Debbie Wasserman Schultz, a veteran Congressional Democrat, has announced her candidacy for Florida’s District 20 following redistricting. If she wins, she will represent areas such as southern Coral Springs, North Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Tamarac, and nearby cities.

Four Black candidates in the Democratic primary for the 20th congressional district convened privately to discuss rallying behind a single candidate. Their aim is to enhance their chances of defeating Wasserman Schultz in a district historically crafted to ensure Black representation.

Although discussions continue, a consensus on the chosen candidate has not been reached yet. “I think we’re all going to come to some agreement before the end of qualifying,” shared candidate Elijah Manley, who met with Luther Campbell, Dale Holness, and former Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.

The redistricting by the Florida Legislature has significantly altered South Florida’s congressional layout. Predominantly Black neighborhoods have shifted into white-majority districts, and Wasserman Schultz’s previous district underwent division.

Wasserman Schultz claims support from the Congressional Black Caucus and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, though neither endorsed her explicitly. The Caucus’s chairwoman, Rep. Yvette Clarke, stated they did not drive her decision to run in this district.

The 20th District, instituted by a federal court in 1992 under the Voting Rights Act, historically facilitated the election of Black congress members in Florida. Governor Ron DeSantis’s recent redistricting efforts have revised previous interpretations of the Act, affecting electoral dynamics.

Cherfilus-McCormick voiced concerns about the implications of Wasserman Schultz entering the race, citing attacks on Black political representation. “If we allow them to erase the history, we’re back here all over again,” she contended, urging the Democratic Party and allies to consider the significance of this race.

Luther Campbell identified the race as pivotal for the Democratic Party, noting feelings of disenfranchisement among Black voters within the party. “At the end of the day, we all had a good conversation. But the main thing is beating her,” Campbell stated.

Those interested in participating in the August 18 primary have until June 12 to qualify.