Debbie Wasserman Schultz Faces Backlash Over Election Bid
Florida Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz is encountering criticism from some Black leaders due to her decision to seek re-election in a majority-minority district. This decision has seemingly cost her support from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the highest-ranking Black Democrat in Congress.
Jeffries, representing New York, did not endorse Wasserman Schultz’s re-election bid when questioned on Tuesday. This follows her entry into the race for a district with a plurality-Black population. She competes against four Black candidates in the upcoming August 18 primary.
“Haven’t made a decision, as it relates to that particular race,” Jeffries remarked during a news conference when asked about supporting Wasserman Schultz’s candidacy for the Fort Lauderdale constituency.
While Jeffries mentioned speaking with Wasserman Schultz about the election, he did not extend official support. His comments highlight a broader concern over Black political representation following a Supreme Court ruling in Louisiana v. Callais. The decision reduced the emphasis on race in drawing electoral districts, prompting redistricting efforts in Republican-led states that affect majority-minority areas.
Amid these changes, Wasserman Schultz faces stern opposition from local Black leaders. The seat she aims to occupy has seen Black representation for over 30 years. Progressive activist Elijah Manley criticized Wasserman Schultz in a social media statement.
“First, she claimed the CBC [Congressional Black Caucus] encouraged her to run. The CBC Chair denied it. Then, she stated on TV that Leader Jeffries was supporting her. Jeffries declined to endorse her,” Manley expressed.
Wasserman Schultz likely maintains a fundraising lead over primary rivals, with over $2.5 million reported in her campaign funds, according to the Federal Election Commission. Opponents include former Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, ex-Broward County Mayor Dale Holness, and musician Luther Campbell.
Florida Republicans recently redrew district lines, weakening Wasserman Schultz’s Democrat-majority seat in a new map signed into law in May. Cherfilus-McCormick, who previously held the seat, is running again despite pending legal issues and a possible criminal trial.
Wasserman Schultz, a former Democratic National Committee chairwoman, first entered the House in 2004. Her campaign did not comment before this publication.