Debbie Wasserman Schultz, an experienced Democratic Congresswoman, has declared her candidacy for Florida’s District 20 following redistricting mid-decade. Her potential constituency would encompass southern Coral Springs, North Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Tamarac, and adjacent areas.
In a strategic move, four Black candidates contending in the Democratic primary for Florida’s 20th district convened in a private meeting to discuss backing a single candidate against Wasserman Schultz. The meeting aimed to narrow the competition to Wasserman Schultz and one Black candidate, enhancing their chances in a district recently redesigned to increase Black representation. Although attendees, including Elijah Manley, Luther Campbell, Dale Holness, and former Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, agreed on consolidation, consensus on a candidate was not reached by Tuesday.
Manley expressed optimism for resolving the candidate decision before qualifying ends, citing ongoing fruitful discussions. This internal negotiation followed changes imposed by the Florida Legislature, altering South Florida’s congressional map significantly. Predominantly Black communities shifted to white majority districts, fragmenting Wasserman Schultz’s previous district as she campaigns for the 20th.
Wasserman Schultz, endorsed by the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries for her community familiarity, yet lacking their official endorsement, finds herself amidst varied political dynamics. Rep. Yvette Clarke, CBC Chairwoman, clarified the caucus didn’t encourage her candidacy.
The 20th District originated in 1992 under the Voting Rights Act, ensuring representation through historical Black congressional members like Corrine Brown, Alcee Hastings, and Carrie Meek. Recent redraws led by Gov. Ron DeSantis aimed at weakening Black congressional representation, challenging past interpretations of the Voting Rights Act.
Cherfilus-McCormick emphasized the broader attacks on Black political influence and urged Democratic unity, criticizing the lack of support for maintaining such representation.
Campbell described the congressional race as pivotal for the Democratic Party, especially for Black voters feeling disconnected from party policies.
The deadline for candidates to join the ballot for the August 18 primary was set for June 12.
This article has been revised to correctly portray Wasserman Schultz’s statements regarding the CBC. Originally published on June 2, 2026, at 8:00 PM, Raisa Habersham, Miami Herald’s race and culture reporter, crafted this piece. With a background in housing and affordability, Habersham is an alumnus of the University of Georgia and a Herald member since 2022.