Florida Lawmaker Challenges Disqualification From Senate Race Over Term Limits

Overview

• Rep. Debbie Mayfield, a Republican from Brevard County, was disqualified from running in a special election for her former Senate seat due to Florida’s constitutional term limits.
• Mayfield argues that the term-limit provision does not apply to her candidacy because she took a break from the Senate before seeking re-election.
• She has filed an emergency petition with the Florida Supreme Court, claiming the Department of State overstepped its authority in disqualifying her.
• Mayfield alleges her disqualification is political retaliation by Governor Ron DeSantis for endorsing Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential race.
• The court has ordered state officials to respond to Mayfield’s petition by February 10, with the special primary scheduled for April 1 and the general election for June 10.