OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Hispanic community leaders are urging voters to head to the polls in November, raising concerns about Hispanic representation following recent political developments in Central Florida.
Leaders say their concerns stem from the arrest of Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa and changes to Florida’s congressional map earlier this year.
In April, state leaders redrew the congressional map, affecting counties across Florida, including Osceola County.
The new map expanded District 9 beyond Osceola, Orange and Polk counties to include more rural areas like parts of Orlando and Indian River and Okeechobee counties.
Leaders say the changes reduced the district’s Hispanic share from 54% to 41%.
Florida Rep. Anthony Nieves, who represents District 47, urged voters to participate in the upcoming election regardless of party affiliation.
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“The call to action is we’re here, we need to vote, we need to address the issues, and we need to make sure that we are solid in our decisions moving forward within Osceola County,” Nieves said.
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