The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) will spend Session advocating for a legislative slate that includes support for affordable housing, private property rights and a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence.

The pro-business group outlined those and other goals in its recently released 2026 Session Priorities publication, which serves as a detailed guide to the policies AIF supports as well as those it will lobby against.

“As the 2026 Session approaches, AIF is proud to present our priorities, reflecting the collective voice of Florida’s diverse business community,” said Brewster Bevis, the organization’s President and CEO. “Florida remains a national model for economic opportunity, and AIF will work diligently to protect the business climate, encourage investment, and foster job creation across the state.”

AIF’s priorities reflect the interests of a broad set of industries, honed by its many policy councils and coalitions, including the Community Growth Council; Environmental Sustainability & Agriculture Council; Energy Council; Financial Services Council; Transportation & Maritime Council; Information Technology Council; Manufacturing, Aerospace & Defense Council; Taxation Council; Health Care Council; and the H2O Coalition.

The priority list also details its support for “the lawful, strategic use of state preemption” on “unnecessary, inconsistent” local government regulations, an “all-of-the-above” approach to energy, full funding for the state’s Fresh From Florida marketing program, and efforts to increase the number of graduate medical education slots across Florida’s health care institutions.

AIF said preserving the tort reforms from 2022 and 2023 also remains a top priority. The 2023 bill made sweeping changes to Florida’s torts laws that AIF and other pro-business groups argue are integral to stabilizing the cost of insurance premiums.

“Housing affordability, the rise of artificial intelligence, and efforts to roll back Florida’s historic tort reforms all have major implications for the strength of our business climate. AIF will continue to champion policies that support employers, protect consumers and residents, and ensure Florida remains one of the most competitive states in the nation to live, work, and do business,” Bevis said.

The 2026 Session Priorities publication will be delivered to all members of the Legislature and Cabinet, as well as state agency heads.

Good Tuesday morning. It’s Election Day in Florida.

It’s Runoff Election Day in three Miami-Dade municipalities, where four Commission seats are at stake, and a Mayor’s race in the county’s seat has drawn national attention and political investment.

In Miami, former County Commissioner Eileen Higgins and ex-City Manager Emilio González are widely viewed as an early bellwether for how races next year will take shape.

Higgins, a Democrat running to be the city’s first woman Mayor, has support from notables such as former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and numerous current and former elected officials at the federal, state and local levels.

González, a U.S. Army veteran who previously served as Director of Citizenship and Immigration Services and CEO of Miami International Airport, has attracted a passel of backers, including President Donald Trump, Gov. Ron DeSantis and U.S. Sens. Rick Scott and Ted Cruz.

Political newcomer Rolando Escalona also hopes to deny Frank Carollo a return to the District 3 seat on the Miami Commission that his brother, Joe Carollo, has held since Frank left office in 2017.

In Miami Beach, City Hall aide Monica Matteo-Salinas and lawyer Monique Pardo Pope are squaring off for the City Commission’s Group 1 seat.

And in Hialeah, there are races for the City Council’s Group 3 and Group 4 seats — Jessica Castillo versus Gelien Perez and William “Willy Marrero versus Javier Morejon, respectively.

___

Happening today — Higgins will host an Election Night Watch Party at the Miami Woman’s Club, gathering with supporters, volunteers and community leaders as results come in for the City of Miami Mayoral Runoff: press setup begins at 6 p.m., with the event starting at 7 p.m., 1737 N Bayshore Dr. in Miami. The event is open only to credentialed media. All members of the press must RSVP in advance to Claire VanSusteren at 352-281-9056 or [email protected].

Happening today — Miami Beach Commission Group 1 candidate Monica Matteo-Salinas will host an Election Night watch party at Santorini Greek Restaurant, gathering with supporters to watch results and deliver remarks as votes are counted: 7–9 p.m., 101 Ocean Drive in Miami Beach. Day-of contact is Elias Romanos at 818-390-2061.

Happening today — City of Miami Commission District 3 candidate Rolando Escalona will host an Election Night watch party at The Tower Hotel, gathering with supporters to watch results and share remarks as votes are counted: 7–9 p.m., 1450 SW 7th St. in Miami. The day-of contact is David Cruz at 786-477-9164.

___

Voters in Orlando’s District 3 will decide their next Orlando City Commissioner when Roger Chapin and Mira Tanna face off in Tuesday’s Runoff Election.

Only 14 votes separated Chapin and Tanna in the Nov. 4 election. Neither candidate won a majority with five candidates on a crowded ballot last month, setting the stage for Tuesday’s runoff.

Both Chapin and Tanna have been posting pictures from the campaign trail in recent days as they seek to become the first new Orlando City Commissioner in 20 years for District 3. Longtime City Commissioner Robert Stuart did not seek re-election.

District 3 College Park, Audubon Park, Baldwin Park and other neighborhoods north of Colonial Drive.

Chapin is a public affairs and public relations consultant whose biggest client is his former employer, Mears Transportation. Tanna is the Orlando city grant manager.

Tanna, who commutes to work on the bus, argues she has the vision to help fix Central Florida’s public transit system. Meanwhile, Chapin points to his years of service on the community’s most influential Boards, the Municipal Planning Board and the Orlando Utilities Commission, which he says make him the most experienced candidate.

Chapin has a bigger war chest and the name recognition as the son of former Orange County Mayor Linda Chapin. Tanna’s strength lies in her grassroots campaign, knocking on doors to engage voters.

Both candidates have picked up major endorsements from well-known figures in Orlando politics, hoping they will propel them forward in the tight campaign.

Tanna is backed by Rep. Anna Eskamani, U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost and Orange County’s state Democratic delegation, including Sens. LaVon Bracy Davis and Carlos Guillermo Smith.

Supporting Chapin are Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Orange County Sheriff John Mina and Stuart.

___

The Special Election to fill the vacancy created by Blaise Ingoglia’s appointment as Chief Financial Officer is today.

The Senate District 11 race pits Republican Ralph Massullo, a dermatologist and Republican former four-term state Representative from Lecanto, against Democrat Ash Marwah, a civil engineer from The Villages.

Early voter turnout has been light, as would be expected in a low-key stand-alone Special Election: At 10% or under for Hernando and Pasco counties, 19% in Sumter and 15% in Citrus.

Massullo has eyed this Senate seat since 2022, when he originally planned to leave the House after six years to run for SD 11. His campaign ended prematurely when Gov. DeSantis backed Ingoglia, leaving Massullo with a final two years in office before term limits ended his House career.

When the SD 11 seat opened up following Ingoglia’s CFO appointment, Massullo jumped in, and a host of big-name endorsements followed, including from DeSantis, Ingoglia, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, U.S. Sens. Ashley Moody and Scott, four GOP Congressmen, county Sheriffs in the District, and the Florida Chamber of Commerce.

SD 11 covers all of Citrus, Hernando and Sumter counties, plus a portion of northern Pasco. Ingoglia won 69% of the vote there in 2024 and Trump carried the District by the same margin that cycle. The money race has been lopsided as well, with Massullo having raised $246,950 to Marwah’s $12,224.

___

Voters are set to choose between Democratic Delray Beach Commissioner Rob Long and Republican lobbyist Maria Zack for the open seat representing House District 90.

Independent candidate Karen Yeh, a local businesswoman, is also on the ballot, but she has raised only a modest sum and is widely viewed as a long shot.

The Special Election in HD 90 will decide who finishes late Democratic Rep. Joe Casello’s term.

Long, a civil engineer, is running on his record in local government and environmental work. He has emphasized public safety, infrastructure, redevelopment and water quality as his primary issues, highlighting his past service on the Palm Beach Soil & Water Conservation District and his role on the Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency Board.

Long’s backers now include every Democratic legislator from Palm Beach County and several members of Congress.

Zack, a longtime lobbyist and founder of The Strollo Group, has leaned into a hard-right platform centered on eliminating property taxes, “stopping the harm of illegal immigration,” and expanding school choice. She also promises to support law enforcement.

HD 90 is a Democratic-leaning District in Palm Beach County that spans Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Golf, Gulf Stream, Briny Breezes and parts of Highland Beach, Manalapan and Ocean Ridge.

___

Becker is bringing on Nicholas Hessing to work with the firm’s statehouse team and longtime Broward lobbyist Bernie Friedman.

Hessing will support Becker’s Tallahassee operation while also helping represent more than 50 active clients before the Broward County Commission and city governments across the county.

He joins the firm after serving as Governmental Relations Manager for the Children’s Services Council of Broward County, which oversees a $160 million budget, and as campaign manager for Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and former Sen. Lauren Book.

“During his time with the Children’s Services Council, Nic assisted the CSC’s 100-plus funded agencies navigating complex local, state and federal government systems, and delivered results for these organizations and for the children and families they serve,” said Nan Rich, Broward County Commissioner and former state Senator.

Nic’s expertise in government affairs, community relations, and his innate drive to shape our county’s health and future will be an asset to Becker and Broward for years to come.”

Trantalis credited Hessing with crafting “a winning strategy that brought us to victory” as his campaign manager. At the same time, Rep. Robin Bartleman said, “he has grown from his time as my Chief Legislative Aide into a sharp, driven lobbyist who moves with integrity.”

At Becker, Hessing will assist in representing more than 50 active clients both at the state level and before the County Commission and the Broward city governments. The FSU and University of Miami alumnus said he is ready to hit the ground running.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@Fineout: In a post on Truth Social President Trump comes out against states regulating AI and says he will come out with an exec order that purports to block states from doing that. This sets up a direct clash w @GovRonDeSantis who is pushing ahead with his own proposals on AI w Fla. Leg

—@GovRonDeSantis: An executive order doesn’t/can’t preempt state legislative action. Congress could, theoretically, preempt states through legislation. The problem is that Congress hasn’t proposed any coherent regulatory scheme, but instead just wanted to block states from doing anything for 10 years, which would be an AI amnesty. I doubt Congress has the votes to pass this because it is so unpopular with the public.

—@JayCollinsFL: Deeply concerned about the financial irregularities surrounding Optima Classical Academy. This deserves a thorough examination by law enforcement.

—@ErikaDonalds: Jay (Collins), I know you’re failing to launch, but this unfounded political attack against me, my team and my schools, simply because you oppose my husband, is beyond reckless. The Lt. Governor of Florida is calling for LAWFARE against me, choosing to team with the liberal media and anti-school choice mob in a pathetic attempt to gain relevance amid his struggles to launch a campaign. This desperate political smear campaign is damaging to the entire school choice movement.

—@ChrisLaCivita: If you trust @FedEx with important packages this Christmas season better have a translator handy because their “help line” speaks little English and isn’t on this continent, Not to mention they don’t believe in overnight or even two-day delivery anymore … SAD

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres on Netflix — 3; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 3; Gov. DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 8; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 10; ‘ELWAY’ documentary premieres on Netflix — 13; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 16; ‘Industry’ season four premieres — 33; Special Election for HD 87; HD 51 Special Primary and two Boca Raton referendums — 35; 2026 Legislative Session begins — 35; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 35; The James Madison Institute’s 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 36; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 40; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 52; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 58; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 59; ‘Paradise’ season two premieres on Hulu — 76; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Y: Marshals’ premieres — 82; Boca Raton Mayoral and City Council Elections — 91; last day of the Regular Session — 94; Special Election for HD 51 (if necessary) — 105; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 106; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 107; new season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 115; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 118; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 127; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 127; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 132; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 136; F1 Miami begins — 143; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 164; A new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ ride premieres at Disney World — 164; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 175; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 181; South Africa in the FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in Mexico City — 184; State Qualifying Period ends — 185; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 192; Mexico will face live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 204; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 207; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 212; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 217; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 219; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 223; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 240; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 242; Primary Election Day 2026 — 252; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 276; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 280; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 284; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 289; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 296; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 300; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 319; 2026 General Election — 329; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 374; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 374; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 374; Tampa Mayoral Election — 448; Jacksonville First Election — 469; Jacksonville General Election — 525; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 543; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 605; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 661; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 738; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 948; U.S. Presidential Election — 1064; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1464; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2195.

— TOP STORY —

“Donald Trump says he’ll sign executive order curbing state AI rules” via Hadriana Lowenkron and Skylar Woodhouse of Bloomberg — President Trump said he plans to sign an executive order establishing a single national framework for artificial intelligence, an effort he calls a “ONE RULE” approach meant to curb state-level regulation of the rapidly evolving technology.

Trump said the order would prevent companies from navigating what he describes as a costly and confusing patchwork of state laws. A draft reviewed by Bloomberg Government would allow the Department of Justice to sue states over AI regulations deemed unconstitutional and threaten federal funding cuts for laws considered overly restrictive.

The move fits into a broader push by the administration to assert federal control over AI policy as the technology becomes more deeply embedded in business, government and daily life. Industry leaders have long argued that state-by-state regulation slows innovation and complicates compliance.

States, acting in the absence of congressional action, have adopted their own rules to address AI-related risks, from consumer protections to data use. That activity has drawn sharp criticism from Trump and his allies, who warn it could undercut U.S. competitiveness.

The proposal has also created tension within the Republican Party. Governors, including Gov. DeSantis, have raised concerns about federal pre-emption of state authority, signaling that legal challenges are likely if the order is finalized.

Trump has framed the effort as essential to maintaining U.S. dominance over China in AI development. The administration has already issued orders to accelerate domestic AI infrastructure, boost data center energy capacity, ease export restrictions, and coordinate federal research under a new “Genesis Mission,” all aimed at keeping America ahead in the global race.

— STATEWIDE —

“Ron DeSantis: Trump’s AI order ‘can’t preempt’ states from taking action” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — DeSantis cast doubt on the Trump administration’s ability to restrict states like Florida from regulating artificial intelligence, with new federal guidelines expected soon. DeSantis, a fierce AI skeptic, is pushing Florida to enact a slate of AI protections for residents during the upcoming Legislative Session and has the backing of state lawmakers, who are holding several hearings on the topic this week. But as Trump eyes a federal top-down AI “rulebook” that could stymie Florida’s efforts, the GOP Governor maintained it should be up to Congress, not the President, to establish such a sweeping policy. “An executive order doesn’t/can’t preempt state legislative action,” DeSantis posted on social media. “Congress could, theoretically, preempt states through legislation.”

“UF ethicist calls the DeSantis AI bill of rights plan ‘exemplary’” via Gabriel Velasquez Neira of WUSF — On “The Florida Roundup,” Sonja Schmer-Galunder, a professor in AI and ethics, compared regulations on artificial intelligence to those on seat belts and food safety. Artificial Intelligence is at the forefront of Florida politics. Several House Committees will hold hearings on the use of AI in government and industry, and last week, DeSantis proposed an AI Bill of Rights during a news conference at The Villages. On “The Florida Roundup,” host Tom Hudson spoke with Sonja Schmer-Galunder, a professor in AI and ethics at the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering at the University of Florida. Schmer-Galunder spoke in favor of DeSantis’ actions, calling them “exemplary” on LinkedIn.

“Watchdog group urges Wilton Simpson to investigate energy nonprofits’ ties to China” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A watchdog group is calling on Simpson to launch an inquiry into alleged ties between specific energy-focused nonprofits and Chinese interests. The group argues that the nonprofit EF China and its U.S. affiliate shouldn’t be allowed to fundraise in Florida until the origins and foreign affiliations of their funding are thoroughly vetted. Critics say the nonprofits’ connections pose risks to the integrity of energy policy and state security. The group emphasized that transparency is essential, urging Simpson to investigate whether these entities have proper financial disclosures and are free from undue foreign influence before continuing operations in Florida.

“Paul Renner wants a Special Session to immediately roll back property taxes to 2024 levels” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Former House Speaker Renner is calling on the Legislature to immediately convene a Special Session to roll back property taxes to 2024 levels, arguing Floridians need relief now, not promises tied to future elections. Renner, a Republican running for Governor, said lawmakers could act within weeks, citing precedent from the 2006-07 Legislative Session, and urged leaders to deliver results before taxes rise again in 2026. His call comes amid ongoing Republican infighting over how to pursue property tax relief, including competing proposals from House leaders and DeSantis. DeSantis has rejected eight House plans as insufficient, instead pushing for the complete elimination of homestead property taxes with state dollars backfilling local revenues. Renner warned that continued division risks eroding public trust in conservative leadership.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“Ben Albritton on the future of property tax proposals in the Senate: ‘We’re still measuring’” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — With eight proposals on eliminating or cutting property taxes moving through the House and DeSantis maintaining that none go far enough, many are looking more and more to the Senate for signs of what, if any, change could be coming. As he has in months past, Senate President Albritton is advocating a cautious, unhurried approach. “Honest to goodness, we’re still measuring,” Albritton said. “We’ve looked at the House proposals, and every one of those has a certain amount of cost to it and a certain amount of impact to Floridians.” Albritton said that while the Senate is committed to delivering financial relief to Floridians in the form of property tax cuts or rollbacks, he and others in the chamber are cognizant that many core services at the local level stand to be adversely affected if they’re done carelessly.

“Albritton defends slower approach on redistricting” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — Senate President Albritton defended his stance that Florida legislators should wait until later in 2026 to consider drawing up a new congressional map. Albritton met with reporters, making his first extensive comments in months on redistricting and other flash points for the looming Legislative Session that starts in January, such as vaccine mandates, guns and property taxes. The Wauchula Republican told reporters it made sense for Florida to hold off on pursuing a new map until the Spring. That would give the state a chance to await a U.S. Supreme Court decision in a crucial Louisiana case over whether states can consider race when drawing District lines.

“House expands paid parental leave for employees, Daniel Perez says” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The House is expanding its paid parental leave policy when employees have a baby or adopt a child, House Speaker Perez announced. The policy takes effect immediately and applies retroactively to parents who took leave from Nov. 19, 2024, onward. From now on, full-time salaried employees will receive up to seven consecutive weeks of paid maternity leave after childbirth. The House will also offer mothers and fathers paid care and bonding leave for up to two weeks within one year after a child’s birth or adoption. The care and bonding leave “may be granted on an intermittent basis” and can’t be taken during the 60-day Legislative Session. It requires supervisor approval as well, Perez’s memo said.

“Democrats unveil ‘Affordability Agenda’ to lower housing costs, reduce government waste” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Senate and House Democrats unveiled what they described as the first three bills of a growing ‘Affordability Agenda’ they promise will lower housing costs for Floridians while cracking down on wasteful government spending. More are on the way, according to Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman, who introduced the legislation alongside House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell and nine others on Tuesday. “We constantly hear from people back home that affordability is the No. 1 issue facing Floridians right now. Costs are skyrocketing, and it’s getting harder to make ends meet,” Driskell said.

“Rep. Juan Porras pushes HOA overhaul with bill creating specialized courts, allowing dissolutions” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — Frustrated by widespread complaints of unaccountable homeowners associations acting like “mini governments,” state Rep. Porras has filed legislation aimed at empowering residents through a new court system and the option to dissolve dysfunctional HOAs. HB 657 would eliminate mandatory pre-suit mediation for disputes, establish a community association court program in each judicial circuit and set procedures for terminating HOAs that fail to serve their communities. The bill is set to take effect July 1, 2026, if passed. Porras described the bill as a response to “the overall lack of enforcement of our state laws, and just the complete disregard for any type of accountability or oversight” in HOAs across Florida.

— LEG. PRIORITIES —

The Associated Industries of Florida will spend the Session advocating for a legislative slate that includes support for affordable housing, private property rights and a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence.

The pro-business group outlined those and other goals in its recently released 2026 Session Priorities publication, which serves as a detailed guide to the policies AIF supports and those it will lobby against.

“As the 2026 Session approaches, AIF is proud to present our priorities, reflecting the collective voice of Florida’s diverse business community,” said Brewster Bevis, the organization’s President and CEO. “Florida remains a national model for economic opportunity, and AIF will work diligently to protect the business climate, encourage investment, and foster job creation across the state.”

AIF’s priorities reflect the interests of a broad set of industries, honed by its many policy Councils and coalitions, including the Community Growth Council; Environmental Sustainability & Agriculture Council; Energy Council; Financial Services Council; Transportation & Maritime Council; Information Technology Council; Manufacturing, Aerospace & Defense Council; Taxation Council; Health Care Council; and the H2O Coalition.

The priority list also details its support for “the lawful, strategic use of state pre-emption” on “unnecessary, inconsistent” local government regulations, an “all-of-the-above” approach to energy, full funding for the state’s Fresh From Florida marketing program, and efforts to increase the number of graduate medical education slots across Florida’s health care institutions.

AIF said preserving the tort reforms from 2022 and 2023 also remains a top priority. The 2023 bill made sweeping changes to Florida’s tort laws that AIF and other pro-business groups argue are integral to stabilizing insurance premiums.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Supreme Court poised to expand Trump’s power over independent agencies” via Justin Jouvenal of The Washington Post — The Supreme Court signaled Monday it is likely to side with Trump in a case that could sharply limit or overturn Humphrey’s Executor, the 1935 precedent shielding leaders of independent agencies from presidential removal without cause. Conservative justices suggested the modern Federal Trade Commission no longer resembles the body the court once protected, with Chief Justice John Roberts calling the precedent a “dried husk” and Justice Brett Kavanaugh criticizing unaccountable independent agencies. The dispute stems from Trump’s firing of Democratic FTC Commissioners Rebecca Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya, despite statutory protections against removal. Liberal justices warned that the move could politicize expert agencies that regulate everything from consumer safety to elections. A ruling, expected by Summer, could reshape the federal government by expanding presidential control.

“Sen. Rick Scott predicts Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro will be out of power before Christmas” via Michelle Vecerina of Florida’s Voice — Scott said he believes Venezuelan leader Maduro will be out of power before Christmas, calling him an “indicted drug trafficker” and not the legitimate President of Venezuela. Appearing on Fox & Friends, Scott praised Trump’s aggressive approach to confronting drug cartels and the Maduro regime. “His days are numbered, and everyone knows it,” Scott said. Scott, a longtime critic of Maduro and his human rights abuses, said he is indifferent to where Maduro ultimately ends up – “Turkey or Russia or China” – but maintained he should not be granted immunity.

“‘Un-American’: Maria Elvira Salazar rips immigration pause for Cubans, Haitians, Venezuelans” via Grethel Aguila of the Miami Herald — Miami Congresswoman Salazar called the Trump administration’s latest immigration crackdown “un-American” in a biting statement to the Miami Herald. Last week, the Department of Homeland Security issued one of its most sweeping restrictions on immigration to date, ordering a pause of all immigration applications from nationals of Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela and 16 other so-called “high risk” countries. The new directive to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services — issued in the wake of the shooting in Washington, D.C., of two National Guardsmen, allegedly by an Afghan man — affects everything from green card applications to citizenship ceremonies for individuals from the 19 countries.

“Dan Newlin prepares to become Ambassador to Colombia amid high tension with Latin American nation” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Orlando lawyer Newlin has yet to be confirmed as Trump’s Ambassador to Colombia. But he said it’s a financial issue, not political resistance, slowing the process. Newlin told Florida Politics shortly after a panel discussion in Washington that severing economic ties with the Orlando-area law firm he has run for nearly a quarter-century has been a lengthy process. Newlin called the process “highly complex.” “Once that’s completed, hopefully in 2026, early part of 2026, then I will be cleared to move through government ethics to the next phase. So really, that was my big holdup.” He spoke at the Rescuing the American Dream summit on a panel moderated by U.S. Sen. Scott.

— ELECTIONS —

“James Fishback is registered to vote in two states. Does that make him ineligible for Governor?” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Fishback has been registered to vote in two states since around 2020. While he never cast a ballot in both states in the same year, the issue raises questions about whether the Madison Republican meets eligibility requirements for Governor. The 30-year-old has been registered to vote in Florida since 2012. He transferred his residence from Davie, Broward County, to Madison County in 2023, according to the Madison County Supervisor of Elections Office. But the D.C. Board of Elections confirms Fishback remains an active voter in Washington, where he registered in 2020. That could complicate Fishback’s campaign for Governor, which he launched last month.

Happening today:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Family ties spark ethics, public trust, conflict of interest concerns” via Jack Lemnus of Treasure Coast Newspapers — Two St. Lucie County Commissioners broke county rules and risked eroding public trust when they appointed each other’s family members to Citizen Advisory Boards, according to at least four government watchdogs. Commissioner James Clasby’s uncle and Commissioner Erin Lowry’s father-in-law were members of the Citizens Budget Development Committee, despite the county website stating members “must not be related to a County Commissioner or county employee involved with the Committee or supporting department.” “These Commissioners are clearly trying to evade and circumvent their own rules,” said Ben Wilcox, research director and co-founder of Integrity Florida, a nonpartisan government watchdog. “When the county adopted the rule prohibiting family members from serving on Advisory Boards, it clearly foresaw a potential problem.”

“David Smith gets unanimous vote to be new Fort Pierce Police Chief” via Wicker Perlis of Treasure Coast Newspapers — The city will now enter contract negotiations with Smith, currently commander of the Eastern District operation for the Prince William County Police Department in Woodbridge, Virginia. It concludes a monthlong search that saw 57 applicants narrowed to seven and then to three finalists after a first round of interviews. Those three participated in second-round interviews with Commissioners, Chess and a staff Committee. Unlike most city employees, the City Manager’s pick for Police Chief requires approval by the City Commission, according to the city’s charter. Chess’ selection was not without controversy. The police officers’ union, multiple members of the public and even two City Commissioners criticized the decision not to include local candidates among finalists for consideration before the second-round interviews.

“Palm Beach County moves forward with massive AI data center despite neighborhood pushback” via Antoinette DelBel of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Palm Beach County officials have approved the application of a controversial artificial intelligence data center project near Wellington despite growing concerns from nearby homeowners. The project, known as Project Tango, will span 202.67 acres between Southern Boulevard and 20 Mile Bend. It includes a series of buildings full of computers for data processing, along with warehouse space. The plan first received approval in 2016, but developers recently requested an additional 64 acres, prompting another vote. On Thursday, the Palm Beach County Zoning Commission gave the green light, even as dozens of homeowners from the Arden community voiced objections. They worry about noise, water usage, traffic, and the size of the project.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Disney World is suing over its property tax bills for Magic Kingdom, Star Wars hotel, more” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Disney is suing over what it calls “excessive” property tax assessments for its four theme parks, the failed Star Wars hotel and a slew of other properties from the company’s vast real estate portfolio in Orange County. The multibillion-dollar entertainment giant filed about 15 lawsuits in Orange Circuit Court late last week. Disney wants to cancel the original 2025 tax bills, issue new bills for the reassessed amounts, and then be reimbursed for its legal fees for contesting the property taxes. The Mouse is also asking the court to award “general relief as may be just and equitable,” according to the complaints. The lawsuits accused Orange County Property Appraiser Amy Mercado’s Office of failing to use “professionally accepted appraisal practices,” although Disney’s complaints don’t provide details about its allegations.

“Lawsuit blasts Disney parks’ disability policies as too restrictive” via Mike Schneider of the Orlando Sentinel — Changes that Disney made to a popular program that lets qualifying disabled people skip long lines at its California and Florida theme parks are too restrictive, disabled fans contend in a federal lawsuit and shareholder proposal that seek to expand eligibility. The battle over who can skip long lines on popular rides because of their disabilities marks the latest struggle by Disney to accommodate disabled visitors while cracking down on past abuses. But some Disney fans say the company has gone too far and has no right to determine who is disabled. “This isn’t right. This isn’t what Walt and Roy would have wanted,” said Shannon Bonadurer, referring to the Disney brothers who founded the entertainment empire. Despite being unable to wait for long periods of time in the heat because she uses an ileostomy bag, Bonadurer was denied a pass for the disability program.

“Forced to end minority business program, Orlando seeks to favor small and local companies” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Forced by the Trump administration to cancel its program offering a leg up to companies owned by women and minorities, Orlando officials are seeking to boost small and local businesses instead. The City Council is planning to vote to create a program that would provide preference to companies based on their size and location when they bid on lucrative city contracts for work like construction, purchasing of goods and professional services. The program won’t launch right away, as Commissioners will also need to approve the policies governing the program. For example, the program must define what makes a business small and local.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Kristi Noem visits Tampa airport to give TSA officers $10,000 bonus checks” via Ashley Borja of the Tampa Bay Times — Sixteen U.S. Transportation Security Administration officers at Tampa International Airport were awarded $10,000 bonuses Monday from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Noem for their service during the government shutdown. Not every airport officer received the stipend. The funds were distributed only to those nominated by supervisors and leadership. “It’s not just based on one factor or another,” Noem said at a news conference at the airport. “It’s for individuals who continue to show up — fulfilled their shifts but also did other things to help through the shutdown that helped the entire team be successful.”

“Some Clearwater residents skeptical of James Uthmeier’s response to Scientology dispute” via Colbi Edmonds of the Tampa Bay Times — Some Clearwater residents are criticizing a City Council member for a lack of transparency after he sought legal guidance from the Attorney General on a land dispute with the Church of Scientology. Without consulting the rest of the dais, City Council member David Allbritton sent a letter last month to Attorney General Uthmeier asking if he could clarify who owns a public street downtown that the church wants to develop. The City Attorney had already advised the Council that it owns the land and is entitled to attach conditions to its possible transfer to the church.

“Jennifer Webb announces bid for Gulfport City Council in Ward 3” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Former state Rep. Webb has entered the race for Gulfport City Council’s Ward 3 seat, launching her campaign this week with a birthday kickoff event at the North End Tap House. Webb, a Democrat and current Executive Director of Live Tampa Bay, said her candidacy is rooted in long ties to Gulfport through neighborhood involvement, volunteer work and community advocacy. She previously represented House District 69 from 2018 to 2020 and has held leadership roles focused on community engagement, opioid response and public affairs, including founding Omni Public. Webb said she chose to live in Ward 3 because of its diversity and argues the city needs Council members committed to transparency, accountability and completing recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton while providing a clear, inclusive vision for Gulfport’s future.

“St. Pete dedicates $7.1 million to bridge replacement work” via Mark Parker of St. Pete Catalyst — Long-awaited plans to replace a functionally obsolete bridge in St. Petersburg are finally moving forward, with officials now preparing to relocate sewer and drinking water pipelines. City Council members unanimously approved two related contracts totaling $7.14 million at their Dec. 4 meeting. The San Martin Bridge has served St. Petersburg’s Riviera Bay neighborhood since 1962. Residents will likely begin seeing project impacts in March 2026. Council member Brandi Gabbard, who represents the area, called its advancement “very good news.” “This has been an ongoing issue for – oh my goodness, it certainly predates me, and I’ve been here for almost nine years,” Gabbard said. “So, that tells you how long the San Martin Bridge has been a conversation in District 2.” Pinellas County will manage the project in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and is currently wrapping up its design phase. Gabbard expects construction to commence in early 2027.

“USF president-elect Moez Limayem could make over $2M his first year” via Lucy Marques of the Tampa Bay Times — Limayem, the University of South Florida’s president-elect, will face his final hurdle Friday before potentially starting the job: a confirmation vote from the Florida Board of Governors, which oversees the state’s university system. The Board is also set to vote on a five-year contract for Limayem that would pay him a base salary of $1.25 million. Per state law, all compensation for Limayem exceeding $200,000 must be paid from private resources. He could earn an additional $625,000 in performance-based incentives in his first year, depending on an evaluation by USF trustees. He would also earn an extra $300,000 in deferred compensation for his first year. Other benefits include thousands of dollars in automobile and housing stipends, as well as moving expenses.

“Rays officials say they are making progress on new stadium for 2029” via Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times — Rays CEO Ken Babby said Monday that the team is progressing in evaluating “a handful” of sites for a new ballpark across “the Tampa Bay region” and remains confident — with the right public/private partnership — of having it ready for the 2029 season. “We are exploring sites. We are meeting with architects. We are meeting with public officials,” Babby told the Tampa Bay Times at Major League Baseball’s winter meetings. “We are conducting a lot of analysis on how you go about building a development in a ballpark that meet the criteria that we talked about (including a plot of at least 100 acres). We’re visiting a lot of other parks, a lot of other stadiums, understanding what’s possible, with different structures.”

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Jack Porter, Richard McCullough meeting on FSU-TMH deal ends in finger-pointing” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — A private Oct. 29 meeting between Tallahassee City Commissioner Porter and Florida State University President McCullough has intensified tensions over the proposed sale of Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare to FSU. Porter wrote a three-page memo accusing McCullough of suggesting political support from influential FSU Boosters and offering basketball tickets if she backed the deal, leaving her “deeply disappointed” and “unsettled.” She reported the encounter to the city’s ethics officer and attorney and documented it for legal protection. McCullough denied improper intent, saying Porter mischaracterized the discussion and blaming her for City Commission divisions. The memo, obtained through public records, surfaced as negotiations over the nonprofit hospital’s future remain contentious, with Commissioners narrowly divided and talks carrying into a volatile election year.

“UF commits to ‘neutrality,’ institutionally” via the Florida Phoenix — The University of Florida will not be taken over for ideological purposes, its interim President declared. Interim President Donald Landry and UF Trustees expressed a commitment during a Board meeting to “institutional neutrality” regarding how university actors will behave. “We are not protecting the right to choose topics for classroom instruction, research, or scholarship if that right is not coupled with institutional neutrality,” Landry said. “We have to provide protections for free expression, but we are not going to be able to engage in that protection if we have leadership speaking on issues that then create those aligned with leadership and those opposed to leadership.”

“Jumbo Shrimp to get new owner as Ken Babby moves on to Tampa Bay Rays” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — The Babby era of owning the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp is coming to an end. Jacksonville City Council will vote on an emergency resolution during its Dec. 9 meeting that would consent to the sale this month of the baseball team. Babby has owned the Jumbo Shrimp since 2015. He renamed the team, formerly known as the Jacksonville Suns, and engineered its move up the minor league ladder to become a Triple-A franchise in 2021, the highest level below the Major Leagues.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“From freshman to Chair: Tal Siddique takes the gavel in Manatee County” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — First-term Manatee County Commissioner Siddique has swiftly ascended the local political ranks and earned the coveted Chair role after one year in elected office. Siddique takes the gavel from current Chair George Kruse at a time of intense debate over growth, storm recovery, property taxes and the balance of power between local governments and Tallahassee. Siddique’s District includes Anna Maria Island, the northern end of Longboat Key, and the western portions of the City of Bradenton, including the downtown area.

“Better Together celebrates decade of strengthening Florida families” — About 450 people gathered Wednesday at Summit Church in Fort Myers to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Better Together, marking a decade of efforts to strengthen families and prevent foster care placements across Florida. The nonprofit began at the exact location 10 years ago with a focus on Southwest Florida and has since expanded to operate in 48 Florida counties, connecting families in crisis with churches, volunteers, and employment opportunities before government intervention is needed. CEO Megan Rose thanked supporters for turning a vision into a statewide movement. Former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow delivered the keynote address, emphasizing unity, service, and humility. Speakers and guests shared stories highlighting the organization’s hands-on impact and looked ahead to expanding partnerships and volunteer engagement statewide.

— TOP OPINION —

“Keep the faith, MAGA true believers” via Bill Cotterell for the News Service of Florida — The Broadway musical “The Book of Mormon” features a song in which an earnest missionary repeats “I believe,” building toward a refrain celebrating faith taken on trust. That refrain has taken on a different resonance amid the latest political contortions surrounding Trump and the shifting Republican position on releasing the so-called Epstein Files.

Those files, tied to Trump’s once-prominent Florida acquaintance Jeffrey Epstein, have existed, vanished and reemerged depending on the political moment. As Trump has wavered, so too has party doctrine, leaving supporters to reconcile each turn with unblinking certainty.

The contrast is striking. Where the fictional missionary’s beliefs are innocent and transparent, Trump’s supporters are increasingly asked to believe whatever explanation arrives next. Agreement or disagreement with policy is one thing; unquestioning acceptance of contradictory claims is another.

That demand for loyalty has produced a rolling set of articles of faith. Withholding the Epstein files was a noble protection of victims, until releasing them suddenly became wise and necessary. Political figures are patriots until they cross the White House, then retroactively traitors without nuance or context.

The list extends further. Law and order now means firing investigators while pardoning political allies. Courts, juries and elections are legitimate only when they produce acceptable outcomes. Foreign gifts and domestic mega donations supposedly arrive with no expectations attached.

Even economic gravity is optional. Tariffs will not raise prices. Term limits are intolerable for the presidency but essential for Congress. News is real or a hoax based solely on a presidential proclamation. Apparently, there is even room for new presidential stonework on Mount Rushmore.

Like the show tune, it all rests on repetition. Believe long enough, loudly enough, and coherence becomes beside the point.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Trump’s travails look more and more like Joe Biden’s” via Frank Bruni of The New York Times — A recent Cabinet meeting in which Trump appeared to doze during extended praise sparked renewed scrutiny of his energy, messaging, and grasp of voter concerns, particularly on the economy. Critics argue the moment echoed problems that dogged President Biden, including dismissing public anxiety about cost-of-living pressures while insisting conditions are better than Americans perceive. Trump’s rejection of “affordability” as a meaningful concept contrasted with his own past rhetoric and fed comparisons to Biden’s tone-deaf economic messaging. While Trump remains more physically animated than his predecessor, questions are growing about declining vigor, confusing statements, and opaque health disclosures. As approval ratings slip, the episode has intensified a familiar presidential fitness watch that Trump once mocked in others.

“County’s dispute with Miami’s beloved nature center looks like a power grab” via the Miami Herald editorial board — When the county issued an eviction notice to Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center a few weeks ago, officials at the nonprofit say they were caught off guard by the effort. So were we — along with local environmentalists and others with ties to the center, which has occupied the building on Key Biscayne since 2001. We were puzzled, too, by the apparent involvement of the Mayor’s top campaign and political adviser in the matter. The nonprofit has not just been an environmental education center for 40 years, teaching students about South Florida’s ecology; it is part of the legacy of Marjory Stoneman Douglas, Miami’s most iconic environmentalist and the mother of Everglades restoration. The nonprofit is housed in a building she helped raise money to construct.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“A ‘magical spectacle.’ Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade delights” via Mark H. Bickel of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Spectacular. Brilliant. Magical. These are just some of the words used to describe the latest edition of the Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parades. The annual event, now in its 37th year, featured 40 decorated boats that illuminated the water. And according to the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, it was a big win on many fronts, including festive crowds that packed waterfront restaurants to watch from bridges, piers, docks and seawalls. Santa Claus led the flotilla aboard the Chamber’s boat. The decorated boats made two full loops around the back bay — from the Matanzas Pass Bridge down San Carlos Island, across the bay to Pink Shell, along the northwest side of Estero Island and back again.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best wishes to our friend Richard Reeves and to state Reps. Webster Barnaby, former Rep. Rene Plasencia, Garrett Blanton, Beth Lerner, Kim Siomkos, and Ben Weaver.

___

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

Days before the Department of Health (DOH) is to hold a public meeting on changing Florida’s rules on vaccine requirements for schools, Senate President Ben Albritton said the issue is among those about which he and his team are trying to “build consensus.”

He said that while there’s ample evidence to show the efficacy and safety of long-used vaccines like those used for measles, mumps, polio, rubella, tetanus and others mandated in state statutes, he’s also swayed by the importance of parental rights.

“The one opinion I can have is the opinion of a dad and how (my wife) Missy and I would (act for our children). I’m a believer (in) the vaccines of old; some of these things have been around, just say, forever, a long time and have a great record,” he said.

“Now, there’s new conversation I know about (regarding) schedules and … what age the child would get vaccinated for those (diseases). I’m open to those conversations. But functionally, I think, given the decision for Missy and I, we would be supportive of our children being vaccinated, but those old school vaccines.”

Albritton noted that while polio hasn’t been entirely eradicated, vaccines have “put a dent into that and other very challenging diseases.”

DOH is scheduled for a three-hour meeting Friday at the Hyatt Place Panama City Beach to mull over whether and to what degree Florida should revise its requirement that public and private students in pre-K through 12th grade and adult education enrollees must be vaccinated.

Gov. Ron DeSantis and Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo have called for a complete repeal of Florida’s vaccine mandate. Ladapo has likened the current arrangement to “slavery,” while DeSantis has argued that making still-available inoculations optional will boost their popularity.

Albritton said at a Tuesday conference with Capitol press corps reporters that while he’s a believer in tried-and-true vaccines, he’s wary of mRNA types like those used in many COVID shots.

“I have never gotten, nor will I ever get, an mRNA COVID vaccine or any other type. I never have,” he said. “Now, that isn’t because I consider myself a rebel or something. I just don’t trust the technology. It seems a little weird to inject something in your body that tinkers with your DNA.”

And that’s where he draws the line: Old vaccines, good; new vaccines that use mRNA, suspect; and moms and dads should have final say.

“We support parental rights,” he said. “Missy and I believe we’re going to separate the mRNA stuff from the traditional stuff. And let’s be thoughtful about what works and what we know.”

According to the National Library of Medicine, mRNA vaccines do not alter or interact with DNA and quickly leave the body, leaving natural genetic material untouched, after triggering immune responses in cells.

Because Florida’s vaccine requirements are in statute, legislation is necessary to repeal them.