FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Crestview, FL – December 10, 2025
Okaloosa County NAACP Opposes Partisan Census Effort
The Okaloosa County Branch of the NAACP stands in firm opposition to the Florida State Legislature and Governor Ron DeSantis’ proposal to re-run the 2020 Census for the express purpose of adding more Republican congressional seats. This attempt undermines the constitutional mandate for a fair, once-a-decade population count and represents a modern-day effort at gerrymandering under the guise of a census review.
The United States Constitution requires a decennial census to deliver an accurate snapshot of every person living in America, regardless of political affiliation, race, income, or immigration status. Re doing the count to increase congressional representation in one party’s favor is a blatant abuse of power that threatens the integrity of our democracy and disenfranchises countless Floridians.
“Our branch rejects any scheme that treats the census as a political weapon,” said Sabu Williams, President of the Branch. “The 2020 Census was conducted with federal oversight, extensive planning, and bipartisan safeguards. Calling for a redo now—simply to increase an already partisan advantage—devalues the principles of equal representation and transparent governance.”
The Okaloosa County Branch NAACP will formally present and discuss our opposition to the proposed Census re-run during a scheduled meeting with our legislative delegation on December 15th in Shalimar, Florida. Williams stated “We believe it is crucial for our elected officials to hear directly from the communities affected by these proposals and to understand the broader implications for fair representation and democratic integrity.
We call on the Florida Panhandle delegation to uphold their oath to the Constitution and defend the rights of the more than 700,000 citizens they represent. Rather than enabling an unconstitutional power grab, our state senators and representatives should:
- Reject any legislation or executive order aimed at re-conducting the 2020 Census • Support efforts to ensure the 2030 Census is fully funded, accurately administered, and free from partisan interference
- Champion clear boundaries between political objectives and essential civic processes
The Okaloosa County Branch NAACP remains committed to protecting voting rights, advancing fair representation, and empowering all communities to have their voices heard. “We urge our regional lawmakers to stand with us in defense of democracy, reject this modern-day gerrymandering scheme, and keep the census a nonpartisan civic foundation.”
Media Contact:
Ms. Quanda Pace
Chair, Press & Publicity Email: ocnaacp@gmail.com Phone: (850) 783-0047