Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 3.2.26

Good Monday morning.

On what was his birthday, I am thinking of my friend James Miller. He would have been ecstatic to learn that Christian Bale is set to be part of the cast of ‘Heat 2.’

Please take a moment to read the obituary we published about Jimmy here.

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Pardon the brevity of today’s Burn; I’m traveling back to Florida and currently waiting at LaGuardia Airport on a delayed plane. Can’t wait to get home. Thanks for understanding!

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President Donald Trump is signaling a national shift away from anti-vaccine rhetoric ahead of the Midterms, warning Republicans that attacks on childhood immunizations are politically unpopular. Polling from GOP strategist Tony Fabrizio shows broad voter support for long-standing vaccine schedules, with even majorities of Republicans, conservatives and Trump voters backing school-entry requirements.

Administration figures, including Dr. Mehmet Oz, have publicly encouraged vaccination as measles cases rise. Fabrizio’s data suggests candidates who support eliminating routine childhood vaccine recommendations face measurable political backlash.

In Florida, however, Gov. Ron DeSantis is moving in the opposite direction.

DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis are backing legislation to expand non-medical vaccine exemptions, while Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo continues criticizing existing requirements. The Florida Department of Health is also advancing rules to repeal certain school immunizations.

The push comes as Florida ranks third nationally in measles cases, according to the CDC.

Despite polling from McLaughlin & Associates showing 79% statewide support for current school-entry requirements, SB 1756 continues advancing, setting up a sharp contrast between the GOP’s national recalibration and Florida’s escalating vaccine debate.

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The Southern Group bested its previous annual record in lobbying pay, netting more than $44 million in 2025.

According to newly filed Q4 compensation reports, the firm led by founder Paul Bradshaw earned an estimated $11.65 million, bringing the firm’s total legislative revenues to $26.98 million and executive branch pay to $17.27 million.

Brian Ballard and the team at Ballard Partners landed in the No. 2 spot, with an estimated $38.81 million earned last year, including nearly $27 million in the Legislature and another $17 million in the executive branch.

Repeating at No. 3 was Capital City Consulting. The shop founded by Nick Iarossi and Ron LaFace collected nearly $8 million in the fourth quarter to cap off a $31.10 million performance in 2025 — the firm’s best annual total to date.

There was some shuffling at No. 4, with Rubin Turnbull & Associates climbing two spots from its 2024 year-end ranking on the back of a $13.57 million performance in 2025. The firm’s tally includes an estimated $3.45 million in the final quarter of the year.

Dean Cannon and the team at GrayRobinson landed Just $750,000 back with a $12.82 million haul in 2025. The firm’s final-quarter reports showed $3 million in pay, of which $1.6 million was earned from lobbying the Legislature.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RadioFreeTom: People predicting disaster: The odds are in your favor, but you cannot be sure, and you should not hope to be right. People celebrating: Maybe wanna wait a bit. The odds, historically, are definitely not on your side. Anyone certain they know what happens next is making it up.

—@JenGriffinFNC: 4 B2 bombers flew round trip from the U.S.- dropped dozens of 2000 lb bombs on underground ballistic missile sites in Iran: US defense official tells me.

—@Vonderleyen: I just spoke to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia. As our strategic partner, we will work closely with you to de-escalate and safeguard regional stability. You can count on our full support in these turbulent times. The European Union–Gulf Cooperation Council partnership will only get stronger in the period ahead.

—@SodFather: To the men and women in uniform: we see you, we honor you and we are praying for you. May God protect you in every moment, and may your service help secure lasting peace and real freedom in the region. Your commitment reminds the world that America stands for more than power; we stand for principle, strength, and freedom.

—@ShevJones: Criticizing Iran’s regime and defending the U.S. Constitution are not mutually exclusive. Iran’s human rights abuses, its repression of protesters, and its support of terrorism are well-documented and deeply troubling. The Iranian people deserve freedom and dignity. But acknowledging that does not eliminate Congress’s constitutional role in authorizing war. We can condemn authoritarian regimes abroad and still insist that American Presidents follow constitutional process at home. In fact, that’s what separates us from them.

Tweet, Tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

—@JayTrumbull: Truly honored to be named the 2026 Champion of the Heart by Epilepsy Alliance Florida. Supporting individuals and families impacted by epilepsy is important work, and I remain committed to advancing policies that improve care, expand resources, and strengthen our communities. Proud moment made even better by my daughter stepping in to accept the award while I was in Committee. I guess she is getting some early practice.

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

World Baseball Classic begins — 3; F1 Season Opener — 4; Boca Raton Mayoral referendums and City Council Elections — 8; last day of the Regular Session — 11; The Oscars — 13; March Madness Opening Weekend — 17; ‘Peaky Blinders’ movie premieres on Netflix — 18; Special Election for SD 14, HD 87, HD 51 and HD 52 — 22; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 23; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 23; new season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 32; NCAA Final Four begins — 33; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 35; ‘Handmaid’s Tale’ sequel series ‘The Testaments’ premieres — 37; The Masters begin — 38; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 44; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 44; First Qualifying Period begins (U.S. Senate) — 49; 2026 Florida Housings Solutions Summit — 51; NFL Draft — 52; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 53; F1 Miami begins — 60; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 81; new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ premieres at Disney World — 81; Marvel’s ‘Spider-Noir’ live-action series with Nicolas Cage arrives on Amazon Prime — 86; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 92; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 98; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 101; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 102; Qualifying Period ends for Federal (U.S. Reps. in Congress), Governor, Cabinet Offices (Attorney General, Commissioner of Agriculture & Chief Financial Officer), State Sens. (even numbered districts), State Reps., County Offices and Special District Offices — 102; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 109; Florida GOP’s statewide debates for the Primary in its ‘Sunshine State Showdown’ — 116; Mexico will face live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 121; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 124; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 129; MLB All-Star Game — 134; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 136; Primary Election: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 140; Primary Election: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 157; Primary Election: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 159; Primary Election Day — 169; Yankees host the Mets to mark the anniversary of 9/11 — 193; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 197; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 201; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 206; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 213; General Election: Deadline to register to vote — 217; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 236; General Election — 246; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 249; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 291; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 291; untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 291; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 329; Super Bowl LXI — 349; Tampa Mayoral Election — 365; Jacksonville First Election — 386; Jacksonville General Election — 442; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 460; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 522; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 578; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 655; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 693; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 865; U.S. Presidential Election — 981; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 1,057; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,381; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,421; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2,112.

— WAR —

“‘I have agreed to talk’” via Michael Scherer of The Atlantic — One day after U.S. strikes killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Trump said Iran’s new leadership has requested talks and that he agreed to engage, though he declined to say when discussions would occur. Speaking by phone from Mar-a-Lago, Trump said Iranian negotiators involved in prior talks were killed in the strikes and suggested a deal could have been reached earlier. He reiterated calls for Iranians to rise up and said he would assess whether to extend military support if unrest unfolds. U.S. officials later confirmed three American service members were killed and five were wounded. Trump said he expects limited economic fallout, including on oil prices, and argued the action reverses decades of Iranian hostility toward the United States.

—”Which politicians reacted to the U.S. and Israel attack on Iran?” via Michael Van Sickler of the Tampa Bay Times

“The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the end of an era” via Karim Sadjadpour of The Atlantic — Khamenei spent nearly four decades preserving the Islamic Republic he inherited from Khomeini, enforcing a revolutionary ideology rooted in hostility toward America and Israel and strict social control at home. Lacking deep clerical legitimacy, Khamenei consolidated power by elevating the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps into the regime’s dominant military and economic force while sidelining elected Presidents with differing agendas. He maintained a calibrated isolation from the West, convinced that cultural influence posed as great a threat as military force. Over time, ideology gave way to opportunism within the ruling elite, even as repression intensified, dissent was crushed, and executions mounted. Khamenei’s death in U.S. and Israeli strikes marks a turning point for a revolution long sustained by force and resistance to change.

“South Florida Iranians hope for change, Jewish community fears Israelis’ safety” via Milena Malaver and Ashley Miznazi of the Miami Herald — Fear, grief and guarded hope swept South Florida’s Iranian and Jewish communities after U.S. and Israeli strikes killed Iran’s supreme leader and targeted military sites, followed by retaliatory attacks on Israel and U.S. bases…. Some Iranian Americans, including Mojdeh Khagan and Ryan Radmehr, described the moment as a potential turning point and even a rescue from decades of repression, though many remain unable to reach family amid communication blackouts. Jewish leaders voiced cautious optimism but deep concern for civilians under fire. Others, including academic Abdy Javadzadeh and advocacy groups such as CAIR and Jewish Voice for Peace, condemned the strikes and urged Congress to halt further military action.

“‘This is a regime pledged to Islamic jihad’: Ron DeSantis predicted Iranian attack was imminent” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis said days before U.S. strikes on Iran that military action was likely, arguing on “Life, Liberty, & Levin” that the regime could not be trusted to negotiate and was driven by an apocalyptic ideology hostile to the West. He said Trump would follow through on support for those opposing Tehran’s leadership and predicted conflict was “a long time coming.” DeSantis has also questioned whether deterrence works against Iran, suggesting coordinated attacks with Israel could serve as an inducement against further aggression. At the time, more than 50,000 U.S. troops, along with ships, aircraft and support assets, were positioned in the region. The confrontation now appears to be escalating into a broader regional war.

Meanwhile:

— TOP FLA. STORY —

U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds is nearing majority support in Florida’s Republican race for Governor, according to a new survey of likely Primary voters, underscoring his early dominance in a fractured field.

The poll shows Donalds at 44% on the initial ballot. “Unsure” places second, ahead of James Fishback at 5%, Lt. Gov. Jay Collins at 4% and former House Speaker Paul Renner at 2%.

In a four-way contest, 44% amounts to a commanding lead. The numbers suggest Donalds is consolidating the GOP base before rivals gain traction.

Among self-identified very conservative voters, Donalds posts 51%. He draws 59% of his support from Fox News viewers and 51% from heavy X users.

He also captures 49% of high-propensity three-of-three Primary voters and 48% of voters over 55, blocs that traditionally drive Republican turnout.

After voters are told of Trump’s endorsement, Donalds surges 18 points to 62%, signaling the former President’s continued sway.

The survey finds 88% of GOP Primary voters approve of the President’s job performance. As outside groups roll out a seven-figure digital buy, the race for second may become the real fight while Donalds runs out front.

The survey, conducted by American Promise, a group directed by Ryan Tyson, polled likely Primary voters statewide using a mixed methodology of live telephone interviews and text-to-web responses, screened participants for past voting history and likelihood of voting in the upcoming GOP Primary, weighted results to reflect expected turnout demographics, and measured both initial ballot preferences and reactions after respondents were informed of Trump’s endorsement.

— STATEWIDE —

“DeSantis spent $573 million on immigration. The feds may never pay Florida back” via Kate Payne of The Florida Trib — Federal officials appear to be reconsidering a previously announced plan to reimburse Florida more than $600 million for immigration enforcement costs, raising questions about whether taxpayers will be repaid. Court filings show U.S. Department of Justice attorneys arguing that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has not made a final funding decision, despite a September notice indicating approval of a $608 million grant. Florida has spent at least $573 million on immigration enforcement, including construction of a detention facility in the Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz,” using a Governor-controlled emergency fund. The reimbursement issue is tied to ongoing environmental litigation over the facility. Meanwhile, lawmakers are debating whether to reauthorize the multibillion-dollar emergency fund without additional oversight restrictions.

“Florida universities face H-1B hiring freeze” via Elizabeth Maguire via Fresh Take Florida — Florida’s Board of Governors will consider a one-year freeze on new H-1B visa hires at public universities, responding to pressure from DeSantis and broader immigration restrictions aligned with Trump’s policies. The pause, which would run through Jan. 5, 2027, would not affect current employees but would halt new hires while officials study program costs and usage. Supporters say the move ensures accountability and prioritizes domestic talent. Critics warn it could undermine research, block highly qualified candidates and worsen shortages in specialized fields, including medicine. More than 500 foreign nationals work at Florida universities under the program. University officials also cite a $100,000 federal application fee as a deterrent, raising concerns about competitiveness and workforce needs.

— BIG BILL OF THE DAY —

“Lawmakers weigh a new charter school subsidy that would start small but could grow quickly” via Jason Garcia of Seeking Rents — Lawmakers are advancing a proposal to eliminate non-school property taxes for homesteaded homeowners, a move that could rattle the financial foundation of the counties least equipped to absorb the loss.

For decades, Florida’s largest counties have helped sustain 29 so-called fiscally constrained counties — rural communities with smaller tax bases and fewer revenue options. That balance has long been part of the state’s unwritten deal.

The House has approved a joint resolution to end those taxes beginning in January, pending Senate, gubernatorial and voter approval in November. The debate promises to be intense.

Shifting the tax burden away from homesteaded homeowners could push more costs onto renters and businesses, or force heavier reliance on sales taxes.

The risk is greatest in small counties, where homestead property taxes account for a larger share of revenue than in wealthier, more diverse regions.

Large counties such as Hillsborough and Pinellas would face gaps but have broader economies and more tools — from tourism taxes to impact fees — to offset losses.

Rural counties lack those levers. Many have seen little construction, manufacturing growth or population gains, leaving them dependent on the revenue stream now targeted for elimination.

If the measure passes, lawmakers must either backfill small-county budgets with state dollars or accept service cuts. The fight ultimately centers on who shoulders Florida’s financial load — and who gets relief.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“Lawmakers split on how to tackle Florida’s public school enrollment woes” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Lawmakers are divided over how to help school districts reeling from enrollment declines as budget talks approach. The House proposes revising the state’s enrollment stabilization program to free up $50 million from reserves for districts that enroll more scholarship students than expected and see lower per-student funding. The Senate instead backs a revived “declining enrollment supplement,” directing $65.3 million to districts based on student losses over the past two years. Public school enrollment fell 46,000 students below projections this year, with economists citing expanded universal school choice and strict immigration policies. Districts, including St. Johns and Palm Beach, are closing schools and cutting positions to plug multimillion-dollar gaps, raising stakes for statewide funding decisions.

“Jason Brodeur supports measure that could gut voter-approved rural boundaries” via Jeffrey Schweers and Martin E. Comas of the Orlando Sentinel — Brodeur is backing a measure that critics say would undermine Seminole County’s rural boundary, undercut local government control and put taxpayers on the hook for compensating landowners whose efforts to build in the protected area are turned down. Brodeur has set the stage for a Senate floor debate next week over the future of local governments’ ability to control growth, and the conflicting rights of property owners who want to preserve their neighborhood’s rural character, versus developers who want to get the most value out of their land holdings. The measure was filed earlier this week by Sen. Jonathan Martin as an amendment to a larger land use bill. It is based on a state attorney general’s opinion requested by Martin in November that stated rural boundaries are unconstitutional. Within the boundary, some sections limit development to one home per five acres and others to one home per 10 acres, all an effort to preserve the area’s rural character.

— MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“DeSantis links redistricting to Supreme Court ruling, but that may not come down by April 20” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Unlike the other states that have engaged in partisan gerrymandering since Trump called on Texas to do so last Summer, DeSantis has explicitly declared that is not why he has called for the Legislature to reconvene in Tallahassee in April for a Special Session to redistrict Florida’s congressional seats. Cognizant that gerrymandering is banned in the state’s Constitution, the Governor has made the case that the Legislature will “be forced to do it because the Supreme Court’s VRA [Voting Rights Act] decision is going to impact the current map. No matter what else, that is going to have to be addressed.” But what happens if the justices opt not to weigh in on a crucial part of the 1965 VRA in the pending case, Louisiana vs. Callais, by the time the Legislature returns to Tallahassee on April 20 for that Special Session? The case tests whether Section 2 of the VRA violates the Constitution by discriminating against White voters. The section prohibits voting practices or procedures that discriminate based on race.

“Jervonte Edmonds’ homebuyer tax credit proposal added to House’s sweeping tax package” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Lawmakers are advancing a sweeping tax package that now includes a proposal aimed at helping workers buy their first homes. This week, the House Ways and Means Committee added legislation (HB 311) by West Palm Beach Democratic Rep. Edmonds to the chamber’s broader tax bill (HB 7031/PCB WMC 26-01), which also includes property taxes, sales taxes and several industry-specific credits and exemptions. Edmonds’ proposal would create a “Homebuyer Workforce Tax Credit” designed to encourage employers to help employees cover home purchase costs. Under the bill, businesses or insurers operating in Florida could receive tax credits equal to 100% of employer contributions made to assist eligible workers with down payments or closing costs on a primary residence.

“Bill would force some on Medicaid to work, but at what cost?” via Christopher O’Donnell of the Tampa Bay Times — Only the lowest-paid Floridians qualify for Medicaid in the Sunshine State, the result of eligibility rules that are among the strictest in the nation. A single mom with two children can enroll her kids only if her annual salary is less than $38,000, roughly half of Florida’s average household income. She would be excluded from Medicaid herself, as is any parent who earns above $8,000 per year, or roughly one quarter of the federal poverty level. And adults with no children? They’re ineligible no matter how little they earn unless they’re disabled. The result is that the vast majority of the almost 4 million Floridians enrolled in the federal health benefit program are children, disabled individuals and adults who stay home to care for young children or the elderly.

“A reel boost: Fabián Basabe’s film license plate bill lands role in House tag package” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A film-themed license plate proposal just landed a cameo in a House specialty license plate bill nearing a floor vote. This week, the House Ways and Means Committee added language from legislation (HB 1135) by Rep. Basabe to a broader specialty license plate measure (HB 639) that now awaits consideration by the full House. Under the new language, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) would create a “Florida Film Legacy” specialty license plate, with proceeds going to Feature Florida Partnerships, a nonprofit that supports the state’s film and television production infrastructure. The plate would display “Florida” at the top and “Film Legacy” at the bottom, with its design developed in consultation with the nonprofit. Beginning in 2027, Feature Florida Partnerships would be required to submit annual financial reports to the state detailing how the proceeds are used.

“Prison chief: Pay up or fall behind” via Dara Kam of State Affairs Florida — Saying his agency is at a “fork in the road,” Department of Corrections Secretary Ricky Dixon is urging House and Senate leaders to boost salaries for prison workers as lawmakers craft a new state budget. Dixon cited data to bolster his arguments for the proposed salary increase. Almost 60% of new correctional officers leave within the first year — including 40% who exit within the first six months. Roughly 50% of all correctional officers are probationary. And 70% of workers guarding the state’s growing inmate population have less than three years on the job. “That is worthy of a pause. It should be mind-blowing to think that the inmates have so much more experience than the staff,” Dixon said.

— SKED. —

9:30 a.m.

Senate Ethics and Elections Committee, Room 37, Senate Office Building.

10 a.m.

House Democratic Caucus Media Availability, Zoom.

Noon

Senate Appropriations Committee, Room 110, Senate Office Building.

Senate Fiscal Policy Committee, Room 412, Knott Building.

2:30 p.m.

State University System Board of Governors, Zoom.

3 p.m.

House Security & Threat Assessment Committee, Room 12, House Office Building.

5 p.m.

House Rules & Ethics Committee, Room 404, House Office Building.

6:15 p.m.

Senate Special Order Calendar Group, Room 401, Senate Office Building.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“There is no reason to think this war with Iran is necessary” via Max Boot of The Washington Post — The lesson of Iraq still stands: The United States should go to war only when it must, not to preempt speculative threats or chase unclear objectives. Yet Trump, who once denounced the Iraq War and warned against needless entanglements, launched strikes on Iran without seeking congressional approval or building public support. He cited “imminent threats” tied to Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, though public evidence of such immediacy remains disputed. He also called for regime change, even as questions linger about whether airstrikes alone can achieve it. History shows how easily limited interventions expand. Without a defined strategy, broad consensus or clear endgame, the risks of escalation and unintended consequences grow quickly.

“U.S. military reportedly used Claude in Iran strikes despite Donald Trump’s ban” via Ed Pilkington of the Guardian — The U.S. military reportedly used Claude, Anthropic’s AI model, to inform its attack on Iran despite Trump’s decision, announced hours earlier, to sever all ties with the company and its artificial intelligence tools. It underscores the complexity of withdrawing powerful AI tools from military missions when the technology is already intricately embedded in operations. Military command used the tools for intelligence purposes and to help select targets and conduct battlefield simulations. On Friday, just hours before the Iran attack began, Trump ordered all federal agencies to stop using Claude immediately.

“Protesters try to storm U.S. consulate as thousands in Pakistan protest Iran strikes” via Elian Peltier, Zia ur-Rehman and Yaqoob Akbary of The New York Times — At least 22 people were killed in Pakistan on Sunday as thousands gathered across the country to denounce U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, including 10 who died as crowds tried to storm the U.S. Consulate in Karachi. The airstrikes have already spurred fear, uncertainty and unrest in Iran’s eastern neighbors, Afghanistan and Pakistan — two countries with sizable Shiite minorities who have long been influenced by Iran’s Shiite leadership. A broader regional conflict over Iran threatens Afghan and Pakistani communities that rely on cross-border trade and could embolden militant groups in a region that has been inflamed by the fiercest military standoff in years between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

— ELECTIONS —

Why is this hero to Florida’s right struggling in the Governor’s race?” via Michael Van Sickler of the Tampa Bay Times — As Speaker from 2022 to 2024, Renner passed the kind of red-meat legislation the GOP base craved. Concealed weapons carry without a permit. A six-week abortion ban. A prohibition on medical treatment for children with gender dysphoria. A rollback on diversity, equity and inclusion programs in schools and universities. The elimination of income limits to qualify for private school vouchers. And much more. “I was determined as speaker to put as many conservative wins on the board as possible,” Renner told a crowd of Hillsborough County Republicans in mid-February. Renner’s résumé, which includes decorated service in the U.S. Navy and a career as a state prosecutor, should make him an instant contender in the Republican Primary for Governor.

Happening today:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Suspension, fine recommended for Broward judge who cited deepfake call in campaign” via Angie DiMichele of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Florida’s Judicial Qualifications Commission has recommended a 30-day suspension, public reprimand and $10,000 fine for Broward County Judge Lauren Peffer over actions during her 2024 campaign. While seeking office, Peffer cited a controversial book by a former Orlando-area court employee as evidence of problems within the judiciary, despite later admitting she had not read it. She also shared a purported recording of a call involving senior judges with a newspaper, which investigators concluded was fabricated, likely using generative AI. The Commission said her actions undermined public confidence in the courts and violated judicial ethics rules. Peffer expressed remorse during a December hearing. The Florida Supreme Court will make the final decision on discipline.

“Why a consultant with Alberto Carvalho ties got her Broward home raided by the FBI” via Jay Weaver, Douglas Hanks and Devoun Cetoute of the Miami Herald — A South Florida lobbyist who sold hundreds of thousands worth of textbooks to the Miami-Dade County School District has surfaced as a key figure in the FBI investigation of Los Angeles Public Schools Superintendent Carvalho, who once held the same position here. Debra Kerr, an education consultant, was launched into public view on Wednesday when FBI agents searched her home in Southwest Ranches in Broward County at the same time agents carried out related searches of Carvalho’s home and School District office in Los Angeles. “She knew Carvalho well — they got along very well,” said Marta Perez, a longtime member of the Miami-Dade School Board who lost her seat in 2024. “She was a very nice, sweet lady. I would see her at the School Board meetings when she was there for a contract. She was very professional, but she wasn’t in the big leagues like the [education] lobbyists in Tallahassee.”

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Christopher Delgado poured money into politics before Ponzi scheme arrest” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Before Delgado was arrested on accusations he was running a $328 million Ponzi scheme, he was a major Republican donor and poured $111,500 into his own failed Orange County Commission race in 2022. Delgado, the CEO of Orlando-based cryptocurrency firm Goliath Ventures, was arrested this week on money-laundering and wire-fraud charges. Federal campaign finance records show Delgado contributed $23,500 to the National Republican Congressional Committee in 2025 and $11,500 to Trump’s fundraising committee during the 2024 cycle. Delgado also gave $4,300 to Never Surrender, a pro-Trump PAC, and $250 to both House Speaker Mike Johnson’s campaign and the Republican National Committee.

“Universal’s Mardi Gras goes big, kicking off busy Spring Break” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Even on a weekday, Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is drawing crowds, with high-energy parades, elaborate floats and costumed performers filling Universal Studios as confetti and beads rain down. Now in its 31st year, Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval runs through April 4 and is included with park admission, featuring nightly entertainment, global cuisine booths and concerts on select dates. Resort officials describe it as a family-friendly event designed to immerse guests in the festivities any day of the week. The celebration is also helping fuel a strong Spring Break season. Visit Orlando reports hotel demand for March and April is pacing 10% ahead of last year, supported by a national advertising push and outreach to Canadian travelers.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Protesters gather in downtown St. Petersburg after U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran” via Nancy Guan of WUSF — About 50 people gathered in Williams Park in downtown St. Petersburg on Saturday evening to speak out against the U.S. and Israel’s attack on Iran. Ali Abdel-Qader, an organizer with the Party of Socialism and Liberation Tampa Bay, said he believed the attacks on Saturday were not in the interests of the American people. “This was a premeditated attack by the U.S. and by Israel. It is to pursue Trump’s twisted dream of trying to run the whole world,” said Abdel-Qader. “We want money to be spent on housing, health care, education, infrastructure, not on missiles [and] bombs.”

“Beyond the firewall: How Tampa Bay is defining the future of cybersecurity” via the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT department concern—it is an economic imperative. This March, the Tampa Bay region will demonstrate why it is becoming a national hub for cyber excellence. From March 12-13, 2026, the CyberBay Summit returns to the JW Marriott in Tampa. This is not merely a conference; it is the physical convergence of a unique ecosystem. CyberBay brings together the private sector’s sharpest innovators, public sector guardians, civic military strategists, and academic leaders with a singular focus: improving our collective defense.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Kevin Carrico explanation for ‘big favor’ text is ‘seriously sus’” via Mark Woods of The Florida Times-Union — Maybe we’re going to need a different kind of interpreter at Jacksonville City Council meetings as long as Carrico is president. Introducing a… millennial interpreter. This all stems from Carrico texting a JEA Board member, Arthur Adams Jr., letting the former CSX executive know that Carrico planned to put someone else on the Board. “What up, bro … hey, I owed a big favor to a friend and opted to put him on the JEA Board as your term is expiring. Not sure if you wanted to stay, but I needed to do this for my guy. Tab is on me when we link up next. (Fist bump emoji).” To start with, some of us from another generation might think “What up, bro?” is an odd way to begin a text telling someone they’re being removed from a position.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Collier County shuts Alligator Alley, but what about Alligator Alcatraz?” via Tomas Rodriguez of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Florida Highway Patrol officials temporarily closed a portion of Interstate 75, also known as Alligator Alley, this week while a massive wildfire continued to burn. While the closure happened once, officials have been closely monitoring visibility conditions on I-75. The closure affected the immigration detention center, Alligator Alcatraz, during the nearly 60-mile shutdown overnight Wednesday. Now, six days after a fire broke out on federal land, officials say both the fire’s growth and containment remain static.

“Manatee County could name ‘piece of paradise’ after late Commissioner” via Ryan Ballogg of the Tampa Bay Times — A Manatee County Commissioner is proposing a special tribute to fellow Board member Carol Ann Felts, who died suddenly last week. Commissioner Amanda Ballard is asking the Board to name a portion of Crane Park, a community gathering place in Felts’ home of Myakka City, after the late Commissioner. The park offers a playground, picnic shelters and views of the Myakka River in rural east Manatee County. Last year, Commissioners voted to buy land to expand the park to around 40 acres, where the county plans to restore wetlands along the river and improve public facilities.

— TOP OPINION —

“Who carries Florida? The tax fight that pits big counties against small” via Graham Brink of the Tampa Bay Times — Lawmakers are advancing a proposal to eliminate non-school property taxes for homesteaded homeowners, a move that could rattle the financial foundation of the counties least equipped to absorb the loss.

For decades, Florida’s largest counties have helped sustain 29 so-called fiscally constrained counties — rural communities with smaller tax bases and fewer revenue options. That balance has long been part of the state’s unwritten deal.

The House has approved a joint resolution to end those taxes beginning in January, pending Senate, gubernatorial and voter approval in November. The debate promises to be intense.

Shifting the tax burden away from homesteaded homeowners could push more costs onto renters and businesses, or force heavier reliance on sales taxes.

The risk is greatest in small counties, where homestead property taxes account for a larger share of revenue than in wealthier, more diverse regions.

Large counties such as Hillsborough and Pinellas would face gaps but have broader economies and more tools — from tourism taxes to impact fees — to offset losses.

Rural counties lack those levers. Many have seen little construction, manufacturing growth or population gains, leaving them dependent on the revenue stream now targeted for elimination.

If the measure passes, lawmakers must either backfill small-county budgets with state dollars or accept service cuts. The fight ultimately centers on who shoulders Florida’s financial load — and who gets relief.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“War and peace cannot be left to one man — especially not this man” via David French of The New York Times — Trump announced military action against Iran in an eight-minute social media video, bypassing Congress and any new U.N. authorization, prompting constitutional concerns about unilateral war-making power. While critics of Iran’s regime acknowledge its long record of hostility — including support for terrorist groups and attacks that killed Americans — they argue the Constitution requires congressional approval before initiating war. The separation of powers is designed to create a presumption of peace, ensure public debate and clarify objectives and risks. Supporters cite Iran’s aggression and nuclear ambitions as justification. Opponents warn of casualties, regional escalation and unintended consequences reminiscent of Iraq. Without congressional backing, the strike risks lacking national consensus and long-term strategic clarity.

“Floridians deserve to know what’s on the block with massive tax cuts” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — We aren’t obligated to play along with this clever little scheme to eliminate non-school property taxes on homesteaded property, meant to make Florida lawmakers look tough on taxes without jeopardizing state government’s share of the pot. We read statements by budget experts, pored through local budgets and looked back to see what programs and services ended up on the chopping block in times of previous shortfalls. The list might surprise voters. It will make a lot of them unhappy. Libraries, recreational programs and parks are likely targets. At the same time, local governments may start pulling back on support aimed at the most vulnerable Floridians, including veterans’ assistance, health clinics and homeless shelters.

“Be a Florida whistleblower even if you whistleblow it” via Stephanie Hayes of the Tampa Bay Times — James Gaddis, a former Department of Environmental Protection cartographer, leaked internal plans to build golf courses and hotels in state parks, sparking bipartisan backlash and eventual passage of the State Park Preservation Act signed by DeSantis. Gaddis said he learned of the proposal through internal communications and wrote an anonymous memo warning of habitat destruction, which was later reported publicly. After admitting he authored the memo, he was fired and sued under the Florida Whistleblower Act, alleging retaliation. This week, a state attorney argued Gaddis did not qualify for whistleblower protection because the memo was anonymous and reflected a policy disagreement, not illegal conduct. A judge dismissed his complaint, though his attorney plans to refile.

“The economic plan the Miami summit needs” via Juan Daboub for Florida Politics — China expanded its economic presence in Latin America for two decades, reaching $518 billion in trade in 2024 while financing infrastructure and telecommunications projects across the region. The Trump administration has begun countering that influence through initiatives such as Project Vault and expanded regional diplomacy. At a March 7 Miami summit, leaders from seven Latin American nations will meet with Trump to discuss deeper economic ties. The Western Hemisphere Partnership Act would encourage nearshoring and broaden access to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The ThinkHUGE framework proposes trade reforms, a $100 billion infrastructure fund, energy coordination and workforce investment. Supporters argue that shifting supply chains from China could generate $78 billion in new annual exports for Latin America.

“Clear data, local solutions — Florida needs a chronic absence definition” via Vince Roig and Paul Luna for Florida Politics — Florida has improved student attendance, but chronic absenteeism remains a concern as recent national data suggests progress may be slowing. Chronic absence is linked to lower reading proficiency, weaker grade advancement and long-term disengagement. Lawmakers are considering a standardized statewide definition to improve data consistency and policy response. HB 1071, passed by the House, would require reporting chronic absence for grades K-5, defined as missing at least 10% of school days for students enrolled for more than 45 days. The proposal does not mandate local interventions but provides uniform data to evaluate trends and direct resources. Supporters say consistent reporting will enable earlier identification of attendance problems while preserving the District’s flexibility to address community-specific challenges.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“An Army Corps project could wipe out one of Florida’s last thriving coral reefs” via Nicolás Rivero of The Washington Post — Dive shop owner Bill Cole leaned back in his captain’s chair, raised the volume on the Margaritaville radio station and watched six trails of bubbles trickle up through clear blue water. Fifteen feet beneath the surface, divers drifted through one of the last thriving coral reefs in Florida, spotting juvenile parrotfish and grunts darting between branches of staghorn coral that survived the catastrophic heat waves and disease outbreaks that have rendered their species all but extinct in the continental United States. But soon, this refuge could also be wiped out — not by hot-tub water temperatures or the mysterious plague of stony coral tissue loss disease, but by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Less than a mile away, the corps is planning to deepen and widen the shipping channel leading into Port Everglades, blasting through the reef line and dredging up sediment that could smother acres of surrounding coral.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best wishes to Sen. Corey Simon, UWF President Manny Diaz, Nick Alvarez, Karen Diebel, and Reuben Pressman.

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