Progressive leaders and caucuses across Florida have joined forces to support a federal lawsuit aimed at contesting the exclusion of candidates from the Democratic presidential primary. Florida progressives also warn that without a presidential primary, there could be an impact to Democratic voter turnout.
Led by attorney Michael Steinberg, the lawsuit challenges the decision to omit candidates like U.S. Representative Dean Phillips, author Marianne Williamson, and Cenk Uygur from the primary ballot.
The Democratic Progressive Caucus of Florida’s chapters in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Duval Counties, along with the President and Secretary of the state caucus, the President of the Central Florida chapter, and at least two (2) DNC members, are preparing to file a legal motion seeking permission to submit an amicus curiae brief in support of Steinberg’s case. The motion highlights concerns about the constitutional implications of canceling the primary and advocates for the inclusion of all eligible Democratic candidates.
Carolina Ampudia, president of Broward County’s progressive caucus and spokesperson for the parties filing the motion, emphasized the commitment of the progressive groups, stating, “Our commitment transcends party lines. We remind both the members and leaders of the Democratic Party that they have allies dedicated to safeguarding the democratic principles they uphold. We pledge to hold those in power accountable, recognizing that true democracy demands the courage to question even our own, reinforcing the importance of clarity and accountability in the pursuit of a government that works for the people.”
“Whoever anyone supports in the Democratic primary, voters should be given the opportunity to vote for the candidate of their choosing. This is an awful decision that disenfranchises people and depresses turnout,” said Thomas Kennedy, one of the elected DNC members participating in the motion.
The legal action responds to escalating tensions within the Florida Democratic Party regarding the decision to limit the primary ballot to President Biden. Critics argue that this decision not only undermines the democratic process but also poses potential consequences for voter turnout and down-ballot candidates in municipal elections scheduled for the same day.
The Progressive Democratic Caucus of Florida warns of unintended consequences, expressing that the cancellation of the Democratic presidential primary could lead to “depressed, possibly disastrous, voter turnout” and open the door to coordinated efforts by external forces to influence local government elections.
As Florida Democrats grapple with these challenges, the coalition of progressive groups calls for a reconsideration of the decision to cancel the primary, emphasizing the broader impact on democracy at both the state and local levels. The motion to support Steinberg’s lawsuit is expected to be filed next week, seeking permission to offer guidance in the federal case.
Meanwhile, the Florida Democratic Party says they followed standard ballot process for the primary. “It is not uncommon for an incumbent President to be declared the automatic winner of a presidential primary,” FDP said in a statement.
