Good Thursday morning.

Gov. Ron DeSantis unveiled a $117 billion budget proposal on Wednesday that significantly expands spending on law enforcement, university security and environmental priorities as he enters his final year in office. The plan reflects a steep climb from the $91 billion budget passed in his first year, 2019. It continues his effort to position Florida as fiscally disciplined while boosting select programs he considers core priorities.

The Governor proposes $13.5 million in pay raises for state law enforcement personnel, hiring 500 new corrections officers and adding nearly $92 million for National Guard facilities and benefits. In response to the April mass shooting at Florida State University, the budget includes $20 million to install locking mechanisms on classroom doors across Florida’s public universities.

DeSantis also recommends $1.6 billion for Everglades restoration, water quality improvements and conservation efforts. His plan includes $1.56 billion in teacher salary funding, continuing a push to lift educator pay amid criticism that Florida ranks last nationally.

A major flashpoint is DeSantis’ renewed call to cut or eliminate property taxes, paired with $300 million to backfill fiscally constrained counties. Democrats warn the approach would destabilize local governments and create long-term dependence on state funding.

The budget also maintains Florida’s investment in temporary immigration detention centers, with officials asserting the federal government will reimburse more than $600 million in related costs as new facilities are planned.

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🫏 — Did immigration turn Miami blue? Eileen Higgins’ victory Tuesday night would have been unlikely just a year ago, and it now raises questions about Miami’s evolving electorate, particularly on voters’ unique feelings on immigration, which buck national trends. Well over half of the city’s residents are foreign-born, with about 72% of those from Latin America. Against this backdrop, the hardening of national immigration rhetoric appears to have pushed many Miami voters, including Republican-leaning Hispanics and No Party Affiliates, toward candidates seen as more protective of immigrants already living and working in the community. Read more here.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RealDonaldTrump: There has never been a President that has worked as hard as me! My hours are the longest, and my results are among the best. I’ve stopped Eight Wars, saving many millions of lives in the process, created the Greatest Economy in the History of our Country, brought Business back into the United States at levels never seen before, rebuilt our Military, created the Largest Tax Cuts and Regulation Cuts, EVER, closed our open and very dangerous Southern Border, when previous Administrations were unable to do so, and created an “aura” around the United States of America that has led every Country in the World to respect us more than ever before. In addition to all of that, I go out of my way to do long, thorough, and very boring Medical Examinations at the Great Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, seen and supervised by top doctors, all of whom have given me PERFECT Marks — Some have even said they have never seen such Strong Results. I do these Tests because I owe it to our Country. In addition to the Medical, I have done something that no other President has done, on three separate occasions, the last one being recently, by taking what is known as a Cognitive Examination, something which few people would be able to do very well, including those working at The New York Times, and I ACED all three of them in front of large numbers of doctors and experts, most of whom I do not know. I have been told that few people have been able to “ace” this Examination and, in fact, most do very poorly, which is why many other Presidents have decided not to take it at all. Despite all of this, the time and work involved, The New York Times, and some others, like to pretend that I am “slowing up,” am maybe not as sharp as I once was, or am in poor physical health, knowing that it is not true, and knowing that I work very hard, probably harder than I have ever worked before. I will know when I am “slowing up,” but it’s not now! After all of the work I have done with Medical Exams, Cognitive Exams, and everything else, I actually believe it’s seditious, perhaps even treasonous, for The New York Times, and others, to consistently do FAKE reports in order to libel and demean “THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.” They are true Enemies of the People, and we should do something about it. They have inaccurately reported on all of my Election Results and, in fact, were forced to apologize on much of what they wrote. The best thing that could happen to this Country would be if The New York Times would cease publication because they are a horrible, biased, and untruthful “source” of information. Thank you for your attention to this matter. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

Tweet, tweet:

—@RonDeSantis: Pelosi-style windfalls received by members of Congress due to suspiciously timed stock trades have become a national farce. @RepLuna is standing up for Floridians by pushing legislation to stop it. This should be a no-brainer.

—@madrid_mike: When Cubans in Miami are shifting the same direction as Puerto Ricans and Dominicans in NYC, something significant is happening

—@joncoopertweets: FUN FACT: Democrats have won or overperformed in 226 out of 254 key and Special Elections this year — nearly 90%.

—@PeterSchorschFL: Folks close to @JayCollinsFL are urging him to abandon plans to run for Governor and instead mount a Primary challenge vs. the embattled @CoryMillsFL, per sources.

—@Rshereme: The largest COVID study to date — covering nearly four years of data and 29 million people — delivers a clear result. Out of the sample, 23 million were vaccinated, and 6 million were not. Among the vaccinated, the risk of dying from COVID was 74% lower, with ZERO increase in deaths from any other cause. Of course, none of this will change the minds of anti-vaxxers. They will blame the researchers, politics, or even Ukraine. And that’s not a joke — people with anti-vaccine attitudes are significantly more likely to believe that “NATO provoked” the Russian war against Ukraine.

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres on Netflix — 1; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 1; Gov. DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 6; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 8; ‘ELWAY’ documentary premieres on Netflix — 11; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 14; ‘Industry’ season four premieres — 31; Special Election for HD 87; HD 51 Special Primary and two Boca Raton referendums — 33; 2026 Legislative Session begins — 33; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 33; The James Madison Institute’s 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 34; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 38; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 50; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 56; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 57; ‘Paradise’ season two premieres on Hulu — 74; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Y: Marshals’ premieres — 80; Boca Raton Mayoral and City Council Elections — 89; last day of the Regular Session — 92; Special Election for HD 51 (if necessary) — 103; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 104; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 105; new season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 113; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 116; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 125; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 125; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 130; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 134; F1 Miami begins — 141; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 162; A new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ ride premieres at Disney World — 162; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 173; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 179; South Africa in the FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in Mexico City — 182; State Qualifying Period ends — 183; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 190; Mexico will face live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 202; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 205; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 210; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 215; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 217; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 221; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 238; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 240; Primary Election Day 2026 — 250; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 274; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 278; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 282; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 287; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 294; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 298; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 317; 2026 General Election — 327; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 372; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 372; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 372; Tampa Mayoral Election — 446; Jacksonville First Election — 467; Jacksonville General Election — 523; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 541; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 603; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 659; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 736; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 946; U.S. Presidential Election — 1062; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1462; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2193.

— TOP STORY —

“Florida GOP House speaker insists White House is not pushing redistricting” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — House Speaker Daniel Perez said he faces no external pressure to pursue mid-decade redistricting, despite Republican hopes of netting several new congressional seats in 2026. Perez told POLITICO he has had no conversations with the White House and said the House is acting only in response to a Florida Supreme Court ruling that weakened existing redistricting standards.

Perez added that, although the House has not begun drawing a new map, it will not wait until late 2026, as Gov. and Senate President Ben Albritton have suggested. Both leaders have argued Florida should hold off until the U.S. Supreme Court rules on a key Louisiana case involving the use of race in map-drawing.

Albritton reiterated this week that it “makes sense” to delay action, saying lawmakers should gather all relevant information before proceeding. Perez sharply disagreed, warning that postponement could force lawmakers back to Tallahassee during the Summer of 2026, which he called unfair and irresponsible.

Perez spoke as the House Redistricting Committee held its second meeting of the month, reviewing recent court decisions and confirming that any mid-decade map would rely on 2020 census data. Democrats questioned the need to act now.

Florida remains a prime target in national redistricting efforts, with Republicans already holding a 20-8 congressional advantage under DeSantis’ 2022 map. But strict voter-approved anti-gerrymandering rules still limit partisan map-drawing and could spark immediate litigation if lawmakers proceed.

Democrats argue the push is political. Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell said Republicans are acting to satisfy Donald Trump rather than respond to legal necessity.

— STATEWIDE —

“Ron DeSantis says most Floridians won’t notice ‘schools of hope,’ as they will be in places most people don’t go” via Florida Politics — DeSantis is pushing to expand the state’s “Schools of Hope” charter model, endorsing Success Academies as his preferred operator for statewide growth. Speaking in Orlando, the Governor said the schools would target underused public school facilities in disadvantaged areas and would not appear in wealthier communities. DeSantis praised Success Academies, which is financially backed by billionaire Ken Griffin, who has pledged $50 million toward expansion. Dozens of School Districts statewide have received hundreds of letters of intent from charter operators seeking to co-locate in public school buildings at no cost, shifting maintenance expenses to districts. The surge has prompted backlash, with lawmakers filing legislation to repeal the rent-free co-location provision amid concerns about unfunded mandates.

“Gov. DeSantis now says poorer counties will ‘eventually’ be on their own to deal without property taxes” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis is reaffirming his plan to shield Florida’s 32 fiscally constrained counties from losing revenue if homestead property taxes are reduced or eliminated, promising full reimbursement in the short term while warning that “eventually they’re going to have to figure it out.” DeSantis said in Orlando that his budget includes “enough money to completely, 100% reimburse” those rural counties, calling it necessary even if critics disagree. But he also made clear the aid will not last indefinitely. On “Fox & Friends,” he said the counties “aren’t going to miss a single thing,” echoing October remarks that funding them is “budget dust.” DeSantis continues pressing lawmakers to advance a constitutional amendment ending homestead property taxes, a proposal that would require 60% voter approval.

“DeSantis affirms right to strike Venezuela as conflict heats up” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis is backing stepped-up U.S. military action against Venezuelan targets as the Trump administration escalates operations, including the seizure of an oil tanker. Speaking in West Palm Beach, DeSantis said attacks on at least 20 Venezuelan boats since September are warranted, calling the vessels tied to “narco-terrorists.” He argued the United States “has a right to treat it and engage it as a military threat,” citing decades of cartel-driven deaths and saying traffickers have operated “with impunity for a long time.” DeSantis said he had not been briefed on actions beyond maritime strikes but reiterated that the commander in chief is justified in repelling drug-laden incursions. He has long urged a hard line against Venezuela and shows no sign of backing off.

“‘Yin and yang’: DeSantis reveals Daoist take on Midterms as he distances himself from GOP Miami loss” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — “Republicans are going to have to contend with that.” DeSantis leaned on a bit of Chinese philosophy while diagnosing why Democrats notched fresh wins in this week’s off-year elections, saying “there’s just a yin and a yang with some of this stuff” and warning that “Republicans are going to have to contend with that.” Speaking in West Palm Beach, DeSantis argued Democrats are more energized, noting that “when the party’s out of power, they typically turn out better.” Asked about Democrats flipping Miami’s Mayor’s Office after he endorsed Republican Emilio González, DeSantis distanced himself, saying he “wasn’t involved” in the runoff. He again cautioned that GOP complacency remains a “big warning sign,” even in Florida.

“James Uthmeier: More than 900 Starbucks locations in Florida engaged in hiring discrimination” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Attorney General Uthmeier has filed a lawsuit against Starbucks, accusing the coffee giant of using unlawful race-based hiring and employment practices. The 21-page complaint, filed in Highlands County, alleges Starbucks imposed racial quotas, tied pay and promotions to race-linked programs and excluded nonminority employees through its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Uthmeier argues the practices violate the Florida Civil Rights Act by discriminating against workers based on race, even if intended to benefit underrepresented groups. The lawsuit targets hiring practices at 934 Starbucks stores statewide and seeks an injunction to halt them, along with civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation. Uthmeier said Florida will enforce merit-based hiring protections.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“DeSantis seeks $117B Florida budget with boost for teacher pay” via Gray Rohrer of USA Today Network-Florida — DeSantis on the cusp of his final year in office is proposing a $117 billion state budget, roughly $2.2 billion above current spending, with increased funding for education, infrastructure and environmental priorities. The plan continues a trajectory that began when DeSantis took office in 2019, though he emphasized holding spending below pandemic-era highs fueled by federal aid. The Governor described the proposal as fiscally responsible while addressing key needs. Lawmakers will begin shaping the final budget when the Legislative Session starts Jan. 13. K-12 education funding is expected to be a central battleground, particularly over the costs of school choice. The proposal includes $210 million for teacher pay, as Florida again ranks last nationally in average teacher salaries.

“DeSantis unveils new K-12 budget proposal” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — DeSantis is proposing a record $30.6 billion for K-12 education in the 2026-27 budget, including a $201 million increase for teacher salaries. The plan would raise per-student funding to $9,406, a 3% increase, and dedicate nearly $1.6 billion solely to educator pay. It also boosts funding for school safety and student mental health. DeSantis wants school choice scholarships, projected at almost $4.5 billion, moved into a separate budget line, setting up a likely clash with House leaders. Teachers’ unions criticized the proposal as insufficient, while DeSantis defended it as proof that Florida can prioritize education while maintaining fiscal discipline.

“DeSantis unveils spending for state parks, conservation and countering proposed offshore oil drilling” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — Gov. DeSantis on Wednesday rolled out a 2026-27 budget proposal that significantly boosts funding for conservation lands, state parks and beach maintenance. The plan includes more than $300 million for land conservation programs, $75 million for state parks, $75 million for beach nourishment, and $50 million to address deferred maintenance across park facilities. Additional funding includes $115 million for Florida Forever land acquisition and $200 million for conservation easements, with limits on solar development. DeSantis also proposed $6 million to protect military training ranges in the eastern Gulf of Mexico from offshore drilling. Supporters say the proposal reflects sustained commitments to environmental protection, water quality and Everglades restoration while safeguarding Florida’s coastline and military readiness.

“Stan McClain, Lauren Melo push for ‘Blue Ribbon’ projects to boost land preservation” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Sen. McClain and Rep. Melo have each filed bills (SB 354, HB 299) establishing “Blue Ribbon” projects, which would apply to landowners who control or own at least 10,000 contiguous acres. The measures would require participating landowners to conserve at least 60% of the property. “HB 299 creates a framework that secures large-scale private land conservation for the long term — without requiring state purchase or taxpayer subsidies,” Melo said. The stated Blue Ribbon project goals are to protect wildlife and natural areas; limit urban sprawl; provide a range of housing options, including missing middle and affordable housing; create quality communities designed to reduce vehicle trips and promote mobility options; and enhance local economic development objectives and job creation. The proposal is born of a desire to implement smart growth strategies by ensuring growth occurs only where it can be supported. The proposal requires phased planning for water, wastewater, transportation, schools and utilities.

“Allison Tant bill to better enforce partisan rules for candidates gains traction in House” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — After dying unheard last Session, a revived bill by Rep. Tant that would give teeth to Florida’s rules on party affiliation in elections just cleared its first House hurdle. Members of the Government Operations Subcommittee voted unanimously for the measure (HB 91), which aims to close a loophole in Florida law that currently allows candidates to skirt the state’s requirements for partisan elections. Florida law requires candidates to be registered as a member of the political party from which they seek nomination for a year before the beginning of qualifying for a given General Election. But candidates have repeatedly skirted those rules, and courts haven’t consistently stopped them. Tant said that today, it’s “not clear who has standing to issue a legal challenge” in cases involving a party affiliation dispute or in determining where the challenge should come from.

“Democrats question how court cases upholding Florida’s congressional map warrant redrawing it” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — No congressional maps were presented at a second meeting of the Florida House’s redistricting Committee. Now, Democrats are questioning whether one should be drafted at all. Andy Bardos, counsel for the House, told members that two key court cases have created a different legal landscape than when the Legislature last approved congressional districts in 2022. Most importantly, the Florida Supreme Court upheld the map, which was drawn by DeSantis’ staff and split a seat previously held by a Black Democrat. The other case out of Louisiana awaits a Supreme Court ruling in the coming term. Rep. Kevin Chambliss, a Homestead Democrat, questioned how the Florida Supreme Court’s upholding the existing map merited the reconsideration of new lines.

“Senators eye school choice overhaul” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — State Senators are moving quickly to overhaul Florida’s massive school choice program after auditors flagged serious accountability and funding problems tied to enrollment swings. A bill advancing unanimously in the Senate Appropriations Committee would restructure how vouchers are funded, tracked and administered, separating roughly $4.3 billion in scholarship spending from the main K-12 budget and tightening application and verification rules. The proposal also opens the door to competitive bidding for scholarship administrators and trims administrative fees, a move that could cost Step Up for Students millions. Supporters say reforms are necessary after last year’s $47 million shortfall exposed systemic flaws. House leaders remain wary, arguing that changes could eventually cap scholarships, setting up a major policy clash in the 2026 Legislative Session.

“House Committee backs property tax relief amendment as local governments fear the consequences” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — A House Committee on Wednesday advanced a proposed constitutional amendment offering sweeping property tax relief, igniting sharp debate over its potential impact on local government budgets. The House Ways and Means Committee voted 10-5 to advance HJR 209, setting it up for consideration by the full House after clearing two prior panels. The measure would exempt $200,000 of a homestead’s assessed value from non-school property taxes if the property is insured and appears on the November 2026 ballot. Republicans argued that voters are demanding relief from rising tax bills. At the same time, Democrats and local government advocates warned the plan could cause multibillion-dollar revenue losses and force service cuts or higher fees. Supporters countered that local governments should rein in spending and let voters decide.

“Children’s Movement salutes trio of lawmakers who drove early learning wins in 2025” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — The Children’s Movement of Florida gathered a crowded room of advocates and lawmakers to recognize three legislators who helped steer early learning priorities across the finish line during the 2025 Legislative Session. At a ceremony at the Governors Club in Tallahassee, the organization presented its Early Childhood Champion Award to Republican Sen. Alexis Calatayud, Democratic Rep. Robin Bartleman and Republican Rep. Chase Tramont. The Children’s Movement praised the lawmakers’ work to expand access to the state’s School Readiness program and strengthen support for children with special needs. The group said the trio played central roles in improving tuition assistance and ensuring families aren’t shut out of early learning opportunities as incomes rise.

Sadowski Coalition praises full funding for housing in DeSantis’ budget — The Sadowski Coalition on Wednesday applauded Gov. DeSantis’ 2026-27 budget recommendations for fully funding Florida’s affordable housing programs, calling the proposal a meaningful investment in proven housing solutions. In a statement, coalition facilitator Mark Hendrickson thanked the Governor “for once again recognizing the importance of Florida’s housing programs” by recommending $170.8 million for the State Housing Initiatives Partnership program and $72.9 million for the State Apartment Incentive Loan program, along with an additional $150 million for SAIL and $50 million for Hometown Heroes. Hendrickson said the programs are “the state’s most efficient and effective tools for creating housing that is affordable” for families, seniors, the workforce and Floridians with disabilities, adding that full funding will help build “a more affordable Florida.”

— LEG. SKED. —

9 a.m.

— House Health Care Budget Subcommittee: Room 314, House Office Building.

— House Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee: Room 212, Knott Building.

— House Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee: Room 17, House Office Building.

— Joint Revenue Estimating Conference (EDR): Room 117, Knott Building.

— Supreme Court of Florida Oral Arguments: Tallahassee.

12:30 p.m.

— House Commerce Committee: Room 212, Knott Building.

— House Health & Human Services Committee: Room 17, House Office Building.

3 p.m.

— House Judiciary Committee: Room 404, House Office Building.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Federal Reserve cuts interest rates in divisive vote” via Sylvan Lane of The Hill — The Federal Reserve cut interest rates in an unusually narrow vote, underscoring the divides among bank officials over the effect rate cuts will have on inflation and employment. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), the panel of Fed officials responsible for setting monetary policy, lowered its benchmark interest rate to 3.5-3.75%, a 0.25 percentage-point cut. The FOMC approved the rate cut by a vote of 9 to 3, a smaller margin than the typical Fed rate decision. Fed Board member Stephen Miran preferred to cut rates by 0.5 percentage points. At the same time, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago President Austan Goolsbee and Kansas City Fed President Jeffrey Schmid called for no cut at all. The Fed Chair, who also leads the FOMC, is responsible for guiding the Committee to a consensus on rate decisions while giving members room to express differing views through economic projections and public remarks.

“Judge orders Donald Trump to end California National Guard troop deployment in Los Angeles” via Sudhin Thanawala of The Associated Press — The Trump administration must stop deploying the California National Guard in Los Angeles and return control of the troops to the state, a federal judge ordered Wednesday in an emphatic ruling. U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer in San Francisco granted a preliminary injunction sought by California officials, but also put the decision on hold until Monday, presumably to give the administration a chance to appeal. In an extraordinary move, Trump called up more than 4,000 California National Guard troops in June without Gov. Gavin Newsom’s approval to further the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement efforts. The number had dropped to several hundred by late October, but California remained steadfast in its opposition to Trump’s command of the troops.

“U.S. seizes oil tanker off Venezuelan coast, Trump says” via Tyler Pager, Eric Schmitt and Nicholas Nehamas of The New York Times — The United States has seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, Trump announced, a dramatic escalation in his administration’s pressure campaign against Nicolás Maduro, the leader of Venezuela. “As you probably know, we’ve just seized a tanker on the coast of Venezuela,” Trump said during a White House event on a new luxury visa program. “A large tanker, very large. Largest one ever seized, actually, and other things are happening.” Trump declined to say who owned the tanker. But when asked about the ship’s oil, he said: “Well, we keep it, I guess.” “It was seized for a very good reason,” he added.

“Oil tanker U.S. seized has faked its location before, data shows” via Christiaan Triebert and Riley Mellen of The New York Times — The oil tanker seized by the United States off the coast of Venezuela on Wednesday may have been trying to conceal its whereabouts by broadcasting falsified location data. U.S. officials did not publicly name the vessel, but one official told The Times that it was a ship called the Skipper. Although the vessel’s location transponder indicated that it was anchored in the Atlantic Ocean near Guyana and Suriname, The Times found that from late October to at least Dec. 4, the ship was actually hundreds of miles away off Venezuela. A satellite image captured on Nov. 18 shows the tanker docked at the country’s José oil terminal while its transponder showed that it was elsewhere.

“Trump finally confirms using vulgar slur about several countries in 2018” via Amy B. Wang of The Washington Post — After years of denials, Trump confirmed Tuesday night that he used the phrase “shithole countries” in 2018 to insult several countries with majority non-White populations, including Haiti, El Salvador and Somalia. His turnabout came during an event in Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania — his first stop on a speaking tour nominally centered on his economic policies — when Trump mentioned pausing migration from 19 countries the administration has deemed high-risk. The group, he said, included “hellholes like Afghanistan, Haiti, Somalia and many other countries.”

What Phil Ammann is reading — “Calibri font becomes the latest DEI target as Marco Rubio orders return to Times New Roman” via Matthew Lee of The Associated Press — Secretary of State Rubio has ordered U.S. diplomatic correspondence to abandon Calibri and return to Times New Roman, reversing what he called a “misguided” Biden-era shift rooted in diversity, equity and inclusion policies. “Typography shapes how official documents are perceived in terms of cohesion, professionalism and formality,” Rubio wrote in a cable to all embassies, arguing the 2023 switch “achieved nothing except the degradation of the department’s correspondence.” Rubio claimed the Calibri change, intended to improve accessibility, failed to do so and cost $145,000, though he offered no evidence. The directive, part of Rubio’s broader dismantling of DEI programs, takes effect Wednesday, with templates updated immediately. Exceptions remain for treaties and presidential appointments, which must use Courier New.

“U.S. wants to screen foreign visitors’ social media history for entry” via Joseph De Avila and Michelle Hackman of The Wall Street Journal — The U.S. is moving to screen foreign visitors’ social media history for entry, including citizens of countries such as the U.K. and France, who typically don’t need visas for short stays. The proposed requirement would apply to visitors using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or ESTA, under a visa waiver program that covers 42 countries, including Italy, Japan and Germany. The visa waiver program allows citizens of designated countries to travel to the U.S. for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. The Trump administration said the change was necessary to comply with an executive order aimed at protecting the U.S. from foreign threats. The new requirement won’t take effect until the rule is completed, a process that will take several months.

“House overwhelmingly passes $900B annual defense bill” via Sudiksha Kochi of The Hill — The House on Wednesday easily passed the annual defense policy bill, sending the mammoth, $900 billion measure to the Senate ahead of the year-end deadline. The measure, known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), passed the lower chamber by a vote of 312-112. Ninety-four Democrats and 18 Republicans opposed the bill. The NDAA, a traditionally bipartisan bill that lays out defense priorities for the next year, would increase pay for service members, provide some military aid to Ukraine, restrict U.S. investment in China and fully repeal sanctions on Syria, among other things. While the final vote wasn’t close, the legislation’s passage wasn’t without some drama.

“Frustrated Republicans move to force Obamacare vote as warnings mount about the Midterms” via Meredith Lee Hill and Mia McCarthy of POLITICO — A group of House Republicans moved to force a vote on extending Obamacare health insurance subsidies that will expire in just three weeks, directly challenging party leaders who appear determined to let them lapse. At least six Republicans signed a discharge petition filed on Wednesday on a bill authored by Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick and Jared Golden, who would extend the expiring tax credits for two years while imposing new eligibility requirements. More than 20 million Americans currently use the subsidies.

“House group launches long shot bid to force vote on ACA subsidies” via Riley Beggin and Marianna Sotomayor of The Washington Post — A bipartisan group of House lawmakers launched a last-minute bid Wednesday to force a vote on extending the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies set to expire at the end of the year. The effort, known as a discharge petition, faces long shot odds: At least 218 members of the House would first have to agree to consider the legislation, including most House Democrats. If it succeeds in the House, it will still need to get at least 13 Republican votes in the Senate — if all of the chamber’s Democrats supported it. But the attempt may still be the best chance for lawmakers to push through an extension of the enhanced ACA tax credits, which expire at the end of the year and would increase health insurance costs for most of the 24 million Americans who get coverage through the Obamacare marketplace.

“A proponent of election conspiracy theories will take a top role at FEMA” via Scott Dance of The New York Times — A leading proponent of election fraud conspiracy theories is set to oversee federal disaster response as the Trump administration prepares to reshape the Federal Emergency Management Agency drastically. The appointee, Gregg Phillips, will take over the agency’s Office of Response and Recovery as of Monday. The office is FEMA’s largest division and central to its mission of helping disaster-struck communities, and its leader recommends whether federal disaster declarations and aid are warranted. PolitiFact has traced unsubstantiated assertions that millions of noncitizens voted in the 2016 Presidential Election to Phillips. Trump later amplified those claims.

“House Democrat seeks to impeach Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for undercutting public health” via Annie Karni of The New York Times — Democratic Rep. Haley Stevens of Michigan filed articles of impeachment Wednesday against Health Secretary Kennedy, accusing him of undermining public health and scientific progress, despite long odds of any congressional action. Stevens said Kennedy’s cancellation of $8.9 billion in research grants and dismissal of scientists amounted to “an assault on the public health system” and a violation of his oath. “I am not one for political theater,” Stevens said, calling the issue “life-and-death.” Democratic leaders are not backing the effort, and Republicans control Congress. Separately, Sen. Angus King advanced a resolution criticizing Kennedy’s leadership. Kennedy’s department dismissed the impeachment push as “partisan political stunts that have no merit.”

“Lawyers say new CDC policy may violate federal disability law” via Ariel Cohen of RollCall — Political appointees at the agency are repealing previously approved reasonable accommodation requests as the agency implements a new Health and Human Services policy for those with disabilities, according to documents and internal communications obtained by CQ Roll Call. Legal experts who reviewed the policy change say it may circumvent requirements that federal employers provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities unless doing so would cause an “undue hardship” for the agency. Federal disability law offers a broad definition of reasonable accommodation, but it is narrower when it comes to an undue burden, meaning the law more often sides with a disabled employee than an employer, explained Inimai Chettiar, a civil rights attorney and president of A Better Balance, a legal advocacy organization.

“Judge Emil Bove faces ethics complaint for attending Trump rally” via Mattathias Schwartz of The New York Times — Judge Bove, a federal appeals court judge who made his career as a stalwart supporter of Trump, is now facing a complaint over his attendance at a campaign-style rally held by Trump at a Pennsylvania casino resort on Tuesday. The complaint, which was filed on Wednesday with the chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit and was written by Gabe Roth, who heads the advocacy group Fix the Court, said that Bove’s attendance at the rally violated rules that prohibit judges from “the appearance of impropriety” and engaging in “political activity.” Bove declined to comment. At the event, he said he was “just here as a citizen coming to watch the President speak.” Judge Bove previously served on Trump’s criminal defense team and was later appointed by Trump to a high-ranking position in the Justice Department.

— ELECTIONS —

“South Florida is feeling blue, and that’s a delight for Democrats” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — National election results are fueling new Democratic optimism that Florida, particularly South Florida, could be more competitive heading into 2026. Democrats have flipped 25 seats nationally this year without conceding any, while recent Special Election victories in Georgia and Florida point to rising Democratic enthusiasm. In Florida, Democrats flipped Miami’s Mayor’s Office, won a Palm Beach County House seat by a wide margin and overperformed in multiple legislative and congressional Special Elections. Party strategists say the trend reflects renewed turnout rather than isolated flukes. The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee has added Florida to its 2026 target list, citing a rare opening to gain ground. With tightening margins, energized voters and competitive South Florida districts, Democrats see meaningful opportunities across legislative and local races if momentum holds.

“DLCC adds Florida to its ‘Target Map of 2026’ after Rob Long’s victory in HD 90” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — On the heels of multiple off-year electoral victories, the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) is adding both chambers of Florida’s Legislature to its “Target Map of 2026.” Florida Democrats, the DLCC said, have a rare opportunity to chip away at Republicans’ grip on state power. The Florida Senate and House are now under the DLCC’s “Break and Prevent Republican Supermajorities” category. The move follows Democrats’ second Special Election win of the year: an 18-point shift left Tuesday in Palm Beach County’s House District 90, where Democratic Delray Beach Commissioner Long won with 63% of the vote. Party strategists say that result, paired with DLCC data showing Democratic overperformance of 4.5 points in targeted 2025 contests, signals a political landscape that could deliver the party’s most significant state-level gains in 20 years.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Fallout from CFO comments: County Administrator says no more Israeli bond purchases” via Mike Diamond of the Palm Beach Post — The state’s crackdown on Palm Beach County spending may prevent it from continuing to invest in Israeli bonds, County Administrator Joe Abruzzo said. The county has become the world’s largest investor in Israeli bonds, with nearly $1 billion invested. Abruzzo was primarily responsible for the outsized investments while he served as County Clerk and Comptroller before becoming County Administrator this year. “I’m proud of those investments,” he said. “They were good for Israel and good for the county but based on what is occurring on the state level, it may not be a good idea any longer to make those investments.” Abruzzo said the county may need to keep much of its money in short-term investments.

“State lawmakers greenlight sweeping audit of Miami Beach after request by Fabián Basabe” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami Beach is now bracing for a rare, top-to-bottom state audit after lawmakers quietly and unanimously approved a request by Rep. Basabe. The Joint Legislative Auditing Committee directed Florida Auditor General Sherill Norman to examine Miami Beach’s operations, a move lawmakers advanced without discussion after Basabe alleged chronic mismanagement and weak transparency. An audit, he said, would “strengthen systems, reinforce public trust and support the residents we all serve.” “This isn’t about fault-finding. It’s an opportunity, with the budget of our size and the responsibilities that we carry as a coastal community,” he said. “Transparency and partnership matter.”

“ICE agents, FHP troopers detain drivers throughout Davie” via Shira Moolten and Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers and ICE agents were seen stopping and detaining drivers in the Davie area this week, alarming residents who posted warnings on neighborhood apps and social media. In one incident, an FHP trooper stopped a black dump truck pulling a trailer advertising Bethel Lawn Service and Landscaping on westbound Griffin Road between University Drive and South Pine Island Road in Davie. Three workers were in the truck. As the trooper began checking driver’s licenses, two of the occupants ran away, according to one of the owners, who asked that the South Florida Sun-Sentinel not print her name.

“ICE targets workers at Lake Worth construction site; vigils planned” via Valentina Palm of the Palm Beach Post — A vigil will take place Dec. 11 at the Guatemalan-Maya Center in honor of an unknown number of people detained this week during immigration enforcement operations in central Palm Beach County. Local activists recorded a series of sweeps, including roadblocks set up along busy roadways between Lake Worth Beach and Lantana and an attempted raid by Border Patrol and Florida Highway Patrol officers at a residential construction project along 10th Avenue North that includes affordable housing. At the building site, videos shared on social media platforms showed a chaotic scene with workers in neon shirts sprinting from the worksite to hide behind nearby trees.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Orange City Mayor Kelli Marks tells angry crowd she is not a racist” via Mark Harper of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Two weeks after a bruising meeting where she pushed for the firing of the City Clerk but failed and instead faced calls for her resignation, Mayor Marks led the City Council through another contentious, though consequential gathering. Business went on at the Dec. 9 meeting, though not without interruption. Interim City Manager Christine Davis, for example, was elevated to permanent status, a move that drew a round of applause. But Marks also repeatedly heard from a large, hostile crowd why she should step down. Many were still angry about a Facebook Messenger exchange between Marks and the late Alex Tiamson, a former Council member, dating to October 2024.

“Brevard Republicans squabble over local party leadership” via Jim Waymer of Florida Today — The grassroots governing body for Brevard County Republicans can’t agree who’s in charge these days. Two competing factions had separate elections for leadership of the Brevard Republican Executive Committee. Each accuses the other of violating party rules during the election of their leaders. The Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) and the Brevard Supervisor of Elections recognize the results of the first election, held on Nov. 24, in which former West Melbourne Council member John Dittmore was chosen to lead the party. But the RPOF is looking further into the matter, after opponents held the second election on Dec. 6, voting in a different regime.

“Daytona Beach looks to firm up plans for community redevelopment areas” via Eileen Zaffiro-Kean of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — In 1982, Daytona Beach decided to set up community redevelopment areas in the heart of the downtown riverfront, and in the core tourist area of the beachside along State Road A1A. More than 40 years later, those two community redevelopment areas and three more the city established in subsequent years in Midtown, around Ballough Road and along South Atlantic Avenue, are now entering their final stretch. All five are slated to sunset in 2036, just 10 years away now. With that finish line in sight, City Commissioners huddled for a one-hour meeting to begin considering how they want to use the final dollars raised in each CRA.

— LOCAL: TB —

“U.S Senator probes business practices of mobile home park in Tampa Bay area” via Chris Hurst of WTSP — A U.S. Senator is now investigating the business practices of several mobile home park owners who operate in Florida, including one in the Tampa Bay area. Neighbors at parks owned by Philips International tell us they can’t afford the lot rent because the company is raising rates without complying with Florida law. Dawn Trow said everything changed a year ago when Philips bought the Grove Mobile Home Park in Lutz. She said the company hasn’t given trailer owners a new prospectus as required by state law but continues to raise lot rent by hundreds of dollars. Rent was $600 a month before the park changed ownership, and it will increase to $825 a month starting January 1. New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan sent a letter to several major park owners, including Philips, demanding information about their business tactics and rent increases.

“Weeks after Tampa indictments over AI chip smuggling, Trump authorizes exports of same chips” via Evan Axelbank of Fox 13 — Just several weeks after the U.S. attorney in Tampa announced the indictments of two Chinese nationals who were smuggling computer chips to front groups that could have sold them to the Chinese military, the President announced that the same chips will be sold to certain Chinese companies. Several weeks ago, Hon Ning Ho and Jing Chen of Tampa were revealed to be using a Tampa-based front company to smuggle Nvidia AI chips through secondary countries that Chinese weapons makers were co-opting.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“County votes 5-2 to ask voters in 2026 Election about consolidating governments” via Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — After a nearly six-hour meeting, with many of those being taken up by a lengthy conversation on the comp plan, County Commissioners voted 5-2, with Commissioners Nick Maddox and David O’Keefe in dissent, to create a non-binding straw poll on the 2026 ballot to take the temperature of voters on the topic of government consolidation. The conversation is sure to be the first of many. The item was initially raised at the group’s November meeting by Commissioner Christian Caban, who proposed outright consolidation after Commissioner Bill Proctor moved to have staff study the possibility of the county taking over fire services countywide.

“Bradford Hills taking shape as ‘miniature city’ in Northeast Tallahassee” via TaMaryn Waters of the Tallahassee Democrat — Crews are turning dirt at Bradford Hills, where wood and steel framings are vertical for one soon-to-be apartment building, and the first wave of residents has moved into a finished one at The Grove at Bradford Hills. The apartment complex, still under construction, is one of several projects planned for the 155-acre mixed-use development. There will be an assisted living facility, medical offices, a day care, a dog park, restaurants and more. Think of it as a scaled-down version of Southwood’s master planning or Canopy at Welaunee development. In addition, Bradford Hills will include the only market-rate apartments on its side of Interstate 10 in northeast Tallahassee.

“Communities mourn traffic death of JaxPort and Baker County leader” via Tate Rosenberg of First Coast News — JaxPort Chief Operating Officer James Bennett, who also was a Baker County Commissioner, was killed in a traffic crash on Interstate 10 on Dec. 8, according to Duval and Baker County officials. “We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of our colleague and friend, James Bennett. James dedicated his life to improving the quality of life for people in Northeast Florida, and our entire community is better for his service. He was a valued member of our leadership team, overseeing two of our largest departments — Operations and Engineering — and serving as a trusted liaison for many of our port partners,” JaxPort said in a statement. “… We ask the community to join us in praying for James’ family during this extremely difficult time. We are forever grateful for his leadership, his friendship, and his service to our port and to Northeast Florida.”

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Looking ahead: Outlook sunnier for SWFL’s tourism industry in 2026” via Laura Layden of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Southwest Florida’s tourism industry faces uncertainty. At the same time, there’s hope and promise. With the busy season underway and a new year around the corner, there is hope for stronger demand and less volatility ahead, as the region continues to add hotel rooms to its lineup. One of the latest openings: the highly anticipated Four Seasons Resort in Naples, with 220 rooms and suites. Last year, the high season got off to a rough start, with back-to-back hurricanes in the Fall. Helene hit in September 2024, followed by Milton, less than two weeks later. While neither of those hurricanes made landfall in Southwest Florida, they still did physical and psychological damage.

— TOP OPINION —

“Miami election was a ‘shot in the arm’ for Dems but careful calling it a comeback” via the Miami Herald editorial board — Higgins’ decisive victory in Miami’s mayoral race marked a strong — but nuanced — win for Democrats in a city and county Republicans have dominated in recent statewide elections. The formally nonpartisan contest became openly partisan, with Trump backing Republican González and national Democrats rallying behind Higgins.

Higgins made history as Miami’s first woman Mayor and the first Democrat elected to the post since the 1990s. Still, the result warrants caution. Fewer than 38,000 voters participated, underscoring how low turnout in municipal elections can distort broader political conclusions.

The race effectively tested two theories: whether Democrats are regaining traction in South Florida and whether Trump’s endorsement still moves General Election voters. González lost by nearly 20 points, reinforcing evidence that Trump’s backing is far less potent outside Republican Primaries, particularly in urban areas with diverse electorates.

Democrats see Higgins’ win as a morale boost and a signal that donors should not entirely abandon Florida. Strategists argue it shows renewed Democratic energy, even as the party continues to face steep structural disadvantages statewide heading into 2026.

For Higgins, attention now shifts from symbolism to governance. Her agenda includes speeding up permitting, expanding affordable housing and improving transit — all while operating under a city charter that limits mayoral authority.

The election delivered Democrats momentum, but Miami’s residents will ultimately judge success by whether Higgins delivers tangible improvements and restores confidence in City Hall.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“We have one person to blame for losing Miami” via Matt Sharpsteen of Townhall — DeSantis is facing sharp criticism after Miami’s mayoral seat flipped to Democrats in an election reform fight observers say he created. Local officials long warned that Miami’s odd-year elections suppress turnout and waste taxpayer money. Still, DeSantis opposed shifting contests to even-numbered years despite voter support, legal clearance and widespread adoption across Miami-Dade. Critics argue the Governor blocked the one change that would have strengthened Republican chances, then backed a weak GOP candidate driven by personal grudges. By preserving low-engagement elections Democrats traditionally exploit, they say DeSantis handed the city away, repeating a pattern seen in Jacksonville. The loss underscores growing concerns about his political instincts after a failed presidential bid and mounting intraparty frustration.

“Education chief trashes public schools, ignores voucher school disasters” via Scott Maxwell of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Florida’s new top education official is pretty unpopular these days. Last week, Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas was booed by local school officials from around the state. Keep in mind: This wasn’t a room full of lefty liberals. It was a gathering of School Board members from across the state — the majority of whom represent rural, Republican counties. But even conservative leaders have quickly tired of an education official whose top priority seems to be trashing public education. In fact, that seems to be why DeSantis picked his 37-year-old former deputy chief of staff for the post — to trash teachers, threaten schools and generally troll public education. It’s like putting a guy who hates puppies in charge of an animal shelter.

“Schools chief has lost the locker room” via John Hill of the Tampa Bay Times — It was only a matter of time before what happened last week finally happened — Florida’s Education Commissioner getting booed by a roomful of the very people he’s supposed to lead in running the state’s public schools. If any coach had lost the locker room as swiftly and disastrously as Kamoutsas, he would be shown the door. This is, after all, a political appointee and former aide to DeSantis, who, in only a few months, has managed to fritter away what trust and credibility he had with local school officials. Kamoutsas used his lunchtime remarks before the state School Boards Association conference in Tampa to tell local School Board members and administrators to get over their beef about new legislation that allows some charter school operators to take over (for free) unused space on public school campuses.

“Seven years later, Florida Republicans disregard Parkland’s pain” via Jackie Corin and Christine Hunschofsky for the Tampa Bay Times — Seven years ago, a 19-year-old walked into a gun store, legally purchased an AR-15 rifle, and murdered 17 people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. In the days that followed, lawmakers from both parties confronted the clear, catastrophic failure that allowed him to obtain that weapon. They acted. They raised the minimum age to purchase firearms from 18 to 21, a safeguard that directly addressed the loophole that enabled the shooting and that would have stopped him from buying the gun. Now, Florida Republicans, including some who supported that law in 2018, are trying to repeal it. House Bill 133 would lower the minimum age to purchase long guns back to 18, dismantling a protection that Florida’s own courts have upheld as constitutional since the Parkland shooting. The current law contains reasonable exemptions for military servicemembers, law enforcement and correctional officers, underscoring that it was designed as a balanced, common sense fix.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Pensacola gospel singer Keyla Richardson to appear on ‘American Idol’” via Brittany Misencik of the Pensacola News Journal — Born-and-raised Pensacola gospel singer Richardson is slated to make her return to national television once “American Idol” premieres for Season 24 on Jan. 26 on ABC. “I got to sing in front of @carrieunderwood, @lukebryan, and @lionelrichie, such an amazing honor,” Richardson captioned in a photo of herself on Instagram, posing in front of the famed block letter IDOL sign. While the results of just how far Richardson made it are still under lock and key, an American Idol camera crew was spotted today on Pensacola Beach, filming Richardson for the upcoming season. This is far from Richardson’s first run at taking center stage, as the gospel singer has been performing in Pensacola churches since the age of 5. At this point, music is a part of her.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Happy birthday to Leon County Commissioner Nick Maddox and Marco Paredes of Stearns Weaver Miller.

___

Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

It might be too bold to definitively declare a blue wave is coming to Florida this election cycle. But writing on the wall suggests, at the very least, it’s a strong possibility.

Examples abound.

Broadly, there have been 25 Democratic pickups across the nation this year. That’s not just the gross number either, it’s the net. Republicans haven’t flipped a single seat, according to The Downballot.

The crystal ball was already throwing sparks after stronger-than-expected results in Virginia and New Jersey in November. Also last month, Democrats in Georgia crushed Republicans in two statewide races for the state’s public service commission.

On Tuesday night, Georgia Democrats celebrated victory again, flipping a solidly Republican Georgia House seat in a Special Election. It wasn’t a blowout, but it wasn’t a nail-biter either — Eric Gisler defeated Republican Mack Guest IV by 2 percentage points.

But those 2 percentage points look positively huge when considering President Donald Trump won the district just last year by a staggering 12 percentage points.

Sure, you might say, those are other states. Florida is not like other states. After all, when Democrats overperformed in the 2022 Midterms across the U.S., Florida Republicans rode what amounted to a red tsunami that year.

But here’s the thing: For now at least, Florida is following suit.

I present to you exhibit A: Eileen Higgins. Not only did she flip the Miami Mayor’s Office, she will be the first registered Democrat to serve as Miami Mayor in 27 years.

And in a Special Election to replace the late Joe Casello, Democrat Rob Long landed 63% of the vote, outperforming Kamala Harris in House District 90 by 17 points.

Democrats also significantly improved on their 2024 performance in this Spring’s Special Elections in Florida’s 1st and 6th Congressional Districts, and enjoyed lopsided wins in two legislative Special Elections in September. Strategists on both sides of the aisle say the pattern reflects a real shift in enthusiasm, not a one-off fluke.

So what does this mean for 2026? It by no means guarantees victories at the top of the ticket, but it signals a potentially more competitive slate of statewide races than what we saw four years ago. And the Democratic Party is taking notice. The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) has added Florida to its “Target Map of 2026,” an announcement that came just after Higgins’ and Long’s victories.

DLCC President Heather Williams called this moment “a once-in-a-generation opportunity to fundamentally transform state legislative power.”

Democrats may be able to most reap the benefits in the place now responsible for creating the Florida-specific buzz: South Florida.

Last year, Republicans made Palm Beach County competitive for the first time in years, narrowing Harris’ margin of victory to just 0.7 percentage points. But subsequent election results have shown a strong reversion toward the county’s traditionally Democratic lean.

Republican state Rep. Anne Gerwig won House District 93 last year by just 356 votes — a razor-thin margin in what was otherwise a strong GOP year. Now, Democrat August Mangeney is looking to flip the seat, citing what he calls a “realignment of energy” among voters.

“Over the past few months, I’ve seen a clear shift in Democratic energy on the ground,” Mangeney said. “People who sat out in 2024 or felt disillusioned are showing up again, ready to fight for fair representation and a government that actually works for them.”

Democrats view HD 93 as one of their top pickup opportunities in 2026, especially if recent overperformance continues.

In nearby House District 101, Democrat Todd Delmay is challenging state Rep. Hillary Cassel, who won the seat in 2024 as a Democrat before switching parties shortly thereafter. The district is politically complex — while Trump narrowly carried it with 50.56% of the vote, the Democratic Senate candidate beat Rick Scott there by 2 points, and Democrats outnumber Republicans by more than 11,000 registered voters.

Delmay argues that Cassel’s party switch has triggered widespread frustration, offering another opening for Democrats who are still, well, Democrats.

“I’m talking to voters every day who are not only furious at what the Trump and DeSantis administrations are doing, but at Cassel for flipping parties,” Delmay said. “People here voted for a Democratic representative to defend their rights and fight for affordability — and instead, Cassel turned on them.”

Democrats believe that anger, combined with national and local overperformance, could make HD 101 one of the marquee contests of 2026.

This doesn’t just represent an opportunity to claw back seats in the Legislature. Democrats also have opportunities in local races.

Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed former state Rep. Mike Caruso, a Republican, to serve as Palm Beach County Clerk of Court. He replaced Democrat Joe Abruzzo, who left the post to become Palm Beach County Administrator. Democrat Yvette Drucker is already running to challenge Caruso if he runs in 2026, or Republican Sam Thompson, who has already filed for the race.

A renewed Democratic surge would put Drucker in a strong position.

Whether these trends hold remains to be seen — a lot can change in a little less than a year — but operatives in both parties agree on one thing: South Florida is suddenly back on the map, and Democrats head into 2026 with more wind at their backs than they’ve felt in years.

A House committee advanced a constitutional amendment for property tax relief despite Democrats and government advocates voicing their objections about potential devastating major budget shortfalls for local communities.

The House Ways and Means Committee passed the resolution (JR 209) with a 10-5 vote. That means it is ready to go before the full House after the House’s State Affairs Committee and Select Committee on Property Taxes already OK’d it.

HJR 209 is one of several plans prioritized by the House to tackle the property tax issue.

This particular proposed constitutional amendment for the November 2026 ballot would create an exemption from non-school property taxes for $200,000 of a homestead property’s assessed value as long as the property is insured. 

The House committee adopted an amendment Wednesday that adds firefighters and first responders to law enforcement in a class that would be protected from budget cuts. First responders’ budgets would be required to be at the 2025-2026 or 2026-2027 level, whichever was higher, when property tax revenue decreases if HJR 209 takes effect.

Some Democrats voiced concerns that 911 dispatchers might not be protected from potential budget cuts. 

Rep. Demi Busatta, the bill sponsor, said those details who would be considered first responders would be worked out later on in implementing legislation, if voters passed it.

Busatta argued some local governments are spending unwisely, pointing to one rural county of only 15,000 residents — she didn’t say which one — where the County Administrator is paid $177,000 annually.

“Some cities need to take a hard look at how they structure their budgets and what they’re spending their money on,” the Coral Gables Republican said. “It’s not fair that the governments continue to fund their political wants on the backs of hardworking Floridians.”

But critics argued property taxes are the backbone for funding local government and HJR 209’s multibillion-dollar impact would devastate services. 

“We’re the great state of Florida, we don’t want to be Mississippi,” challenged Jeff Scala, a lobbyist for the Florida Association of Counties.

For instance, Port St. Lucie would face an 80% cut from the homestead property tax base and a 41% total assessed taxable value reduction, said Charles Chapman, a lobbyist for the Florida League of Cities. Deland in Volusia County would lose 85% in the homestead property tax base and a 35% drop in total taxable value, he said.

Chapman also argued property tax relief like this wouldn’t save taxpayers money since, in return, fees would skyrocket to cover local government services.

Scala compared property tax and the general fund revenue to a bucket with water. In his metaphor, the water was the local governments’ essential services.

“These proposals take a shotgun to that bucket,” he said. “The local governments, county governments, are expected to carry that water.”

But Republicans, unmoved, said they are hearing from residents demanding for their property tax bills to get lowered. Rep. Wyman Duggan, the committee’s Chair, told opponents to talk to local constituents instead of state lawmakers.

“You should be relishing the opportunity, rubbing your hands to get in front of your voters and make the case as to why your city should continue to exist,” the Jacksonville Republican said to those “who think this is bad policy.”

“A fiscally constrained county, that if it were a private enterprise and came to us for state grant funding or other types of funding, we wouldn’t fund because you’re economically unsustainable. But you may have a compelling argument as to why a county of 7,500 people should still exist and support the superstructure of local government. Make that case.”

One lawmaker asked Busatta why her proposal should be considered out of the eight different House options.

Busatta said she couldn’t speak to the others,though she said lightly, “I’ve heard overwhelmingly from many people that they think mine is the best” since her proposal doesn’t affect taxes paying for schools.

“Our voters are capable of deciding how they want their property taxes to be assessed,” Busatta said.