Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Florida’s first Jewish woman elected to Congress, announced she will run in the newly redrawn 20th District after Republican legislators reshaped the state’s congressional map. The seat became vacant following the resignation of Rep. Sheila Cherfilus‑McCormick, who stepped down amid a campaign finance investigation.
In her campaign launch video, Wasserman Schultz highlighted her seniority and influence in Washington, promising to use her position on the House Appropriations Committee to deliver results on affordability and community priorities. She also underscored her long record of fighting antisemitism and her leadership roles in congressional caucuses.
Her entry into the race has stirred controversy. The 20th District has elected Black representatives for more than three decades, and critics accuse Wasserman Schultz of “carpetbagging” and attempting to divide the district’s Black and Caribbean vote. Meanwhile, Cherfilus‑McCormick is seeking to reclaim her seat, joined by other Democratic contenders including activist Elijah Manley, musician Luther Campbell, physician Rudolph Moise, and former Broward County Mayor Dale Holness.
The announcement video featured endorsements from Florida Democratic officials and activists, and prominently displayed images of former President Barack Obama, recalling Wasserman Schultz’s tenure as chair of the Democratic National Committee during his administration.
Her candidacy underscores how Florida’s redistricting is reshaping political battlegrounds, with Wasserman Schultz betting that her experience and seniority will resonate in a district facing both demographic and political shifts.
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