Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 11.5.26

Good Thursday morning.

Here is the first of several epilogue pieces I plan to write about the 2026 Election — “News media Winners and Losers emerging from the St. Petersburg Mayoral Election“

___

You win an election cycle; you lose the next. Whatever. But to win in life — to be loved by your wife, well-regarded by your colleagues, and respected by your adversaries — that’s truly winning. Happy birthday to our dear friend, David Johnson.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@Redistrict: I’ve seen enough: generational wipeout.

Tweet, tweet:

—@ElonMusk: Data centers in space looking pretty appealing right now

Tweet, tweet:

—@TampaDan: This should not be treated as a victory lap for Gov. (Ron) DeSantis. This was the worst election cycle in Florida in decades. He could’ve saved countless down-ballot races by helping boost GOP turnout. We’re a team & our captain was nowhere to be seen on the campaign trail.

Tweet, tweet:

—@JaredEMoskowitz: I won, and no one talked about my ass

—@JasonBrodeur: Thank you to everyone who supported our campaign for Florida Senate. Representing Central Florida in the House and Senate is one of the greatest honors of my life — I am so proud of the work we accomplished, from transformational legislation to lower prescription drug prices to preserving millions of acres of Florida’s wild lands. I look forward to continue advocating for responsible government policies that improve and protect our citizens in any way I can.

—@Jason_Garcia: The Florida House of Representatives came shockingly close to flipping last night. Democrats netted 16 seats. I believe that leaves the GOP with a 70-50 majority. But there were also another 5 seats where the Republican won 51-49 or less and 5 more where they won 52-48 or less

—@TheMattDailey: I mean I wouldn’t call the largest # of House seat flips for either party in my lifetime “a few wins” but maybe that’s just me

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 1; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 1; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 6; ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’ starring Johnny Depp premieres — 8; ‘Paper Tiger’ starring Adam Driver premieres — 8; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me, America,’ is released — 12; New legislator training sessions — 12; Senate convenes for general organization and selection of officers — 12; ‘Madden’ premieres — 13; ‘I PLAY ROCKY’ premieres — 15; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 15; ‘Blade Runner 2099’ premieres on Prime Video — 20; ‘The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres in IMAX — 20; Committee Week #1 — 25; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 43; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 43; ‘Six Kings Slam 2026’ begins — 52; Committee Week #2 — 60; St. Pete Mayor and Council member inauguration — 63; Committee Week #3 — 67; ‘Ahsoka’ season 2 premieres — 76; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas — 81; Committee Week #4 — 88; The 2027 Florida State Fair begins — 91; ‘Remain,’ directed by M. Night Shyamalan, premieres — 92; Grammys — 94; Committee Week #5 — 95; Super Bowl LXI — 101; Committee Week #6 — 102; Opening day of the 2027 Regular Legislative Session — 117; Tampa Mayoral Election — 117; ‘The Thomas Crown Affair,’ directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan premieres — 120; Jacksonville First Election — 124; Oscars — 129; Miami Marlins Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. New York Mets — 140; Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. Baltimore Orioles — 140; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins — 160; Jacksonville General Election — 194; ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ premieres — 204; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 225; Citrus Series — Tampa Bay Rays at Miami Marlins — 253; ‘The Bluey Movie’ premieres — 274; Citrus Series — Miami Marlins at Tampa Bay Rays — 309; 2027 Florida-Georgia game in Tampa — 359; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 407; 2028 South Carolina Democratic Presidential Primary — 443; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans — 445; 2028 Nevada Presidential Primary — 453; 2028 New Hampshire Democratic Presidential Primary — 460; 2028 New Mexico Democratic Presidential Primary — 467; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 470; 2028 Michigan Democratic Presidential Primary — 474; 2028 Virginia Democratic Presidential Primary — 481; Oscars — 486; ‘X-Men’ premieres — 547; ‘Miami Vice ’85’ reboot premieres — 561; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 568; ‘Days of Thunder’ sequel with Tom Cruise and Anne Hathaway premieres — 575; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 589; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 617; ‘Ghost Rider’ premieres — 631; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 733; ‘Black Panther 3’ directed by Ryan Coogler premieres — 771; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa — 809; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,142; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,870.

— TOP STORY —

“Ron DeSantis to call Special Session to implement property tax overhaul” via James Call of USA Today Network — DeSantis said Wednesday he will call Florida lawmakers into Special Session before year’s end to rewrite state property tax laws and implement a voter-approved constitutional amendment that could reshape local government finances for decades. “We’ve got to do it,” DeSantis said. “It has to be implemented by Jan. 1, per the amendment.”

The Special Session will require an outgoing Governor and lame-duck Legislature to write the rules for one of the most significant tax policy changes in modern Florida history. Lawmakers are expected to decide how Amendment 3 will be implemented, whether local governments will receive state assistance to offset revenue losses, and how to prevent cities and counties from replacing property taxes with new fees. The Session gives DeSantis, who leaves office in January, one final opportunity to shape a proposal he spent more than a year championing.

Speaking a day after Republicans suffered major losses nationwide, DeSantis said the amendment helped drive turnout in Florida and contributed to Republicans holding statewide offices, when nationwide the GOP suffered what he called “a near-extinction event.” “I absolutely think Amendment 3 had a lot to do with that,” DeSantis said.

State economists have projected local governments could lose roughly $12 billion annually by 2031 under the measure. DeSantis said he wants lawmakers to establish “a pool of funding” that could provide grants to local governments, particularly smaller rural counties worried about maintaining Sheriff’s offices and other essential services. “There’ll be a transition period,” he said. He also wants the legislation to limit local governments from “doing an end run around the amendment and taxing them in other ways.” DeSantis said legislative leaders will largely determine the timing of the Special Session. “I’m basically on lame-duck duty at this point,” he joked.

___

“DeSantis says Amendment 3 saved Florida from the blue wave” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Florida’s Republican firewall held, but the election exposed serious cracks beneath statewide victories. Democrats flipped 16 Florida House seats, gains DeSantis attributed partly to dissatisfaction with House Republican leadership. He blasted the outgoing Speaker as “rotten” and said the chamber’s performance over the past two years was unacceptable. Congressional redistricting also failed to expand Florida’s Republican delegation, which remains at 20 members. Nationally, DeSantis faulted Republicans for fighting yesterday’s battles while Democrats connected with rural voters and capitalized on the GOP’s handling of the Epstein files. He warned Democratic control of Congress could stall judicial confirmations and Cabinet appointments for years. Despite sweeping victories, Democrats lack a governing mandate, he insisted, leaving Republicans to reckon with a bruising political repudiation.

— NAT’L EPILOGUE —

“After Midterm drubbing, Donald Trump and Republicans start pointing fingers,” Tim Balk, Michael Levenson, and Emily Davies of The New York Times — President Trump blamed sweeping Republican Midterm Election losses on his absence from the ballot, but party officials increasingly held him responsible for losing both chambers of Congress. Republican strategists cited unpopular tariffs, rising gasoline prices, the Iran war and questionable candidate endorsements. Vice President JD Vance blamed the war directly, while Nebraska Rep. Don Bacon dismissed Trump’s explanation as nonsense. Republicans suffered unexpected defeats in traditionally conservative states, including Texas, South Carolina and Kansas. Some party leaders defended Trump, but others questioned his political judgment and future influence. With Democrats gaining control of Congress, Republicans face an increasingly public reckoning over the President’s policies, campaign decisions and political standing.

“JD Vance says the Iran war cost Republicans the Midterms” via Herb Scribner of Axios — The GOP has to do four things to bring them back, he said: End the Iran war, focus on inflation, “put America First,” and “change our relationship to Israel.” “To the people who are just pissed at the results, you should be. Let’s take that anger and get back to the work of saving our country,” Vance wrote.

“An absolute bloodbath: How Republicans lost the nation” via Peter Hamby, Leigh Ann Caldwell and Marianna Sotomayor of Puck — Republicans suffered devastating Midterm Election losses, surrendering the House and at least seven Senate seats as Democrats shattered expectations nationwide. Unexpected victories in South Carolina, Kansas and Texas exposed widespread voter frustration over inflation, corruption and Trump’s unpopular Iran war. Republican redistricting efforts largely backfired, including in Florida, where Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart barely survived despite favorable boundary changes. Trump’s candidate endorsements also proved costly, with Ken Paxton losing Texas and other loyalists falling nationwide. Democratic gains extended across demographic groups, including Latinos, young men and working-class voters. The results raise questions about Trump’s remaining influence, Vance’s 2028 prospects and Democrats’ ability to govern effectively.

“$500 million bought Elon Musk nothing” via Charlie Warzel of The Atlantic — Billionaire Musk poured an unprecedented $474 million into the 2026 Elections, becoming history’s largest noncandidate political donor, only to watch Republicans suffer sweeping defeats. His contributions accounted for roughly one-quarter of GOP campaign donations, including $168 million to Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton, who lost to Democrat James Talarico. Another $216 million flowed into Musk’s America PAC. The losses raise questions about Musk’s political influence and whether his involvement actually hurt Republicans. Voters also rejected data center initiatives amid growing concerns about artificial intelligence, corporate influence and government corruption. Democrats controlling.

“The political map is anyone’s guess after a Democratic wave in the Midterm Elections” via Thomas Beaumont of The Associated Press — Democrats shattered traditional political boundaries Tuesday, winning Senate and gubernatorial races across states long considered reliably Republican. Kansas elected Adam Hamilton, its first Democratic Senator since 1932, while South Carolina chose Annie Andrews, ending a Democratic drought dating to 1998. Texas delivered sweeping Democratic victories, including James Talarico defeating Ken Paxton for Senate and Gina Hinojosa unseating Gov. Greg Abbott. Democrats also captured major offices in Iowa and Ohio, with Sherrod Brown reclaiming an Ohio Senate seat. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called the results a generational transformation. The question now is whether these victories signal lasting political realignment or temporary backlash against Trump and rising living costs.

— STATEWIDE EPILOGUE —

“DeSantis calls Midterm bloodbath an ‘extinction-level event for Republicans’” via Andrew Atterbury and Riya Misra of POLITICO — DeSantis eviscerated the state of Republican politics Wednesday after the party’s devastating Midterm losses, blaming everything from the Jeffrey Epstein files to members of Congress trading stocks. And while the elections were “close to an extinction-level event for Republicans,” DeSantis took a proud victory lap on how the GOP performed in his state, where they swept state Cabinet races and staved off defeats like those suffered in conservative strongholds like Iowa, Kansas and Texas.

“Here’s one way that Byron Donalds may govern differently than DeSantis” via Michael Van Sickler of the Tampa Bay Times — Governor-elect Donalds signaled a potentially dramatic change in Tallahassee’s relationship with the media, promising openness and accessibility after eight years of often contentious exchanges between DeSantis and reporters. Following his historic victory as Florida’s first Black Governor, Donalds welcomed frank conversations with journalists, even when coverage proves unfavorable. He also interrupted supporters who jeered at defeated Democratic opponent David Jolly, praised his campaign, and emphasized dignity in victory. Donalds pledged to represent all Floridians, including those who opposed him, while prioritizing affordability and everyday concerns. Whether that conciliatory approach survives the pressures of governing remains uncertain, but his election-night remarks suggested a departure from Florida’s recent political climate.

“‘Our time has come’: Donalds’ win reshapes Black representation in Florida” via Churchill Ndonwie of the Miami Herald — Cynthia Chestnut has dreamed of this moment her entire life. As a Black Democratic leader, she fought, and failed, eight years ago to help her party make Black history in Florida. Frustrated, this election cycle she decided to support a different Black man, this one running on a Republican ticket. On Tuesday night, something she had prayed to see in her lifetime came true: Florida elected its first Black Governor. “Our day has come. Our time has come. This is a new day,” the Gainesville Commissioner said. Backed by Trump, Republican U.S. Rep. Donalds succeeded where Democrats had previously stumbled.

“Major property tax cuts passed. Local governments must now reckon with the funding losses” via Sharmila Venkatasubban of The Florida Trib — Amendment 3 has cleared the 60% threshold it needed with over 95% of the vote in. Economists estimate the amendment would cut local property tax revenue by $4.9 billion in its first year, growing to $11.8 billion by 2031. Local governments have three options, said Jared Walczak, a senior fellow at the Tax Foundation: cut spending, raise rates on remaining taxable property, or raise other taxes and fees. “Florida is running an experiment,” he said.

“Lauren Melo wins SD 28, will succeed Kathleen Passidomo in Senate” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Rep. Melo won Senate District 28 with 62% of the vote over Democrat David Silverberg. “To the people of Collier, Lee and Hendry counties, thank you for giving me another opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much,” Melo said. “Your trust means more to me than you know, and it’s something I will never take for granted.”

—”Jason Brodeur’s defeat is a major loss for Florida Senate, constituent service and outdoor traditions” via Brendon Leslie of Florida’s Voice

“‘An extraordinary opportunity’: Christine Hunschofsky celebrates House Democratic influx” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — House Democratic Leader-designate Hunschofsky sat down with Florida Politics to discuss the Florida House Democratic Campaign Committee’s (FHDCC) strategy ahead of the Midterms. By late Tuesday, House Democrats had won 16 Republican-held seats while losing just one Democratic-held post, for a net gain of 15 seats and an incoming caucus of 49 members. Even without that additional seat, House Democrats have finally broken a yearslong Republican supermajority and will enter the coming Special Session with their largest caucus since 1996. “Republicans have spent years taking these seats and these voters for granted,” she said. “Last night, Floridians proved that no seat is out of reach.”

“Dan McDow pulls ahead of Monique Miller by 274 votes in HD 33” via Staff Reports of Florida Politics — Democrat McDow has pulled ahead of Republican state Rep. Miller by 274 votes in House District 33 after a late count of mail ballots erased the incumbent’s Election Night lead. With all 33 precincts reporting, Brevard County’s preliminary tally showed McDow with 36,394 votes (50.19%) and Miller with 36,120 votes (49.81%). McDow’s lead of about 0.38 percentage points is within Florida’s 0.5-point threshold for a machine recount.

“Legislature gets its first DSA member in Ashley Herrmann” via Mitch Perry of the Florida Phoenix — But there was a DSA-backed candidate on the ballot in Hillsborough County Tuesday — Ashley Herrmann — and she upset Republican incumbent Danny Alvarez in the House District 69 race, winning 52%-48%. Herrmann, 36, qualified for the seat on the last day possible, June 12. She’s a climate activist who ran on a platform opposing data centers, holding developers accountable, and raising teacher pay.

—”Ruth’s List counts 27 wins, including 3 House flips that helped end the GOP supermajority” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics

“Voters overwhelmingly supported local conservation in Midterm Elections” via Max Chesnes of the Tampa Bay Times — Floridians in seven counties made it clear this election cycle that they want to protect sensitive lands and waterways in their communities. Ballot initiatives to create or renew local conservation programs passed with widespread support in Brevard, Charlotte, Marion, Manatee, St. Johns, Santa Rosa and Sarasota counties. But roughly 40,000 more Sarasota voters opted for the conservation property tax compared to property tax relief, and “that speaks to the development pressures and loss of natural lands, and how that overrides anyone’s concerns on property taxes,” said Casey Bauer, the Florida conservation finance director for the nonprofit Trust for Public Land.

— CONG. EPILOGUE —

“Florida GOP’s redistricting gambit lands with a thud amid Trump blowback” via Austin Horn of the Miami Herald — Florida Republicans dramatically redrew four Democratic-held U.S. House districts this year to favor their own party’s candidates. But in all four of those districts, the Democrat won Tuesday night. In South Florida, Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz won despite being drawn out of his District. In Orlando, map drawers targeted Democratic U.S. Rep. Darren Soto, but Soto still appeared to eke out a victory. And in the Tampa Bay area, Democratic U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor defended her suddenly competitive seat. The partisan makeup of the state’s congressional delegation appears unchanged from before Tuesday night: 20 Republicans and eight Democrats.

“Hakeem Jeffries boasts that Democrats destroyed Florida’s ‘dummymander’” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — When DeSantis enacted a new congressional map in Florida, he posted online that it was “Signed, Sealed, and Delivered.” But after Democrats held all four seats analysts had said were at risk, House Minority Leader Jeffries labeled the redraw “Signed, Sealed, and Destroyed.” At a news conference in Washington, D.C., Jeffries called the cartography the “DeSantis Dummymander.” “We made clear last year, when this corrupt effort to rig the Midterm Elections by gerrymandering congressional maps in red states all across the country began, that Republicans might start this redistricting and gerrymandering battle, Democrats were going to finish it,” Jeffries said. “Last night, that’s exactly what happened.”

“Laurel Lee swats another challenge in CD 15 with easy victory over Robert People” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Republican U.S. Rep. Lee has easily won re-election in Florida’s 15th Congressional District, defeating Democrat People with 54% of the vote. While many Republican candidates across the state and nation braced for closer-than-expected races, even in deep-red areas, Lee won comfortably, though the District did swing a bit left.

— STATEWIDE —

“DeSantis promises Donalds a smoother handoff than Rick Scott gave him” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis pledged a cooperative transition for Donalds, contrasting his approach with the contentious handoff he received from U.S. Sen. Scott in 2018. DeSantis said transition planning began after Donalds won the Republican Primary, with administration officials coordinating preparations so the incoming Governor can begin governing immediately. Eight years earlier, tensions erupted over Scott’s last-minute appointments, access to agency leadership and inauguration festivities. DeSantis ultimately rescinded 215 of Scott’s appointments, sparking a rivalry that continues today. Their disagreements have spanned property taxes, insurance, abortion restrictions, vaccine mandates, Disney and Hope Florida spending. Despite their long-standing feud, DeSantis insists Donalds will inherit an organized administration without the transition obstacles he encountered.

“Court OKs lawsuit against Meta over teen safety” via Stephany Matat of USA Today Network — A three-judge panel of Florida’s 2nd District Court of Appeal ruled in a Nov. 4 order that Instagram’s parent company didn’t prove Florida officials are violating its First Amendment right to free speech. Judge Andrea Teves Smith’s opinion won’t let Attorney General James Uthmeier’s lawsuit be dismissed early, saying Meta, the parent company, hasn’t faced any limitations on its speech or expression. That’s because a lower court order hasn’t compelled the company to take any action so far. “In fact, none of Meta’s First Amendment rights have been altered,” Smith wrote in the 19-page order, joined by Judges Robert Morris and Suzanne Labrit.

“Muslim group shutting down in Florida amid ‘terror’ designation” via Stephany Matat of USA Today Network — The Florida chapter of the country’s largest Muslim advocacy group will be shutting down indefinitely, after state officials stamped foreign and domestic terror labels on the group under a law approved by DeSantis earlier this year. The announcement came from a neon-orange sign posted on the window of the Council on American-Islamic Relations’ main office, which has stood for more than 20 years in Temple Terrace, near Tampa, surrounded by Muslim community centers and businesses with names printed in large Arabic. It reads: “We have suspended our operations in Florida because of Gov. DeSantis and other state officials’ baseless and unconstitutional enforcement of the state’s unprecedented new ‘domestic terrorist organization’ laws against us.”

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Mike Johnson will step aside as House GOP leader” via Meredith Lee Hill and Mia McCarthy of POLITICO — Johnson of Louisiana announced his plans on a private call with staff Wednesday morning. He said not running for GOP minority leader was “not an easy decision,” but that the “demands of serving in leadership are immense” and “require sacrifices” from him and his family. “After three years in this role, I believe the time has come for me to give them more of the attention and presence they so richly deserve,” he said. “I make this decision with a heart full of gratitude and an abiding sense of pride in what we have accomplished together.”

“Democrats project power as GOP reels in a reordered Washington” via Jess Bidgood and Catie Edmondson of The New York Times — Democrats seized control of Congress in a sweeping Midterm Election victory, securing at least 237 House seats and 54 Senate seats as Republicans confronted widespread voter backlash. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries pledged to prioritize affordability while preparing to challenge Trump’s agenda. Vance blamed Republican losses partly on the Iran war, exposing tensions within the administration. Democrats also made gains in state legislatures, with at least 330 seats flipping nationwide. Meanwhile, Florida Republican María Elvira Salazar faced a potential recount in her narrowly contested congressional race. Democrats also made substantial gains among younger, Hispanic and working-class voters, reshaping Washington’s political landscape and raising questions about Republican leadership.

— S. FLA —

“Is Miami blue after Donalds’ Florida win? See how Miami-Dade cities voted” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — Governor-elect Donalds won statewide, but Democrat Jolly carried Miami-Dade County by seven points, reversing Republican gains from recent elections. Trump won the county by 11 points in 2024, producing an 18-point swing toward Democrats. Miami favored Jolly by 20 points, while Doral shifted dramatically, moving from a 23-point Trump victory to a four-point Donalds defeat. Jolly narrowly carried Coral Gables and unincorporated Miami-Dade, while Miami Gardens delivered 83% support. Wealthy Golden Beach remained overwhelmingly Republican. Despite the Democratic resurgence, Republicans retained nearly all their local legislative seats, losing only incumbent Fabian Basabe. The results highlight changing voter sentiment without necessarily transforming Miami-Dade’s political power structure.

—”From Aventura to Virginia Gardens: Here are Miami-Dade’s Municipal Election results” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics

“Christina Romelus wins open Palm Beach School Board District 4 race” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — With all precincts reporting, Romelus had 62% of the vote to Zapata’s 38%. School Board races are officially nonpartisan in Florida, though Zapata is a registered Republican and ran for House District 89 as a Republican in 2022 and 2024, narrowly losing both times.

“Miami preservation Board shrinks First Presbyterian Church’s historic boundary over Icon Brickell objections” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Miami’s Historic and Environmental Preservation Board has voted to shrink the historic designation of First Presbyterian Church at 609 Brickell Ave. The vote reclassifies the church’s school annex and parking lot as non-contributing, over objections from the IconBrickell Condominium No. Two Association. The Board approved the amendment to the designation report 6-1. The land is slated for 619 Brickell, a 75-story tower planned by 13th Floor Investments and Key International. The condo association argued that the annex was part of a unified design for the church property. “This is a monstrosity next to a landmark,” said Ryan Abrams, the association’s legal counsel, referring to the proposed development.

— C. FLA —

—”Central Florida Democrats help break GOP’s supermajority in Tallahassee” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics

“Despite anti-tax voters, Central Florida school taxes win big on Election Night” via Steven Walker of the Orlando Sentinel — School tax proposals in Lake, Orange and Osceola counties each passed by large margins, ensuring millions in funding to School Districts as they weather steep enrollment drops and the accompanying reduction in state per-pupil money. The Florida Education Association, the statewide teachers’ union, said 29 of 30 school taxes on Florida ballots passed this year. “It sends a strong message that our community not only supports public education, but that they understand the financial crisis that we are facing,” said Orange Superintendent Maria Vazquez.

“Incumbents Leslie Campione, Sean Parks re-elected to Lake Board of County Commissioners” via James Wilkins of the Orlando Sentinel — Incumbent Lake County Commissioners Campione and Parks both decisively won re-election to their respective seats during Tuesday’s General Election. Campione defeated Democrat Egor Emery and write-in candidates Vance Jochim and Tommie Powers, securing 58% of the vote. Parks also won his race by a landslide, gaining over 88% of the vote against write-in challengers Leighton Powers and Jose Elias-Torres.

“Quinnie Perez becomes Florida’s first openly transgender elected official, Equality Florida says” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Perez, 32, became Florida’s first openly transgender elected official after winning a seat on the Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District Board. She received more than 35,500 votes, capturing nearly 43% of the vote in a three-way race for Seat 1, almost 6 points ahead of runner-up Doug Sahr and more than double the share of third-place finisher Vicente Rafael Pérez Carreño. “I always just brought it back to policy, like what was going on in the county, and people respected that,” Perez said.

— TAMPA BAY —

“Hillsborough voters approve Commission expansion, elected Superintendent, school tax renewal” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Hillsborough County voters narrowly approved expanding their County Commission, putting an incoming Democratic majority in charge of drawing nine new districts. Democrats will oversee that process after winning all four Commission races, flipping the seven-member Board from a 5-2 Republican majority to a 4-3 Democratic majority. The referendum will replace the Commission’s four District and three countywide seats with nine single-member districts. Voters approved the measure, along with two other county referendums, and also agreed to elect the public school Superintendent and renew a half-cent sales tax for school improvements. The Superintendent change reverses a system voters established in 1966, when Hillsborough moved from an elected Superintendent to one appointed by the School Board.

“Hillsborough County had a lot of bright spots for Democrats, even in races the party lost” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — But to really understand just how well Democrats actually did in Florida this election, let’s take a look at Hillsborough County, where Democrats reclaimed a majority on the County Commission, and Democrats overperformed in every single race on the ballot. Republican state Rep. Danny Alvarez lost his House District 69 seat to Democratic Socialists of America-backed Ashley Herrmann, who won 52% of the vote in a District Alvarez carried by more than 16 percentage points two years ago. The Hillsborough County Commission also flipped, with incumbent Democrat Harry Cohen holding onto his seat and Democrats Neil Manimala and Aileen Rodriguez flipping two other seats to give the party a 4-3 majority.

“Four takeaways from the St. Pete Mayor’s race” via Colleen Wright and Langston Taylor of the Tampa Bay Times — St. Petersburg voters resoundingly rejected incumbent Mayor Ken Welch, whom they welcomed with open arms five years ago. Welch, the city’s first Black Mayor, needed a lot to change after taking 21% of the vote in the six-way August Primary. In the end, he didn’t double his share, and he needed to do much better. He finished with 38% of the vote in the higher-turnout Election Day rematch with former Governor and U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist. In 64 precincts where he trailed Crist in the Primary, Welch could flip only one. Crist won with 62% of the vote. He dominated everywhere outside the heavily Black neighborhoods of southern St. Petersburg, where he flipped three precincts. Candidates who failed to make the runoff won three precincts. Crist won all of them. In the low-lying Shore Acres area, Crist won by 85%.

“Machine recount set for Sunday in razor-thin Pinellas School Board District 3 race” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Pinellas County election officials will begin a machine recount Sunday at 9 a.m. in the closely contested School Board District 3 race, where Curtis Campogni leads incumbent Dawn Peters by just 712 votes. With all precincts reporting, Campogni received 175,434 votes, while Peters received 174,722 — a margin of 0.2 percentage points. Under Florida law, a machine recount is required when the margin between candidates is 0.5% or less.

“Sam Wilson wins big in open Clearwater City Council race where Scientology was on the ballot” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Wilson secured nearly 55% of the vote. Wilson, who will resign his position with Luna now that he has won a seat on the City Council, ran with support from his boss, but he faced criticism over perceived support from the Church of Scientology. Bunker was attempting a political comeback.

“Pinellas County OKs contracts for $145M airport terminal project after estimate topped $220M” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Pinellas County has approved contracts for a rescoped terminal project at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. Airport Director Mark Sprague told Commissioners that the original expansion’s estimate had passed $220 million when designs were 30% complete. “So we rescoped it from $110 million up to $145 million,” Sprague said. The rescoped project includes about 40,000 square feet of new terminal space along with work on the airport’s aging infrastructure. The airport says it will pay for the project with airport revenue and grants from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Florida Department of Transportation, with no debt.

“Judge says St. Pete tire shop is addressing mosquitoes, denies city injunction request” via Michaela Mulligan of the Tampa Bay Times — A judge has denied a request from the city of St. Petersburg that could have allowed city officials to enter the property of a tire shop that was suspected of being a mosquito breeding ground. The judge denied the request for a temporary injunction, saying that the defendants are addressing the issue. During a hearing, Devon Haggitt, an attorney representing the city, said the business had made good progress and that the tires looked like they were almost gone from the property. “Whatever timeline you want to give them for the containers, we’re OK with that,” Haggitt said.

— N. FL —

“More disaster assistance centers opening in Panhandle after Hurricane Isaias” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — More help is on the way for Panhandle residents recovering from Hurricane Isaias. The Division of Emergency Management is opening more Multi-Agency Resource Centers (MARCs) in several counties to help victims of the Category 2 storm that made landfall near Destin. MARCs open Thursday in Escambia and Holmes counties, followed Friday by centers in Bay, Santa Rosa and Walton counties. “If you are in an affected county, you are encouraged to apply for disaster assistance. You can also apply for assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA App for mobile devices,” the division said.

“Turning the tables: A new 3-2 emerges with Tallahassee progressive takeover” via Ethan Hicks of FSView — The progressive wing of the Democratic Party has finally clinched its long-sought majority on the Tallahassee City Commission, reversing the balance of power that has been in place for the past six years. Two of the three progressive candidates won. When the new members take office later this month, the City Commission will, for the first time in six years, have a new governing majority. City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow, who has led the progressive movement since he was first elected in 2018, narrowly beat former lawmaker Loranne Ausley for Mayor with nearly 51% of the vote. P.J. Perez, another member of the progressive slate, won the most comfortable margin in any city race, beating Tom Derzypolski with over 64% of the vote.

“Former Tallahassee housing official pleads guilty in fraud case” via Jim Rosica of the Tallahassee Democrat — A former Tallahassee Housing Authority manager pleaded guilty in federal court to stealing nearly $379,000 through a scheme prosecutors say used former tenants’ identities to divert housing assistance payments. Lekishaann Huggins, 45, of Tallahassee pleaded guilty to 39 counts of bank fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft and four counts of money laundering, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida announced in a press release on Nov. 2. “This fraudster pocketed federal funds intended to provide housing assistance to low-income citizens to instead throw herself a lavish holiday party and purchase jewelry, designer purses, and other luxury items using your taxpayer dollars,” U.S. Attorney Jack Heekin said. “This is beyond despicable.”

“Jaguars oppose Downtown Improvement District expansion at Council Committee” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — The Jacksonville Jaguars have told a City Council Committee they oppose a bill that would add the Sports and Entertainment District, the Shipyards and more of Brooklyn and LaVilla to the Downtown Business Improvement District. Council Vice President Joe Carlucci sponsors the bill, which would levy a 1.1-mill special assessment on property inside the District for tax years 2027 through 2037. “We strongly oppose this legislation,” said Paul Harden, the team’s land-use attorney. Council President Nick Howland said he would vote against the bill unless the Council deferred it. The statutory deadline for passage is Jan. 1.

— S.W. FL —

“Amanda Ballard edges Charles Smith by 173 votes as other Manatee Republicans win big” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Ballard received 10,340 votes to Smith’s 10,167, a margin of just 0.8 percentage points. The 173-vote margin falls outside Florida’s 0.5-percentage-point threshold for an automatic recount.

“Lee County keeps Sanibel affordable housing award alive, delays decision 30 days for talks with city” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Up to $9.75 million in federal disaster recovery money for 39 affordable rental units on Sanibel Island has survived an attempt to pull it. Lee County Commissioners then delayed a decision by 30 days to allow talks with the city of Sanibel. Commissioners voted 3-2 against a motion to end consideration of the award to Community Housing and Resources’ Riverview II project and repurpose the money for facilities and critical infrastructure. The county has flagged Sanibel’s requirement that Riverview II residents work on the island as a potential Fair Housing Act issue, and the City Council has resisted serving as a subrecipient. The project must close financially by the end of February.

Cape Coral City Council fires City Manager without cause on 4-1 vote — The Council fired City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn without cause on a motion from Mayor John Gunter, effective 11:59 p.m., in what one member called the last material meeting of the term. Gunter passed the gavel to make the motion, citing the election process. The motion carried 4-1. Gunter and Council Members Joseph Kilraine, Derrick Donnell, and William Steinke voted yes. Council Member Laurie Lehmann voted no. Lehmann and Council Member Rachel Kaduk argued the new Council should decide. “This stinks to high hell,” Council Member Keith Long said. The City Attorney told members that terminating the contract without cause entitles the manager to four months’ base salary as severance in a lump sum. “Everybody knows I love our City Manager,” Donnell said. The pay proposal for the interim City Manager rounded to $290,000.

“Fort Myers commits $1.9M to Edison and Ford Winter Estates welcome center” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — The Fort Myers City Council has agreed to put about $1.9 million toward a $5.9 million welcome center at Edison and Ford Winter Estates and signed off on a letter guaranteeing the Estates’ construction loan. The guarantee passed 5-1. Council Member Terolyn Watson was the only one to vote “no.” Watson wanted more information before backing the guarantee. City Manager Marty Lawing said the city would likely stand behind the loan regardless of the letter. Edison and Ford Winter Estates President and CEO Michael Flanders said the welcome center will be the first new building on the site since the museum went up in the 1960s.

— TOP OPINION —

“Florida proved again it isn’t like the rest of America, yet change brewed” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — A blue tsunami swept America on Tuesday, but Florida Republicans found enough sandbags to survive. Their fundraising advantage and 37% voter-registration lead delivered statewide victories by 51% to 49%. That is not a mandate. It is a photo finish for a runner who started 37 yards ahead.

Florida remains a political island. While voters elsewhere rejected rising costs, war and political chaos, Sunshine State Republicans retained every statewide office. Yet Central Florida told a different story. Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties voted Democratic across the board, despite Seminole’s Republican registration advantage.

The statewide results revealed little distinction among candidates. Ashley Moody, Uthmeier, Blaise Ingoglia and Wilton Simpson all won by similarly narrow margins. Voters followed party labels, regardless of controversies or governing styles. That should concern Republicans accustomed to comfortable victories.

Migration helped build their cushion. Conservative newcomers strengthened Republican registration, while younger liberal and independent voters left. Those shifts may have helped Democrats elsewhere by concentrating Republican votes in Florida, leaving other states with fewer conservatives.

The question is whether Tuesday marked Florida’s permanent separation from national politics or the beginning of a shift. DeSantis won re-election by 19 points in 2022. Gov.-elect Donalds prevailed by roughly one point. That difference matters, especially for someone seeking another term.

Donalds promised to govern even for Floridians who opposed him. Good. But promises are easy. After eight years of division, the test is whether Republicans recognize that their once commanding advantage has narrowed and govern accordingly.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“After an extraordinary wave, what comes next?” via Nate Silver of Silver Bulletin — Democrats delivered the second-largest Midterm Elections swing since World War II, gaining roughly 45 House seats, seven to nine Senate seats and potentially six governorships. The nationwide shift, approximately 15 percentage points toward Democrats, raises questions about whether Trump’s political era is ending. Historical comparisons offer mixed lessons, but 2006 stands out: An unpopular, lame-duck Republican President facing war fatigue, economic anxiety and scandals preceded another Democratic landslide two years later. Trump’s 38% approval rating and Republicans’ difficulty identifying a successor complicate their 2028 prospects. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio remain closely tied to Trump, making it hard to separate politically. The Republican Party’s future remains uncertain.

“The Trump Decade is over” via Derek Thompson of Substack — Ten years after Trump’s stunning presidential victory, devastating Republican Midterm Election losses suggest his political era may finally be ending. Democrats decisively captured the House, flipped Senate seats in traditionally Republican states, and benefited from dramatic shifts among younger voters, Hispanics, and working-class Americans. Trump’s tariffs, unpopular Iran war, immigration policies and questionable endorsements fueled the backlash. Yet Democrats should resist declaring a permanent realignment. Voters increasingly switch parties when economic conditions deteriorate, making political loyalty fleeting. The results also exposed growing opposition to artificial intelligence infrastructure, billionaire influence and corporate power. Meanwhile, Vance’s future for the Republican Party remains uncertain. Democrats must convert electoral success into lasting economic improvements.

“Trump learns his Viktor Orbán lesson” via Tom Nichols of The Atlantic — Trump’s crushing Midterm Election defeat mirrors the political downfall of former Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán, whose authoritarian ambitions collapsed under overwhelming voter opposition. Both leaders sought to weaken democratic institutions while maintaining power through elections, only to confront public outrage over corruption, economic hardship and increasingly unpopular governance. Republicans suffered historic losses as voters rejected inflation, high gasoline prices and the Iran war. Trump initially blamed others, then acknowledged the results and expressed willingness to cooperate with Democrats. Unlike Orbán, Trump remains in office, leaving considerable potential for further confrontation. Yet the magnitude of the Democratic victory makes challenging the outcome politically untenable. Organized voters demonstrated that democratic participation can defeat authoritarian ambitions.

“Things are going to get ugly” via David Frum of The Atlantic — Trump faces a potentially explosive final two years after devastating Republican Midterm losses, with Democratic control of Congress threatening investigations into his administration and family finances. Unlike 2018, when Republicans retained the Senate and the economy remained strong, Trump now faces rising prices, an unpopular Iran war, and mounting corruption allegations. Congressional subpoena power could expose Trump and his allies to significant legal and political scrutiny. Meanwhile, Republican loyalty is weakening, with DeSantis publicly acknowledging voter frustration over gasoline prices. Trump still commands the military, controls federal law enforcement and possesses sweeping emergency powers. Rather than accept defeat, he could weaponize those authorities against perceived enemies. The worst may be yet to come.

“Democrats will likely disappoint voters soon” via David A. Graham of The Atlantic — Democrats celebrated sweeping Midterm Elections victories fueled by voter frustration over Trump’s handling of inflation, but their central campaign promise presents a daunting governing challenge. Despite controlling Congress, Democrats will have limited power to lower prices while Trump retains his veto. Gasoline exceeded $4 per gallon on Election Day, real wages declined and everyday expenses continued climbing. Congressional investigations could expose administration corruption, but affordability legislation faces significant obstacles. Former Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo warned that impatient voters expect tangible improvements, not political excuses. Democrats risk repeating Republicans’ mistakes if they cannot deliver economic relief. Even without directly blaming Democrats, disillusioned voters could abandon politics altogether before the 2028 Presidential Election.

“James Uthmeier joins state Attorneys General opposing $85 billion railroad merger” via Austin Knudsen, Kris Kobach, Brenna Bird, James Uthmeier and Drew Wrigley for Florida Politics — Union Pacific’s proposed $85 billion acquisition of Norfolk Southern threatens farmers, manufacturers and consumers while failing the federal public-interest test. Seven states are challenging the merger, warning that further railroad consolidation would undermine competition, increase shipping costs and enrich corporate interests. The Surface Transportation Board previously rejected an incomplete application and demanded additional information before proceeding. Board member Richard Kloster criticized the railroads’ lack of transparency and meaningful safeguards for competition. Rather than show how the merger would enhance competition, the companies are trying to lower the legal standard that protects American businesses. Federal regulators should not reward corporate maneuvering at the expense of fair markets. This deal serves Union Pacific’s bottom line, not the public interest. The Board should reject it.

“Miami and Miami Beach said no — are voters finally reclaiming local control?” via the Miami Herald editorial board — Voters in Miami and Miami Beach rejected two developer proposals involving publicly owned land, signaling growing frustration with commercialization and diminishing local control. Miami voters defeated a redevelopment plan covering 28 acres on Virginia Key, including the Rickenbacker and Marine Stadium marinas. Miami Beach voters rejected a lease extension potentially lasting until 2132 for a Lincoln Road-area property slated to house Playboy’s headquarters. The decisions reflect broader concerns about gentrification, soaring housing costs and state interference in local decision-making. Florida’s Live Local Act has intensified tensions by limiting municipal authority over development. While two referendums hardly establish a statewide movement, Tuesday’s results suggest residents increasingly want greater control over their communities’ futures.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Air Force Thunderbirds arrive to Space Coast ahead of weekend Kennedy Space Center show” via Richard Tribou of the Orlando Sentinel — Not to be outdone by NASCAR, Maj. Samuel “RaZZ” Larson can get his ride to do a burnout too. It’s an F-16 and one of the Thunderbirds, the Air Force’s elite performance team. He was the first pilot to arrive at Patrick Space Force Base on Tuesday afternoon, with his team set to headline the weekend’s Max Power air show at Kennedy Space Center. “Getting to fly is just the cherry on top, but we’re going to be like kids in a candy shop over here at the Kennedy Space Center for the last show,” he said.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are former U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, Britton Alexander, Emma Collum, former state Rep. Ken Robertson, and Eric Robinson.

___

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

The post Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 11.5.26 appeared first on Florida Politics – Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government..

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