Florida’s democracy is pretty, well…democratic. At least compared to other states. That’s according to a new report out this month from the left-leaning Center for American Progress Action Fund.
The study looked at access to voting, representation in state government and the extent to which outside influencers can shape policy. Overall, Florida ranked 11th nationally, the only Southeastern state to crack the top half.
But the center points to failings that it says the Sunshine State ought to improve. Namely, Florida’s elected leaders aren’t very representative, they say.
Women are underrepresented among elected officials. And while minorities constitute 43 percent of Florida’s total population, they make up just 14 percent of the state’s elected officials.