Rep. Byron Donalds publicly endorsed Gov. Ron DeSantis’ new congressional map, saying the governor is "doing the right thing." The proposal could add about four Republican seats in Florida if approved and signed into law before the 2026 midterms. Democrats, including Hakeem Jeffries and Gov. Gavin Newsom, warn the aggressive redistricting push may invite legal challenges and political backlash. Lawmakers convened a special session to consider the proposed maps as this partisan battle continues nationwide.
Byron Donalds Backs DeSantis' Congressional Map As Redistricting Battle Intensifies
Rep. Byron Donalds of Naples speaks during CPAC Latino 2025 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla., on June 28, 2025. He is running for Florida governor in the 2026 election.(Getty Images)
Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) has publicly endorsed Gov. Ron DeSantis’ newly unveiled congressional map, praising the proposal while sharply criticizing Democratic leaders who oppose it. The proposed plan, released this week, could add roughly four Republican seats in Florida if approved by the state’s Republican-controlled legislature and signed into law before the 2026 midterm elections.
What DeSantis Proposed
DeSantis introduced a new congressional map that party officials say would strengthen GOP representation in Florida. If the legislature approves the map and the governor signs it, the changes would take effect in time for the 2026 elections.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries speaks at a press conference on Department of Homeland Security funding at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 4, 2026.
Reactions And Rhetoric
Donalds voiced unequivocal support for DeSantis in an interview, arguing the governor is "doing the right thing" and dismissing critiques from national Democrats. He took aim at House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, saying he does not heed their warnings about potential legal or political consequences.
“Governor DeSantis is doing the right thing. I fully support what he’s doing,” Donalds told Fox News Digital.
“I don't listen to Hakeem. He's a fake tough guy. I'm not listening to Gavin. He's a terrible governor, worst in the country,” Donalds added.
National Context
The Florida effort comes amid a broader, highly partisan redistricting wave across the country. Several states have recently adopted or proposed new congressional maps as parties attempt to shape the balance of power ahead of upcoming elections and the next census cycle. Republican leaders have pointed to potential gains in states such as Ohio, North Carolina, Missouri and Texas, while Democrats cite opportunities in states including California, Virginia and Utah.
Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks on stage during "Networth And Chill With Guest Governor Gavin Newsom" at the 2026 SXSW Conference and Festival at the Hilton Austin in Austin, Texas, on March 15, 2026.
Democratic officials have warned that aggressive mapmaking can provoke legal challenges and unintended political consequences. An exchange of public barbs between Jeffries and DeSantis — beginning with Jeffries’ cautionary remark and followed by DeSantis’ invitation to visit Florida — highlights how heated the debate has become.
What Comes Next
Florida lawmakers convened a special session to consider the proposed maps. If the Republican-led legislature approves the plan, DeSantis would sign it to enact the changes for the 2026 midterms. Nationwide, parties are continuing to pursue redistricting strategies that could reshape control of the U.S. House in coming election cycles.
Reporting note: This article summarizes public statements and legislative proposals. Legal challenges and legislative actions could alter the timeline or outcome of any proposed map.
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