The Democratic establishment, including the chairwoman of the national party, made it clear on Tuesday that it backed two South Florida congressional representatives switching seats in the aftermath of the Florida Supreme Court ruling on redistricting.
U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch, D-Fla., and U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel, D-Fla., were clear that they would run against each other even as the court approved map left them in the same district . Deutch, who is currently based in Palm Beach County in CD 21 under the old map, announced last week that he will head down south to represent CD 22 which, under the new map, represents the southern part of Palm Beach County and parts of Broward County. Frankel will look to be elected in CD 21 in Palm Beach County.
Deutch, the ranking Democrat on the U.S. House Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, unveiled the support of Frankel and Florida Democratic U.S. Reps. Alcee Hastings and Debbie Wasserman Schultz on Tuesday.
“Ted Deutch is an incredible colleague and dear friend, and I'm proud to endorse his bid for reelection in Florida's 22nd congressional district," Wasserman Schultz, the chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), said. "Over the years, Ted has proven himself to be a consummate advocate for his South Florida constituents and a strong voice for Israel and Middle East peace, and his voice will be critically important in the 115th Congress. He has represented Broward well and we are fortunate to have him."
"I am pleased to join my colleagues in endorsing Ted Deutch," said Frankel. "Ted is smart, energetic, and of outstanding integrity. I look forward to working with him, tackling the challenges of South Florida together, for as long as our constituents continue to elect us."
Both Deutch and Frankel represent solidly Democratic districts and that is not changed by the state Supreme Court decision.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or follow him on Twitter: @KevinDerbySSN
