TAMPA, FL — The Florida Democratic Party has filed a suit in federal court to extend early voting hours.

STATEMENT FROM FLORIDA DEMOCRATIC PARTY CHAIRMAN ROD SMITH:

“Voting is a fundamental right, and we all have an interest in assuring that all Americans have effective opportunities to vote. Florida’s Republican state legislature has already reduced the number of days to early vote by six days. Because of Gov. Scott’s refusal to follow precedent and extend early voting hours in the face of unprecedented voter turnout in South Florida, we are requesting in federal court that more Floridians have a meaningful chance to early vote.”