Jeffries and DeSantis Exchange Barbs on Florida Redistricting

Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis a 'lame duck' governor during a Fox News Digital interview on Thursday. Jeffries stated in the interview that DeSantis is putting his own congressional delegation in jeopardy, adding that Florida Republicans cannot stand the 'charismatically challenged lame duck governor of Florida,' according to Fox News reported details.

The comments followed DeSantis' offer on Wednesday to pay for Jeffries' trip to Florida, made during a press conference in Kissimmee, Florida. DeSantis invited Jeffries to stay in the Florida governor’s mansion and go fishing, stating that Jeffries campaigning in Florida would benefit Republicans.

Earlier this week, Jeffries warned DeSantis not to follow the redistricting lead of Texas Republicans.

Jeffries said, 'Our message to Florida Republicans is F around and find out' regarding redistricting efforts. He stated that Texas Republicans will be fortunate to gain two or three seats through redistricting, not five. Jeffries also stated that Democrats in California will gain all five seats through redistricting.

Multiple states have moved forward with redistricting efforts following a push initiated by President Donald Trump. In Virginia, a congressional redistricting referendum passed on Tuesday night.

Abigail Spanberger. President Donald Trump urged Virginia voters this week to reject the congressional redistricting referendum. DeSantis called a special session this week to focus on congressional maps in Florida.

DeSantis delivered his State of the State address on January 13, 2026, at the Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee. Florida's state constitution bans favoring parties in redistricting. Eight Democratic-held congressional districts in Florida are up for redrawing.

Republicans currently hold 20 congressional seats in Florida, while Democrats hold 8.