Former Democratic County Commissioner Kimberly Overman has switched districts in her effort to win a seat in Congress. She will now challenge incumbent Republican Congressman Gus Bilirakis, who represents District 12. That district was drastically changed by the Florida Legislature and Governor Ronald DeSantis to include a large portion of western Hillsborough County.
Before redistricting, Republicans had a huge advantage in numbers in District 12. Now, the district still leans Republican, but there are a lot more Democrats in the district. With Democrats expecting to perform 10 or more points better than two years ago, this race could now give Bilirakis something to worry about, as he has not had a serious challenge in years.
Under the new boundaries, Overman now lives in District 12, but the change also gives her a much easier Democratic primary. In District 15, where she was running before, Democrat Darren McCauley had a substantial fundraising lead over Overman.
She is now the big Democratic fish in the District 12 pond. She faces Democrat Christopher Irizarry, who has only raised $18,000 compared to Overman’s $127,000. She also has a better chance at currying the DCCC’s favor and has an advantage in name recognition.
This story first appeared in La Gaceta. Read more when you buy a paper.
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This article appears in May 07 – 13, 2026.