Florida's 22nd Congressional District: A shifting political landscape in the Sunshine State

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Created in 1993, Florida's 22nd Congressional District has evolved from a coastal Broward-to-Palm Beach corridor into a Palm Beach County hub. Known for its high Jewish population and diverse communities, the district has served as a focal point for national political attention, including the historic 2000 presidential election recount.

Established following the 1990 United States census, the district was primarily carved from the former 15th District. Clay Shaw, who had served the 15th since 1981, held the new 22nd seat until 2007. His tenure was marked by early challenges, including a 1994 primary where he defeated John Stahl with over 77% of the vote, and a general election victory against Hermine Wiener. Shaw’s political career in the district eventually concluded after he lost to Ron Klein in 2006, who was subsequently unseated by Allen West in 2010.

The district's geography has undergone significant transformations through redistricting cycles. Between 2017 and 2023, it spanned the coast from Broward County to southern Palm Beach County, encompassing landmarks like Port Everglades and Florida Atlantic University. Following the 2020 census, the district was redrawn to focus on Palm Beach County, including cities such as West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, and Delray Beach. This current iteration is represented by Democrat Lois Frankel, who was re-elected in 2022.

Beyond its political history, the district is characterized by a demographic profile that includes a large population of seniors, veterans, and professionals. It is home to a thriving Jewish community alongside growing Hispanic and Black populations. The region supports a robust cultural and educational infrastructure, featuring institutions like the Norton Museum of Art and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. With more than 720,000 residents, the district remains a vital economic and social landscape in Southeast Florida.

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