right now. There's a very thin majority for control and people are expecting Democrats to make some inroads and republicans are trying to draw more favorable districts to stem the tide and hopefully do enough to keep Democrats from having majority control," explained Rickert. "So Florida is really the last opportunity for Republicans to gain some additional seats," he continued.

The session also serves as a high-stakes moment for DeSantis. By calling the special session, the governor has taken a direct role in shaping the maps.

Republicans currently hold 20 of the state’s 28 congressional seats. Any redraw is expected to focus on Democratic-leaning areas, including Orlando, Tampa and South Florida.