Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a new voting bill into law. It imposes limitations on voting by mail and at drop boxes, which Democrats and progressives fear would reduce voter turnout.
During an interview, DeSantis, a Republican, signed the bill, which was approved by the GOP-controlled legislature last month. The governor held more formal bill-signing ceremonies throughout Florida during the week as he signed bills into law.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the governor rose to prominence, especially among conservatives, who see him as one of the leading Republicans eyeing a presidential run in the future. Former President Donald Trump has praised Fox & Friends, which has been a mainstay for Republican politicians.
IMPACT OF THE NEW LAWS IN FLORIDA
DeSantis claimed that the bill ensures the “integrity and transparency” of Florida’s elections; and that the amendments would keep the state “ahead of the curve” following the effective 2020 election. Repeating the message Republicans have been using to counter criticism of their legislation for months.
The new laws take effect immediately, just in time for local elections, a special House election to replace the late Rep. Alcee Hastings, D-Fla.; and next year’s midterm elections, which will include governor and Senate elections.
The reforms would have a direct impact on the Hastings special elections; the bill also contains a change to the state’s “resign-to-run” rule, which would allow DeSantis to nominate replacements to fill seats vacated by local officials who wish to run for that congressional seat.
WHAT ARE THE FLORIDIANS SAYING?
Rep. Charlie Crist, D-Fla., who announced his gubernatorial bid against Gov. Ron DeSantis this week, called the law “pathetic” in a statement.
The League of Women Voters of Florida, Black Voters Matters Fund, Florida Alliance for Retired Americans, and others filed a lawsuit shortly after the bill was signed into law, claiming that it violates Floridians’ civil rights.
Florida is the first Republican-led state to pass new voting laws now that the legislation is in effect, months after former President Donald Trump started making baseless allegations that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him.
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