Politics
Here are the top 10 political stories from Tampa Bay in 2025
Let’s get one thing clear: 2025 was, thankfully, NOT 2024. Along with the rest of the state, the Tampa Bay area avoided any direct hits from storms this hurricane season, allowing residents still battered and bruised (figuratively speaking) from 2024’s back-to-back whammies in Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
An off-election year, there also weren’t too many major political battles locally, and South Florida, as home to the sitting President of the United States, seemed to dominate news cycles, dwarfing the Tampa market’s usual news heaviness.
Nevertheless, the Tampa Bay area will always be home to political drama, strife and overall newsiness. From battles to claim local power to efforts to mitigate what many see as state overreach, headlines were grabbed from St. Pete to Tampa and everywhere in between.
Here are ten of the top political stories from across the Tampa Bay region in 2025. Many offer glimpses into what may become top stories in the new year.
1. Rays, Rays and more Rays
It was actually 2024 when the Tampa Bay Rays saga faced its ultimate curve ball — Hurricane Milton and its driving tropical storm-force winds that ripped the roof from Tropicana Field, displacing the team for the entire 2025 Major League Baseball season and setting in motion the demise of a yearslong effort to strike a stadium deal in St. Petersburg.
Marred by cost overruns due to delays in various government approvals — including bond approvals needed to move forward with the deal that got kicked down the road after the Rays decided to play in Tampa for the 2025 season — Rays leadership ultimately decided this March to end the agreement with St. Pete and Pinellas County for a $1.3 billion stadium near the existing Tropicana Field.
In the meantime, the city was on the hook for $22.5 million in roof repairs to a stadium that is headed for demolition anyway. Adding to critics’ frustration, that cost rose even higher, to the tune of $4 million. While repairing a roof on a doomed stadium seems like a waste of taxpayer money. — and maybe it is — the city had no choice. With the roof repairs, other facility repairs and cost overruns, work on the Trop came in at nearly $60 million. The price tag was particularly painful considering a calculated risk the city took in early 2024, when it reduced its insurance coverage on the Trop from $100 million to $25 million, with a $22 million deductible.
But the drama wasn’t done. With a stadium deal dead, Rays ownership faced pressure to sell. And sell they did.
Previous principal owner Stu Sternberg finalized a $1.7 billion sale in late September to a new ownership team led by Jacksonville home developer Patrick Zalupski, with Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Triple-A baseball team owner Ken Babby and Bill Cosgrove, who serves as the team’s CEO.
There’s much to come on the issue in 2026. The new team owners have said they are committed to identifying a new stadium site in the Tampa Bay region, with a preference for Tampa. Owners have said the site selection process is progressing and they’re confident a selection will be made soon.
And watch for the Rays’ stadium debacle to plague St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch, who faces re-election in 2026, potentially against former Governor and former U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist, and definitely against City Council member Brandi Gabbard, making for an especially competitive race between Democrats (though the race is technically non-partisan).
2. Tragedy gives way to a new generation of leadership in Tampa
Tampa City Council member Gwendolyn Henderson passed away at just 60 years old in June, leaving her District 5 seat vacant and prompting what would become a crowded Special Election to fill it.
Ultimately, grassroots activist Naya Young emerged victorious in late October, defeating Thomas Scott in a runoff. Her victory was resounding; she took 61% of the vote, though turnout was low at just over 11%.
Before the runoff, though, the race featured an eclectic bunch of candidates from various walks of life, including Henderson’s daughter, Ariel Amirah Danley. In all, more than a dozen names appeared on the September ballot, leading Young and Scott to advance to the runoff with relatively low support in the Primary. Scott was the top finisher, with 27% of the Primary vote, while Young received 13%.
But what’s potentially most impactful — or at least telling — is that Young was the lesser-funded candidate and beat an opponent who had held elected office previously. Scott previously served as both a City Council member and a Hillsborough County Commissioner and had powerful support from people connected to Mayor Jane Castor and former Mayor Bob Buckhorn.
Given voters’ rejection of a candidate perceived as a Castor/Buckhorn ally, political watchers in the region are already questioning whether Buckhorn’s plan to run again for Mayor may face some hiccups. But with that race not coming until 2027, a lot could still change.
3. St. Pete Mayor’s race takes shape
About four years ago, St. Petersburg Mayor Welch was inaugurated — at his home, in a socially distanced ceremony because he had COVID — and he became the city’s first Black Mayor. Supporters then would likely not have guessed that by the closing months of his first term, lengthened a year due to a voter referendum that moved city elections to even years, Welch would be facing a fight for his political life.
Fueled by what detractors have described as an ineffective administration and a series of missteps ranging from slow storm response in 2024 to the breakdown of the Tampa Bay Rays stadium deal, Welch will likely face opposition from a variety of credible challengers, though none so far (not even Welch) have officially filed for the 2026 contest.
Former Gov. Crist, more recently a former U.S. Representative, has said he’s mulling a bid and is expected to jump into the race officially after the new year. He’s already launched a political committee to raise funds. City Council member Gabbard has also said she will challenge Welch. All three are registered Democrats, though the race is technically nonpartisan.
Even in a nonpartisan race, facing intraparty opposition is rare, and it punctuates the strife Welch has faced in his first term. It’s also looking like he may face a Republican. Former Fire Chief Jim Large, who faced accusations he was ultimately cleared of and later retired, is rumored to be considering a run himself, though he has not yet confirmed the rumors.
In any case, St. Pete voters in 2026 are all but guaranteed a competitive local race that will cost in the millions to win.
4. Bye-bye street art, hello loopholes
Like other areas across the state, the city of St. Petersburg was forced this year to remove five pieces of local street art, including a progressive Pride mural in the Grand Central District and a Black History Matters mural near the Woodson African American History Museum.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) removed the murals at the city’s expense.
The removals, which came after the city appealed to the state to keep them, prompted local protests.
Two local pastors — Revs. Andy Oliver and Benedict Atherton-Zeman of Allendale United Methodist Church and the Unitarian Universalist Church of St. Petersburg, respectively — were arrested after sitting on the location of the Black history mural on 9th Avenue South and refusing police orders to stop blocking the roadway as they were protesting the mural’s removal. The pastors were later released.
The other murals removed include the Fluid Structures mural located at the University of South Florida St. Pete campus, which was created by students; the Common Ground mural, which includes brightly colored geometric shapes that actually decreased traffic accidents at the intersection by 70%, according to Mayor Welch; and the Crux mural in Child’s Park, which was painted with local children and designed specifically to reduce speed and increase safety for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists.
The removals happened in September. In December, the city sought to make amends for the losses by installing rainbow bike racks in the Grand Central District along Central Avenue and 25th Street, where the progressive Pride mural was located.
5. Rob Lorei dies
Retired journalist Rob Lorei, who was among the founding members of WMNF Community Radio and served as host of WEDU’s Florida This Week for nearly 24 years, passed away in August following a battle with cancer.
He was 70 years old.
Lorei most recently served as anchor of Florida This Week on WEDU, the local PBS station. Each week, he hosted a panel of guests, including other local journalists, political strategists, political activists, scholars and other experts in various areas. Lorei was known for ensuring balanced viewpoints, sharing the camera with Democrats, Republicans and nonpartisans alike.
Lorei served as host until March, when he announced he would be stepping down. It was then that Lorei also revealed his cancer diagnosis.
6. Tampa Pride falls victim to war on woke
Tampa Pride announced in September that it was taking “a one-year hiatus” from its annual Pride Festival and Diversity Parade, citing “current political and economic climate.”
The group posted a letter Aug. 1 to Carrie West, the group’s former President, saying it would not be renewing her contract after it expired at the end of the month.
The announced cancellation also cited “challenges with corporate sponsorships, reductions in county, state and federal grant funding, and the discontinuation of DEI programs.”
The Tampa Pride cancellation came as GOP leaders at the state and federal level were pushing back against LGBTQ+ issues, particularly transgender issues. The state has also been cracking down on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in local governments, including through Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia’s work in the newly created state Department of Government Efficiency, which targeted St. Pete this year.
But St. Pete Pride, which hosts the largest pride parade in the Southeast U.S., has vowed that its 2026 events will continue. St. Pete Pride said the group “still has events coming later this year” and that planning “for our 2026 celebration is already underway.”
7. Clearwater rejects ‘Charlie Kirk Way’
At the end of September, in what likely would have otherwise been a quiet meeting, Clearwater residents, stakeholders and others packed City Hall so tightly, many were moved to an overflow room. The reason: Charlie Kirk.
Clearwater City Council member Ryan Cotton had proposed renaming a major downtown road after the late conservative activist. His motion to consider it died for lack of a second, but that didn’t stop the dozens of concerned citizens who showed up to oppose the move from speaking up.
Cotton said his idea to rename Court Street to “Charlie Kirk Way” was to recognize the importance of First Amendment rights. But when the matter died, residents almost didn’t have the opportunity to exercise theirs. Without an item before them to consider, Mayor Bruce Rector initially planned to skip public comment. After what can only be described as robust protests from those gathered, he allowed it anyway.
Several speakers cried. Some recounted personal stories about being subjected to racist vitriol, misogynistic rhetoric or other hurtful tropes they said Kirk perpetuated and encouraged. Some vowed to ensure Cotton was voted out of office. All expressed outrage over the attempt to name a street — in a city for which Kirk had no ties — after someone who stirred so much controversy.
While the “Charlie Kirk Way” conversation isn’t likely to reemerge, renaming streets in general could come up in 2026. Rector suggested bringing a discussion to a future workshop evaluating the city’s procedure for renaming roads and other amenities to better understand when such action is appropriate.
8. Chris Latvala’s health scare
In late September, Pinellas County Commissioner Chris Latvala found himself battling a health annoyance for which few of us have been spared: abdominal discomfort. But for Latvala, it was more than a bad oyster or a particularly spicy batch of curry. The persistent, intense pain sent him to the emergency room, triggering a weekslong fight for his life.
Latvala experienced an SMA dissection, where the superior mesenteric artery tears. The SMA supplies blood to part of the large intestine, much of the small intestine and part of the colon. A dissection requires highly specialized care. It’s an emergent condition, but Latvala had initially responded well to monitoring, rest and treatment. He was discharged from the hospital on Monday, Sept. 29, one week after his pain had initially begun.
But by the next night, Latvala faced a grim prognosis. A spike in his blood pressure that would not abate sent him back to the ER. This time, imaging revealed the tear had worsened. Much worse.
Latvala received care from a certified vascular surgeon who fully understood the complexity of Latvala’s condition, which is exceedingly rare, especially for a man of Latvala’s age. SMA dissections are more common in women and typically occur in a person’s 50s.
Latvala was transported to UF Health Shands Hospital, known for its vascular surgery program, and placed under the care of a vascular surgery expert.
Even when he was finally released from the hospital after the ultimate health scare, Latvala’s fight wasn’t done. He had to head back to Shands for even more observation, treatment and recovery.
He’s since returned to the dais, and he’s more grateful than ever for his life. That includes his loving family; his mom’s request for prayers reached across entire oceans. Most of all, Latvala’s love for his wife Bianca was put on full display as he praised her, along with God, for seeing to his care and recovery.
9. Buckhorn/Carlson feud reignites ahead of 2027 contest
Bob Buckhorn is an interesting character in Tampa politics. He’s charismatic to an extent that demands attention, if not always respect. For those who can’t find it in them to respect the former Tampa Mayor, it seemed they’d be done with him when his term ended in May 2019.
Think again.
Buckhorn, for much of 2025, has been teasing a bid to return to his old office, only officially saying he was definitely running earlier this month in an interview with Florida Politics (he had said so earlier in the year while speaking to a group of college students, but confirmed later that it wasn’t an official announcement).
To be sure, Buckhorn wields a level of power in public and behind closed doors far greater than others who have come before and many who will come after. And his supporters are aplenty. But so are his detractors, and his intention to run for Mayor again in 2027 sets up a battle royale with his biggest one: Tampa City Council member Bill Carlson.
In May, Buckhorn’s return to politics already appeared imminent, as the guest of honor at a lunch featuring a discussion with him about “what’s next for Tampa and for this campaign.”
Carlson frequently feuded with Buckhorn when he last served, and he continued that feud with now-Mayor Castor when she succeeded Buckhorn with his blessing. Carlson appears well aware that his days of battling with Buckhorn are far from over.
In July, a poll unattributed to any potential candidate went out to Tampa voters asking about the 2027 mayoral race. There were curious omissions. In a question asking respondents about their opinion of Carlson, the only responses available were “very favorable,” “somewhat favorable,” “neutral,” or “no opinion.” There was no option to indicate an unfavorable opinion.
Asked whether he sent the poll or knew who did, Carlson said he didn’t and suggested it was Buckhorn who may have sent it.
Nevertheless, that poll came a couple of months after an internal poll from Mercury Communications showed Buckhorn leading a five-way field for Mayor in 2027, including against Carlson. Despite the crowded field of options, Buckhorn captured 49% support in the poll, with Carlson trailing at 22%.
And Buckhorn is raising funds aggressively. His third-quarter fundraising through his political committee, Friends of Bob Buckhorn, showed more than $1 million already raised. He also has some earned media wins to focus on, including one that will regularly remind voters of his banner accomplishments — the massive renovation of Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park and the extension of the nearby Riverwalk.
On the former, Buckhorn’s name is now literally on the main building, in huge, hard-to-miss letters.
It’s a new time in Tampa, and there have been signs that the Buckhorn era of dominance may not be as strong as it once was. First — and this goes back further than 2025 — a Castor-backed (and by proxy, Buckhorn-backed) attempt to unseat Carlson with Blake Casper, a Republican, blew up miserably. Efforts to defeat City Council member Lynn Hurtak were also unsuccessful. And most recently, voters rejected the Castor-backed Scott in the Special Election for District 5.
While the Tampa mayoral race isn’t until 2027, 2026 is sure to pack a pretty big punch, even if much of the politicking will still be behind the scenes.
10. Cross Bay Ferry rebirth
Things were not looking good for the Cross Bay Ferry, a seasonal premium transportation option that shuttled riders between downtown St. Pete and downtown Tampa across Tampa Bay. It operated for seven years and was a huge win from the Rick Kriseman era in St. Pete — the former St. Petersburg Mayor was the project’s biggest champion. But the service was canceled this year after operator HMS Ferries failed to meet the terms of its contract by using a replacement boat.
But rejoice, coordinated work between city and county governments, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) and private operators has again made the ferry a reality.
The PSTA voted earlier this year to move forward with a $1.5 million purchase of a 97-foot vessel named Bay Breeze from San Francisco. And because the cost, along with refurbishment, will come in at less than the $4.8 million federal grant funding the purchase, PSTA will have about $2 million left to buy a second ferry, one expected to be smaller and zippier. The new boat will offer about 100 more seats on board than the previous ferry.
Additionally, Hubbard Marina will operate the new Tampa Bay Ferry, as it is being rebranded.
While the new ferry is still subject to various safety and sea tests, it’s expected to get the all-clear, and the revitalized service could launch again as soon as the Summer.
Good Sunday morning, and welcome back to “Brunch,” a pop-up newsletter about the 2026 Legislative Session and more.
We’re at Atlantis celebrating our 14th wedding anniversary AND the 18th birthday of Stephanie Smith’s niece.
I was 2-for-2 yesterday at the Atlantis Sportsbook, although I fear my Denver Broncos (we love former UCF RB R.J. Harvey) won’t advance next week after losing QB Bo Nix to an ankle injury. I really like the Texans’ chances of pulling off an upset over the Pats today. And I’ll take the Rams over the Bears. The Texans and Rams were my Week 14 Super Bowl pick, so I’m probably wishcasting for them to win today to keep alive the hope of that bet hitting.
And a top-of-Brunch happy birthday to former Speaker Larry Cretul.
If you’re looking for something to listen to on your next bike ride, check out the podcast I did with my former colleague Ryan Ray. Let’s just say that I did not hold back. Listen here.
Check out our choices for the Winner and Loser of the Week in Florida Politics by clicking here.
Now, please enjoy Brunch.
— Extra! Extra! —
After receiving such positive feedback about the first edition of IN SESSION, our newspaper covering the Legislative Session, we plan to deliver at least two more editions. The next edition will hit the week of Feb. 9, headlined by an interview with Sen. Jim Boyd. It will also include several Valentine’s Day features.
— To advertise in this edition, you’ll need to reserve space by Jan. 26 and provide creative by Feb. 2. Right now, and through Tuesday morning, we are offering a discounted price of $800 for a full-page ad (instead of $1K) and $600 for a half-page ad (instead of $750).
— If you wish to advertise, email me at [email protected]. Also, if you previously purchased an ad for the second edition, remind me and resend your creative.
— MLK Day rundown —
Communities statewide are gearing up for Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday. Major cities will host parades, marches and celebrations to honor Dr. King’s legacy.
— Jacksonville: The 45th Annual MLK Holiday Grand Parade will take place Monday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. downtown. The community parade will showcase marching bands and civic groups celebrating King’s vision.
— Fort Lauderdale: The city’s King Holiday Parade and Festival begins early, at 9:30 a.m. The march departs from Sistrunk Boulevard & NW 5th Avenue and proceeds west to Carter Park. The park will then host a multicultural festival.
— Miami: The 49th Annual MLK Parade kicks off at 11 a.m. in Liberty City along NW 54th Street. It features marching bands, drill teams, elected officials and community groups. The route ends at MLK Memorial Park with the MLK Family Festival running from 12-5 p.m. Following the parade, families can enjoy live music, dance performances and food vendors.
— Tampa: The city’s MLK Day Parade begins at noon at Cuscaden Park. The 2026 parade will feature the Edward Waters University Triple Threat Marching Band. Monday evening at 7:30, the Straz Center will host an MLK Commemoration. This evening’s ceremony will include gospel music, dancing, and readings of Dr. King’s writings and other works.
— St. Petersburg: Its MLK Parade will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. downtown from 3rd Street South to 16th Street North. The annual parade highlights Dr. King’s legacy with marching bands, floats and more.
— Pensacola: The city’s 37th Annual MLK Parade will start downtown at the corner of Spring & Garden Streets at 11 a.m. The theme this year is “With Unity, We Won’t Turn Back.”
— Gainesville: At noon, the MLK National Holiday Parade will begin at the MLK Memorial Gardens. At 1 p.m., a free celebration at the MLK Multipurpose Center will feature marching bands, floats and dance groups. City-sponsored shuttle buses will be available for the event.
— Tallahassee: The Capital City will begin its MLK Day Parade at noon. The parade runs along Monroe Street from Tennessee Street, heading south. The event will be followed by a free festival on Adams Street from 1-4 p.m., featuring guest speakers and live music. A Day of Dialogue event will also take place from 1:30-3 p.m. on the second floor of the City Commission Chambers.
— Proper property priority —
A new poll from the Florida Policy Institute (FPI) suggests voters want lawmakers to focus more on property insurance relief than on cutting property taxes as the 2026 Session gets underway.
— By the numbers: Sixty-three percent of voters said insurance relief should be the higher priority — including majorities of Democrats, Republicans and independents — compared with 32% who favored property tax relief.
— Tax cut caution: Nearly half of voters oppose eliminating non-school property taxes on homesteads, once told it could force local governments to cut services or raise other taxes.
— Legislative backdrop: The findings land as lawmakers weigh multiple property tax proposals, including joint resolutions that would need 60% voter approval to pass in November.
— Alternate routes: “There are better ways to address Florida’s affordability crisis,” said Sadaf Knight, CEO of FPI. “For example, Florida could enact a Working Floridians Tax Rebate, a state-level version of the Earned Income Tax Credit, or a property tax circuit breaker program to provide a property tax rebate for people with low to moderate income.”
The takeaway is that while affordability remains top of mind, voters appear wary of sweeping tax changes that could come with trade-offs for local services.
— Easter egg —
The Legislative Session is underway. Our state leaders did not disappoint. So many dog whistles blown in the first week — from the infamous handshake snub to passive-aggressive references in Session speeches. The chattering class had plenty to chat about. But there is one orange Easter egg that I bet most of you missed. In typical Florida Politics fashion, let me enlighten you.
— Day One moment: Did anyone watch the remarks of the House Budget Chair Lawrence McClure on Day One? He closed on a significant bill for the President of the Senate, Ben Albritton. It’s a bill that tilts the scales in favor of the phosphate industry against trial lawyers. And for those following along, the largest phosphate company is located right in the heart of Albritton’s district.
— Last year’s loss: Last year, the bill died, normally a rare event for a presidential priority. McClure gave a “not so subtle” explanation for the bill’s death. While doing so, he held an orange — a great big bright Florida orange in his hand.
— Read between the peels: McClure would not and will not say why he held it, so it is left to us political observers to peel it back.
— Power reminder: I say McClure held the orange as a way to remind Albritton that he and he alone is the President of the Senate. Yes, there is the ecumenical, team-sport, counsel-of-war-lords, “every Senator has an equal voice” rhetoric that is quintessential to the Senate vibe. However, the rhetoric must be balanced with the reality that there is only one Senate President. Leadership matters. Bucks stop with presiding officers. The orange is a reminder that every presiding officer gets to make their mark — and Albritton needs to make his.
At the end of the day, only one portrait will be hung in the Chamber. The President likes to quote Bible verses. It is one of the endearing things about him. Esther 4:14 says, “Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Color me crazy, but I think that is the message of the McClure orange.
— Road warriors —
President Donald J. Trump Boulevard is now a reality, after a dedication of the thoroughfare on Friday in West Palm Beach, completing a priority of Florida Republicans in his adopted hometown.
— Background: The Legislature passed the bill last year. Per the law, the “portion of Southern Boulevard between Kirk Road and S. Ocean Boulevard in Palm Beach County is designated as President Donald J. Trump Boulevard.” Palm Beach Republican Rep. Meg Weinberger said last year that the “honor reflects the sentiments of my fellow Floridians who appreciate his dedication to our state and country” and that she was “proud that he will be memorialized forever on the eastern part of Southern Boulevard.” This is the second road to be named after Trump in recent years. In Hialeah, Palm Avenue was renamed Donald J. Trump Avenue in 2024.
— The unveiling: At Mar-a-Lago on Friday, Trump and Weinberger unveiled what the President called a “serious sign,” with remarks that included the President’s trademark humor. He said that staffers told him, “Sir, there’s a wedding here, can you move it quickly?” He responded, “No, I’m not moving this quickly.”
— The honor: “I’m tremendously honored that the main boulevard from Palm Beach International Airport to the beautiful Mar-a-Lago is being renamed in my honor… I love the people of Florida… I’ll remember this amazing gesture for the rest of my life,” Trump said at the event, per the Rapid Response 47 account on X.
— What Florida Pols are saying: “An incredible privilege today to stand alongside my colleagues — including bill sponsor (Weinberger) — to honor our President, who has reshaped the world by prioritizing peace and reinvigorated the American Spirit by fighting for common sense,” said House Speaker Daniel Perez. Meanwhile, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said, “What an honor to be with President Trump today to celebrate the newly-minted President Donald J. Trump Boulevard!”
— New year, new Carlos —
Democratic Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith doesn’t often find himself aligned with Senate Republicans on criminal justice issues. Still, during a Senate Criminal Justice Committee meeting this week, he leaned into the calendar.
— After flagging concerns with a bill, Smith ultimately voted in favor, joking that it’s 2026 and he’s embracing a fresh approach.
— “New year means also new Carlos,” Smith said, drawing laughs in the room.
— Smith, who serves as Vice Chair of the Committee, also presided over part of the meeting and appeared to enjoy the moment, cracking wise as he called up legislation sponsored by Sen. Kristen Arrington.
— “I actually now am in charge of this Committee, apparently. Happy new year. New year, new Carlos,” he said.
— Foodie Frolics —
The Senate’s beloved Foodie Frolic is back for the 2026 Session, bringing lawmakers another round of good eats with a side of workforce training.
— On the menu: Culinary students from across the state will once again take center stage, showcasing skills honed through career and technical education programs tied to real-world jobs, from classic fine dining to contemporary cuisine.
— This year’s twist: Several events will spotlight the Feeding Florida network and its Farmers Feeding Florida partnership, blending culinary training with the fight against food insecurity.
— Dates to know: The Senate Portico will host a full slate of luncheons and receptions from the start of Session through Feb. 25, the last of which includes a special recognition lunch honoring Senate spouses.
Senate families got a taste of the action on Opening Day, when Feeding South Florida and the Treasure Coast Food Bank hosted the kickoff luncheon.
— The week ahead —
Here’s what’s on tap around the Capitol this week as advocacy groups, lawmakers, and lobbyists settle into the rhythm of Session.
— Tuesday: YMCA Advocacy Days kick off the week, bringing YMCA leaders, youth advocates, and volunteers from across the state to Tallahassee to talk child safety, literacy, and youth development with lawmakers. After hours, some legislators and staffers will trade policy talk for hockey as the Lightning Caucus gathers to watch the Tampa Bay Lightning take on the San Jose Sharks.
— Wednesday: It’s a packed house at the Capitol, led by Florida State University Day at the Capitol, with students, faculty, alums, and administrators filling the Rotunda to showcase campus programs and priorities. Displays will be on the 2nd and 3rd Floor Rotundas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with lunch and entertainment slated for the Capitol courtyard from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
—Also on Wednesday: It’s the Florida Cattlemen’s Association Boots on the Hill event put on by FCA and the United Dairy Farmers of Florida. The reception runs from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. in the Florida Historic Capitol Museum. Tourism leaders will also be out in force for Florida Tourism Day, while county officials fan out for the Florida Association of Counties Legislative Day.
— Thursday: Advocacy turns to seniors on AARP Day at the Capitol, highlighting issues important to Floridians 50-plus.
— Friday: The week wraps with the HurriGains 5K Glow Run, a nighttime, glow-in-the-dark 5Kthat will benefit the Florida Disaster Foundation. On-site registration is $35; pre-registration is $25 and is available online.
— GOP edge —
As the election year begins, a new Florida Chamber poll shows Republicans maintaining a statewide advantage similar to the margins seen in 2022 and 2024.
— Generic ballot: The survey found that 49% of voters say they will support a Republican candidate in November, compared with 41% backing a generic Democrat.
— Key blocs: Republicans currently lead among no-party voters 42% to 38%, and hold a sizable edge with Hispanic voters, 52% to 39%.
The numbers suggest the GOP enters the cycle with familiar structural advantages, even as both parties gear up for a high-stakes election year.
— Bigfooting the Primary —
Most of the speculation following U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn’s retirement has surrounded the Republican field in Florida’s 2nd Congressional District. But just a decade ago, a Democrat represented CD 2. Will Gwen Graham run again?
— Potentially: Florida Politics reached out to the ex-Congresswoman. Her quick message back? “I’m thinking about it.”
— Could she win? Granted, Florida doesn’t look the same as when she unseated Republican U.S. Rep. Steve Southerland in 2014. But her victory came in that cycle despite a national red wave, and forecasters predict a blue wave in November. Plus, the well-wishes after the death of her father, former Gov. Bob Graham, in 2024 show people still hold warm feelings.
— Crowded field: Already, three Democrats were campaigning to unseat Dunn. The rumor mill suggests other Democrats may enter a race for an open seat, such as former U.S. Rep. Al Lawson and former state Sen. Loranne Ausley.
— What could have been: Graham brings history, especially from a 2018 run for Governor recalled by Democrats as a historical what-coulda-been. After Andrew Gillum’s surprise Democratic Primary win over Graham, the progressive lost to Republican Ron DeSantis by under 33,000 votes. Had moderate Graham advanced, it may have detoured Florida’s rightward swing.
— Continuing teasing: Graham ended the week with a post stressing her history of victory. “I love our country and our state, and I know one thing for certain: More than ever, Washington needs The North Florida Way.”
— Ice breaker —
The Republican Party of Florida is inviting donors to mix politics and hockey with a fundraiser tied to the NHL Stadium Series coming to Tampa.
— Game night: The event centers on the Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Boston Bruins matchup at Raymond James Stadium on Feb. 1, with puck drop set for 6:30 p.m.
— Big names: Attorney General James Uthmeier, Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson are listed as special guests.
The pitch leans on a rare Florida hockey spectacle, pairing an outdoor NHL game with a GOP fundraising push ahead of the 2026 Elections.
— Apalachicola Bay reopens —
For the first time since 2020, Apalachicola Bay is reopening for oyster harvest, with a limited 2026 season running now through Feb. 28.
— Why now? State officials cite years of oyster reef restoration and a revised management plan approved by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that links harvest levels to current oyster abundance.
— By the numbers: Commercial Apalachicola Bay Endorsement holders will divide roughly 4,700 bags this season, while recreational permit holders are limited to one bag for the entire opening.
— Long road back: The bay faced a fishery collapse in 2013, followed by multiple emergency orders and a five-year shutdown designed to give depleted reefs time to recover.
— State investment: Since 2019, more than $38 million has gone toward restoration projects and monitoring efforts led by FWC and environmental partners.
It’s a milestone moment for the Panhandle, where Apalachicola oysters once powered a name-brand industry that accounted for the vast majority of Florida’s commercial oyster landings.
— Title shot —
The Miami Hurricanes will play for college football’s national championship for the first time since 2001 when they face Indiana (7:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 19, ABC).
— Semifinal finish: The Hurricanes advanced with a thrilling 31-27 national semifinal win over Ole Miss on Thursday. Quarterback Carson Beck’s three-yard touchdown run with 18 seconds left provided the final margin.
— Playoff path: Miami nearly missed the College Football Playoff but got in as the No. 10 seed. The Hurricanes defeated Texas A&M in the first round, then upset second-seed Ohio State in the quarterfinals.
— Home stage: Miami will have the opportunity to celebrate a championship at home. The CFP title game is scheduled for Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, the Canes’ home stadium.
This is the second year of the expanded 12-team playoff. Last season, Ohio State won the crown as an eighth seed.
— Brunching Out —
Hayward House, located steps from the Capitol, has added an elegant new delicacy to its menu: caviar.
— Backstory: Ashley Chaney, owner of the downtown restaurant, is a lover of caviar. “I seek it out,” Chaney said. After discovering high-quality caviar from award-winning chef Thomas Keller while on vacation, she aimed to serve it at Hayward House. After about a year of talks and working out details, Keller’s brand, Regiis Ova, is now available at the restaurant. The brand sources its caviar from sturgeon farms in California and from around the world.
— The caviar: Hayward House offers caviar in a few ways. Caviar snacks are a shareable treat. The French onion dip, made with caramelized onion cream and chives, surrounded by housemade kettle chips, features a topping of 10 grams of Regiis Classic Caviar for $27. On the trio of deviled eggs, each half is finished with caviar for $22. With the Caviar Bump, the diner savors a 5-gram serving ($20) that you can eat off your hand (much like licking salt off your hand with a margarita). The caviar star is the Golden Ossetra Caviar, known for its nutty flavor and buttery finish, presented in a classic style with blinis, crème fraiche, chives and shallots ($175 and shareable for a party of eight or 10). The caviar, with the Bump and classic service, is served with a mother-of-pearl spoon (a silver or metal spoon can alter the taste).
— Beverages: The full bar serves wine (by the glass/bottle), beer (with local choices) and fun cocktails such as a Tupelo Old Fashioned, Old Money and a Hot Honey Margarita.
— Details: Hayward House, 228 S. Adams St., 850-825-7081. Open 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. (brunch to 4 p.m.) Saturday, 10 to 4 p.m. Sunday brunch. Happy hour is 3-6 p.m. from Monday-Friday.
— Brunching Out, part deux —
The new home of Deep Brewing Company & Kitchen has made a big splash in Tallahassee’s hospitality scene. Aside from its own small-batch ales and lagers, Deep is becoming known for its creative fare at brunch, lunch and dinner.
— Backstory: Ryan LaPete founded Deep at Cathay Court in 2015, following his passion for homegrown brewing. The nautical theme reflects another significant part of LaPete’s life, that of a commercial and scientific diver. LaPete opened the new Deep in September 2025, across the street from his old location, joining forces with Justin Cruz (the founder of Tally Mac Shack, SlideHustle and Vato Tacos) and chef Jeremy Dancer (formerly of Kool Beanz Cafe).
— Setting: Deep is a gleaming, 5,000-square-foot venue with high ceilings, nearly framed in glass, allowing plenty of natural light. The setting is accented with colorful tiles and copper and brass items reflecting LaPete’s love of the sea. The 50-foot concrete bar was hand-poured and finished by LaPete’s father, Frank, and Cruz. There are plenty of TVs and outdoor picnic tables.
— The menu: The restaurant’s 6-foot, wood-fired grill is the star in the kitchen. Cruz touts the flavor of dishes passing over or through the burning oak and fruitwood. The menu continues to evolve, so please check for updates. A brunch highlight on our visits: juicy, tender pork chops, served with eggs and wonderfully crisp spuds. Other dishes include Mississippi Delta fried catfish, biscuits and gravy and a breakfast platter with a pillowy biscuit, eggs (cooked your way) and those potatoes. Also, look for homemade doughnuts. Check out the dinner menu as well with items such as brisket meatloaf, churrasco and a Cuban sandwich, with plans for steak, fish and chops. Another fun attraction: Wing Wednesday.
— Beverages: Deep’s brewery lineup includes Reef Dweller, Spear Pressure, Profundo (a Mexican lager with lime) and Sublime Keylime. Deep offers seasonal stouts, IPAs, wine, craft cocktails and non-alcoholic options.
— Details: Deep Brewing Company, 2855 Pablo Ave.; 850-567-0295. The restaurant is open at 7 a.m. Wednesday to Friday, and at 9 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The restaurant closes at 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday and at 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
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