Good Wednesday morning.

Happening overnight — Voters in coastal Palm Beach County narrowed the field Tuesday in Primary Election races for House District 87, setting up a Special General Election on March 24 to fill the long-vacant seat. With Election Day votes still being tallied and early and vote-by-mail ballots outstanding, Democrat Emily Gregory and Republican Jon Maples emerged as decisive winners in their respective Primaries.

Gregory captured about 88% of the vote over Laura Levites in the Democratic Primary, while Maples won roughly 80% against Gretchen Miller Feng on the Republican side. Election officials cautioned that the margins could shift as additional ballots are counted.

Gregory and Maples will now advance to the March 24 Special General Election for the District, which stretches along the coast through Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, Juno Beach and Hypoluxo. The seat has been vacant since August, when Republican Rep. Mike Caruso resigned to accept an appointment as Palm Beach County Clerk and Comptroller.

The prolonged vacancy became a central issue in the race, leaving HD 87 without representation during the 2026 Legislative Session and prompting Gregory to file a lawsuit seeking to compel Gov. Ron DeSantis to call a Special Election. The case was later rendered moot when the Governor set election dates.

Gregory, a Jupiter small-business owner and public health professional, campaigned on public education funding, health care access and property insurance costs. She led Democratic fundraising, raising more than $101,000 through early January.

Maples, a financial planner and former Lake Clarke Shores Council member, consolidated GOP support early, earning endorsements from the Florida House Republican Campaign Committee and President Donald Trump. He emphasized fiscal restraint and a pro-business agenda, amassing more than $278,000 between his campaign and affiliated committee.

“The FHRCC was proud to have joined with President Donald J. Trump in endorsing candidate Jon Maples,” said Speaker-designate Sam Garrison. “We will continue our strong support through the March 24 Special General Election and beyond.”

___

More Floridians support DeSantis than not, but only barely.

A new survey from Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy found that 50% of Florida voters approve of DeSantis’ job performance as Governor, while 46% disapprove and 4% are unsure.

The topline shows a modest dip from Mason-Dixon’s March 2025 survey, in which he scored 53% approval. The slide in net favorability was sharper, however, dropping from a plus-11 last year to plus-4 today.

The crosstabs show clear demographic divides. DeSantis’ support remains strongest among White voters (58%), and while he still earns a plurality of Hispanic voters (49%), that backing has softened, sliding eight points since last year. Black voters overwhelmingly disapproved of his performance: 84% disapproved and 7% approved.

Gender and age splits also cut against him. DeSantis is now underwater with women, while older voters and men continue to buoy his overall standing. Regionally, his strongest support comes from Republican strongholds in North Florida and Southwest Florida, helping offset weaker numbers in Southeast Florida.

And while Republicans and Democrats largely remained entrenched in their views of DeSantis, the Governor’s standing has slid 10 points among third- and no-party voters, from 51% support in 2025 to 41% today.

The results mark DeSantis’ second-weakest showing since taking office. The worst came during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the pollster’s July 2020 survey found him underwater at 45% approval and 49% disapproval. His high point came shortly after taking office. In March 2019, DeSantis had a 62% approval rating and 24% disapproval, for a plus-38 net.

“With no immediate announced political plans, DeSantis’ popularity drop probably has no immediate impact. Overall, a 50% approval rating is not bad — it is simply somewhat lower than what he has enjoyed throughout his tenure,” the polling memo reads.

The Mason-Dixon poll was conducted Jan. 8-12 and has a sample size of 625 registered voters. The margin of error is +/-4% at a 95% confidence level.

___

The Florida Chamber of Commerce released its annual jobs and competitiveness agenda, Where We Stand 2026, outlining the business lobby’s legislative priorities for the 2026 Legislative Session.

Released during the 2026 Florida Chamber Legislative Fly-In, the agenda reflects input from local businesses, local chambers of commerce, key policymakers, trade groups and industry leaders across the state. The Chamber said the agenda aligns state policy priorities with the Florida 2030 Blueprint, its long-term roadmap for growing Florida’s economy.

“Florida’s continued success is driven by a unified business community that believes in free enterprise and has a long-term vision for Florida’s economic competitiveness,” said David Sweeney, Board Chair for RS&H and the Florida Chamber of Commerce.

“The Florida Chamber’s 2026 Where We Stand agenda keeps Florida on the path where businesses can continue to grow, families can prosper, and opportunity reaches every ZIP code.”

The agenda calls for further legal and regulatory changes that enhance the protections lawmakers passed in the 2023 torts package, arguing that those measures help control costs for consumers and employers.

The Chamber is also prioritizing policies to encourage greater competition in the state’s property insurance market, expand workforce housing options, and boost infrastructure investments as Florida’s population continues to grow. Other goals include strengthening education and workforce training pipelines, improving access to health care and behavioral health services, and maintaining fiscal policies that the organization says support a stable business climate.

“Florida’s growth did not happen by chance, and maintaining our competitive edge requires thoughtful policy choices that put the long-term ahead of the short-term and ensuring we don’t take any steps backward,” Florida Chamber President and CEO Mark Wilson said. “With 2026 Where We Stand, the Florida Chamber remains laser-focused on the Florida 2030 Blueprint goal of becoming a top 10 global economy.”

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@GovRonDeSantis: Floridians are seeing rate reductions in both auto and homeowners insurance across the state, with additional relief coming soon. Premiums are lowering because we’ve enacted real reforms and withstood the pressure to reverse course. We will hold firm in our commitment not to go back to the broken insurance market of the past.

—@FBSaunders: Ahead of his final State of the State — a source in the FL House says they’ve deliberately not set out a seat for @GovRonDeSantis in the chamber “because he leaves right after his speech anyway.”

—@LivCaputo: Ahead of the state of the state, DeSantis did not shake (Daniel) Perez’s hand — only (Ben) Albritton’s. At a press avail now, Perez says a long-term member told him that it’s a “sad day for the state” and that this was likely the Governor being “petulant.”

—@Fineout: Fla House Speaker Daniel Perez told reporters he expects the Legislature to act on redistricting this year, but said the timing is now in question after DeSantis called an April Special Session

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—@Fineout: Sign of Times: @AP does not have a reporter based in Tallahassee, the capital of the 3rd largest state, after its lone reporter here went to work for another outlet. Session starts today but hear it’s unlikely the job will be filled. AP used to boast of its 50-state strategy

—@JimRosicaFL: From 2015, also from Brian Carovillano, AP’s managing editor for U.S. news: “State government coverage is essential to AP and its members, and we are doubling down on that commitment…”

—@ComChrisLatvala: I raised about as much as this guy (James Fishback). I was unconscious for part of the quarter and in the hospital for 2 out of the 3 months.

—@NbergWX: Could be one of the coldest NFL and Chicago Bears games on record this Sunday when the Rams come to the Windy City. AI Euro model spitting out wind chills 0 to -10°F mid-afternoon Sunday with air temps for a high maybe in the 10-15°F range. Wind gusts 20-30 MPH seem likely.

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 4; Florida Tourism Day — 7; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 16; The Grammy Awards — 18; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 22; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 23; ‘Paradise’ season two premieres on Hulu — 40; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Y: Marshals’ premieres — 46; Boca Raton Mayoral referendums and City Council Elections — 55; last day of the Regular Session — 58; The Oscars — 60; ‘Peaky Blinders’ movie premieres on Netflix — 65; Special Election for SD 14, HD 87, HD 51 and HD 52 — 69; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 70; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 71; new season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 79; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 82; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 91; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 91; First Qualifying Period begins (Federal) — 96; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 100; F1 Miami begins — 107; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 128; new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ premieres at Disney World — 128; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 139; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 145; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 148; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 149; State Qualifying Period ends — 149; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 156; Florida GOP’s statewide debates for the Primary in its “Sunshine State Showdown” — 163; Mexico will face live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 168; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 171; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 176; MLB All-Star Game — 181; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 183; Primary Election: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 187; Primary Election: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 204; Primary Election: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 206; Primary Election Day — 216; Yankees host the Mets to mark the anniversary of 9/11 — 240; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 244; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 248; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 253; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 260; General Election: Deadline to register to vote — 264; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 283; 2026 General Election — 293; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero‘ premieres — 296; Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 338; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 338; untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 338; Tampa Mayoral Election — 412; Jacksonville First Election — 433; Jacksonville General Election — 489; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 507; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 569; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 625; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 702; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 912; U.S. Presidential Election — 1028; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1428; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2159.

— TOP STORY —

“‘We have set the standard’: In final ‘State of the State,’ Gov. Ron DeSantis says his tenure delivered for Floridians” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — DeSantis used his final State of the State address to deliver a defiant defense of his record, touting what he called “big results” while urging lawmakers to send him legislation on immigration, gun rights, rural policy and the dismantling of diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

In a 30-minute speech opening the 2026 Legislative Session, DeSantis leaned heavily on his familiar themes, declaring Florida the “Free State of Florida” and calling on legislators to move quickly. He said his expectations were simple: get bills to his desk so he could sign them.

On property tax relief, an issue that has exposed tensions within his own party, DeSantis struck a more conciliatory tone than in recent weeks. He encouraged lawmakers to work together on a proposal that could go before voters, framing it as a chance for “transformational relief” decided at the ballot box.

DeSantis again defended Hope Florida, the charity initiative championed by First Lady Casey DeSantis, crediting it with moving people off public assistance and saving the state $130 million annually. He described the program as proof that “a hand up is better than a handout.”

Democrats sharply disputed that claim, renewing accusations that Hope Florida improperly funneled money to a political committee tied to former Chief of Staff James Uthmeier, now the state’s Attorney General. Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman called the Governor “out of touch” and accused his administration of corruption.

The Governor also warned about the risks of artificial intelligence, arguing for oversight while acknowledging its potential. He said AI could disrupt the economy, strain energy resources and worsen social harms, citing concerns about teens and online culture.

DeSantis closed by highlighting fiscal policy, cultural battles, immigration enforcement and Everglades restoration, saying Florida has strengthened its finances, paid down debt, and led the nation in environmental recovery.

Framing his legacy in historical terms, he cast Florida as a modern steward of the ideals of 1776, even as national Democrats denounced his record as harmful to working Floridians.

—“DeSantis looks back in opening his final Florida Legislative Session” via Romy Ellenbogen of the Tampa Bay Times

—“Democrats fault DeSantis for misplaced priorities in final State of the State” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics

“DeSantis rails against AI in final ‘State of the State’ address” via Andrew Atturbury of POLITICO — DeSantis urged lawmakers to act on artificial intelligence during his final State of the State address, signaling the issue will be a major focus of the 2026 Legislative Session. Warning of AI’s power to distort reality, DeSantis said, “An AI tool is only as good as the data that is inputted — garbage in, garbage out.” He pushed for new consumer protections, including an AI “bill of rights” that would require transparency when users interact with AI systems and allow legal action if a person’s name, image or likeness is misused. DeSantis said lawmakers have a duty to ensure AI develops ethically, cautioning the technology could disrupt jobs, strain infrastructure and leave consumers bearing the cost of power-hungry data centers.

— STATEWIDE —

“House Speaker calls DeSantis’ hand-shake snub ‘petulant’ on first day of Session” via Alexandra Glorioso and Lawrence Mower of the Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau — Gov. DeSantis opened his final State of the State address with a pointed snub, shaking hands with Senate President Albritton while ignoring House Speaker Perez, a moment that underscored deep fractures atop Florida’s Republican leadership. Perez called the slight unprecedented and said it reflected lingering tensions after a tumultuous 2025 Session in which the House challenged DeSantis’ spending priorities and asserted its independence. The rift also strained Perez’s relationship with Albritton following failed budget negotiations over a proposed sales tax cut. While Albritton struck a conciliatory tone publicly, he made clear his focus remains on Senate outcomes, not mediating executive-legislative disputes. The episode signals a contentious final Session marked by unresolved rivalries and power struggles.

“Ben Albritton downplays political tensions as Legislative Session starts” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Albritton on Tuesday sought to strike a conciliatory tone as the 2026 Legislative Session opened amid visible tensions in Tallahassee. After DeSantis shook Albritton’s hand but skipped Perez during the State of the State address, Perez called the snub “petulant,” while Albritton said he did not notice it. “I’m going to remain positive,” Albritton said, adding he would work with both leaders to “build wins for Floridians.” He downplayed talk of a rift, calling Perez a friend. On policy, Albritton said the Senate is unlikely to back a bill lowering the age to buy guns and pledged that the chamber is “absolutely committed” to putting a property tax reform proposal on the ballot.

Happening today — DeSantis will hold a news conference in Pinellas County: 9 a.m., with media arrival beginning at 8:30 a.m., at Seminole High School, 8401 131st Street North, Seminole. All interested and credentialed media must RSVP to [email protected].

“Can Florida take over school districts? DeSantis raises the possibility.” via Jeffrey S. Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — DeSantis suggested that Florida’s School Districts could come under state control if they’re operating in ways his administration doesn’t condone. “There’s a handful of spots around the state where maybe thrusting these entities into receivership might be the best way to go forward,” DeSantis said. “I think you could work things out pretty quickly.” He made his comment in response to a question relating to the Broward County School District. The questioner detailed a list of problems that Broward has encountered, such as inappropriately using referendum revenue for administrator bonuses, and asked whether it’s time for the state to step in “and set it straight.”

“AG James Uthmeier on Florida’s camping ban law: ‘Homelessness is not permitted’” via Joe Byrnes of Central Florida Public Media — Uthmeier said Monday that “homelessness is not permitted” as he addressed a notice sent to Winter Haven last week alleging violations of a state law that bans overnight camping on public property. The city responded to the notice on Friday, insisting Winter Haven is complying. The violation notice cited a resident’s complaint accusing the city of letting more and more people reside in parks and on sidewalks and public benches. The notice includes photographs of people sleeping outdoors. “We passed a law recently here in Florida. Homelessness is not permitted,” Uthmeier said. “Law enforcement has a job to do. Part of having a safe environment for families is that you don’t have people sleeping in parks where children might be playing, where you don’t have people that may be inebriated or suffering from mental health issues or other, you know, dangerous, violent tendencies.”

“Florida AG sues U.S. Masters Swimming over transgender athletes” via Sierra Rains of WFLA — Uthmeier has filed a lawsuit against United States Masters Swimming, arguing that the sports association is breaking the law by continuing to allow transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports. “U.S. Masters Swimming still advertises women’s divisions while allowing men to compete in them. That is deceptive and it violates Florida law,” the Attorney General said. The lawsuit cites the “Fairness in Women’s Sports Act,” signed by DeSantis in 2021. The act requires sports teams and competitions to be separated by a person’s sex assigned at birth. In June 2025, USMS joined the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in changing its policies on transgender athletes. The NCAA limited women’s competitions to people assigned female at birth. This came one day after Trump signed an executive order to ban transgender athletes from women’s sports.

“Florida pushes back against lawsuit over recreational pot amendment petition signatures” via Jim Saunders of the News Service of Florida — Secretary of State Cord Byrd argued a judge should reject a lawsuit challenging directives by state elections officials that invalidated about 71,000 petition signatures for a proposed recreational-marijuana constitutional amendment. Attorneys for Byrd pointed to issues such as efforts to prevent petition fraud while defending the directives, which invalidated about 42,000 petitions signed by what are known as “inactive” voters and nearly 29,000 petitions collected by out-of-state petition gatherers. The Smart & Safe Florida political committee, which is trying to get the recreational-marijuana proposal on the November ballot, filed the lawsuit Dec. 29 in Leon County circuit court. The legal battle is unfolding as the committee faces a Feb. 1 deadline to submit at least 880,062 valid petition signatures to the state.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“DeSantis boots José Oliva, a former ally, off state university Board” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — DeSantis has declined to renominate his once loyal ally, former House Speaker Oliva, to an influential state Board that oversees Florida’s public university system. In a press release sent out just before his State of the State address started, DeSantis named four new appointments and two reappointments to the State University System’s Board of Governors (BOG). Missing in the press release was any mention of Oliva, whose prior term ended Jan. 6. Oliva was a DeSantis defender who had even been rumored to be on DeSantis’ list of Lieutenant Governor choices before DeSantis picked Jay Collins. But Oliva clashed with DeSantis as the BOG voted on a new Chair in November.

“Daniel Perez warns of tough choices in 2026 as House braces for tax, insurance, drug-cost battles” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — House Speaker Perez opened the 2026 Legislative Session by framing last year’s turmoil as a defining transition for the Florida House, marked by internal conflict, bruising negotiations and a public rupture with Gov. DeSantis. Perez said lawmakers “found our voice” during the volatile 2025 Session, asserting independence through veto overrides, dismantling the Hope Florida charity, reshaping immigration enforcement policy and advancing property tax proposals. Looking ahead, he warned the Session will be dominated by affordability pressures, insurance costs and a challenging budget outlook. Perez also signaled urgency on mid-decade redistricting and infrastructure investment, while acknowledging lingering friction with DeSantis and Senate President Albritton as major policy battles loom.

“Medical malpractice, doulas, dental care: Health care nitty-gritty in the 2026 Session” via Christine Sexton of the Florida Phoenix — Florida leads the nation in Affordable Care Act enrollment and, if the enhanced premium tax subsidies people rely on to help purchase the health insurance aren’t extended, the state could see the ranks of the uncovered rise exponentially. What, if anything, the Legislature does in the next two months to make health care more affordable and accessible to Florida residents remains to be seen. Florida legislators are expected to once again look at killing a medical malpractice law that bars adult children of single parents and parents of childless adult children from pursuing negligence lawsuits if a family member has died.

Blaise Ingoglia priority bill filed in House, Senate — CFO Ingoglia announced Tuesday that his priority legislation, which would crack down on immigration, is being carried by Sen. Jonathan Martin and Rep. Berny Jacques. SB 1380/HB 1307 would prohibit all commercial driving licensing procedures from being given in a language other than English, prohibit unauthorized immigrants from receiving any license issued by the Department of Financial Services and make a host of changes to workplace insurance for companies that employ unauthorized immigrants. “We must continue the fight against illegal immigration and put an end to the harm that has come to law-abiding citizens at the hands of illegal immigrants who should have never been in our country in the first place,” Ingoglia said. “With this legislation, we will build on Florida’s strong stance against illegal immigration, and we will create even more deterrents for illegal immigrants trying to enter our state.”

“Senate Committee approves bill that gets a facelift with amendment on local control for residential development” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — A Senate bill seeking to limit local government control for deciding new residential development was reworked with a strike-all amendment that gutted the original proposal. With a short discussion, the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously approved the amended SB 208 during Monday’s hearing. Bill sponsor Sen. Stan McClain called the amendment “a negotiated compromise amongst all the key stakeholders.” Chadwick Leonard, Conservation and Planning Advocacy Coordinator for 1000 Friends of Florida, supported the amendment and said it was about “making sure that local control and the voice of the citizens are being heard.”

“Senate panel advances Gayle Harrell bill to update Florida’s autism-related education standards” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Legislation to update how Florida credentials teachers who specialize in educating students with autism and other developmental disorders cleared its first Committee hurdle with uniform support from the dais. Members of the Senate Committee on Education Pre-K-12 voted 6-0 for the measure (SB 206), which would add new credential requirements for teachers while providing financial aid to attain them. The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Gayle Harrell, noted that the Legislature passed multiple “major” bills last year to better serve children on the autism spectrum. SB 206, she said, marks “the next step” in making sure teachers are sufficiently prepared. And the need is great, she continued, adding that 1 in 31 children are now diagnosed with autism.

“Nick DiCeglie bill that aims to fix unintended consequences of hurricane recovery law flies through Committee” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — A bill proposed by Sen. DiCeglie meant to right the wrongs brought by 2025 legislation (SB 180) has cleared its first Committee stop. SB 840, sponsored by DiCeglie of Pinellas County, would scale back the unintended consequences of SB 180, which was designed to prevent local governments from slowing rebuilding efforts after hurricanes. But broad language in that law has instead been used to block unrelated comprehensive plan changes and development decisions well beyond storm-damaged areas. The matter pushed a group of cities and counties across the state to file a joint lawsuit against the state. The Senate Committee on Community Affairs voted Tuesday to report SB 840 favorably after limited discussion.

“Senator says he has a fix for dirty waters” via Bethany Barnes and Shreya Vuttaluru of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida lawmakers are weighing new action after a Tampa Bay Times investigation found pollution fouling hundreds of waterways across the state, contributing to algae blooms and degraded water quality that harm ecosystems and recreation. State Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith said he plans to consider legislation to address dirty water after the Times reported that contamination plagues rivers, springs and coastal zones. The investigation highlighted how nutrient pollution and other contaminants have made waterways unsafe and unhealthy for wildlife and people alike. Pollutants from agricultural runoff and septic systems have driven harmful algal blooms that choke seagrass beds and kill fish, a pattern that environmental advocates say demands a policy response from the Legislature. Smith’s move comes amid growing public concern about Florida’s water quality and state efforts to balance economic development with environmental protection.

Keith Truenow boosting Florida manufacturing moves forward — Sen. Truenow’s bill (SB 528) to create a Chief Manufacturing Officer position within the Department of Commerce was approved by the Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee on the first day of Session. Under the legislation, the CMO would be appointed by the Commerce Secretary and would oversee statewide manufacturing initiatives, promote manufacturing career pathways, and coordinate efforts among state agencies, local governments and educational institutions. “Manufacturing plays a vital role in Florida’s economy, and its growth will help define our future,” Truenow said. “This legislation strengthens workforce development, expands opportunities for students and ensures Florida remains competitive in advanced manufacturing.”

“Florida land swap transparency bills begin moving with bipartisan support” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — Legislation aimed at increasing transparency in Florida land swaps advanced Monday from its first House and Senate Committees, following controversy over a proposed deal along the Guana River. State Rep. Kim Kendall said she filed HB 441 after the public last year received only one week’s notice of a proposed swap involving 600 acres in her District. The bill would require 30 days’ notice before approval by the state land Council or the Governor and Cabinet, along with public appraisals and a statement of public benefit. The House and Senate measures passed without opposition and drew bipartisan support. “We almost lost a real treasure,” said Rep. Dean Black. Lawmakers said clearer information is needed after rushed and opaque land proposals last year.

— MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“Legislative Session preview: Jim Boyd expects steady 2026 Session, with property taxes looming large” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — As lawmakers gavel in this week to begin the 2026 Legislative Session, Sen. Boyd says the coming weeks in Tallahassee are likely to be defined by a careful approach to budgeting, targeted fixes to existing laws and an intensifying debate over how Florida funds local government. Boyd, a Republican who represents Manatee County and parts of Hillsborough County, described the Session as one that should be comparatively steady after recent Sessions marked by sharper conflicts between the Legislature and DeSantis. Still, he said lawmakers are already preparing for extensive discussions around property taxes, an issue he expects to dominate early debate. “I think it’ll be a fairly benign Legislative Session this year,” Boyd said.

“Legislative Session preview: Ralph Massullo eager for new role in Senate” via Mike Wright of Florida Politics — Sen. Massullo barely had time to slide into his new job. Fresh off the Dec. 9 Special Election win in Senate District 11, Massullo is chairing Committee meetings, filing bills and meeting with constituents — all before he takes the oath of office. That’ll come on Tuesday when the Regular Session begins. “The swearing in is ceremonial. I’m doing senatorial duties now,” he said. Though new to the Senate, Massullo is a Capitol veteran. He served eight years in the House, left due to term limits, and then waited for an opening in SD 11, which opened when DeSantis tapped Ingoglia as Chief Financial Officer. “My main goal is to make government more efficient,” the Lecanto Republican said.

“Legislative Session preview: Juan Porras pursues property tax, public data, HOA overhauls” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami Republican Rep. Porras enjoyed a successful Session last year, passing nearly 40% of the bills he filed, including measures strengthening consumer-contractor protections and placing “Gulf of America” nomenclature in schoolbooks. He’s entering the 2026 Session with a fleet of new bills he says will boost transparency and accountability — two pillars of his policymaking philosophy. “I always run on common sense conservatism, transparency and accountability across the board,” he told Florida Politics. The top-of-mind measure he’s advancing is HJR 205, one of several proposed constitutional amendments on property taxes that the House is considering this year.

“Legislative Session preview: SW Florida lawmakers seek over $670M for roads, water systems, ports and health care” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Southwest Florida lawmakers are lining up behind a slate of local funding requests for the 2026-27 state budget, pushing for well over $670 million in state dollars to widen evacuation routes, stabilize aging utility systems, and expand health care capacity in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties. The local funding initiative requests, filed by individual legislators on behalf of local governments, hospitals, schools and nonprofit organizations, range from large, fixed capital outlay projects to smaller operating requests. While legislative approval is far from guaranteed, the filings offer an early look at what local lawmakers are prioritizing as budget talks begin.

“Legislative Session preview: Federal cuts amplify health care access, affordability debates” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — As Florida lawmakers convene for the 2026 Legislative Session, health care advocates are calling on state leaders to prioritize access to and affordability of health care. Advocates from across Florida gathered virtually last week to highlight mounting pressure on families, particularly children, as federal health policy changes take effect. The expiration of enhanced federal premium tax credits and the passage of last year’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act are projected to result in more than 10 million people nationwide losing coverage over the next decade. In Florida alone, an estimated more than 1.5 million residents could lose insurance or face significantly higher premiums.

— LEG. SKED. —

7:30 a.m.

Florida Chamber of Commerce 2026 Legislative Fly-In.

Palm Beach County Day 2026, The Capitol.

8 a.m.

House Economic Infrastructure Subcommittee, Room 102, House Office Building.

— HB 0283, School zone and pedestrian safety (Alvarez).

— HB 0379, Rural electric cooperatives (Shoaf).

— HB 0387, Automatic dependent surveillance broadcasts (Bankson).

— HB 7009, OGSR/Public Service Commission (Government Operations Subcommittee).

House Information Technology Budget and Policy Subcommittee, Room 404, House Office Building.

9 a.m.

House Careers and Workforce Subcommittee, Room 17, House Office Building.

— HB 0561, Educator certifications (Gerwig).

Senate Appropriations, Room 412, Knott Building.

— SB 7010, Roth contribution plans in deferred compensation programs (Governmental oversight and accountability).

Senate Fiscal Policy, Room 110, Senate Office Building.

— SB 0290, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (Truenow).

— SB 0320, Administrative efficiency in public schools (Simon).

Joint EDR Revenue Estimating Conference, Room 117, Knott Building.

10:30 a.m.

House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Room 404, House Office Building.

— HB 0177, Offices of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel (Maney).

— HB 0189, Gambling (Trabulsy).

— HB 0429, Criteria for determining criminal gang membership (Baker).

— HB 0507, Special protections in judicial proceedings (Baker).

— HB 0623, Felony battery (Gentry).

— HB 4019, Compensation for health care services for inmates in Lake County (Cobb).

— HB 0021, Public records/medical examiners (Kendall).

— HB 0397, Violations of pretrial release conditions for violent crimes (Daley).

House Health Care Budget Subcommittee, Room 314, House Office Building.

— HB 0013, Social work licensure interstate compact (Hunschofsky).

— HB 0085, Swimming lesson voucher program (Kendall).

House Industries and Professional Activities Subcommittee, Room 212, Knott Building.

— HB 0431, Air-conditioning and mechanical contractors (Albert).

— HB 0661, Public records/private investigators (Stark).

— HB 0679, Registration of trademarks (Greco).

— HB 0797, Nonprofit corporations (Tuck).

— HB 0879, Professional licensure reciprocity for the practice of surveying and mapping (Boyles).

— HB 0881, Pari-mutuel wagering (Anderson).

House Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee, Room 17, House Office Building.

— HB 0039, Assessments levied on recreational vehicle parks (Nix Jr.).

— HB 0227, Eligibility of leasehold interests for homestead exemptions (Maney).

— HB 0273, Special District funding (Johnson).

— HB 0509, Code inspector body cameras (Partington).

— HB 0511, Public records/code inspector body cameras (Partington).

— HB 4027, Hillsborough County Public Schools, Hillsborough County (Owen).

— HB 4029, Hillsborough County Charter (Owen).

— HB 4033, Palm Beach County (Gerwig).

— HB 0253, Dental care for veterans (Edmonds).

11:30 a.m.

Senate Appropriations Committee on Health and Human Services, Room 412, Knott Building.

Senate Appropriations Committee on Pre-K – 12 Education, Room 37, Senate Office Building.

Senate Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism and Economic Development, Room 110, Senate Office Building.

— SB 0048, Housing (Gaetz).

1:30 p.m.

House Education Administration Subcommittee, Room 102, House Office Building.

— HB 0409, Observance of Veterans’ Day by K-12 schools (Giallombardo).

— HB 0583, Protection of religious expression in public schools (Tramont).

House State Administration Budget Subcommittee, Room 17, House Office Building.

— HB 0405, Commercial construction projects (Griffitts Jr.).

— HB 0607, Industries and professional activities (Yarkosky).

House Transportation and Economic Development Budget Subcommittee, Room 314, House Office Building.

2 p.m.

Senate Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment and General Government, Room 412, Knott Building.

Senate Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice, Room 37, Senate Office Building.

— SB 0054, Use of substances affecting cognitive function (Sharief).

— SB 0156, Criminal offenses against law enforcement officers and others (Leek).

— SB 0296, Victims of domestic violence and dating violence (Berman).

— SB 0298, Public records/victims of domestic and dating violence (Berman).

Senate Appropriations Committee on Higher Education, Room 110, Senate Office Building.

4 p.m.

House Civil Justice and Claims Subcommittee, Room 404, House Office Building.

— HB 0079, Water safety requirements for the rental of residential property (Maggard).

— HB 0655, Public meetings/attorney meetings to discuss private property (Duggan).

— HB 0759, Court fees (Smith).

— HB 0895, Trustee settlement and discharge (Hodgers).

— HB 6515, Relief/Lourdes Latour and Edward Latour/Miami-Dade County (Busatta).

— HB 6517, Relief/Heriberto A. Sanchez-Mayen/City of St. Petersburg (Berfield).

House Health Professions and Programs Subcommittee, Room 102, House Office Building.

— HB 0237, Use of professional nursing titles (Salzman).

— HB 0301, Advanced practice registered nurse autonomous practice (Shoaf).

— HB 0327, Uterine fibroid research database (Dunkley).

— HB 0375, Autonomous practice by a certified registered nurse anesthetist (Giallombardo).

House Insurance and Banking Subcommittee, Room 17, House Office Building.

— HB 0645, Limited agent licenses (Smith).

— HB 0863, Arbitration for disputes with Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Benarroch).

Senate Session, Senate Chamber.

— SB 0250, Rural communities (Simon).

— SB 0318, Educational scholarship programs (Gaetz).

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Donald Trump blasted federal prosecutors at White House event, calling them weak” via Sadie Gurman, C. Ryan Barber and Josh Dawsey of The Wall Street Journal — Trump criticized a group of U.S. attorneys at a White House event last week, calling them weak and complaining they weren’t moving fast enough to prosecute his favored targets. Dozens of U.S. attorneys, who lead prosecutors’ offices around the country, went to the White House Thursday for what was supposed to be a ceremonial photo shoot. After Attorney General Pam Bondi introduced the prosecutors, Trump criticized them as ineffective, saying they were making it difficult for Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to do their jobs, according to the people. The exchange came a day before federal prosecutors sent grand jury subpoenas to the Federal Reserve regarding Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s testimony last Summer about the central bank’s building-renovation project.

“Trump says he has many military options on Iran. He doesn’t.” via Jack Detsch, Paul McLeary and Joe Gould of POLITICO — The Trump administration has insisted it has numerous military options to deploy against Iran if the regime uses force against demonstrators. But that menu is far more limited than it was even a year ago. The U.S. troops and ships that were once at the President’s disposal have shifted to the Caribbean. A major American defense system sent to the Middle East last year has returned to South Korea. And administration officials say there are no plans to move major assets. The President can still order airstrikes that target Iranian leadership or military installations. But his choices are even more reduced than June when the U.S. took out Iran’s nuclear sites. And he also must contend with lawmakers who, just over a week after Trump ordered the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, are questioning whether a strike would draw the U.S. into another war in the region.

“Trump warns U.S. ‘will take very strong action’ if Iran hangs protesters” via Trump threatened to “take very strong action” if Iranian authorities begin hanging anti-government protesters this week. “We will take very strong action. If they do such a thing, we will take very strong action,” Trump told “CBS Evening News” anchor Tony Dokoupil during an exclusive network interview in Dearborn, Michigan, airing Tuesday night. Trump said he’s aware that a “pretty substantial number” of people have been killed over the more than two weeks of demonstrations. Sources tell CBS News at least 12,000 — and possibly upward of 20,000 — are now feared dead, as videos show body bags lined up at a morgue in Tehran. Trump warned Iranian officials will “pay a big price” for any violence and promised Iranian citizens that “HELP IS ON ITS WAY.” He said he would cancel all meetings with Iranian officials until the killings stopped.

“House passes Laurel Lee legislation criminalizing ‘sextortion’” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The U.S. House on Monday passed legislation introduced by Florida Republican Rep. Lee that explicitly criminalizes sextortion, expanding federal law to make threatening to distribute child sexual abuse material a criminal offense. The bill, known as the Combating Online Predators Act, passed by voice vote with no objections and aims to close what supporters call a dangerous loophole in existing statutes that didn’t clearly cover threats to share intimate images to coerce minors. Sextortion, which often targets children and teens, has surged in recent years, with tens of thousands of cases reported annually to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Lee said the measure provides law enforcement with the tools needed to hold online predators accountable and protect vulnerable youth. The bill now moves toward further consideration in the legislative process.

“Aaron Bean, Lee, Anna Paulina Luna advance insider trading ban with support of Mike Johnson” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Three Florida lawmakers helped craft a ban on insider trading for members of Congress. And this one has the support of Speaker Johnson. U.S. Reps. Bean, Lee and Luna, all Republicans, co-introduced the Stop Insider Trading Act with U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil, a Wisconsin Republican who chairs the House Administration Committee. “Too many in Congress seem more focused on playing the markets than serving the American people,” said Bean. “We can’t allow Crazy Town to prioritize its stock portfolios over the future of our nation. Our job is to represent the people — not to act like day‑traders with privileged information.” Luna’s support could prove especially important. The St. Petersburg Republican last year led a discharge petition, gaining bipartisan support to force a full ban on owning stocks to the floor, despite opposition from Democratic and Republican leadership. But Luna also maintained communications with Johnson on the issue, hoping to reach a compromise.

— ELECTIONS —

Turning Point Action backs Byron Donalds for Governor — Turning Point Action on Tuesday endorsed U.S. Rep. Donalds in his bid for Florida Governor, adding a high-profile conservative group to his growing list of supporters. The political advocacy organization, founded by conservative activist Charlie Kirk, previously saw Kirk personally endorse Donalds in March 2025. “Everybody should support Byron Donalds for Governor of the great state of Florida,” Kirk said at the time. Donalds welcomed the endorsement, calling it an honor and highlighting his personal story and policy priorities. “I’m blessed enough to have lived the American Dream in the great state of Florida, and I’m working every day to make sure those same opportunities are afforded to our next generation,” Donalds said. He added that he looks forward to working with Turning Point Action to strengthen the economy, keep communities safe and advance an America First agenda statewide.

“James Fishback flops in debut fundraising report” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — When it comes to raising money for his extremely online campaign for Florida Governor, Fishback is a fish out of water. Despite weeks of earned media coverage in national outlets, it appears Floridians have little interest in writing a check to the Madison Republican. His first fundraising report, covering activity through the end of last year, is better suited to a campaign for a Soil and Water Board than to one to replace DeSantis. Fishback raised an anemic $950 since opening his campaign account, a number that looks even worse when his list of very small-dollar donors is considered. Campaign Treasurer and “Chief Strategy Officer” Alexander Munguia got the ball rolling by contributing a whopping $50.

“Fentrice Driskell grows fundraising lead over Michele Rayner to more than 10 times” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Driskell is far outpacing her opponent in the race for Senate District 16 as she hopes to replace outgoing state Sen. Darryl Rouson. Driskell entered the fourth quarter of 2025 with a more than $200,000 cash advantage over state Rep. Michele Rayner. She grew that lead in the fourth quarter, which covers financial activity from October through December. Driskell now has nearly $370,000 on hand between her campaign account and two affiliated political committees, an advantage over Rayner of about $340,000. Driskell and Rayner are both Democrats, as is Rouson. SD 16 is overwhelmingly blue. Of the District’s electorate, 47% of the District’s voters are registered as Democrats, compared to just 23% for Republicans. Driskell and Rayner are the only two candidates filed for the race. Driskell’s campaign raised $42,000 in the fourth quarter and ended the period with more than $70,000 on hand. Support was largely grassroots, with 128 contributions averaging about $330 each.

“Rick Roth adds $165K to SD 26 war chest in Q4 with big boost from his bank account” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Former Republican Rep. Roth added nearly $165,000 last quarter toward his bid for Senate District 26. All but $15,000 came from his bank account. His lone Democratic opponent in the contest, former Rep. David Silvers, raised about $48,000, all from outside sources. Heading into 2026, both candidates enjoyed six-figure war chests in the race to succeed Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman, who has represented Palm Beach County in the upper chamber since 2018. Roth, who represented the county in the House from 2016 to 2024, eschewed his political committee, Palm Beach Prosperity Fund, in amassing funds between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31, raising solely through his campaign account. Beyond the $150,000 self-funded infusion to his campaign, Roth received 44 contributions in the fourth quarter of 2025.

“Mike Suarez leads the cash battle as Dems seek to reclaim HD 64 after Susan Valdés party swap” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Former Tampa City Council member Suarez is by far the top fundraiser so far in the race for House District 64. Suarez raised nearly $32,000 in the fourth quarter of 2025, more than twice what his closest opponent raised in the same period. But that candidate, Luis Salazar, didn’t enter the race until about halfway through the period. Still, Suarez maintains about $29,000 in his coffers, compared to just shy of $10,000 for Salazar. Both are Democrats. They also face fellow Democrat José “Dante” Sánchez-Sánchez, but he has not yet filed a campaign finance report despite the passage of Monday’s filing deadline. One Republican is running, Amaro Lionheart. He has also not yet filed a financial report.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Chris Dzadovsky wins Fort Pierce Commission seat by 31 votes, flips control to Democrats” via Emma Romano of WFLX — Dzadovsky narrowly won a Runoff Election Tuesday for the Fort Pierce City Commission District 2, Seat 2, defeating Jaimebeth Galinis by 31 votes and flipping the Commission to Democratic control. Official results from the St. Lucie County Supervisor of Elections show Dzadovsky received 1,311 votes, or 50.60%, to Galinis’ 1,280 votes, or 49.40%. Turnout was 19.69%, with 2,591 ballots cast among 13,158 registered voters. All eight precincts reported complete results, including early voting and vote-by-mail ballots. Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried congratulated Dzadovsky, calling him an experienced and community-focused leader. Party leaders said the victory highlights the importance of turnout in local races and signals a notable shift in power on the Fort Pierce City Commission.

“After legal win, Miami Dade College goes after judge in Trump library case” via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — Miami Dade College is trying to disqualify a judge who already ruled in its favor from any future proceedings in a public transparency lawsuit over the College Board of Trustees’ decision-making process to give away prime downtown land for Trump’s presidential library. Even though Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Mavel Ruiz tossed out her initial block on the college transferring the land for the project, there’s been an ongoing legal squabble over whether historian and activist Marvin Dunn — who filed the lawsuit against the college in October — could still modify his legal challenge and potentially drag out proceedings.

“Stuart launches search for new City Manager, eyes March to complete it” via Keith Burbank of Treasure Coast Newspapers — The search is on. The City Commission discussed details of the search — including salary and the job description — and the advertisement for the position was released Jan. 13. At the same time, plans are for interim City Manager Louis Boglioli, whose permanent job is finance director, to step away from City Manager duties and focus on midyear financials. Human Resources Director Roz Strong is expected to be named interim City Manager. The ad offers a new City Manager an annual salary of $195,000-$215,000, plus benefits. Base City Manager salaries for comparable cities such as Punta Gorda and Titusville are $215,000 and $240,000, respectively, according to Stuart’s Human Resources Department.

“Miami Beach resident posted online about the Mayor. Police showed up at her door” via Aaron Leibowitz of the Miami Herald — A Miami Beach resident said police showed up at her home to confront her about a comment she made on social media regarding Mayor Steven Meiner. Raquel Pacheco, a former candidate for the Miami Beach City Commission and Florida Senate, recorded a video of her interaction with two officers who knocked on her door in the Flamingo Park neighborhood. The officers asked Pacheco whether she was the author of a comment that claimed, in part, that Meiner “consistently calls for the death of all Palestinians.” The comment was a response to a Jan. 6 Facebook post from Meiner, who wrote that “Miami Beach is a safe haven for everyone.”

“PBSO gets $1M state grant for immigration costs. Will records follow?” via Mike Diamond of the Palm Beach Post — A divided Palm Beach County Commission has accepted a state grant of nearly $1 million to cover the cost of Sheriff deputies performing functions for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in its enforcement of laws against immigrants in the U.S. without documentation. The grant, however, comes with a promise: The Sheriff’s Office must allow public access to all records about its operations covered by the grant, unless state law exempts them. Those records include the number of immigration investigations and detentions in which deputies took part, as well as the name of the person detained and the date and place where they were taken into custody.

“Broward School Board member calls for Florida DOGE to investigate District” via Amanda Rosa of the Miami Herald — Broward County School Board member Adam Cervera called for the state’s “DOGE” task force and Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia to investigate the School District after several financial blunders, scandals and school closures. “Broward students, teachers, parents and taxpayers deserve the truth about what is happening inside Broward County Public Schools. They deserve transparency, and they deserve accountability,” Cervera said at a news conference. “The District owes it to every resident of Broward County to be good stewards of every tax dollar entrusted to us. Unfortunately, this District has fallen short. We failed to answer this call, and instead, BCSPS has fallen into financial peril. This must end now.”

Governor appoints 1, reappoints 2 to FIU Board of Trustees — DeSantis has named Patrick McDowell to the Florida International University Board of Trustees and reappointed Alan Gonzalez and Yaffa Popack. McDowell is the founder, Chair and CEO of McDowell Properties and McDowell Housing Partners and is active in national real estate and civic organizations. Gonzalez, an FIU alumnus, is a principal IT systems administrator with NextEra Florida Power & Light and holds multiple industry certifications. Popack is the co-founder and Chair of YMP Real Estate Management and serves on several nonprofit and higher-education Boards. All three appointments are subject to Senate confirmation.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Governor names 2 members to Disney World’s Governing Board” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — DeSantis has appointed two members to Disney World’s Governing Board, which the state notoriously took over in 2023. DeSantis has named banker Matt Ravenscroft and lawyer David Woods to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD). “Ravenscroft is the Executive Vice President and Director of Sunrise Bank in Orlando,” DeSantis said in a press release to announce the choices. “Previously, he served as a Senior Vice President of Old Florida Bank, United Heritage Bank, and Citrus Bank. Ravenscroft earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida.” Woods works at Woods & Woods, P.A., DeSantis highlighted. “His practice areas include real estate, wills, trusts, and estates,” DeSantis said.

“DeSantis reappoints 3 to UCF Board of Trustees” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — DeSantis has reappointed three members to the University of Central Florida Board of Trustees. The Governor is picking Jeff Condello, Alex Martins and John Miklos to serve another term leading the Orlando public university, which has the largest enrollment in the state. The most prominent of the three members is Martins, the current UCF Board Chair. Martins works as the Orlando Magic’s Vice Chair after previously leading the team as the CEO. Martins has an MBA from UCF. “Active in his community, he currently serves as the Chair of the Orlando Economic Partnership’s Governors Council and is a Managing Partner of the Osceola Magic, Orlando’s affiliate in the NBA G League,” DeSantis said in a press release.

Appointed — Kyle Davis to the Polk State College District Board of Trustees.

“Regina Hill’s election challenge against Shan Rose faces scrutiny in court” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Former Orlando Commissioner Hill’s last-ditch attempt to overturn her successor’s election and return to the City Council faced skepticism from a judge and harsh questions from attorneys at a hearing. Commissioner Rose, who sat on the other side of the courtroom from Hill, won a three-way race in November with 52% of the vote for a full four-year term representing the downtown-area District 5. Hill filed the lawsuit against Rose and Orlando’s canvassing Board about a week after the election. The lawsuit asks a judge to invalidate the vote results or declare Hill the winner. Rose, through her attorney, has denied the claims.

“Roger Chapin to hire former opponent Chris Durant for $69K job as aide” via McKenna Schueler of Orlando Weekly — Orlando City Commissioner-elect Chapin is bringing a former rival inside City Hall, selecting Durant, a 24-year-old real estate professional and first-time candidate, as one of his two office aides. Durant placed third in the November General Election for the District 3 seat Chapin now holds, later endorsing Chapin and working as a paid canvasser during the Runoff Election against Mira Tanna. Chapin won that contest 51% to 48%. City records show Durant will earn $69,355 annually in a trainee role. Chapin is also seeking to hire campaign staffer Lauren Rugh as a digital communications specialist. Both hires require City Council approval, expected on Monday, as Chapin takes office to represent several Orlando neighborhoods.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Protests grow across Tampa Bay over ICE violence and federal agency recruitment events” via Annette Gutierrez of Tampa Bay 28 — Demonstrations against federal immigration enforcement continued to spread across Tampa Bay today, with protests taking place in both St. Petersburg and Tampa as community members voiced concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions. The protests come amid heightened tensions following the death of 37-year-old Renee Good, who was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis last week. In Tampa Bay, dozens of protesters gathered to express outrage over what they describe as violence associated with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations. The Tampa Bay Students for Democratic Society organized a rally after seeing an advertisement for a U.S. Customs and Border Protection recruitment event on a University of South Florida platform.

“Hillsborough College to discuss Rays next week amid stadium site search” via Yacob Reyes of Axios — Hillsborough College’s Board of Trustees is scheduled to meet next week, reportedly to discuss a new home for the Tampa Bay Rays. The Rays are seeking a site to build a new stadium, and multiple outlets have identified HC’s Dale Mabry campus as a top contender. This meeting signals that the college is now under formal consideration. Chair Gregory Celestan confirmed to Axios that the HC Board is meeting Jan. 20 to discuss an agenda item related to the Rays. He and other trustees declined to provide more details about the meeting, but the Tampa Bay Business Journal reported that the Board will vote on a deal to make way for the ballpark.

“Jeff Knight has a Clearwater Ferry crash trial date” via St. Pete Catalyst — Prominent local businessman Knight, who was arrested in July 2025 on eight felony charges after his boat collided with the Clearwater Ferry, will face a jury of his peers in October. One man died, and 10 others were injured in the April 2025 crash. A circuit court judge set Knight’s trial for Oct. 5 at a hearing on Monday, despite his lawyer petitioning for at least a two-year delay. Knight, 63, has a long history of legal troubles and faces up to 23 years in prison for eight counts of leaving the scene of a crash involving death or injury and over a dozen related misdemeanors.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Reggie Gaffney Sr. abandons HD 13 race, clearing path for Audrey Gibson” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — The race for Jacksonville’s House District 13 is narrowing after former City Council member Gaffney Sr. said he will not run for the seat and is instead weighing a local campaign in the 2027 Elections. Gaffney told Florida Politics that despite positive polling, he concluded he could be more effective serving Jacksonville locally than as part of a Democratic minority in Tallahassee. He said he will take several weeks to assess his next move. With Gaffney and Shemiah Rutledge exiting the race, former Senate Democratic Leader Gibson is now the sole candidate in the likely decisive Primary Election. Gibson has begun preliminary preparations as incumbent Rep. Angie Nixon weighs future political options.

“Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters says he will run for re-election, talks immigration and safety improvements” via Tarik Minor of News4Jax — Waters defended his department’s response to three officer-involved shootings this year, saying officers faced armed suspects in each incident and had to act in self-defense. “Unfortunately, that’s had to happen the last three times,” Waters said. “But I’m glad the officers are going home safely and taking care of themselves, because, let’s face it, these are all young human beings that are doing a really tough job.” Waters emphasized that while the number of shootings varies annually, officers are trained to de-escalate situations when possible, including through mental health and crisis-response programs. However, he noted these tactics have limitations when suspects actively threaten officers or the public.

“Jacksonville Council member Raul Arias pushing to shorten time for city animal shelter to hold strays” via Finn Carlin of Action News Jax — Arias, who represents the Southside, is responding to concerns over a push he’s making to shorten the time for the city’s animal shelter to hold stray animals before they’re put up for adoption. Arias’ bill would change the requirements for the city’s Animal Care and Protective Services (ACPS) shelter to hold animals for three days, instead of six, before they can be adopted. Some local pet owners and animal advocates are concerned that the change could lead to missing pets whose owners are searching for them being adopted into other homes. “We want our city shelter to run properly and animals to be protected,” said Vickie Nelson, who runs a Jacksonville-based Facebook group that helps reunite lost pets with their owners.

“City Council asks for placement of Main Street Bridge on national historic register” via Joe Lister of Jacksonville Daily Record — Jacksonville City Council asked for the Main Street Bridge, one of Downtown’s most recognizable landmarks, to be added to the National Register of Historic Places on Jan. 13. With an 18-0 vote on Resolution 2025-0881, with member Ju’Coby Pittman away from the dais, Council encouraged the city’s Planning Department, the Jacksonville Historic Preservation Commission and the city’s Department of Public Works to work with the State Historic Preservation Office, the Florida Department of Transportation and preservation professionals prepare a nomination for the bridge to the National Register. The bridge is formally known as the John T. Alsop Bridge. Alsop served two terms as Mayor, from 1923 to 1937 and from 1941 to 1945. To qualify for the National Register, a structure must be at least 50 years old and appear largely unchanged from its past appearance.

“Baptist Health planning nearly $110M hotel on Jacksonville’s Southbank” via Ric Anderson of News4Jax — Baptist Health is planning to add a 15-story, nearly $110 million hotel to its campus on the Downtown Southbank, a representative told a Jacksonville City Council Committee on Monday. According to News4JAX partners at the Jacksonville Daily Record, land-use and governmental affairs attorney Steve Diebenow of Driver, McAfee, Hawthorne & Diebenow, who is representing Baptist, said the 226-room hotel is planned at Palm Avenue and Gary Street. In a presentation to the Special Committee on the Future of Downtown, he said Baptist Health would own the hotel and North Carolina-based Concord Hospitality Enterprises would operate it. A slide presentation listed the hotel’s development cost as $109.7 million. Plans include a 5,000-square-foot rooftop restaurant and terrace open to the public, along with 130 parking spaces.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Retired Police Sgt. Jim DeNiro launches Sarasota County Commission bid” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Retired Sarasota Police Department Sgt. DeNiro has entered the race for Sarasota County Commission in District 4, setting up a Republican Primary challenge against first-term Commissioner Joe Neunder. DeNiro said his campaign will focus on affordability, public safety, growth management, environmental protection and greater accountability in county government. He said his nearly 40 years of public service in Sarasota County prepared him to oversee county operations and budgets. DeNiro retired from the Sarasota Police Department after a career that included criminal investigations, narcotics enforcement, patrol operations, traffic and marine units, emergency management, and leadership of the Underwater Search and Recovery Unit. He was also responsible for managing unit budgets, personnel deployment, training expenses and equipment purchases during his tenure.

“WINK firing of Matt Devitt ignites political fight in SW FL race” via Mickensie Hannon of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — The firing of longtime WINK News Chief Meteorologist Devitt has ignited political backlash in Southwest Florida, drawing reactions from viewers and Republican leaders and spilling into a crowded Congressional Primary. Devitt, who became a trusted figure during Hurricane Ian, said he was abruptly let go after a decade at the station, a move that sparked tens of thousands of online reactions and a petition calling for his return. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and U.S. Rep. Jimmy Patronis demanded explanations, while congressional candidate Catalina Lauf accused rival Jim Schwartzel of responsibility. Schwartzel denied any role, saying he does not own or control WINK. The controversy has fueled scrutiny as candidates vie for an open seat in Florida’s 19th Congressional District.

“Businesses prepare for Spring Training crowds along Florida’s Gulf Coast” via Jaylen Baron of Gulf Coast News — Spring Training for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins draws many visitors to Lee County, with the county reporting $56.7 million generated from activities outside the ballpark. Amy Bennett, owner of Enjewel in downtown Fort Myers, looks forward to this time of year, saying, “That’s our peak time as it keeps us busy and keeps us going the rest of the year.” Bennett enjoys meeting a diverse range of visitors during Spring Training. “It’s just fun. You meet all different people, and you get to help them find stuff and just tell them about the area and all the stuff they can do. And so hopefully gets them to come back,” she said. Local businesses are using the weeks following the holiday crowd to regroup before the influx of baseball fans.

— TOP OPINION —

“DeSantis proposes smart boundaries on runaway AI” via the Orlando Sentinel and South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial boards — DeSantis is pushing lawmakers to confront the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and the data centers that power it, drawing a sharp line as the 2026 Legislative Session begins. His proposed “AI Bill of Rights,” carried by Sen. Tom Leek, would curb utility rate hikes tied to data center electricity use, block government subsidies, protect water resources, and restrict construction on agricultural land and greenbelts.

The proposal would also give cities and counties authority to block large data centers and strengthen consumer protections, including limits on how AI can be used in insurance decisions and safeguards for privacy, likeness rights, and parental access to children’s chatbot interactions. The legislation arrives as Florida faces mounting pressure from proposed data center projects, including a massive Osceola County plan near a major nature preserve.

The bill’s consumer protections follow high-profile controversies involving AI misuse. An Orlando mother recently settled claims tied to her son’s suicide after interactions with an AI companion, while X’s Grok chatbot drew international backlash for generating sexually explicit and violent manipulated images. Several countries have blocked the platform or are investigating it.

Industry opposition is expected. Major AI companies have deployed lobbyists, and Trump has warned states against regulating AI, threatening federal retaliation. Still, local resistance is growing, including in Palm Beach County, where residents delayed approval of a massive data center complex.

Supporters argue the risks are immediate and local. Data centers consume enormous amounts of electricity and water while producing few permanent jobs. DeSantis’ proposal, they say, prioritizes Florida’s environment, communities, and quality of life over speculative economic gains, setting a clear test for lawmakers in the coming Session.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Pam Bondi, call your office” via Chris Cillizza of So What — Bondi has not exactly covered herself in glory during his first year as AG. But I also think that being Trump’s Attorney General is sort of like being the manager of the New York Yankees when George Steinbrenner owned the team. Or being the drummer for Spinal Tap. In short, it’s an incredibly fraught job that is destined to end poorly. Think back to Trump’s first term. He soured on Jeff Sessions almost immediately because Sessions wasn’t prosecuting his political opponents fast or well enough. Bill Barr, Sessions’ replacement, fared slightly better until he told Trump there was no evidence of widespread fraud in the 2020 Election. Now, both men are persona non grata with Trump.

“Trump is really pressing his luck on foreign interventions” via Aaron Blake of CNN — Trump on Tuesday hinted at possible renewed military action against Iran, warning of “very strong action” if the regime executes detained protesters and canceling planned talks with Iranian leaders. Trump told reporters that “HELP IS ON ITS WAY” for protesters, while urging U.S. citizens and allies to evacuate Iran, as human rights groups report more than 2,400 deaths. Any escalation would test Trump’s political standing, as recent U.S. interventions in Iran and Venezuela were brief and met with lukewarm public support. Polling shows Americans remain deeply skeptical of overseas military involvement, with limited enthusiasm even among Republicans. As Trump signals a tougher posture, surveys suggest public patience for foreign interventions is thin and easily exhausted.

“The state of DeSantis’ state: Delusional” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — DeSantis opened his final State of the State address Tuesday with a sweeping celebration of his record, while leaving unmentioned many of the economic pressures facing Floridians as the 2026 Session began. Housing affordability, low teacher pay and cost-of-living concerns were notably absent from his remarks. Signs of dysfunction quickly followed. Neither House Speaker Perez nor Senate President Albritton offered praise for the two-term Governor, and DeSantis departed the House rostrum without shaking Perez’s hand, a snub that drew notice across the Capitol. Perez later called the Governor’s behavior “petulant,” underscoring frayed relationships among Republican leaders. Democrats said the moment highlighted governing failures after decades of one-party control, setting the stage for a contentious Session.

“If Tampa Bay’s Rays want more money, Orlando may again be used as a pawn” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — A look at three seemingly different topics reveals a common theme about responsibility and impact. First, the renewed chatter about the Tampa Bay Rays possibly moving to Orlando is dismissed as a familiar pressure tactic, with team owners seeking ever-larger public subsidies while leveraging cities against each other. Professional franchises, like any for-profit business, should fund their own facilities, as others have successfully done. In contrast, a new initiative at Orlando’s Jones High School offers a powerful example of meaningful investment, guaranteeing every student free access to Valencia College and opening doors for hundreds of young people. Finally, an outpouring of reader responses to a column on dementia underscored both the emotional toll of the disease and the urgent need for serious solutions, while also highlighting how individual lives can leave lasting, positive imprints.

“Modernizing health care rules to expand access for Florida patients” via Skylar Zander for Florida Politics — Florida’s health care system is under growing strain as population growth and an aging demographic collide with outdated regulations that limit access and choice. HB 693 aims to modernize that system by removing long-standing government barriers that restrict who can provide care and how quickly patients can receive it. The legislation eliminates remaining Certificate-of-Need requirements, expands interstate compacts to attract providers, and allows advanced registered nurse practitioners and physician assistants to practice more fully within modern, team-based care models. It also adds transparency protections to help patients avoid surprise costs. Taken together, the reforms are designed to increase competition, expand capacity, and lower costs without sacrificing quality, offering a more flexible, patient-centered approach at a time when affordability and access matter more than ever.

“Consumer protections for veterans, senior citizens, and retirees is smart policy” via Dick Batchelor for Florida Politics — Florida’s seniors and veterans face heightened risks after home disasters, and SB 266 is designed to close a dangerous gap in consumer protections. The bill targets predatory public adjuster contracts that can trap vulnerable homeowners in costly agreements during crises, often when they are isolated, hospitalized, or unable to fully understand the complex terms. Florida has long positioned itself as a leader in protecting seniors through homestead exemptions, elder abuse laws, and financial safeguards, and SB 266 builds on that tradition. By allowing vulnerable seniors, retirees, and veterans to cancel public adjuster contracts without penalty, the legislation prioritizes fairness and common sense while leaving ethical adjusters unaffected. It is a practical, targeted reform that strengthens consumer protections when Floridians need them most.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Is it legal to own a raccoon in Florida? What to know about exotic pets” via Lianna Norman of USA Today Network — Owning a raccoon as a pet is legal in Florida, but it requires a free permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Raccoons are classified as Class 3 wildlife, a category that includes foxes, skunks, raccoons and many exotic birds and reptiles. A personal pet permit allows owners to keep the animal at a specific residence, travel with it and take it to the veterinarian, but does not allow public display. Taking a raccoon into public places requires a separate exhibition permit. Florida groups wildlife into three classes based on potential risk to human safety, with Class 1 being the most dangerous and prohibited as pets. Class 3 permits are free, valid for two years, and available to individuals 16 and older.

“Florida ranks as 11th worst state to raise a family, according to new report” via Jake Jordan of WFTV — WalletHub’s report on the Best & Worst States to Raise a Family in 2026 reveals that Florida ranks as the 11th worst overall, with the cost of raising a child now exceeding $320,000. The report analyzed family-friendliness in all 50 states based on 50 key indicators, including median annual income, housing affordability, health care quality, crime rates and school quality. Florida’s low ranking reflects the challenges families face in the state. In detail, Florida ranked 49th in the percentage of families with young children, highlighting a significant demographic challenge in supporting this group. Similarly, the state placed 42nd in child care costs adjusted for median family income, indicating financial burdens on families seeking quality care.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today is our dear friend, the wonderful Erin Ballas.

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