Florida groups challenge DeSantis on voter registration deadline extension

In Florida, as Hurricane Milton approached, civil and voting rights organizations took legal action to extend the voter registration deadline. The League of Women Voters of Florida and the Florida State Conference of the NAACP filed a motion in the Northern District of Florida, arguing that the impending hurricane and previous evacuations from Hurricane Helene made it difficult for many residents to register. They claimed that at least eight counties had issued evacuation orders, some occurring on the registration deadline itself. The organizations contended that the safety of residents was compromised, forcing them to choose between their well-being and their right to vote. They sought an emergency injunction to reopen the registration period for at least ten days to accommodate those affected by the hurricanes. Despite these arguments, U.S. District Judge Robert L. Hinkle denied the request, allowing the state to proceed with the original voter registration deadline. This decision meant that anyone who failed to register by the deadline would be unable to vote in the upcoming November election. The denial of the extension has raised concerns about disenfranchisement among Florida residents, particularly those impacted by the hurricanes. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by voters in emergency situations and the importance of accessible voter registration processes.