U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz won the Democratic primary for Florida’s 20th Congressional District on Tuesday, defeating four opponents in a race reshaped by Republican-led redistricting. The Associated Press projected her victory at 7:24 p.m., with 50.5% of the vote counted as of 67% reporting. Wasserman Schultz will advance to the November general election.
Wasserman Schultz’s campaign emphasized her 12th term in Congress and policy priorities, including affordability issues such as housing, healthcare, and utilities. Her victory speech highlighted her commitment to constituent concerns, stating, “We’re going to make sure we fight those damn Republicans.” The newly drawn 20th District includes predominantly Black communities in central and western Broward County, a region historically represented by Black lawmakers since 1992.
Redistricting and District Changes
Republican-led redistricting in Florida eliminated Wasserman Schultz’s previous 25th District, prompting her to run in the 20th District, a reliably blue seat. The redrawn district stretches from Miami Beach to Delray Beach and is expected to shift from Democratic to Republican control in future elections. Wasserman Schultz’s move to the 20th District drew criticism from opponents who argued it disrupted the district’s long-standing representation by Black Democrats.
Primary Opponents and Campaign Dynamics
Wasserman Schultz defeated:
- Former Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who resigned in April amid a congressional ethics investigation.
- Elijah Manley, a 27-year-old progressive teacher aligned with the Democratic Party’s left wing.
- Dale VC Holness, former Broward County mayor.
- Luther Campbell, a community activist and rapper.
Critics, including Manley and Cherfilus-McCormick, accused Wasserman Schultz of “district forum shopping”, arguing her candidacy undermined the district’s Black political legacy. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries declined to endorse her during the dispute. Wasserman Schultz defended her decision, citing her experience and seniority in Congress.
Policy Priorities and General Election Outlook
Wasserman Schultz’s campaign focused on economic affordability, including rent, groceries, and healthcare. She will face Republican nominee Kedner Maxime and an independent candidate in the November 3 general election. The 20th District encompasses portions of Fort Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Lauderdale Lakes, Tamarac, North Lauderdale, Plantation, Sunrise, and Pompano Beach, with a majority-Black electorate.