Florida Senate District 19 and House District 3 Special Election Delay Challenge

Lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Florida on behalf of two voters against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) challenging the governor’s refusal to call special elections to fill two vacancies in the state House and Senate. House District 3 (HD 3) and Senate District 19 (SD 19) have been vacant for over 40 days after both legislators resigned to run in two congressional special elections. The plaintiffs argue the governor’s failure to set special elections for the legislative vacancies violates his mandatory duty under the Florida Constitution and state law. They ask the court to order that DeSantis schedule a special primary election and special election for SD 19 and HD 3 within five days.

STATUS: The ACLU of Florida filed its complaint on Jan. 9, 2025.

Last updated: January 9, 2025 5:18 pm EST