Good Tuesday morning.

Breaking late Monday — “UF rallies once again to edge Houston for Gators’ third national title” via Edgar Thompson of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida Gators win their third national championship, defeating Houston 65-63 in a thrilling comeback victory. Trailing by 12, the Gators rallied, led by Most Outstanding Player Walter Clayton Jr., who overcame a slow start. Coach Todd Golden, at 39, becomes the youngest winning coach since 1983, surpassing Billy Donovan’s record. The Gators’ defense and timely plays secured the title, marking a historic moment for the program. A missed three-pointer by Houston sealed the deal for the Gators.

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Juda Engelmayer, a distinguished public relations and crisis communications expert, has joined Converge Public Strategies as Partner and co-Chair of its Communications Practice.

With over three decades of experience, Engelmayer brings unparalleled expertise in managing complex communications challenges across diverse industries.

Engelmayer joins Converge with a distinguished public relations and strategic communications track record. Most recently, he served as president and CEO of HeraldPR, a New York-based firm specializing in corporate branding, crisis mitigation and strategic messaging.

Under his leadership, the firm expanded its portfolio to include high-stakes matters across sectors, including complex civil and criminal litigation, corporate and political advocacy, entertainment and nonprofit work. Engelmayer is mainly known for navigating — and helping reshape — often harsh and misinformed media and public narratives surrounding high-profile legal cases and reputational crises.

His previous roles include Chief Communications Officer at the American Jewish Congress and vice president at Rubenstein Associates, where he managed various accounts — from foreign governments to nonprofit organizations and health care institutions. He began his career with positions at the New York State Comptroller’s Office and the Anti-Defamation League, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to public service and community advocacy.

“Juda’s extensive experience and proven track record in crisis communications and strategic public relations make him an invaluable addition to our team,” said Jonathan Kilman, Chair of Converge Public Strategies. “His ability to navigate complex media landscapes and provide strategic counsel will greatly benefit our clients facing high-stakes challenges.”

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Gary Monahan has joined TECO Peoples Gas as the Regional Manager of External Affairs for Northeast Florida.

Monahan’s new role focuses on building and maintaining strong relationships with government officials and TECO Peoples Gas stakeholders. He is also responsible for supporting economic development initiatives and spearheading community relations efforts in his region.

Monahan holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Florida. Shortly after graduation, he began his professional journey in fundraising for the University of North Florida Foundation, where he leveraged his extensive network to garner support for the institution’s programs and initiatives. His efforts played a key role in advancing UNF’s mission and growth.

A passionate advocate for Jacksonville, Monahan was appointed by former Mayor Lenny Curry to the City of Jacksonville’s Downtown Development Review Board (DDRB). As an officer of the Board, Monahan and his colleagues approved some of the most significant development projects in downtown Jacksonville in decades, including the Four Seasons Hotel and Resort.

Monahan further expanded his influence in Jacksonville’s development when he worked as an Executive on Loan to the City of Jacksonville. In this capacity, he was critical in overseeing the design, development, and activation of the city’s riverfront parks projects, which received more than $50 million in public investment from the City of Jacksonville. Upon completion, these marquee projects will contribute significantly to revitalizing the downtown area.

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Happening tonight — Continental Strategy will continue to solidify its position as a top D.C. fundraising and lobbying firm by hosting a prominent head table at the NRCC President’s Dinner Tuesday evening, which will feature guests such as gubernatorial candidate and U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, Florida Crystals co-owner Pepe Fanjul, serial entrepreneur Diego Aponte, and SAS adviser Leah F. Campos. Alongside U.S. Rep. Mark Alford and Donald Trump’s Spanish Ambassador nominee Ben Leon, Continental was represented by partners Carlos and spouse Carmen Trujillo, Alberto and spouse Sarah Martinez, Chris Miles, Tim Costa and Alex Garcia, underscoring their influence and connections, particularly with Donalds.

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Today marks one of Florida politics’s most dependably cheerful (and delicious) days.

That’s right: Paella Fest is back.

Hosted by Sen. Ana María Rodriguez, Chair of the Miami-Dade delegation, the event draws locals, advocates and community groups to Tallahassee for a lively day of food and networking.

After arriving on a morning charter flight from Miami, attendees head straight to the Capitol Courtyard for a plate from the “world’s largest paella” — a 1,500-pound cauldron of rice, chicken and shrimp that Florida movers-and-shakers take turns stirring.

“It’s a great way that we showcase our county,” said Samantha Laurel, Miami-Dade’s State Affairs Coordinator. “We don’t push a specific platform. We just provide access, and everyone sets their own meetings.”

The celebration isn’t just about food; it’s about building relationships. “Politics needs less posturing and more paella,” said Rep. Fabián Basabe, who plans to don an apron and join in the cooking.

Launched in 1988 by the not-for-profit Miami-Dade County Days, Paella Fest now feeds about 2,000 attendees annually. “It’s a tradition is one thing we can agree on,” Sen. Shevrin Jones said. “That day, we’re all on the same page.”

Festivities continue into the evening with a “Mambo Kings” celebration and a “Taste of Hialeah” pig roast on Adams Street. A recognition luncheon follows the next morning. Chartered attendees fly back to Miami at 5 p.m.

With the largest legislative delegation in Tallahassee, Miami-Dade uses Paella Fest to spotlight its diversity and foster open dialogue. “It’s a more relaxed way to talk things through,” Rep. Vicki Lopez said. “And for me, paella is a way of serving my constituents.”

The event is free and open to the public. Charter flight tickets cost about $600.

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Updates from the Road: Lauren Book is on the move! Today, Lauren and the Walk in My Shoes crew are spreading education and awareness across Broward County! First up: an advocacy presentation with the PACE Center for Girls, followed by a special visit with local seniors to share safety tips for grandparents and reinforce the message that it’s always OK to tell. Then, classroom visits with Broward County Public Schools for lessons from Lauren’s “Safer, Smarter Kids” curriculum. Be sure to tune in to ESPN tonight as Lauren takes center ice at Amerant Arena to drop the puck at the Panthers’ game — all in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month!

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@vonderleyen: Europe is ready to negotiate with the U.S. We have offered zero-for-zero tariffs for industrial goods. Because we’re always ready for a good deal. But we’re also prepared to respond with countermeasures. And protect ourselves against indirect effects through trade diversion.

—@EWErickson: It is very easy for the President to tell people not to panic, but it will be very hard for him to show meaningful economic gains before the Midterm Elections. Failure to do so will result in a Democrat wave.

Tweet, tweet:

—@Scott_Maxwell: (Ron) DeSantis bashes Dem-appointed judges — but ignores all the Trump/Bush judges who shut him down. I’ve repeatedly asked his office if it can list all the times judges ruled his actions unconstitutional. They never have. They either can’t count that high — or don’t want you to.

—@Fineout: At p.m. event in PC Beach @GovRonDeSantisgoes after House R’s again, calls them obstructionists. “I don’t want the state run by Morgan & Morgan,” he says. DeSantis also rips into @RepCassel again. Says people didn’t vote to “turn over the reins” to a “liberal” from Broward.

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Your Friends and Neighbors’ with Jon Hamm premieres on Apple+ — 3; Children’s Week begins at the Florida Capitol — 5; ‘The Last of Us’ season two premieres — 5; Children’s Day — 7; ‘Andor’ season two premieres — 14; ‘Carlos Alcaraz: My Way’ premieres on Netflix — 15; ‘The Accountant 2’ premieres — 17; ‘Chef’s Table: Legends’ premieres on Netflix — 20; Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ Tour begins in Los Angeles — 20; ‘Thunderbolts’ premieres — 24; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting — 35; Florida Chamber Leadership Conference on Safety, Health + Sustainability — 37; Epic Universe grand opening — 44; Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’ premieres — 45; ‘Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning’ premieres — 45; Florida Chamber Florida Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 51; ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ premieres — 52; Tony Awards — 61; Special Election for SD 19 — 63; DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet will meet — 64; Florida Chamber Florida Learners to Earners Workforce Solution Summit — 77; ‘Squid Game’ season three premieres — 80; James Gunn’s ‘Superman’ premieres — 94; ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ premieres on Netflix — 108; “Fantastic Four – First Steps” premieres — 108; ‘Eyes of Wakanda’ premieres on Disney+ — 120; Florida Chamber Florida Technology & Innovation Solution Summit — 126; Emmys — 159; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 162; Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 171; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 202; ‘Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 227; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 239; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 239; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 253; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 255; Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 304; ‘ Avengers 5’ premieres — 392; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 409; FIFA World Cup 26™ final — 430; Another untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 620; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 760; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 906; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1,193; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 1,309; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,709; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2,440.

— TOP STORY —

“Florida considering temporary housing to hold detained immigrants” via Ana Ceballos of the Miami Herald — The DeSantis administration is exploring temporary housing solutions for immigration detainees within Florida, yet specifics remain shrouded in secrecy.

The proposal, revealed at a State Immigration Enforcement Council meeting last week, lacks details on funding, locations or federal support.

Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez claim they haven’t been briefed, though Perez noted detention capacity is a “top priority for the Trump administration.”

This push coincides with DeSantis’ efforts to empower state and local law enforcement in immigration enforcement, triggering concerns about insufficient detention facilities.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd suggested the state “set up temporary housing to create much-needed additional detention capacity.”

State Board of Immigration Enforcement Executive Director Larry Keefe said that Division of Emergency Management head Kevin Guthrie’s expertise in emergency management to move and house people safely, adding, “Whatever the state of the art is on planet Earth on how to house people, how to move people, and feed people and treat people safely and well, he knows it.” The Florida National Guard could help with security issues if the plan takes off, Keefe added.

The plan’s cost to taxpayers, capacity, and location remain unconfirmed as repeated inquiries to the Florida Division of Emergency Management go unanswered.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“‘The mission continues’: Gov. Ron DeSantis undaunted by ruling against state immigration law” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis says the state will appeal a federal court ruling striking down Florida’s immigration law, contending it’s just the product of a “favorable forum.” “Another day, another activist federal judge thinking that the judiciary should be setting immigration policy rather than the elected officials,” DeSantis said. The crux of the conflict: SB 4C, which proscribes penalties for illegal entry and illegal reentry, mandates imprisonment for being in Florida without being a legal immigrant and capital punishment for any such undocumented immigrant who commits capital crimes. Judge Kathleen Williams, originally a Barack Obama appointee to the Southern District of Florida, questions its constitutionality, saying the law conflicts with the Supremacy Clause and the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

“DeSantis attacks Broward’s newest Republican lawmaker, Hillary Cassel, as ‘very, very liberal’” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Rep. Cassel was praised by Trump and denounced by leading Democrats when she switched to the Republican Party after last year’s election. On Monday, DeSantis went after the Broward lawmaker, expressing doubt about the sincerity of her party switch. The Republican Governor’s criticism of Cassel was part of a broadside against Republicans who control the House. After years of going along with virtually everything DeSantis demanded, the House this year has changed course, repeatedly standing up to the Governor. DeSantis doesn’t like it. At a news conference in Panama City Beach, where he announced his support for “boater freedom” legislation, he cited Cassel to illustrate his contention that House Republicans aren’t acting the way he wants.

— MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“House budget cuts may create nurse, health care shortage” via Michael Costeines of The Floridian — Florida College & University Leaders discussed Monday how the House of Representatives’ recent budget proposal to trim $4 billion would affect higher education for state students, particularly those who use Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) grants, which some rely on to pursue degrees to become nurses in the health care industry. Members of the discussion were from the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida (ICUF). The ICUF includes President Bob Boyd, Barry University President Mike Allen, St. Thomas University President David Armstrong, and Keiser University Chancellor Arthur Keiser. Barry University President Mike Allen addressed his concerns and their potential impact, including on the health care sector in South Florida. In particular, nurses are heavily employed in the area, with many local hospitals.

“‘Brooke’s Law’ to remove porn deepfakes clears final House hurdle before reaching floor” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — “Brooke’s Law” (HB 1161) is one step closer to becoming law after a meeting of the House Commerce Committee. The bill is designed to require internet platforms to remove altered sexual depictions and copies of such depictions from their platform upon request of the victim. It’s now ready for the House floor. Speaker Pro Tempore Wyman Duggan introduced the legislation this Session. It was inspired by what Jacksonville’s Brooke Curry went through in 2023 when a deepfake nude of her was posted to social media. But Duggan noted that the problem was much more widespread than what a single Jacksonville student faced. “Deepfakes and the misuse of synthetic content pose a clear, present and evolving threat to the public,” Duggan said. “Ninety-eight percent of the deepfake videos found online are explicitly pornographic and 99% of those feature women.”

“Vicki Lopez takes the helm on boating safety in 2025 Session” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Rep. Lopez made condo reform her top focus in Tallahassee for the past two years. She’s still pursuing that effort this year and carrying legislation to ensure Florida’s waters are as safe as its shores. One bill (HB 289) has already cleared the House unanimously and awaits a vote in the Senate. Another bill (HB 481) received uniform support in both Committees and is pending a full vote by the lower chamber. HB 289 is titled “Lucy’s Law” after 17-year-old Miami high schooler Luciana Fernandez, who died in a September 2022 boat crash that injured several other passengers. If passed, the measure would make it a third-degree felony to leave the scene of a waterborne accident that hurts someone.

“Bill blocking local plastic, foam container bans backed in first House stop” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — A state House bill prohibiting local governments from banning plastic and foam containers cleared its first step toward passage Tuesday. But state Rep. Omar Blanco says he doesn’t know whether his legislation has a better chance of passing this year than it did before — or pass at all. The House Natural Resources & Disasters Subcommittee voted along party lines to pass the bill, FL HB565 (25R), after an identical measure failed to make it to the House floor last year. Blanco said he doesn’t like using disposable plastic items, but alternative products can sometimes cost too much or are unavailable. “I don’t know that it has a better chance [to pass this year], if we’re being honest,” Blanco said in an interview after the vote. “I’m a common-sense guy. And I’m trying to speak for the people that feel sometimes we’re not representing everybody.”

— EVEN MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“Florida Keys disaster and development bill moves forward” via Andrew Powell of Florida Politics — A third House Committee has approved legislation to improve ecologically and socially significant areas — specifically the Florida Keys in Monroe County. It now has just one Committee stop left after the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Budget Subcommittee unanimously passed the measure. Islamorada Republican Rep. Jim Mooney presented the bill (HB 995) and said it seeks to balance environmental protection, affordable housing development and disaster readiness. “The bill would exempt Habitat for Humanity in the Florida Keys from the requirement to purchase construction performance bonds for the construction of their affordable houses in the Florida Keys,” Mooney said. Mooney explained that these bonds add roughly $10,000 to the cost of each home, and the bill would make the bond optional rather than required, which Mooney said would reduce the cost of affordable housing.

“Environmental activists demand Legislature do more to prevent development at state parks” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Still smarting over proposed new development on state park lands last year, protesters descended on several of those protected lands demanding that the Legislature do more to prevent a repeat this year. Legislation (SB 80, HB 209) called the “State Park Preservation Act” is currently winding through the House and Senate to protect the facilities from further development. The bills are in response to a wildly controversial proposal in 2024 by the DeSantis administration to redevelop nine state parks by building new hotels, golf courses and pickleball courts, among other amenities. There were 16 so-called “love fests” at state parks through the weekend by activists who want legislators to tighten up proposed measures.

— LEG SKED —

Happening today — Rep. Adam Anderson will hold a news conference highlighting efforts to support our student athletes better and improve compensation for athletic coaches across Florida. Joining Anderson is Tampa Bay Buccaneers legend Mike Alstott, FIU Head Football Coach Willie Simmons, and coaches from the Florida Coaches Association: 11 a.m., 4th Floor Rotunda.

Happening today — Sen. Gayle Harrell will join the Jacksonville Historic Naval Ship Association and the Veterans Museum to unveil two new Veterans Museum touch screen kiosks: 2 p.m., Plaza Level. For media inquiries related to the touch screens, please contact Scott Mythen, CEO, Veterans Museum, LLC, [email protected].

Happening today:

— LOBBY REGS —

New and renewed lobbying registrations:

Oscar Anderson, David Browning, Edgar Castro, Nicole Kelly, Clark Smith, The Southern Group: Acree JV, Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine, Douglas TOC Development Partners, Flagler TOC Development Partners, Sunshine Gasoline Distributors

— 100 DAYS —

“Japan PM Shigeru Ishiba says he told Donald Trump to rethink tariff policies” via Reuters — Ishiba said he told Trump in a telephone call that his tariff policies are extremely disappointing and urged him to rethink. “I’ve told the President that Japan has been the biggest investor in the United States for five straight years, and the tariff policies could hurt Japanese companies’ investment capabilities,” Ishiba said. During the 25-minute call, the two leaders agreed to continue constructive dialogue on the issue and to appoint ministers in charge of the discussions, Ishiba said. Meanwhile, Trump mentioned the call with Ishiba in a post on his social media platform, emphasizing that the tariff parameters being set are “tough but fair.”

“Pam Bondi on lawsuits against Trump’s actions: ‘That’s the real constitutional crisis’” via Gregory Svirnovskiy of POLITICO — Attorney General Bondi pushed back on the idea that Trump might ignore future rulings decided by the Supreme Court, spurring constitutional discord. The real crisis, she argued, is the barrage of lawsuits the White House faces as it tries to move quickly on its agenda. “Just since Jan. 20, we’ve had over 170 lawsuits filed against us. That should be the constitutional crisis right there, 50 injunctions,” Bondi told host Shannon Bream on “Fox News Sunday.” “They’re popping up every single day, trying to control his executive power, trying to control where he believes our tax dollars should be allocated.”

“Trump’s billionaire backers begin to balk at his tariffs” via Aaron Blake of The Washington Post — In January, when Trump was inaugurated as President for the second time, he made a point to feature prominent billionaires. Their combined net worth totaled more than $1 trillion. Today, amid a stock market-busting tariff gambit that has cost many of them substantial wealth and thrown the economic forecast into chaos, some of his most prominent billionaire backers and others who entertained his tariffs are breaking with him in a major way. Some of them are even taking shots at key pro-tariff Trump advisers. Many other uber-wealthy and vocal Trump backers are conspicuously quiet. Most prominent among them has been Elon Musk, a top White House adviser who had said little about the tariffs before they were announced.

“Trump will get his showy (and likely expensive) military parade in D.C.” via Tom Sherwood of Washington City Paper — Trump has long lusted after a big military parade over which he could preside — just like he sees leaders do in other, mostly authoritative, countries. During his first term in 2018, Trump wanted a grandiose military parade on the streets of D.C. But Trump angrily and reluctantly canceled his plans after military leaders said it would cost $92 million and District officials complained that heavy military equipment — tanks and planes included — would tear up the roadways and cost $21 million just for parade public safety. Now, second-term Trump apparently won’t be denied. Trump has commandeered Saturday, June 14 — the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and, as it happens, Trump’s 79th birthday — for his military parade. It would stretch almost 4 miles from the Pentagon in Arlington to the White House.

“‘Deep ties to the CCP’: Meet the vaping lobbyist ramping up pressure on Trump to save ‘illicit’ vape industry” via Andrew Mark Miller, Cameron Cawthorne and Fox News — A top vaping lobbyist, whose group worked closely with the Trump campaign last year and is now ramping up pressure on the Trump administration to “uphold their promise to save the flavored vaping industry,” has extensive ties to the Chinese Communist Party. Tony Abboud, the Illinois-based executive director of the Vapor Technology Association, made several smaller donations to pro-Trump GOP Senate candidates ahead of the 2024 Election and met with Trump weeks before the election in a push to protect the vaping industry. However, his past ties to the Democratic Party and CCP are setting off alarm bells with a political operative close to the Trump administration and a top Republican Congressional leadership aide as Abboud’s group ramps up pressure on the Trump administration and lobbies several states to oppose directory bills, which would crack down on Chinese vape companies.

“MAGA gushes over Trump’s weirdest insult yet: ‘PANICAN’” via Amethyst Martinez of the Daily Beast — Trump has unveiled “panicans,” a term blending “panic” and “Republican” to describe perceived weak and stupid adversaries. The label emerged amid market turmoil ignited by Trump’s policies. MAGA loyalists like Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert quickly embraced “panicans” on social media. Trump’s campaign adviser also promoted the term alongside his tariff policies. Democrats, however, are attempting to reclaim “panicans,” suggesting Trump is projecting his own panic. Despite fears of recession, Trump insists on staying the course with tariffs, urging Americans to exhibit patience.

— MORE D.C. MATTERS —

“This Marco Rubio is unrecognizable” via Mary Ellen Klas of Bloomberg — Rubio’s recent actions, marked by a laughing emoji shared with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, signify a drastic shift. Snubbing a U.S. court over deportations to an authoritarian regime contrasts sharply with Rubio’s past as “the son of immigrants and exiles.” Once sensitive to anti-immigrant sentiment, he now partners with Bukele, supporting inhumane purges. The compassionate Rubio of 2013, who championed immigration reform, is gone. His current defense of policies that mirror Castro’s “get out” stance is perplexing, even alarming scholars. Some suggest that political pragmatism fuels this transformation by prioritizing allegiance to Trump and a “realist” foreign policy where national interests trump ideology. The joke’s on those who don’t accept this.

“Venezuelan military on alert, says it fears U.S. will use tensions with Guyana to invade” via Antonio María Delgado of the Miami Herald — The Venezuelan military says it has raised its alert level following the discovery of an alleged U.S. plot to fabricate an incident at an ExxonMobil offshore platform in the contested waters between Venezuela and Guyana to justify an armed conflict. The Venezuelan Defense Ministry stated on Sunday that the plot was designed to create a pretext for conflict in the long-contested Essequibo region — a mineral-rich area roughly the size of Florida that Venezuela claims as its own but has been under Guyanese control since an 1899 arbitration ruling. The statement came a day after Vice President Delcy Rodríguez accused the United States, the Guyanese government, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, and Erik Prince — founder of the private military firm Blackwater — of conspiring to launch a military operation against Venezuela. Rodríguez claimed the “false flag” plot would begin with an attack on the ExxonMobil platform in the contested waters.

“National Weather Service suspends forecast alerts in Spanish” via Naomi Feinstein of the Miami New Times — For the foreseeable future, the National Weather Service (NWS) will no longer provide weather and forecast alerts in languages other than English. As first reported by Bloomberg, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) contract with the AI-translation platform Lilt to send emergency alerts in other languages expired on April 1, putting non-English speaking populations at risk ahead of major storms and weather risks. “Due to a contract lapse, NWS paused our products’ automated language translation services until further notice,” an NWS spokesperson said. The halt in service came as high winds and major flooding hit parts of the country.

“The Cabinet Secretary who wants his cookies freshly baked” via Michael Scherer and Ashley Parker of The Atlantic — Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s leadership style is under scrutiny after reports surfaced of unusual demands made on his staff. Baking cookies, staging multi-course meals and using a U.S. Park Police helicopter for personal transport have raised concerns. While some defend the actions as hospitality or security measures, others cite political appointees seen crying due to the demands. These concerns reached White House officials, with some calling Burgum “Doug the diva.” An Interior spokesperson dismissed the claims as “pathetic smears,” but the situation echoes controversies surrounding other Trump Cabinet members over spending and use of staff.

“Gulf Coast shrimpers see hope in Trump’s tariffs” via Emily Cochrane of The New York Times — In December, Frank Parker upgraded to a bigger shrimp boat. Parker and several other shrimpers said last week that Trump’s tariffs could go a long way toward quashing perhaps their biggest financial threat: the cheap, farm-raised imported shrimp flooding the American market. Now, the biggest shrimp exporters, like Vietnam, Indonesia and India, face some of the largest tariffs. “I’ve left shrimp out there because I didn’t want to give them away for $1 a pound,” Parker said of recent shrimping trips. He added, “I don’t see it getting any worse. We’re at the bottom of the barrel now.” More than 90% of the millions of pounds of shrimp consumed annually in the United States is imported, with a majority coming from India, Ecuador, Indonesia and Vietnam.

“Randy Fine says Congress needs to prove it can govern like the Florida House did” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — “Our side needs to prove it can govern,” said Fine during a Sunday appearance on the Fox News Channel. Fine points to changes in the Florida House, where he served through November last year before being elected on Tuesday to represent Florida’s 6th Congressional District. “Years ago, the Florida House was a 61-59 Republican majority. Today, it’s 87 to 33. We got there because we showed year after year, decade after decade, that we could put singles and doubles and triples on the field and that we could govern,” Fine said, using a baseball metaphor. When Democrats objected to Republican policy moves in past Legislative Sessions, Fine justified it by saying it was “because we can.”

“Miami Dems demand Krome Detention Center tour amid reports of ‘inhumane’ conditions” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Following reports of overcrowding and “inhumane” treatment at the Krome Detention Center, Miami-Dade Democrats are demanding that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grant them a tour of the facility so they can witness the conditions firsthand. U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson and Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava penned letters to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem requesting visits to the Homestead-based center, which immigrant women detained there have reportedly described as “Hell on Earth.” They complained, among other things, of being crammed into cells, denied the ability to bathe regularly, forced to sleep on concrete floors and chained for hours without food, water or bathroom access.

“U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez calls for sanctions against countries that do not pay Cuban doctors directly” via Nora Gámez Torres of the Miami Herald — Giménez has asked Secretary of State Rubio to impose financial sanctions on foreign governments that have hired doctors from Cuba in official medical missions, as part of a renewed effort to cut the island government’s revenues. “I strongly urge you to take immediate action by working with officials in the Trump administration to impose additional financial sanctions on countries that continue to engage with the Cuban dictatorship in these forms of exploitative medical missions,” he wrote. “These countries are complicit in supporting a regime that practices slavery.”

“New data reveal inequality in retirement account ownership” via Maria G. Hoffman and Mark A. Klee of Census.gov — Baby boomers, men and non-Hispanic White and Asian individuals are the nation’s most likely to own retirement accounts. The 2021 Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) includes new questions that help illuminate how people were preparing for retirement in 2020. It highlights differences in retirement assets by generations, sex, race and ethnicity. This report also updates similar estimates for 2013 from a recently released paper that used data from the 2014 Social Security Administration Supplement and the 2014 SIPP.

— STATEWIDE —

“Florida busts massive international child porn ring, over 1 million videos involved” via Eric Daugherty of Florida’s Voice — Florida law enforcement busted a large international child pornography ring that involved eight individuals and over 1 million explicit videos, Attorney General James Uthmeier said Monday. “We will be bringing charges against eight individuals this morning, seven of whom are Florida residents,” Uthmeier said. “As a dad of three little ones, it’s tough to talk about some of this stuff, but what these guys were doing was truly heinous. There’s not a word in the English dictionary that can describe the gross content that was on the videos.” The charges against all eight include felony counts of RICO, money laundering and purchase of child pornography. Uthmeier thanked Rita Peters from the statewide prosecution office for “leading this fight.”

“Insurance Commissioner says 12th new property insurer enters state thanks to reforms” via Ron Hurtibise of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Another new property insurer has been approved to conduct business in Florida — the 12th since the state enacted what Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky called “historic legislative reforms” in 2022 and 2023. The new company, Apex Star Reciprocal Exchange, will be based in New Port Richey, the Office of Insurance Regulation said in a press release on Monday. It will offer numerous different coverages, including fire, allied lines, homeowners multi-peril, commercial multi-peril, inland marine and other liability coverage, the release said. Apex Star is part of the StarLight Insurance Group, which is based in Tampa and also operates in Mississippi.

“Immigration crackdowns disrupt the caregiving industry. Families pay the price” via the Tribune News Service — Americans depend on many such foreign-born workers to help care for family members who are older, injured, or disabled and cannot care for themselves. Nearly 6 million people receive personal care in a private home or a group home and about 2 million people use these services in a nursing home or other long-term care institution. Increasingly, the workers who provide that care are immigrants. The foreign-born share of nursing home workers rose three percentage points from 2007 to 2021 to about 18%. Foreign-born workers make up a high share of other direct care providers. More than 40% of home health aides, 28% of personal care workers, and 21% of nursing assistants were foreign-born in 2022, compared with 18% of workers overall.

— ELECTIONS —

“Cory Mills added to DCCC list of ‘districts in play,’ joining Anna Paulina Luna, Maria Elvira Salazar” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — In announcing a national list of GOP-held “Districts in Play,” House Democrats put CD 7 on the charts. That puts Mills with U.S. Reps. Anna Paulina Luna and María Elvira Salazar in Florida members of Congress in the sights of House Democrats. The DCCC set up a fund to support Democratic challengers. DCCC officials say national Democrats felt galvanized by Special Elections last week, including CD 6, where Republican Fine won but Democrat Josh Weil overperformed by 16 percentage points. Mills won re-election in 2024 over Democrat Jennifer Adams by 13 points.

“Carlos Guillermo Smith is latest Orlando progressive to back Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet in HD 42” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — State Sen. Guillermo Smith is endorsing nonprofit leader Sousa-Lazaballet for an open House seat in Orlando. Sousa-Lazaballet filed in February to succeed state Rep. Anna Eskamani in House District 42 and has quickly tried to shore up the party’s progressive wing. Smith follows that trend. “Over the past decade, I’ve seen Felipe’s deep commitment to justice, equality and community firsthand,” Smith said. “We worked side by side in the aftermath of the Pulse tragedy, elevating the needs of survivors and families while standing up for LGBTQ+ Floridians and gun safety reform. Felipe has also been a leading voice for comprehensive immigration reform. His lived experience as a Dreamer and subject matter expertise on immigration-related issues brings a desperately needed perspective in this political environment.”

“Christine Moore to leave Orange Co. Commission, run for Apopka Mayor” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Orange County Commissioner Moore has filed to run for Apopka Mayor in 2026. Moore, who is in her second term on the County Commission, said there needs to be a change in leadership at the city level. “The city has had a lot of trauma, a lot of problems,” Moore told Florida Politics. “I’d like to get in there and bring the rancor and ill will down and move toward creating a beautiful downtown together.” Apopka’s City Election will be held March 10, 2026. The mayoral post will be up, as will City Council Seats 1 and 2. Moore is the first candidate to file for a city office in that election. Mayor Bryan Nelson has not announced if he will seek another term.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Veto coming? Dentists join Miami-Dade Mayor to endorse fluoride in tap water” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — As she considers issuing a veto to keep fluoride in Miami-Dade County’s tap water, Mayor Levine Cava assembled a group of medical experts who back the long-standing practice aimed at improving dental health. “It’s important to have fluoride in the water, especially at a young, early age,” said Dr. John Nelson, a Miami dentist and president of the Miami-Dade Dental Society. “When you’re developing those permanent teeth, it’s very, very important to have that fluoride in the water so that when one’s teeth come into the mouth, they’re nice and strong.”

“Fort Lauderdale won’t claw back money from police union bosses’ big pay raises” via Susannah Bryan of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Against the advice of their own city auditor, Fort Lauderdale Commissioners agreed not to claw back money from out-of-the-ordinary pay increases given to two police union bosses last year. The raises in January 2024 never got the required Commission approval. They came to light eight months later, taking the entire Commission by surprise and sparking a debate about whether the city should recover the money. In January 2024, then-City Manager Greg Chavarria directed the human resources director to increase the salaries of Union President Scott Moseley and Union Vice President Scott Hoffer. Moseley and Hoffer each had been earning $112,923 a year as officers. The raises amounted to more than $105,000 for one year alone.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Tiffany Moore Russell is first candidate in high-profile Orange County Mayor race” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The race for Orange County Mayor officially has its first candidate, as Clerk of Courts Russell has filed her intent to run for the job. Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings is term-limited, which means there could be a crowded race to replace him next year. Several well-known local officials are considering running for County Mayor, including former U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy and Orange County Commissioner Mayra Uribe. The Sentinel also said other potential candidates could be Demings’ wife, former U.S. Rep. Val Demings, former Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh, and others. The Orange County Mayor oversees a more than $7 billion budget. Orange County brings in millions of tourists every year, which helps generate a lucrative hotel tax to fund projects. But the community is also wrestling with an affordable housing crunch, a lack of public transportation, crowded roads and other problems.

“Orlando inks ICE agreement. ‘People are terrified,’ immigration advocates say” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Orlando Police joined a growing list of law enforcement agencies across Florida last month and signed an agreement with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement to cooperate with the Trump administration’s deportation policies. Monday, the agreement was blasted by local immigrant advocates as unnecessary and an overstep at a time when immigrants are fearful of deportation — even if they’re here legally. The agreement, they argued, also runs counter to the city’s Trust Policy, enacted in 2018, which bars city employees and law enforcement from inquiring about the immigration status of a law-abiding person or somebody pulled over for a traffic stop. The city’s deal appeared recently on an ICE database, alongside similar deals with 177 other agencies across 22 states. Because the city doesn’t operate a jail, it signed a “Task Force Model” agreement, which grants “limited immigration authority” to local authorities during their regular duties. Chief Eric Smith signed it on March 20, the document reads.

“Soft on crime? Monique Worrell followed lead of GOP counterpart to shrink case backlog” via Cristóbal Reyes of the Orlando Sentinel — While Orange-Osceola State Attorney Worrell is being lambasted by GOP critics for efforts to whittle down a backlog of criminal cases, records show she is following the example of another top prosecutor whose similar move raised little ire: Republican William Gladson of the neighboring Fifth Circuit. Records obtained by the Orlando Sentinel show that Worrell’s move last week to limit the review of cases in which police have not arrested a suspect tracks closely with a policy by Gladson in 2021. Both State Attorneys worried that it was not an effective use of time for their prosecutors to press cases that were not ready to move ahead.

“Defying tourism fears, Orange hotel tax collections shatter records” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Amid worries about the U.S. economy and international travel, Orange County’s tourist-tax collections are roaring, with the first five months of 2024-25 nearly $9 million ahead of the previous year when the surcharge brought in a record $359 million. February’s $35.5 million total was the highest ever for the month, said Comptroller Phil Diamond, who tracks collections of the 6% levy added to the cost of a hotel room, a home-sharing rental or other short-term lodging. He said the figures to date were surprising because this year’s tourism windfall was expected to come this Summer after the opening of Epic Universe.

“Port Orange enters controversial ICE agreement to train, give police immigration law powers” via Brenno Carillo of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — The Port Orange City Council voted unanimously to approve a memorandum of agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that designates immigration law enforcement duties and powers to Port Orange Police officers. The measure is part of ICE’s 287(g) program, which allows the agency “to delegate to state and local law enforcement officers the authority to perform specified immigration officer functions under the agency’s direction and oversight.” The memorandum calls for the Port Orange Police Department to nominate officers to be trained and certified by ICE officials in the new functions, which include the power to “arrest without warrant any alien entering or attempting to unlawfully enter the United States in the officer’s presence or view.”

“Palm Bay approves ICE training for cops under Florida’s 287(g) immigration policy” via Tyler Vazquez of Florida Today — Palm Bay this week became the latest Brevard County city to authorize ICE training for its police officers that would allow them to detain persons suspected of being in the country without documentation. City Council members voted 5-0 in favor of the measure. Chief Mariano Augello said officers wouldn’t be out doing raids or “checking statuses” but would be allowed to make administrative arrests of individuals wanted for immigration violations. According to the approved measure, “The Palm Bay Police Department will not conduct self-initiated immigration enforcement operations, workplace raids, or targeted investigations based solely on immigration status.”

— LOCAL: TB —

“Largo Police Department to enter agreement with ICE” via Jeff Rosenfield of the Tampa Bay Times — In a split vote, the City Commission approved a request by the police department to enter into a cooperative agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. During a March 18 Commission meeting, Largo Police Chief Mike Loux said the department’s request to enter a memorandum of agreement with ICE under terms of the Immigration and Nationality Act was “designed to improve cooperation between local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities.” It would mean “increased safety and security, improved and increased training and support (and) efficient resource utilization,” Loux said.

“Rep. Kathy Castor fears tariffs will hinder Tampa Bay’s hurricane recovery” via Breanne Williams of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Rep. Castor fears Trump’s new tariff policy will push Tampa Bay’s recovery following hurricanes Helene and Milton “further out of reach.” Castor told the Tampa Bay Business Journal that construction materials — lumber, drywall, wiring, etc. — will be more expensive as contractors struggle to absorb the significant cost increases that have gone into effect overnight. “When you’re hit with a number of hurricanes, and you have hundreds of thousands of families and businesses trying to rebuild, and you’re doing all of that during a time of inflation, the last thing you need is higher costs and uncertainty,” Castor said.

“Tom Pepin is pouring his family fortune into the next generation of Tampa Bay entrepreneurs and philanthropists” via Christina Georgacopoulos of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Tom Pepin established his multigenerational family business into a $260 million operation and nationally ranking Anheuser-Busch distributor with a hard-charging flair crucial in the alcohol distribution industry. But the most challenging part of his 45-year tenure came at the end. When the alcohol magnate and Pepin Distributing’s chief executive decided to sell the 60-year-old company started by his father, he needed his daughter’s blessing. Tina Pepin, the heir apparent of his six children, had been preparing to take over Pepin Distributing for as long as she could remember.

“Bonati Spine Institute files for bankruptcy after high-stakes defamation case” via Christina Georgacopoulos of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — The founder of the Bonati Spine Institute in Pasco County has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after a high-stakes defamation lawsuit he filed against a state agency was dismissed in court. While the total amount of debt is unknown, Dr. Alfred Bonati listed between $10 million and $50 million in liabilities in a personal Chapter 11 bankruptcy filed in the Middle District of Florida bankruptcy court on April 1. An attorney for Bonati did not immediately return a request for comment. A spokesperson for the Spine Institute did not return a request for comment. Bonati has faced financial difficulties for the last two years as he sought to restore the Spine Institute’s reputation after the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration closed one of its surgical centers in early 2023. AHCA had alleged that unlicensed employees at his practice were performing spine surgeries, an accusation he contested in a $500 million defamation lawsuit filed in April 2024.

“EVOS to close all Tampa Bay locations after 31 years” via Devonta Davis of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — After more than three decades of pioneering healthy fast food, EVOS Holdings has announced the closure of its three remaining locations in St. Petersburg, South Tampa and Carrollwood. The decision marks the end of a 31-year journey that aimed to redefine fast food for diners across Tampa Bay. EVOS was known for its air-fried menu options, which included gourmet wraps, nutrition bowls and hand-tossed salads. “We’ve enjoyed this chapter of our lives immensely, but all good things come to an end,” said co-founder Michael Jeffers in a statement. “We have no regrets, and we leave after taking steps to secure jobs and futures for our valued team. We’re thankful for the opportunity to serve our community, which has repeatedly rewarded us.”

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Jacksonville Council member Terrance Freeman wants state’s DOGE team to audit city spending” via Michelle Vecerina of Florida’s Voice — Jacksonville City Council member Freeman filed a resolution requesting a voluntary financial audit of the city by the Florida Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. “Jacksonville should lead the way in being a good steward of tax dollars,” Freeman told Florida’s Voice. “We should embrace all efforts to cut government waste. My resolution simply asks the state’s outside team to come in and make recommendations.” The resolution backs DeSantis’ Executive Order 25-44, which empowers the DOGE task force to suggest reforms that promote fiscal responsibility, increase productivity, and improve transparency.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“‘A driveway for a developer’: A Sarasota County Commissioner clashes with Hi Hat Ranch” via Christian Casale of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — When Sarasota County Commissioners scheduled a workshop in April to figure out what exactly was going on with Hi Hat Ranch, it wasn’t because everything has been smooth sailing. The squabble: Whether Hi Hat Ranch developers can use county-owned land to build an access route to their planned housing subdivision, as well as how much the county will pay to widen a section of Bee Ridge Road leading up to that road. Hi Hat Ranch is currently 10,000 acres of flat-as-can-be grazing land nestled between Interstate 75 and Lake Myakka. Within a few decades, it will be Sarasota County’s next megadevelopment.

“Naples’ Coastland Center Mall Easter Bunny battered by young teenagers” via Kendall Little of the Naples Daily News — Three Naples teens definitely won’t be getting a visit from the Easter Bunny. Naples Police responded to a disturbance at Coastland Center Mall on Sunday, April 6, and found an unpleasant surprise: Two 13-year-olds and a 14-year-old had beaten a person portraying the Easter Bunny. The Naples Police Department reported on Facebook that the 24-year-old female victim was returning to the break room while wearing the Easter Bunny costume when the three teenagers approached her. They then pushed, shoved, and pulled her. Two of the teens were arrested for battery (misdemeanor), and the third met the qualifications for a Juvenile Civil Citation for battery (misdemeanor). Coastland Center Mall did not respond to immediate requests for comment.

“Russell Brand news: Comedian visited this Florida island as rape charges were filed” via Dave Osborn of the Fort Myers News-Press — As Brand was making international news in recent days, he was enjoying time on Southwest Florida beaches. The British actor and comedian last week was charged in London with rape and sexual assault. At about the same time, Brand was photographed with his family while staying in Boca Grande in the Gulf. The story shows photos of Brand with his wife and children Friday morning, saying Brand was renting a beachfront villa at the Gasparilla Inn on Boca Grande and that he was photographed walking outside the Inn the same day the charges were announced. Brand has rejected the charges against him.

— TOP OPINION —

“I should have seen this coming” via David Brooks of The Atlantic — I’ve long believed in America’s potential for good, even with its flaws. Recent events, however, have shaken that faith.

The behavior toward allies and the valorization of cruelty is a moral shame. As George Orwell understood, the pursuit of power without a vision of good leads to the infliction of suffering.

This administration, driven by a philosophy that morality is for suckers, seeks to dismantle any check on its authority. Truth is abandoned, and lying becomes the language of the state.

This isn’t conservatism; it’s nihilism, an axis of ruthlessness personified by Trump and his ilk.

Sadly, the conservative movement was blind to this, elevating reactionaries who reveled in shocking the left. The left’s excesses, from campus purges to moral pontificating, fueled this resentment.

A potent Trumpian cocktail of narcissism and nihilism has corroded faith and principles, with a focus on power and a lack of interest in making life better for working-class Americans. But history provides hope.

Like Andrew Jackson before him, this demagogue will overreach. A new Whig moment will emerge from the ashes, driven by a national shift in values, a renewed national identity, a civic renaissance, honest reassessment, and real political reform.

This starts slow, but change will ultimately come. The sparks will fly upward.

— OPINIONS —

“A third Trump term? Don’t count it out” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — The nation needs to take seriously the prospect that Trump will mount a coup to remain in power past 2028. “No, no, I’m not joking. I’m not joking,” he insisted. He spoke of “methods” — plural — to circumvent the 22nd Amendment. He didn’t specify them. It wouldn’t be his first attempt to remain in office illegally. The last one culminated in a mob attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, to try to thwart Joe Biden’s electoral victory. “If you don’t fight like hell, you’re not going to have a country anymore,” Trump told the mob, whose hundreds of crimes he pardoned when he returned to the White House four years later. It means they would be ready and willing to do whatever he might ask of them again. Last week was especially fraught, not just for his catastrophic worldwide trade war. He also continued purging the military and National Security Council of people who might put their oaths to uphold the Constitution ahead of any loyalty to him.

“What Democrats won’t say about Joe Biden” via Chris Cillizza of So What — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz’s recent exchange regarding Biden’s fitness for re-election stunned me. After previously supporting Biden despite glaring concerns, Walz’s defense reveals a troubling refusal to admit the obvious. Reporting makes clear Biden’s decline was evident, yet Democrats willfully ignored it. To downplay this deception is a disservice to voters and a strategic blunder for future leaders like Walz. Leadership demands acknowledging the mistake: Biden shouldn’t have run and defending him was wrong. The Democratic Party lost trust by perpetuating a myth of Biden’s competence. To regain that trust, honesty about the President’s condition is essential.

“Florida has an eye care crisis: Let optometrists do more” via Alex Rizo for the Miami Herald — Floridians have waited long enough. For years — decades, even — we’ve been tangled in a drawn-out brawl over expanding eye care, watching other states sprint ahead while we stumble. It’s time to end the stalling and let Florida’s trusted, trained optometrists practice to the full extent of their expertise. This shouldn’t be about politics. Floridians aren’t interested in turf wars. We must promote fairness and delivering the best care in the most effective way possible. Yet somehow, it’s still a fight. We’re raised to own our health — brushing our teeth, booking checkups, staying proactive. It’s universal, drilled into us for well-being and longevity. Floridians want that same control over their eye care, but they’re hitting walls in the Sunshine State. Eye care is a pipe dream for too many, especially in rural areas and vulnerable communities.

“What’s the cost to Florida’s economy of Canadian tariffs and canceling Spring Break?” via the Miami Herald editorial board — Miami is grappling with a potential downturn in Canadian tourism, a crucial segment of South Florida’s economy. Flights from Quebec are down, and restaurants and small businesses feel the impact. While rising costs and political factors contribute, some Canadians cite opposition to Trump’s policies. Billboards funded by the Canadian government protest tariffs, adding to the tension. According to Visit Lauderdale, the absence of 1.1 million Canadian tourists could significantly affect the local economy. While Miami Beach’s shift away from Spring Break proved successful, the region must adapt, diversify its economy, and weather the storm to avoid a future tourism downturn.

“What the comfort class doesn’t get” via Xochitl Gonzalez of The Atlantic — A recent personal experience with an overdrawn account, despite current financial stability, highlighted a disturbing trend: class blindness. Wearable device data revealed “unusual stress,” yet offered no category for financial issues, a top anxiety source for Americans. Beyond a wealth gap lies a “comfort class” apartheid. Dominated by those with generational wealth, education, hiring, and policymaking systems are largely disconnected from the realities of working-class lives. This gap fuels rejection of “woke-ism” and the rise of Trump, who acknowledged economic anxieties dismissed by many. Classism persists as a socially acceptable prejudice, leading to policies that fail to address the financial stress felt by millions of people. And the pundits and politicians, on all sides, will watch it from a safe, comfortable distance.

“Digital liberty at what cost? Unpacking the right-to-repair crusade” via Edward Longe for Florida Politics — The “right-to-repair” movement, gaining traction in states like California, risks undermining the very innovation it claims to promote. Advocates ignore the thriving free market where companies are already expanding repair options. These mandates jeopardize consumer data by opening devices to vulnerabilities and counterfeit components. Instead of benefiting consumers, this movement appears driven by a political agenda targeting innovative companies. A market-driven approach, allowing free enterprise to develop secure solutions, is the answer, safeguarding both consumers and America’s digital sovereignty. This principle must be defended against misguided regulatory assaults.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Florida tops the nation in domestic tourists last year, breaks its own record for a sixth time” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida was the top vacation destination among Americans — again — and DeSantis is spotlighting the record-breaking performance. The Sunshine State accounted for 15.5% of domestic tourism in America in 2024. That’s up by nearly one percentage point from 2023. During the DeSantis administration, it’s also the sixth time the state has broken its own tourism record. “Florida is the world’s favorite place to visit,” DeSantis said. “This record tourism is a result of policies that prioritize freedom, public safety, and common-sense.” That 2024 trend seems to be carrying over into 2025 thus far. The number of Canadians visiting Florida by air has increased by 0.5% in the first two months. That’s also above the national figure, which showed a 2.3% decline in Canadians traveling to the United States.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best birthday wishes to former Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, who is now with Ballard Partners. Also celebrating today are Miami Man and former “Meet the Press” moderator Chuck Todd, Jim Cordero of the Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida, Elizabeth Hirst, and Jesse Phillips.

___

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

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