A new study from the Florida League of Cities details how eliminating or sharply reducing homestead property taxes would create sweeping fiscal disruptions and weaken essential services.

The analysis found that stripping away homestead property taxes — as is being proposed by Gov. Ron DeSantis and through potential ballot measures now advancing in the House — would intensify structural gaps, threaten bond ratings and push municipalities toward steep cuts.

Property taxes account for roughly 43% of municipal general revenue across all Florida cities. Because Florida has no income tax, the report notes, property taxes “function as the stabilizing base that offsets volatility in consumption-based revenues,” such as sales taxes, where the tax burden would shift.

Nowhere is the strain more apparent than in public safety spending, which consumes more than 56% of municipal general fund dollars statewide. In fact, the analysis found that cities of all sizes spend more on public safety than they receive in property tax revenues, meaning even modest losses can lead to noticeable issues.

In small cities with fewer than 5,000 residents, annual spending on police and fire equals about 90% of yearly property tax collections. Mid-size cities spend 150-175% of their property tax revenue on public safety, while large cities with more than 100,000 residents spend about 140%.

That imbalance means cities of all sizes are already reliant on sales taxes, state-shared revenues, utility funds and fees to maintain baseline policing and fire protection, even before any additional tax cuts.

Other core functions also strain the tax base. General government operations — legislative and executive functions, legal counsel, financial management, planning and administrative services — consume large chunks of property tax revenue. In coastal, urban and infrastructure-heavy municipalities, public works and quality-of-life services like transit often exceed total property tax collections, underscoring how stretched some cities already are.

A microsimulation conducted for the League found that eliminating homestead property taxes outright would trigger a 38% loss in ad valorem revenue and a 14% drop in overall general fund revenue, forcing millage rates to nearly double to avoid service cuts.

Proposals to impose high fixed-dollar property tax exemptions, $250,000 to $500,000, would also produce steep losses of 25-32%, requiring cities to raise millage rates by 20-70% on still-taxable properties to break even.

Not all potential reforms carry the same risk. So-called “clean-slate” reforms that would remove Save Our Homes caps and current exemptions before applying relief would behave differently, the study found. A 32% discount or $100,000 just-value exemption would actually produce net revenue gains for cities, unlike expansions of existing exemptions.

The downstream consequences of large-scale tax cuts, the report warns, would be severe. There would be greater fiscal instability that could weaken bond ratings, capital investments and municipal debt capacity.

City leaders predict likely cuts to police, fire, public works and parks funding unless the state provides replacement revenue. Notably, the House’s eight constitutional amendment proposals include carve-outs for police and school funding, but for nothing else.

Local officials have also raised concerns about state-driven tax policy, arguing that Tallahassee’s push to cap or reduce municipal revenue without providing replacement funding undermines local autonomy and shifts blame to cities as services decline.

Researchers at Wichita State University used a microsimulation model to estimate how various homestead property tax reform proposals would affect municipal revenues across Florida.

After establishing a baseline of each city’s fiscal structure from 2018–2024, they applied reforms — including complete elimination, tiered exemptions and a 32% discount — to parcel-level values under just, assessed and taxable valuation bases.

They then calculated the resulting revenue losses and the millage rate increases needed to keep budgets whole before then breaking the results down by region, population size, housing values and income to show which communities would be most impacted.

The study comes months after DeSantis vetoed a $1 million earmark in Florida’s budget that would have funded a study on the potential impacts of eliminating property taxes. A Florida Policy Institute study released in February found that Florida would need to double its sales tax to 12% to offset the local revenue losses that ending homestead taxes would cause.

Good Monday morning.

A new Florida League of Cities study warns that eliminating or sharply reducing homestead property taxes, an idea backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis and several House proposals, would destabilize municipal budgets and force cuts to essential services.

Property taxes provide 43% of municipal general revenue and are the only stable, locally controlled revenue source in a state without an income tax. The League notes this revenue “offsets volatility in consumption-based revenues,” meaning any major reduction would immediately weaken fiscal stability.

Public safety illustrates the risk; it consumes more than 56% of municipal general fund spending, on average, and cities of all sizes already spend more on police and fire than they collect in property taxes. Small cities spend roughly 90% of their property tax revenue on public safety, while mid-size cities spend 150–175% and large cities spend about 140%. Accordingly, municipalities rely heavily on sales taxes, fees and state-shared dollars to maintain baseline services.

Other functions — general government, public works, quality-of-life services — also strain the tax base. In coastal and urban areas, infrastructure and transit needs often exceed property tax collections, underscoring municipalities’ limited capacity.

A microsimulation found eliminating homestead property taxes would cause a 38% loss in ad valorem revenue and a 14% drop in general fund revenue, requiring millage rates to nearly double to avoid cuts. Significant fixed-dollar exemptions of $250,000 to $500,000 would still result in 25–32% revenue losses and require 20–70% increases in mileage.

Some reforms behave differently. “Clean-slate” just-value changes — removing Save Our Homes caps and exemptions before applying relief — would yield net revenue gains, including under a 32% discount or $100,000 exemption.

The League warns major tax losses would weaken bond ratings, reduce capital investment and drive cuts to police, fire, parks and public works, though the House proposals include carve-outs for law enforcement.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

Tweet, tweet:

—@NewsBySmiley: I was 15 when the Columbine shooting happened. It was unfathomable. Now I have 2 teens who do code black drills. Last month, they had to hide in classrooms because police thought there might be a gun on campus. What can I tell them other than, “Hopefully it doesn’t happen to us.”

Tweet, tweet:

—@RepDWSTweets: My heart is heavy today over the loss of the legendary John “Footy” Kross. Footy helped wake up South Florida for 30+ years on Y100 and his commitment to community was second to none. Through Here’s Help, he assisted thousands of people fighting addiction and changed so many lives. There was no one with better humor or good nature than Footy. He was a dear friend. His voice, advocacy and personality will be deeply missed. May his memory be for a blessing.

— DAYS UNTIL —

DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 2; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 4; ‘ELWAY’ documentary premieres on Netflix — 7; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 10; ‘Industry’ season four premieres — 27; Special Election for HD 87; HD 51 Special Primary and two Boca Raton referendums — 29; 2026 Legislative Session begins — 29; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 29; The James Madison Institute’s 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 30; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 34; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 46; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 52; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 53; ‘Paradise’ season two premieres on Hulu — 70; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Y: Marshals’ premieres — 76; Boca Raton Mayoral and City Council Elections — 85; last day of the Regular Session — 88; Special Election for HD 51 (if necessary) — 99; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 100; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 101; new season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 109; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 112; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 121; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 121; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 126; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 130; F1 Miami begins — 137; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 158; A new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ ride premieres at Disney World — 158; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 169; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 175; South Africa in the FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in Mexico City — 178; State Qualifying Period ends — 179; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 186; Mexico will face live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 198; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 201; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 206; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 211; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 213; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 217; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 234; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 236; Primary Election Day 2026 — 246; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 270; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 274; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 278; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 283; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 290; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 294; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 313; 2026 General Election — 323; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 368; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 368; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 368; Tampa Mayoral Election — 442; Jacksonville First Election — 463; Jacksonville General Election — 519; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 537; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 599; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 655; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 732; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 942; U.S. Presidential Election — 1058; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1458; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2189.

—TOP STORY—

“Amid measles outbreak, Friday workshop on repealing FL vaccine mandates draws national attention” via Laura Cassels of Florida Trident — Florida pediatricians warned this week that vaccine hesitancy is rising among parents as a measles outbreak in South Carolina grows and state officials move to roll back school vaccine requirements. Physicians said conflicting messages from Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo and the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are fueling confusion, even as measles cases nationwide have surged to 47 outbreaks this year, compared with 16 last year.

The debate will come to a head Friday at a Department of Health rule-development workshop in Panama City Beach, where officials will take public input on a proposal to repeal four school-entry vaccine mandates by rule and eventually unwind seven more set in state law. The meeting is the first step in a lengthy rulemaking process and will not include a vote.

Pediatricians say parents are increasingly uncertain about routine childhood immunizations, including measles, hepatitis B and Hib. Dr. Rana Alissa, president of the Florida chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, said misinformation has contributed to declining confidence after vaccines once nearly eliminated measles. Federal data show more than a quarter of measles patients hospitalized this year were children younger than 5.

Doctors also pointed to recent federal actions that have unsettled families, including shifts in vaccine guidance and renewed scrutiny of aluminum adjuvants and autism claims, both long rejected by major medical organizations. Pediatric leaders said decades of research show vaccines are safe and essential to community immunity.

Physician groups, including the Florida Academy of Family Physicians, are organizing opposition to the proposal, warning that fewer mandates would lead to more preventable illness and death. They are urging multiple hearings across the state and greater public access to the process.

The proposed rule would also expand exemptions beyond medical and religious grounds and allow families to opt out of Florida’s vaccine registry. Critics say the changes could weaken disease tracking, strain health care systems, and harm tourism if outbreaks increase.

—“Health Department takes step toward eliminating four child vaccine mandates” via Romy Ellenbogen of the Miami Herald

—“Florida vaccine meeting highlights coming mandate fight” via Lauren Gardner of POLITICO

— STATEWIDE —

“Despite denials, top Ron DeSantis aides have ties to a controversial GOP candidate for Florida Governor” via Matt Dixon of NBC News — A senior DeSantis aide has communicated with Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback, despite public denials from both sides that the Governor’s political operation is involved in Fishback’s campaign. Christina Pushaw, a longtime DeSantis adviser and current state employee, has acknowledged contact with Fishback but said she is not working for him. The interactions come as Fishback runs in the 2026 Republican Primary to succeed DeSantis, positioning himself as pro-DeSantis while criticizing front-runner Rep. Byron Donalds. Fishback’s rhetoric and social media activity have drawn controversy, prompting pushback from DeSantis allies. Video and witness accounts suggest broader contact between Fishback’s orbit and DeSantis aides, though the Governor has not endorsed a candidate and declined comment.

“Federal drug-pricing plan hurts Florida arthritis patients” via Andre Smith of the Orlando Sentinel — A quarter of Florida adults — more than 4 million people — live with arthritis. Almost everyone in Orlando knows someone coping with swollen joints, chronic pain or the fear of losing mobility. At Bay Arthritis Institute, we see their struggles every day: patients with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis rely on clinics like ours to manage their conditions. But now, a new drug-pricing plan under debate in Washington — the Most Favored Nation (MFN) model — would upend their care. In theory, it aims to lower drug costs by aligning U.S. prices with those in other countries. In practice, it would slash the payments small private practices receive from both Medicare and private insurers. Many clinics would no longer be able to stock and administer certain medicines, and some could go out of business entirely, leaving patients across Central Florida with fewer treatment options.

“Board of Governors nixes year-old policy giving Chair power on university presidents” via Jay Waagmeester and Liv Caputo of the Florida Phoenix — Florida’s Board of Governors on Friday scrapped a year-old rule that let its Chair sign off on presidential finalists before they are sent for votes by university trustees — a policy critics said vested too much power in one individual. The state Chair will no longer have a role in approving presidential finalists. Incoming BOG Chair Alan Levine, who starts his new position on Jan. 1, lauded the move as a win for non-consolidated power in the university sphere. “I don’t think any Chair of a Board should have the power to act unilaterally to make decisions about the hiring of a president or anybody,” Levine said in Friday’s Board of Governors meeting. “I strongly support this particular change.”

“University Chancellor Ray Rodrigues is the highest-paid Florida employee” via Liv Caputo and Jay Waagmeester of the Florida Phoenix — Florida’s University Chancellor Rodrigues was already the highest-paid state employee with his more than $441K salary, beating out the No. 2 employee (Education Commissioner Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas) by roughly $110K. But on Friday, that financial lead grew when the Board of Governors of the State University System approved a three-year contract extension, including a $600,000 base salary with a chance at a 20% performance bonus. This makes Rodrigues the highest-paid state employee by far, according to the state employee salary database. The effective date is Jan. 1. He nearly doubles Kamoutsas’ $330K salary. But Kamoutsas was one of the biggest supporters of Rodrigues’ pay increase.

“Gainwell Technologies’ latest program set to help states adapt to new SNAP rules” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Health care tech firm Gainwell Technologies has launched a SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) Integrity solution to help states strengthen the program’s accuracy and integrity and unlock new efficiencies. The latest technology combines predictive analytics, intelligent data matching, and artificial intelligence to enable agencies to deliver benefits more reliably while safeguarding budgets. With the passage of HR 1, Donald Trump’s token “One Big Beautiful Bill,” states face new accountability standards for SNAP payment accuracy. While these changes introduce additional financial responsibility, they also create an opportunity for agencies to modernize operations, reduce errors, and build greater trust with the communities they serve, the company said.

Appointed — Alan Suskey and Dr. Cody Vanlandingham to the Florida Athletic Commission. Johnathan Lott to the 4th District Court of Appeal. Kristina Mobley to the 4th Judicial Circuit Court. Jarred Patterson to the 14th Judicial Circuit Court. Pascale Achille to the 17th Judicial Circuit Court.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“Florida lawmakers condemn tragic shooting at Jewish event in Australia” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida lawmakers condemned a deadly shooting in Australia that occurred during a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens. The Florida Legislative Jewish Caucus, made up of 12 House members and two state Senators, issued a statement denouncing the violence and expressing solidarity with Jewish communities in Australia and worldwide. Hundreds had gathered for a public event marking the first night of Hanukkah when gunmen opened fire, wounding at least 38 people, including children and police officers. Australian officials called the attack targeted and horrific, though authorities have not formally linked it to a broader rise in antisemitic incidents. Police fatally shot one suspect and arrested another as investigations continue.

“Legislature setting stage for major 2026 abortion clash” via Ana Goñi-Lessan of USA Today Network — This year, state lawmakers are pushing bills that will reignite the abortion debate for Florida’s 2026 Legislative Session. Florida’s six-week abortion ban, which critics call a near-total prohibition on the procedure, isn’t the finish line for anti-abortion advocates in the Capitol. For the third year in a row, Sen. Erin Grall has filed a measure (SB 164) to give parents the ability to sue for damages for the wrongful death of an unborn child. The language defines “unborn child” as “a member of the species Homo sapiens, at any stage of development, who is carried in the womb.”

“Senator files bill to ease restrictions on development rules in new Florida law changes” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — State Sen. Nick DiCeglie has filed new legislation aimed at narrowing a law he sponsored earlier this year that critics say blocked local governments from regulating development. The move follows lawsuits from dozens of cities and 1000 Friends of Florida challenging the measure, which was framed as helping homeowners rebuild after hurricanes but restricted local land-use changes through October 2027. Critics argued it broadly froze growth regulations statewide. DiCeglie’s new bill would ease enforcement limits except for storm-related repairs, reduce the affected zone from 100 miles to 50 miles of a hurricane’s track, require a federal disaster declaration, and shorten the sunset to June 30, 2026. DeSantis has defended the original law.

“Dean Black bill abolishing Nassau County Board advances in House” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Legislation moving in the House could streamline Nassau County government and potentially save taxpayers money by eliminating a long-dormant special district. Rep. Dean Black’s bill, HB 4017, would formally dissolve Nassau County Recreation and Water Conservation and Control Districts created by special act in the 1960s, including one still technically on the books. The District’s appointed Board has been inactive since 2002, owns no land, holds no assets and levies no taxes. Black said drainage issues are now handled through a municipal service benefit unit, rendering the District obsolete. Repeal would transfer any assets or liabilities to the County Commission and prevent future Commissioners from imposing millage on an unnecessary entity. The measure now heads to the State Affairs Committee, its final stop before the House floor.

“Rob Long reveals legislative priorities” via Florida Politics — The Delray Beach Democrat is carrying a raft of priorities for his constituents, including money for Delray’s historic American Legion Post 188C and for coral research and coastal resilience at The Reef Institute. And colleagues are helping him get started. Rep. Debra Tendrich introduced the money for the Legion Post, which Long says has been “a cornerstone of Delray’s Black history and civic life” since 1947. He also says he will champion a PFAS reform package to reduce Floridians’ exposure to forever chemicals, a bill drafted by Parkland Democratic Rep. Christine Hunschofsky. Although his late election would usually prevent him from filing legislation for the 2026 Session, Long worked with colleagues to advance these priorities. He will assume sponsorship once he’s officially in the House.

— SKED—

8 a.m.

Senate Elder Care Services supply drive: Senate Secretary Tracy Cantella’s office. Non-perishable food and household item drive supporting Tallahassee-area seniors. Donations accepted through Monday, Dec. 15.

9:45 a.m.

EDR Revenue Estimating Conference: Room 117, Knott Building. Topic: Outlook for State School Trust Fund.

9 a.m.

EDR Revenue Estimating Conference: Room 117, Knott Building. Topic: Article V revenues.

9:30 a.m.

Palm Beach County legislative delegation workshop: Palm Beach State College, Loxahatchee Groves Campus, 15845 Southern Blvd, Loxahatchee.

10 a.m.

Miami-Dade County legislative delegation public hearing: Miami Dade College, Padron Campus, Building 6, 16th Floor, 627 SW 27th Ave., Miami.

10 a.m.

News conference with Lt. Gov. Jay Collins: Hyatt Regency Orlando, Peacock Springs Room, 9801 International Drive, Orlando. Media arrival at 9:15 a.m. FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass will join Collins.

11:30 a.m.

Triumph Gulf Coast Board meeting: FSU Panama City Campus, Holley Academic Center, 4750 Collegiate Drive, Panama City. Meeting begins at 10:30 a.m. CT.

1 p.m.

Hernando County legislative delegation public meeting: Hernando County Government Center, John Law Ayers Commission Chambers (Room 160), 20 N. Main St., Brooksville.

1 p.m.

Palm Beach County legislative delegation workshop: Workshop with the League of Cities, Loxahatchee.

1:30 p.m.

EDR Education Estimating Conference: Room 117, Knott Building. Topic: Student Financial Aid.

6:30 p.m.

Okaloosa County legislative delegation public hearing: Okaloosa County Administration Building, 1250 Eglin Parkway, Shalimar.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Donald Trump’s MAGA base is still behind him — but cracks are showing ahead of 2026” via Stephanie Perry and Marc Trussler of NBC News — Trump’s approval rating remains underwater as he approaches the end of his first year back in the White House, according to a new NBC News Decision Desk Poll. The survey shows Trump with a 42% approval rating and 58% disapproval, reflecting a modest decline amid persistent voter concern over inflation and the cost of living. While Trump continues to command strong support from his MAGA base, the intensity of that support has weakened since Spring, even as strong opposition has grown. Economic anxiety remains the dominant issue, particularly among lower-income voters, seniors and voters of color. The poll also shows voters increasingly trusting Democrats over Republicans on handling everyday costs, raising warning signs for Republicans ahead of the 2026 Midterms.

“Trump isn’t certain his economic policies will translate to Midterm wins” via Meridith McGraw of The Wall Street Journal — Trump said he is uncertain whether Republicans will retain control of the House in next year’s Midterm Elections, acknowledging that the economic gains he touts may not yet be visible to voters. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Trump said billions of dollars in new investment are flowing into the United States but conceded he cannot predict how quickly that will translate into political support. While the economy has grown, inflation, sluggish job growth and higher prices for everyday goods have fueled voter skepticism. Trump defended his record, blamed Democrats for inflation, and argued his tariffs, tax cuts, deregulation, and energy policies are strengthening the economy. Polling shows soft approval ratings, raising GOP concerns ahead of the 2026 Midterms.

“How Joe Biden ignored warnings and lost Americans’ faith in immigration” via Christopher Flavelle of The New York Times — Early warnings that a more permissive immigration approach could trigger chaos at the Southern border were delivered to President Biden before he even took office, but they went largely unheeded. Advisers cautioned that policy shifts could fuel a surge in crossings and a political backlash, yet the administration moved quickly to dismantle Trump-era deterrents without a clear replacement strategy. Border encounters soared, cities far from the border were overwhelmed, and public concern hardened across party lines, including among Latino voters. Efforts to pivot were slow and inconsistent, while a bipartisan border deal collapsed amid political calculations. By the time tougher restrictions were imposed in 2024, the damage was done, leaving immigration a defining failure that helped return Trump to power.

“Higher cost, worse coverage: Affordable Care Act enrollees say expiring subsidies will hit them hard” via The Associated Press — For one Wisconsin couple, the loss of government-sponsored health subsidies next year means choosing a lower-quality insurance plan with a higher deductible. For a Michigan family, it means going without insurance altogether. For a single mom in Nevada, the spiking costs mean fewer Christmas gifts this year. She is already stretching her budget while she waits to see whether Congress will act. Less than three weeks remain until the expiration of COVID-era enhanced tax credits that have helped millions of Americans pay their monthly fees for Affordable Care Act coverage for the past four years. The Senate rejected two proposals to address the problem, and an emerging health care package from House Republicans does not include an extension, effectively guaranteeing that many Americans will face much higher insurance costs in 2026.

“For Marco Rubio, the Cuba hawk, the road to Havana runs through Venezuela” via Michael Crowley and Edward Wong of The New York Times — A pre-dawn phone call jolted Trump awake. His national security adviser had urgent news about Venezuela. Protests were erupting, soldiers had defected and the country’s autocratic leader, Nicolás Maduro, had been hustled to a military compound. It looked like he could be forced from power. “Wow,” Trump said, according to a memoir by John R. Bolton, the national security adviser at the time. That hopeful moment for Trump, in his first term, was short-lived. In part because of the support Maduro received from Cuba, the revolt failed. That disappointed not only the President and his top aides but also Rubio, the Republican Senator from Florida, who had been a driving force behind efforts to oust the Venezuelan leader.

“Pam Bondi could sue Florida over AI laws” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — A push by DeSantis to establish an artificial intelligence “Bill of Rights” in Florida could set up a states’ rights clash with the Trump administration, which opposes a patchwork of state AI regulations. This week, Trump issued an executive order directing U.S. Attorney General Bondi to create an AI Litigation Task Force to challenge state laws that conflict with a national AI policy. The order argues that inconsistent state standards could undermine interstate commerce, constitutional protections and U.S. global AI dominance. While DeSantis has said executive orders cannot pre-empt state legislation, the White House signaled it could scrutinize or sue states that go too far. Florida could also risk federal broadband funding if its approach is deemed disruptive, though limited state regulation on child safety and infrastructure may still be allowed.

“Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick is fundraising off charges she stole $5M from FEMA” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Democratic U.S. Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick is staying true to the old maxim, “Never let a crisis go to waste.” This week, her re-election campaign sent texts to voters imploring them to donate to help her in “fighting back” against what she calls a “politically motivated” attack against her. She’s referring, of course, to federal charges filed in November accusing her of stealing $5 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds to bankroll her 2021 congressional campaign. “Two weeks ago, I took a stand and voted to demand transparency, truth and accountability from our leaders. The next day, the attacks began. An indictment was filed. This was not random. This was politically motivated retaliation,” the text said.

“Committee rejects Debbie Wasserman Schultz language protecting Everglades from pipeline fast-track” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Florida Democrats say an amendment shot down by the U.S. House Rules Committee could have protected the Everglades from energy exploration. U.S. Rep. Wasserman Schultz, a Weston Democrat, pushed for a change in language in the Improving Interagency Coordination for Pipeline Reviews Act (HR 3668) during Committee proceedings. That bill, filed by U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson, a North Carolina Republican, would expedite review of natural gas or liquified gas pipelines by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Wasserman Schultz’s amendment to the bill would have excluded the Everglades and other Florida navigable waters from that change, still requiring extensive review to put a pipeline through Florida’s largest national park. However, the Rules Committee did not allow the amendment to come to a vote.

“Laurel Lee wants judges granted more discretion on setting probation supervision terms” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Empowering judges with more discretion in probation terms will free up the justice system to focus on true repeat offenders. That’s the hope of federal legislation championed by U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee. The former Florida Circuit Judge introduced the Safer Supervision Act (HR 5883), a bipartisan bill that seeks to refocus the federal supervised release program. “I have seen our criminal justice system from all sides and recognize its strengths and its areas for improvement,” the Thonotosassa Republican said. “I have long been interested in issues around good, data-driven policy and also successful reentry. We are well served and our communities are safer, when we consider how we can help individuals who are returning home from incarceration succeed, and this bill is designed to do exactly that.”

— ELECTIONS —

“Mystery group continues promoting Jay Collins” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Mail from the Florida Fighter group is circulating this weekend, including to Jacksonville Republicans, promoting the former state Senator from Tampa as a “wounded warrior, proven conservative” who has “delivered conservative wins” and is “standing with” Gov. DeSantis. The mail urges recipients to call Collins and “thank” him. The call is answered by an automated voice: “The Lieutenant Governor is not answering. This mailbox is full.” Collins has praised the third-party effort on his behalf.

“Orange, Osceola Republicans back ‘principled leader’ Erin Huntley in GOP Primary for HD 45” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Every Republican member of the House legislative delegations for Orange and Osceola counties is endorsing Huntley for House District 45. The nods come from state Reps. Doug Bankson, Erika Booth, Susan Plasencia and Paula Stark. Huntley, Chair of the Orange GOP, faces Lee Steinhauer in the Republican Primary. The endorsements further cement Huntley as the clear front-runner in the race to flip HD 45, which is currently held by Democrat Leonard Spencer. Spencer unseated then-Republican state Rep. Carolina Amesty last year in the only race in Florida where a Democrat unseated a Republican incumbent.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Miami Jewish community mourns mass shooting at Hanukkah event in Australia” via David Neal of the Miami Herald — Though separated by more than 9,000 miles, Miami’s Jewish community felt a profound personal connection to the deadly Hanukkah shooting in Sydney that killed at least 15 people. Chabad of Miami Beach Rabbi Zev Katz mourned the loss of Rabbi Eli Schlanger of Chabad of Bondi Beach, a colleague and friend who helped organize the event and was killed in the attack. Former Bal Harbour Mayor Gabriel Groisman also highlighted the wounding of human rights lawyer Arsen Ostrovsky, a friend injured in the shooting. Despite the violence, Miami’s Jewish community vowed not to retreat, pressing ahead with public Hanukkah celebrations across Miami Beach and Coral Gables, emphasizing resilience, visibility, and unity in the face of antisemitism.

“Two students at Brown witnessed school shootings as children at Parkland, Saugus” via The New York Times — At least two Brown University students who were on campus during a deadly shooting Saturday have survived school shootings earlier in their lives, underscoring the repeated trauma faced by some young Americans. Junior Mia Tretta, 21, was wounded in the 2019 Saugus High School shooting in California and said she narrowly avoided the building where the Brown shooting occurred after changing her study plans. Sophomore Zoe Weissman, 20, witnessed the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, which left 17 people dead and led to her diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder. Both students said the latest attack shattered the belief that surviving one school shooting made another statistically impossible, deepening fears about safety on campus and beyond.

“Miami’s Joe Carollo resigns a week before the end of his term” via CBS News Miami — Miami City Commissioner Carollo has resigned a week before the end of his term, formally closing the long-running Carollo political dynasty in the city. Carollo submitted his resignation on Thursday, effective at 11:59 p.m., after being term-limited out of office. A fixture in Miami politics for decades, Carollo built a reputation as a combative and controversial figure, frequently clashing with fellow Commissioners and facing multiple corruption-related lawsuits. His brother, Frank Carollo, attempted to keep the seat in the family by running for the District 3 Commission seat but was defeated Tuesday in a Runoff Election by political newcomer Rolando Escalona. The transition comes as newly elected Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins prepares to take office Dec. 17.

“Hialeah Council approves employee bonuses after rejecting $200 relief for homeowners” via Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — The Hialeah City Council on Tuesday approved a scaled-down Christmas bonus plan for city employees earning $50,000 or less, a decision that will cost the city more than $278,000. The unanimous 5-0 vote followed weeks of controversy after interim Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves announced a $1,000 bonus for all employees without Council approval, a proposal estimated at $1.5 million. Under the approved compromise, 181 full-time employees will receive $1,000 bonuses and 278 part-time employees will receive $350 bonuses. Council members debated eligibility and costs before backing the revised plan as part of broader budget amendments. The vote came amid leadership transitions at City Hall and after the Council previously rejected a homeowner relief proposal, drawing scrutiny over fiscal priorities.

“Broward schools bungle effort to find company to oversee construction work” via Scott Travis of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The Broward School District bungled its latest effort to find outside managers to take over its troubled construction program, an audit has found, raising questions about how the District will ensure more than 100 school projects don’t face further delays. Superintendent Howard Hepburn plans to ask the School Board to vote to reject all bids received from companies vying to oversee the District’s construction projects, following the report drafted by Chief Auditor Dave Rhodes, District spokesperson John Sullivan said. “The Chief Auditor’s report identified concerns with how the procurement process was conducted, including deviations from established procedures,” Sullivan said. “The Superintendent is continuing to review the report to determine appropriate next steps. That review will inform corrective actions to strengthen oversight and ensure that future procurements fully comply with District policy and state law. Personnel matters will be addressed appropriately once the review is complete.”

“Feds may take Florida attorney’s house. They say he misappropriated $1.5 million” via David Neal of the Miami Herald — A Miami Lakes attorney is facing the possible loss of his law license, his home, and his freedom after being accused of misappropriating roughly $1.5 million in client funds. Federal prosecutors say Rodolfo Blanco diverted millions entrusted to his attorney trust account for personal use, including buying a Miami Lakes home, while misleading clients about the status of their money. The Florida Bar has moved to suspend Blanco on an emergency basis as he awaits trial on wire fraud and money laundering charges. If convicted, he faces prison time and forfeiture of his property. Prosecutors allege Blanco fabricated bank records to conceal the scheme, which unfolded over several months and unraveled as clients demanded answers.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Former Sheriff Marcos Lopez faces racketeering charges alone after others take pleas” via Cristóbal Reyes of the Orlando Sentinel — Six months after seven people were arrested and accused of running a Central Florida gambling enterprise, only one is left to face trial on racketeering charges: former Osceola County Sheriff Lopez. Lopez is accused of helping establish an empire of casinos in Sumter, Marion, Lake and Osceola counties and later using his position as sheriff to protect the one near Kissimmee from scrutiny, even from his own deputies. Prosecutors say he earned up to $700,000 from the illegal enterprise. Five of the seven people who faced charges have now taken plea deals, including Lopez’s estranged wife. One, prosecutors believe, has fled to her native China. The others who were charged have agreed to testify against him, and court records show prosecutors have plenty of other evidence, including financial documents, text messages and sheriff’s office records.

“Uncontested Winter Park Commission races spell victory for political newcomer, incumbent” via Brian Bell of the Orlando Sentinel — Residents of Winter Park won’t head to the polls in March because the races for two City Commission seats were uncontested — meaning automatic wins for a political newcomer and an incumbent. Elizabeth Ingram, a trained opera singer who has performed with Opera Orlando, will take Seat 1 as successor to Commissioner Marty Sullivan, who did not seek a third term. In addition, Commissioner Craig Russell will return in Seat 2 for his first full term. Qualifying in the city of about 30,000 ended Monday. Ingram will take her seat next to Russell after they’re sworn in at the beginning of the March 25 Commission meeting. Ingram, born and raised in the Winter Park house where her parents still live, said she looks forward to working on behalf of fellow residents. “I think my No. 1 priority is just protecting the look and special charm that Winter Park has, which I think really separates it from so many other cities around here,” she said.

“Save our ‘beloved’ schools: Orange parents protest campus closures” via Steven Walker of the Orlando Sentinel — Orange County Public Schools lost 5,539 students this year and District leaders are scrambling to handle the damage, considering the closure of seven schools and hiring an outside firm to try to lure back students who’ve opted for private school or homeschool. Besides Bonneville, the District might close Union Park Middle School and Chickasaw, Eccleston, Meadow Woods, McCoy and Orlo Vista elementary schools. The closure news has made the District’s dilemma more urgent for parents like Weber and public-school advocates, who blame state policies that favor voucher programs that fund private school education and privately run charter schools over traditional public schools. The Orange County School Board meets Tuesday afternoon to discuss the schools, the “impacts of declining enrollment,” and “space optimization strategy.” If the schools are closed, they would shut at the end of the current school year, with their students assigned to new schools for the 2026-27 school year.

“Universal tourist sues after she said she got whiplash on a roller coaster” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — An Alabama woman is suing Universal in federal court after she said she was hurt riding Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit in 2021. Annie Parrish moved her lawsuit from the Orange Circuit Court to the U.S. District Court this week. She claims she got whiplash and had three herniated discs in her cervical spine after riding the Universal Studios roller coaster known for playing music while riders whizzed up to 65 mph. Universal shut down the ride earlier this year to make way for a new attraction. Parrish demanded $1 million from Universal to settle the lawsuit last year after incurring $18,500 in medical bills, court records showed.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Moez Limayem unanimously approved as USF president” via Jay Waagmeester and Liv Caputo of the Florida Phoenix — Limayem, now president of the University of North Florida, succeeds retiring President Rhea Law amid a broader statewide shake up of public university presidents. He will be USF’s ninth president. The contract between Limayem and the Tampa institution is for a five-year term with a base salary of $1.25 million. “Thank you for the trust and confidence you have placed in me. I’m truly just honored, humble, energized and just fully aware of the responsibility this confirmation carries,” Limayem said during Friday’s remote Board of Governors meeting, adorned in academic regalia ahead of UNF’s graduation ceremony. “You have my word that I will lead with transparency, community and purpose. Every decision I make will be guided by one question: What is best for our students, our faculty, staff, our community, our state, and our country?”

“Pinellas beach town leaders fight ‘catastrophic’ plan to cut property taxes” via Jeff Rosenfield of Beacon Media — Leaders of Pinellas County’s barrier island communities joined a growing chorus of opposition to a state proposal to eliminate property taxes in 2026, calling the plan catastrophic for local government. At the Dec. 3 Barrier Island Governmental Council meeting, Belleair Bluffs Mayor Chris Arbutine, Commissioner Suzy Sofer and City Administrator Debra Sullivan urged fellow municipal leaders to educate residents about the proposal’s ramifications. Their message received universal support. “This is the biggest assault of preemption anyone has ever seen in the state of Florida,” Belleair Beach Mayor Dave Gattis said. Gattis said the move to eliminate property taxes — which would appear on the 2026 ballot — represents “another step to take us all to be one generic community and I am 100% against it.”

“After mural crackdown, St. Pete installs 11 Pride-inspired bike racks” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — There is a little more Pride on the streets of St. Pete, following the installation of 11 Pride-inspired bike racks in honor of Pride street murals that were removed earlier this year. The City of St. Petersburg installed rainbow bike racks in the Grand Central District along Central Avenue and 25th Street. The intersection was the site of one of five prominent street murals removed in St. Pete during a statewide crackdown on street art, including artwork representing LGBTQ+ Pride and Black history. An executive order from DeSantis led the removal effort. The Florida Department of Transportation completed it overnight at St. Pete’s expense, prompting Mayor Ken Welch to call for creative ways to honor the artwork’s importance to the community.

“St. Petersburg appoints first openly trans person to top city ranks” via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ+ community faced challenges in 2025. But things may be taking a turn in a city that has long hosted Florida’s largest Pride celebration. Bike racks, each painted in a color of the progressive Pride flag, were installed this week along Central Avenue in honor of the mural’s removal. And though St. Petersburg earlier this year dropped the words “diversity” and “equity” from city office names, it is keeping its LGBTQ+ liaison position. Nathan Bruemmer started in that role Dec. 1. His appointment followed news that St. Petersburg earned a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index for the 12th consecutive year.

“Temple Terrace pauses pickleball complex over financing concerns” via John C. Cotey of Beacon Media — Temple Terrace City Council members said they like the Blazin’ Paddles concept — a 35,000-square-foot venue with 12 pickleball courts, a restaurant, a bar and potential music space — but said the developers, Courtside Group LLC, lack the working capital to give the city confidence the project won’t collapse shortly after opening. The Council, however, reiterated its approval of the project and voted to grant the developers additional time to return with at least $1 million in working capital. Courtside Group currently has $270,000 in its proposal, but it says other mechanisms in its financial plan would significantly increase that total. Not enough, however, to convince the Council to sell the long-dormant property that is viewed as a key piece to the envisioned downtown area.

“Leo Govoni assaulted in Pinellas jail, moved to Hernando facility” via Christopher O’Donnell of the Tampa Bay Times — Govoni, the Clearwater entrepreneur indicted over the disappearance of $100 million from medical trust funds, was assaulted in jail, court records show. Govoni, 67, was injured on the Charlie Wing floor of the Pinellas County jail around 9 p.m. on Nov. 23, according to a jail incident report. He was taken in a wheelchair to the jail’s medical clinic and placed on medical observation status. He was transferred to the Hernando County jail three days later at the request of U.S. Marshals, according to jail records. He has been in custody for five months after being denied bail. Another inmate filed a report in Spanish that Govoni had been battered and robbed by “several unidentified inmates.”

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Donna Deegan makes it official: Mike Weinstein is Chief Administrative Officer” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — City Hall veteran Weinstein will be Chief Administrative Officer for Mayor Deegan, a move that will make him the first person in city history to serve in the roles of Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief of Staff for the Mayor. Weinstein will fill the post of Chief Administrative Officer, which has been officially vacant since Karen Bowling stepped down in October. But in terms of the office’s day-to-day operations, Weinstein has been overseeing the city government’s operations since then. “This title change is just a formality,” Deegan said in a statement. “For the past two and a half months, he has worked closely with Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Kelli O’Leary to manage city departments and their partnership will continue.”

“Florida completes $83M purchase of 4 waterfront acres in Destin” via Max Chesnes of the Tampa Bay Times — It’s a done deal: Florida’s environmental agency officially closed on the purchase of a 4-acre waterfront property in Destin. The final purchase price? $83,326,520. While buying more land for conservation typically draws broad bipartisan support, the decision to buy the Panhandle property for more than $20 million per acre has been scrutinized by some of Florida’s top leaders, including the Republican chief financial officer appointed by DeSantis. The now-former landowners, Pointe Mezzanine LLC and Pointe Resort LLC, are both registered in state corporate filings to Robert Guidry, a Louisiana business owner. Records show Guidry, who was implicated in a bribery scandal involving former Louisiana Gov. Edwin Edwards in the early 1990s, and companies registered to him have donated more than $400,000 to state political committees, including one supporting DeSantis.

“GRU Authority defends role amid rising legal costs over referendum” via Elliot Tritto of The Gainesville Sun — The GRU Authority during its Dec. 11 meeting faced sharp criticism from customers and activists who voiced their disapproval of the Board and its ongoing legal battle with the city over control of the utility. Several GRU customers, including some wearing light blue stickers in solidarity, called out the “unqualified Board.” One of the main points of contention was why the authority charged city taxpayers over $700,000 in legal fees while disregarding the Nov. 4 referendum, in which 75% of voters voted to disband the Board. One customer who could not vote in the referendum because she lives outside the city limits said she wants her voice heard in local governance and respects the referendum results. She said the “unqualified Board” has no oversight, accountability or transparency. “And seems to mainly act as a rubber stamp for Mr. (Ed) Bielarski,” she said of the utility’s CEO.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“DeSantis proposes handing all USF Sarasota-Manatee facilities to New College of Florida” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — DeSantis is supporting a plan that boots the University of South Florida from its Sarasota-Manatee campus and shifts every building, dorm and facility to New College of Florida, which would mark a dramatic reshaping of Sarasota’s higher education landscape. The measure, pitched as part of the Governor’s 2026-27 budget proposal, would create a new section of Florida law directing the two institutions to shift all real property, buildings, leaseholds and related liabilities associated with the Sarasota-Manatee campus from USF to New College. “This is a policy matter that is going to be discussed, debated and worked through over the coming months of the Legislative Session,” USF Board of Trustees Chair Will Weatherford said during a meeting on Thursday. “We don’t control the outcome of that discussion.”

— TOP OPINION —

“‘Alligator Alcatraz’ is a DeSantis disgrace” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — Reports detailing alleged abuse at two Florida detention facilities describe conditions that would shame any democracy and should alarm anyone who believes cruelty has no place in public policy. Accounts of prisoners held in isolation, denied basic sanitation, exposed to extreme temperatures, and deprived of medical care paint a picture closer to authoritarian regimes than to America’s professed values.

Nowhere are the allegations more disturbing than at the Everglades detention site known as “Alligator Alcatraz,” where former detainees describe being shackled in cramped cages, left for hours in the sun without water, and punished arbitrarily for minor requests. Many of those held there are immigrants accused of no crime beyond their presence.

The financial cost compounds the moral one. Hundreds of millions of dollars have been spent through no-bid emergency contracts to operate a facility shielded from meaningful oversight. Amnesty International’s findings demand serious attention, yet state leaders have dismissed them without allowing independent access to the site.

Similar abuse is alleged at Gulf Correctional Institution, where prisoners were reportedly denied food and beaten, while cameras recorded staged compliance. At the federal Krome Detention Center, Amnesty cited conditions that may amount to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.

Disgust is understandable, but outrage is more appropriate. Oversight has failed, transparency is absent and accountability is nonexistent. A Legislature that claims authority over state institutions has allowed this to persist.

These facilities should be shut down immediately. Courts should fast-track investigations and grant full access to lawmakers and watchdogs. Florida has no business competing in a federal immigration crackdown defined by spectacle and cruelty. Until these camps are closed, they will remain a stain on the state and a test of whether decency still matters.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“What happens if you refuse to recognize that we are in a death spiral” via David French of The New York Times — A late-night dive into a hostile online discussion revealed how deeply many young MAGA activists believe the United States is in irreversible decline and needs strong, even authoritarian, leadership to reclaim a lost golden age. That worldview rests on nostalgia that romanticizes the past, demonizes the present and treats democratic norms as obstacles rather than safeguards. Facts about rising living standards, longer lives, and greater freedoms do little to counter a feeling of cultural loss fueled by social media and nonstop political alarmism. The deeper failure lies with older generations who normalized hyperbole, taught that every election is existential, and modeled outrage instead of perspective. In doing so, they handed younger Americans despair instead of resilience, urgency instead of hope, and panic instead of context.

“Trump may be losing his touch” via Peggy Noonan of The Wall Street Journal — Trump and his tumult, nearly 11 months in: He’s a rocket going not up but sideways or down. His approval on the economy and immigration has “fallen substantially” since the Spring, with 31% of Americans approving his handling of economic matters, down from 40% in March, and his approval on immigration at 38%, down from 49%. Recent Democratic sweeps in New Jersey and Virginia, and this week’s Miami mayoral race, make 2026 look distinctly blue-tinged. In fairness, 11 months as President is long enough to get on everyone’s nerves — to disappoint your fans and infuriate your foes. But he’s in a fix, surrounded by mood shifts, challenges and bad signs.

“The Democratic base isn’t in the mood to compromise” via Nate Silver of the Silver Bulletin — If you had to design a Democratic candidate in a lab to break through the red wall in Texas, someone like Colin Allred might come pretty close to the ideal in a football-obsessed state. On Monday, however, Allred quit the Senate race to run for the House instead. The Primary is likely to be contentious between state Rep. James Talarico and a new entrant, U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett. I’ve seen some criticize Crockett for running, accusing her of using the Senate race to build her national profile in a race she’s unlikely to win. I agree that Crockett probably won’t be a strong General Election candidate. However, I find this attitude somewhat undemocratic.

“Bondi Beach is what ‘globalize the intifada’ looks like” via Bret Stephens of The New York Times — A deadly terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach killed at least 15 people and intensified concerns about rising antisemitism in Australia, while also highlighting acts of bravery amid the chaos. One man described in media reports as a local shopkeeper was credited with disarming a gunman and saving lives. The attack followed a series of antisemitic incidents targeting Jewish sites and renewed criticism of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government over community safety. Jewish leaders say warnings have gone unanswered as rhetoric escalated after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. Analysts and community leaders pointed to the global spread of “intifada” language at anti-Israel rallies, warning that slogans once treated as metaphors can inspire real-world violence against Jewish civilians.

“Marco Rubio, have you considered Comic Sans?” via Stephanie Hayes of the Tampa Bay Times — Rubio, Florida man and Secretary of State, has taken a brave stance on a prudent matter, ripping at the fabric of American life: sans serif typeface. This week, Rubio put an abrupt end to the State Department’s use of Calibri, a screamingly liberal font akin to a beanie-clad barista serving oat milk to a drag performer. At the same time, Bon Iver twinkles from the speakers. Rubio wrote that moving official correspondence back to Times New Roman would “restore decorum and professionalism to the department’s written work.”

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— HOLIDAYS —

“Florida behavioral services offer plenty of help and tips for dealing with holiday stress” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida behavioral health officials are urging residents to take steps to manage anxiety and stress as Christmas and New Year’s Day approach, noting the holidays can be difficult for many people. The state’s seven behavioral health managing entities say balancing expectations and routines can help reduce seasonal strain, particularly for those facing financial pressure, family conflict or loneliness. Officials emphasized that behavioral health services are available statewide, including for uninsured or underinsured Floridians. Recommended strategies include regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, setting healthy boundaries and seeking professional counseling when needed. Residents are encouraged to call 2-1-1 to access local resources or 9-8-8 if experiencing suicidal thoughts. Florida’s behavioral health network also provides support for substance use, housing, employment, veterans, children, and families statewide.

“Santa on track: U.S. Sugar locomotive rolls holiday cheer across the Glades” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — U.S. Sugar’s century-old steam locomotive, the Sugar Express, returned this year to roll across the Glades on its annual holiday mission. Rebranded as the “Santa Express,” the 1920s engine made festive stops in Belle Glade, Clewiston, Moore Haven and Sebring, where thousands of toys — donated by U.S. Sugar and its employees — waited for families lined up along the tracks. Santa, Mrs. Claus and members of the U.S. Marine Corps helped hand out gifts at each stop, continuing a partnership with Toys for Tots that has become a staple of the company’s end-of-year outreach. This year marked the fifth time U.S. Sugar teamed up with the organization to deliver presents to children in need across the region. Families who attended had the opportunity to meet Santa and take home a wrapped gift at no cost.

“Heritage teams up with Salvation Army for holiday ‘Angel Tree’” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida-based Heritage Insurance is partnering with the Salvation Army this holiday season to support children and seniors through the Angel Tree program. The Tampa-area insurer announced employees are sponsoring 320 “Angels” this year, providing gifts such as clothing and toys to families in need across Florida’s Gulf Coast and nationwide. Heritage workers, along with employees of sister company Narragansett Bay Insurance Co., will also help deliver gifts during the Christmas season. The effort builds on a long-running partnership, with Heritage employees having supported a total of 2,560 Angels since 2017. Company leaders said the program reflects a decadelong commitment to community service, while the Salvation Army screens participants to ensure assistance reaches eligible children and senior adults.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are Ken Lawson, Sara Pennington Nuvy, and former Florida Democratic Party Chair Terrie Rizzo.

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

The horrific shooting in Australia that claimed at least 16 lives during a Hanukkah celebration has prompted an expression of sympathy from Florida lawmakers.

The Florida Jewish Legislative Caucus issued a statement of condemnation of the violence during the Jewish observance on Sydney’s Bondi Beach. The Caucus published its statement Sunday afternoon.

“The Florida Legislative Jewish Caucus unequivocally condemns the horrific and senseless killing that occurred during Hanukkah in Australia. An act of violence against Jews celebrating their faith is an attack not only on a single community, but on the fundamental values of freedom, religious liberty, and human dignity,” the Florida Legislative Caucus said in a news release.

“We stand in unwavering solidarity with our Jewish brothers and sisters in Australia, with the victims’ families, and with Jewish communities around the world who are once again forced to confront hatred simply for being who they are. The State of Florida’s Jewish legislators join in mourning, remembrance, and resolve.”

The Florida LegislativeJewish Caucus has a dozen members from the House of Representatives and two State Senators.

Hundreds of people had gathered Sunday at the beach for an event to celebrate the first day of Hanukkah, when gunmen opened fire. At least 38 others were injured in the attack.

New South Wales Health Minister Ryan Park said the death toll had risen from 12 to 16 overnight, including a 12-year-old child. Three other children are being treated in hospital, he said.

“This is absolutely horrendous for the community broadly, but particularly the Jewish community. … What we saw last night was the worst of humanity, but at the same time, the very best of humanity,” Park said.

The massacre at one of Australia’s most popular beaches followed a wave of antisemitic attacks that have roiled the country over the past year, although the authorities didn’t suggest those and Sunday’s shooting were connected. It is the deadliest shooting in almost three decades in a country with strict gun control laws.

One gunman was fatally shot by police and the second was arrested and in critical condition, authorities said. Police said one gunman was known to security services, but there was no specific threat.

At least 29 people were confirmed wounded, including two police officers, said Mal Lanyon, police commissioner for New South Wales state, where Sydney is located.

“This attack was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community,” New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said.

The violence erupted at the end of a summer day when thousands had flocked to Bondi Beach, including hundreds gathered for the Chanukah by the Sea event celebrating the start of the eight-day Hanukkah festival.

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Material from The Associated Press was used in this report with permission.