PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — A newly proposed congressional map from Governor Ron DeSantis is sparking strong reactions from both parties as Florida lawmakers prepare to take up redistricting during a special session this week.

The proposal, unveiled ahead of a four-day special session beginning Tuesday, could reshape Florida’s political landscape by creating up to four additional Republican-leaning seats in Congress.

Lawmakers are expected to focus heavily on redistricting during the session, along with other issues including vaccine mandates and artificial intelligence. The state Legislature typically redraws congressional districts once every 10 years, but this proposal would significantly alter the current map.

Supporters say the plan will receive a full and fair review.

“My job is not to draw distinctions or draw inferences from the map as far as what I like and what I don’t like.“My job is to make sure that the governor’s proposal is respectfully and thoughtfully considered by the Legislature,” said Republican Sen. Don Gaetz.

Democrats, however, are already criticizing the proposal, arguing it is politically motivated and could violate the state constitution.

“The last thing they want is their elected officials to be playing this partisan game here in the state of Florida. So not only is it unconstitutional, not only is it illegal, but I can guarantee you we will hold on to our entire eight members of our congressional delegation currently,” said said Nikki Fried, Chair of the Florida Democratic party.

At the center of the debate locally is Congressional District 20, which covers parts of Palm Beach and Broward counties. The district is currently vacant following the recent resignation of Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and is the only majority-Black congressional district in Florida.

See also: Lawmakers head back to Tallahassee for special session on redistricting, vaccines and AI

DeSantis has repeatedly said he wants to redraw District 20, a move that could significantly change representation for voters in South Florida.

Redistricting determines who represents voters in Congress, how communities are grouped together and which issues may receive priority at the federal level, including housing, insurance and funding.

Florida’s constitution prohibits drawing districts to favor a political party, meaning any final map could face legal challenges.

Lawmakers are expected to review the proposal over the next several days. The special session runs through Thursday, with any approved map likely to be closely scrutinized in court.

In addition to redistricting, the special session will also take up several other priorities pushed by DeSantis, including proposed regulations on artificial intelligence companies and a measure that would make it easier for K-12 students to opt out of vaccine requirements.

The Florida House is scheduled to gavel in Tuesday morning at 10 a.m., with the Senate set to follow at noon.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates,