A federal judge in Florida has rejected a bid to mandate the inclusion of additional candidates in the Democratic presidential primary scheduled for March. The decision stems from President Joe Biden being the sole candidate certified, drawing criticism from Democrats like Rep. Dean Phillips, who called it “intentional disenfranchisement.”
Background on Primary Scrutiny
Florida’s Democratic primary faced controversy as only President Biden was submitted to state election officials, prompting Tampa attorney Michael Steinberg to challenge the decision. Steinberg sought to compel the inclusion of other candidates, including Biden challenger Dean Phillips, spiritual author Marianne Williamson, and progressive Cenk Uygur.
Constitutionality Challenge Dismissed
U.S. District Court Judge Allen Winsor dismissed Steinberg’s challenge, ruling against a preliminary injunction. Winsor argued that the attorney would likely not succeed on the merits of the case. Steinberg, acting independently without campaign affiliation, plans to appeal the decision and expressed a willingness to take the case to the Supreme Court if accepted.
Party Autonomy in Candidate Selection
Florida law grants state parties the authority to decide which candidates appear on the presidential primary ballot. The Florida Democratic Party, during its annual convention in Orlando, unanimously submitted only Biden’s name, effectively canceling the primary. The decision attracted attention closer to the November 30 deadline for party candidate submissions.
Long-Shot Presidential Bid by Dean Phillips
Rep. Dean Phillips, launching a presidential bid in October, faces an uphill battle against Biden. The Florida Democratic Party’s move to exclude other candidates drew scrutiny for limiting voter choice, leading to legal challenges like Steinberg’s.
Looking Forward
The denial of the preliminary injunction maintains the status quo for Florida’s Democratic primary, scheduled for March 19, with Biden as the sole candidate. The decision highlights the autonomy of state parties in determining primary candidates.
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