Rep. Lois Frankel to Run for Congressional District 23 Following Redistricting
Democratic Rep. Lois Frankel will run in Florida’s redrawn 23rd Congressional District after Gov. DeSantis’ controversial redistricting plan moved much of her current territory.
WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA — U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel announced she will seek re-election in Florida’s newly redrawn 23rd Congressional District, following the passage of a controversial redistricting map that has reshuffled political boundaries across South Florida.
The Democratic representative, who currently serves Florida’s 22nd Congressional District covering much of Palm Beach County, confirmed her decision after much of her existing district was moved into the new CD 23 under the state’s latest congressional map.
New Map Scrambles Democratic Plans
The redistricting plan, drawn by Governor Ron DeSantis’ office and presented to state lawmakers with only 24 hours notice, is predicted to help Republicans gain additional congressional seats in the November elections. The map has significantly disrupted re-election plans for several South Florida Democratic representatives.
“It’s a challenging time for our democracy. Florida’s governor has redrawn Congressional maps to curry favor with Donald Trump, and the U.S. Supreme Court has gutted hard-fought voting and civil rights,” Frankel said in a written statement. “I strongly oppose this new Florida map, which silences voters and undermines their rights, and I support efforts in the courts to challenge it.”
The new District 23 is currently represented by fellow Democrat Jared Moskowitz, but he is expected to run for another seat after his district was carved up in the redistricting process.
Democratic-Leaning District
Unlike most districts in the new map, the redrawn CD 23 maintains a more Democratic-leaning composition. This has positioned it as one of the few bright spots for Democrats in the redistricting changes.
“I am more committed than ever to stand up to these forces. Should the proposed map hold, I will run in the new District 23, which includes the majority of the voters I currently serve — and whom I have represented steadfastly for years,” Frankel stated.
Decades of Public Service
Frankel, who turns 78 later this month, brings extensive experience representing Palm Beach County at both state and federal levels. Her political career spans multiple decades, beginning with her election to the Florida Legislature in 1986.
She served 14 years in the state legislature from 1986-1992 and 1994-2002, including a historic role as the first female Democratic minority leader. After her legislative service, Frankel was elected Mayor of West Palm Beach in 2003, holding that position for eight years before winning her congressional seat in 2012.
The announcement comes as legal challenges to the redistricting map continue to work their way through the courts. Frankel has expressed support for these legal efforts while preparing her campaign for the reconfigured district that would include many of her current constituents.
