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DeSantis Term Limit Challenge: Florida Debate Heats Up

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 12:11 GMT by Tallahassee Democrat
      Locales: Florida, UNITED STATES

Tallahassee, FL - February 23, 2026 - A contentious debate is brewing in Florida over the possibility of amending the state's constitution to allow Governor Ron DeSantis to bypass the current eight-year term limit. A petition, spearheaded by the newly formed "Keep Florida Great" political group, formally submitted on Friday, seeks to remove the restriction, potentially opening the door for DeSantis to seek a third consecutive term. The proposal immediately ignited a firestorm of discussion, raising fundamental questions about the principles of term limits, the concentration of power, and the direction of Florida's political landscape.

The "Keep Florida Great" initiative requires a monumental undertaking: collecting 861,007 verified signatures from registered Florida voters by February 23, 2027. Success in this signature drive wouldn't automatically guarantee a change, however. The proposed amendment would then need to navigate the rigorous gauntlet of the Florida Legislature, requiring a two-thirds supermajority vote in both chambers before being placed on the statewide ballot for voters to decide. This multi-layered process underscores the significant hurdles facing proponents of overturning nearly three decades of established constitutional precedent.

The origins of Florida's term limits date back to 1992, born from a wave of public dissatisfaction with perceived political corruption and a desire for greater accountability from elected officials. The amendments, adopted as part of a broader package of reforms, were intended to prevent the entrenchment of power and foster a more dynamic and responsive government. Critics of lifting these limits argue that dismantling them would undo a critical safeguard against potential abuses of authority.

Governor DeSantis' rising national prominence and consistently high approval ratings amongst Republican voters are widely seen as the primary drivers behind this push. Since assuming office, DeSantis has implemented a series of impactful - and often controversial - policies spanning education, environmental regulations, and economic development. Supporters, like John Smith, spokesperson for "Keep Florida Great," contend that DeSantis' leadership has been exceptionally effective and that prematurely curtailing his tenure would be detrimental to the state's continued progress.

However, the proposal is encountering fierce resistance from across the political spectrum. State Senator Maria Rodriguez, a Democrat, eloquently articulated the concerns of many when she stated, "Term limits are a cornerstone of our democracy. They prevent any one individual from accumulating too much power and provide opportunities for new voices and perspectives to be heard." This sentiment is echoed by some Republicans who believe in the principle of regular leadership turnover, even while acknowledging DeSantis' accomplishments.

The debate extends beyond DeSantis himself. Opponents argue that lifting term limits could set a dangerous precedent, potentially allowing future governors to consolidate power and stifle dissent. Concerns have also been raised about the potential for increased lobbying and special interest influence if individuals can remain in office for extended periods. Proponents counter that experience and institutional knowledge are valuable assets, and that a governor with a proven track record should not be arbitrarily forced out of office.

Legal experts predict a challenging path ahead, citing potential constitutional challenges. The existing term limits are deeply ingrained in the state's governing structure, and any attempt to circumvent them would likely face scrutiny from the courts. The legal arguments could center on whether the amendment violates the spirit of the original 1992 reforms, or whether it constitutes an improper attempt to circumvent established constitutional principles.

The coming months are expected to witness a vigorous campaign by both sides. "Keep Florida Great" is preparing to launch a statewide grassroots effort to gather signatures and build public support. Opponents are mobilizing to raise awareness about the potential drawbacks of lifting term limits and to emphasize the importance of preserving democratic principles. Political analysts predict a significant financial investment from both sides, with outside groups likely to play a substantial role in shaping the narrative.

The outcome of this debate will have far-reaching implications for Florida's political future. It's not merely about whether Ron DeSantis can serve beyond two terms; it's about the fundamental balance of power, the role of term limits in a healthy democracy, and the vision for Florida's leadership in the years to come. As the petition circulates and the legislative process unfolds, the citizens of Florida will grapple with these critical questions, ultimately deciding whether to reaffirm the principles of limited government or to embrace a new era of potentially extended leadership.