Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 1.28.26

Good Wednesday morning.

Patients, advocates, physicians and researchers from Moffitt Cancer Center are in Tallahassee visiting with policymakers to showcase how it is continuing to shape the future of cancer care in Florida through cutting-edge research, innovative therapies and groundbreaking clinical trials.

This year’s message is “Prevention Starts with Nutrition.” Representatives from Moffitt’s research kitchen are scheduled to be in the Capitol Courtyard at 11:30 a.m., demonstrating ways to make healthy snacks that researchers say can prevent cancer. The samples will be prepared and distributed by nutrition expert Dr. Sylvia Crowder and Moffitt research chef Julissa “Jules” Graziano.

Also on hand to provide samples will be Moffitt President and CEO Dr. Patrick Hwu. The Moffitt team is also honored to be joined by Fresh From Florida chef Justin Timineri, who will offer insight into the value of using local ingredients to create healthy food options during the demonstration.

The focus on nutrition is in addition to the return of Moffitt’s Mole Patrol cancer screening team, who will be in the courtyard again this year to provide free skin, head and neck cancer screenings throughout the day.

Moffitt, the first National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida, established by statute in 1986. Moffitt Day at the Capitol gives the cancer center a chance to show legislators how it has changed lives for 40 years.

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Two must-read op-eds:

“New poll should guide Florida’s debate on childhood vaccine requirements” via Northe Saunders for Florida Politics — Florida voters overwhelmingly support maintaining the state’s long-standing childhood vaccine requirements as lawmakers consider possible changes this Session. A statewide poll conducted Jan. 5–8 by McLaughlin & Associates found 79% of likely voters favor keeping current protections, with support cutting across regions, parties and demographics, including Republicans, NPAs and Hispanic voters. The poll also showed strong backing for required vaccines protecting against diseases such as measles, polio and hepatitis B. While some proposals would loosen exemptions or reporting rules, voters fear weakened safeguards would lead to preventable outbreaks and say they would penalize lawmakers who eliminate requirements. The findings underscore broad bipartisan support for evidence-based immunization standards that protect children, schools and communities statewide.

“Florida will suffer from decreased vaccine access — where are our leaders?” via Nancy Staats for Florida Politics — Sweeping changes to federal childhood vaccine recommendations are raising alarms as political leaders across Florida remain silent. In January, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, under Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., reduced recommended childhood vaccines from 17 to 11, dropping universal guidance for influenza, COVID-19, hepatitis A and B, RSV and other diseases. Medical experts warn that the rollback will create confusion for families, threaten insurance coverage and increase preventable illness, especially among infants and immunocompromised patients. Critics say rhetoric framing mandates as an assault on “medical freedom” ignores decades of scientific evidence. With vaccination rates already declining and measles cases surging nationwide, health professionals warn it is no longer a question of if Florida faces outbreaks, but when.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RealTomHohman: Today I met with Governor (Tim) Walz, Mayor (Jacob) Frey, and top law enforcement officials to discuss the issues on the ground in Minnesota. We all agree that we need to support our law enforcement officers and get criminals off the streets. While we don’t agree on everything, these meetings were a productive starting point, and I look forward to more conversations with key stakeholders in the days ahead. President (Donald) Trump has been clear: he wants American cities to be safe and secure for law-abiding residents — and they will be.

—@RalstonReports: As people marvel at Trump’s backtracking and contradicting his subordinates’ lies about Minneapolis and “news” that he is somehow shocked, shocked by Noem et al’s brazenness and incompetence, has everyone forgotten who erected the permission structure for them to behave this way?

Tweet, tweet:

—@WiltonSimpson: During the four years of misguided, liberal gamesmanship under my predecessor’s reign over our agriculture industry, the Florida Senate was a reliable backstop to protect solid policies that support our farmers, ranchers and growers. It is unconscionable that a single Committee Chair would pick up that mantle and reverse the gains we’ve made. My hope is that Chair (Kathleen) Passidomo reconsiders her support for agriculture in our state and puts the Farm Bill back in front of the Senate.

—@RepMcClure: Farm Bureau Day 100’s of kids from FFA and 4H – Future of Agriculture at the Capitol to advocate for FL Ag to call only opponents to speak, while one of the greatest advocates for FL Ag is in the hospital. It wasn’t politics; it was intentionally mean.

—@DannyBurgessFL: Courtney and I are continuing to send all our prayers to Senate President Ben Albritton and hoping for his swift recovery and speedy return. Your @FLSenate family is with you and sending all our love.

Tweet, tweet:

—@BresReports: The DC area may be the lamest on snow/bad weather in the country. Maybe planet. Just terrible

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 2; The Grammy Awards — 4; Florida TaxWatch State-of-the-Taxpayer Dinner — 8; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 9; ‘Paradise’ season two premieres on Hulu — 26; Netflix docuseries ‘Drive to Survive’ premieres — 30; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Y: Marshals’ premieres — 32; Boca Raton Mayoral referendums and City Council Elections — 41; last day of the Regular Session — 44; The Oscars — 46; ‘Peaky Blinders’ movie premieres on Netflix — 51; Special Election for SD 14, HD 87, HD 51 and HD 52 — 55; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 56; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 57; new season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 65; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 68; ‘Handmaid’s Tale’ sequel series ‘The Testaments’ premieres — 70; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 77; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 77; First Qualifying Period begins (Federal) — 82; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 86; F1 Miami begins — 93; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 114; new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ premieres at Disney World — 114; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 125; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 131; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 134; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 135; State Qualifying Period ends — 135; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 142; Florida GOP’s statewide debates for the Primary in its ‘Sunshine State Showdown’ — 149; Mexico will face live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 154; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 157; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 162; MLB All-Star Game — 167; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 169; Primary Election: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 173; Primary Election: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 190; Primary Election: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 192; Primary Election Day — 202; Yankees host the Mets to mark the anniversary of 9/11 — 226; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 230; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 234; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 239; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 246; General Election: Deadline to register to vote — 250; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 269; 2026 General Election — 279; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero‘ premieres — 282; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 324; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 324; untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 324; 2027 College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 362; Tampa Mayoral Election — 398; Jacksonville First Election — 419; Jacksonville General Election — 475; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 493; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 555; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 611; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 688; 2028 College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 726; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 898; U.S. Presidential Election — 1,014; 2029 College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 1,090; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,414; 2030 College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,454; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2,145.

— TOP STORY —

“Vern Buchanan to retire from Congress after 20 years of distinguished service” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Buchanan announced Tuesday he will retire and not seek re-election, ending a 20-year run representing Florida’s 16th Congressional District. His departure closes the chapter on the longest-serving Republican to represent Southwest Florida in the U.S. House.

The decision comes less than three months after Trump endorsed Buchanan for a 10th term. Currently Vice Chair of the House Ways & Means Committee, Buchanan said the timing was right to step aside after two decades in office.

“Serving the people of Southwest Florida has been the honor of my lifetime,” Buchanan said, emphasizing constituent service and problem-solving as the foundation of his career and saying it was time to pass the torch.

First elected in 2006, Buchanan built a substantial legislative record, with 51 bills signed into law by four Presidents. He also secured nearly $28 million to design and construct a national veterans cemetery in Sarasota.

Buchanan joined the Ways & Means Committee early in his tenure, later serving as Chair of the Tax Subcommittee and on the Joint Committee on Taxation, where he helped shape and implement the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. He also worked with the White House to pass the USMCA trade agreement.

As Chair of the Health Subcommittee, Buchanan advanced bipartisan efforts on Medicare, senior health care access and prescription drug costs, making health policy a central focus of his later years in Congress.

Beyond core legislative work, Buchanan became a leading advocate for animal welfare and coastal protection, earning national recognition for bipartisan efforts to combat animal cruelty, protect water quality and oppose offshore drilling along Florida’s coast.

—”Who will run to succeed Buchanan in Congress?” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics

— STATEWIDE —

“Ron DeSantis slams sanctuary jurisdictions like Minnesota for inciting violence, thwarting immigration law” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Gov. DeSantis said leaders who fail to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement are engaging in “interposition,” arguing sanctuary jurisdictions undermine voter-approved laws and endanger officers. Speaking to the Florida Sheriffs Association, DeSantis criticized cities and states that refuse to honor Department of Homeland Security detainer requests, share data or aid enforcement, singling out Minnesota amid recent unrest in Minneapolis. He said protests and political rhetoric are deliberately obstructing officers and putting them in harm’s way. DeSantis blamed border policies under former President Joe Biden for the scale of current enforcement and said elections would settle the issue in 2024. While acknowledging pockets of opposition in Florida, he said state policy is clear, and agencies are expected to fully cooperate statewide.

“DeSantis urges ‘sympathy’ for ICE amid ‘tragic’ killings of Renee Good, Alex Pretti” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis called for a “nuanced” reaction to the recent killings of Pretti and Good by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, saying the incidents are tragic but urging understanding of what federal agents are facing. DeSantis said that while high standards and accountability are important, “understand what they’re facing. They’re facing threats,” including hostility and danger that typical police might not encounter, and that this broader context matters when judging enforcement actions. He said officers should be reviewed and held accountable where appropriate, but cautioned against ignoring the pressures of immigration enforcement operations that have sparked protests and criticism nationwide. His comments reflect a cautious defense of federal agents amid deepening public debate over immigration enforcement and its consequences.

“DeSantis administration sends investigators to probe marijuana-referendum petitions in Broward” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — DeSantis’ administration has dispatched state election crimes investigators, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the state Attorney General’s Office to investigate marijuana-referendum petitions processed by the Broward Supervisor of Elections Office. The team arrived at the elections headquarters in Fort Lauderdale on Monday and remained there on Tuesday, County Supervisor of Elections Joe Scott said. “I cannot talk about an ongoing criminal investigation.” Letters from Secretary of State Cord Byrd and the Attorney General’s statewide prosecutor identified concerns about the verification of signatures on petitions seeking to put a statewide marijuana legalization referendum on the ballot this year.

“Most GOP Governors already opted into school choice federal tax credits. Why hasn’t DeSantis?” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon says nearly half the nation’s Governors have already authorized new school choice tax credits. But DeSantis isn’t one of them. DeSantis is the only Republican Governor of any Southern State who has yet to approve the Education Freedom Tax Credit. That’s a school choice provision included in the Big Beautiful Bill tax cut package signed by Trump last year, a portion that Governors could opt in to as of Jan. 1. Notably, Florida school choice activist Erika Donalds has been one of the chief proponents of the tax credit. The Naples Republican leads the America First Policy Institute’s Florida chapter and chairs the national organization’s Center for Education Opportunity. In that role, she sent messages to every Governor in the country with a link to opt states in, a process states can undertake without legislative authorization.

— BIG BILL OF THE DAY —

“Wilton Simpson takes swipe at Kathleen Passidomo after Florida Ag department bill vote delayed” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — Agriculture Commissioner Simpson publicly criticized Senate Rules Committee Chair Passidomo on Tuesday after his department’s sweeping Farm Bill was postponed in Committee, sparking an unusual intra-GOP clash.

Simpson accused the Senate of becoming a roadblock for agriculture and urged Passidomo to put the bill back before lawmakers.

Passidomo responded that the delay was initiated by the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Keith Truenow, and said she remains ready to hear it when he is prepared.

The legislation, SB 290, faces opposition from environmental groups over provisions directing reviews of conservation land, preempting local bans on gas-powered lawn equipment and expanding disparagement lawsuits for agricultural producers.

Truenow signaled changes are forthcoming. The bill must clear the Rules Committee to reach the Senate floor.

Tweet, tweet:

— LEGISLATIVE —

“After Pretti killing, lawyers group raises alarm about policing bill” via Alexandra Glorioso of the Miami Herald — A Florida criminal defense attorney’s leader is urging state Senators to reconsider legislation meant to shield law enforcement officers acting in “good faith,” warning it could also protect officers who knowingly use unlawful force. Aaron Wayt, president-elect of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, told the Senate Rules Committee the bill wrongly deletes a provision barring officers from using force when they know an arrest or duty is unlawful. He said the distinction protects the public and restrains bad actors, citing the recent killing of Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis. Supporters, including bill sponsor Sen. Tom Leek, say the “good-faith” language preserves accountability. The legislation, advancing in both chambers, is nearing floor votes.

“House Committee backs sweeping college safety bill allowing armed employees” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — House members unanimously advanced legislation Tuesday that would allow trained college and university employees to carry firearms as campus “guardians,” expanding a school safety program first created after the 2018 Parkland shooting. The bill, HB 757, is framed as a response to last year’s fatal shooting at Florida State University and would let college and university presidents appoint certain staff or faculty to serve as armed guardians after completing psychological screening and 144 hours of training. Guardians would receive a one-time $500 stipend. The proposal also requires K-12 disciplinary and threat assessment records to follow students to college, mandate active assailant response plans, and expand security training and campus hardening grants. DeSantis has signaled support. The bill removed language allowing open carry and faces additional Committee hearings.

—“Senate Committee advances Jonathan Martin’s career offender registry proposal” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics

—”Senate and House Committees advance bills targeting new-age smoking” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics

“Bill eliminating insanity defense scrapes through first Committee stop” via Florida Phoenix — A bill that would eliminate the insanity defense barely squeaked by its first Committee hearing, amid withering criticisms, but only after the bill sponsor promised to make substantial changes. SB 1326 would require Florida judges to sentence offenders found guilty who intended to commit their crimes to prison, even if the accused couldn’t tell whether their actions were right or wrong. But the bill had glaring loopholes: Its language could remove the option for offenders to receive court-mandated mental health treatment. An independent Senator called the legislation “crap,” a Democrat deemed it “unjust,” and a Republican voted “no,” resulting in SB 1326 barely passing in a 4-to-3 vote. Sen. Jonathan Martin, the bill’s sponsor, acknowledged problems and promised changes. “This bill is something that is far from perfect,” he said in the Senate Criminal Justice Committee.

“Senate panel OKs crackdown on undocumented immigrant truckers and companies that hire them” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — A Senate Committee advanced legislation Tuesday that would impose steep penalties on trucking companies and drivers to prevent undocumented immigrants from operating commercial motor vehicles in Florida. The bill, SB 86 by Sen. Don Gaetz, cleared the Judiciary Committee over Democratic objections and is framed as a response to deadly crashes involving semi-trucks. It would authorize Florida Highway Patrol and local police to arrest undocumented drivers, transfer them to immigration authorities and impound commercial vehicles. Companies could face fines of up to $50,000, added impoundment costs and potential loss of operating privileges. Gaetz cited recent fatal crashes as evidence of an urgent safety threat and said trucking firms must better vet drivers. Supporters argue the measure protects public safety by strengthening enforcement and accountability.

“Senators clear Palm Beach airport Donald Trump rename for takeoff” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Senators unanimously advanced legislation Tuesday that would rename Palm Beach International Airport as Donald J. Trump International Airport, moving the proposal closer to final approval. Sponsored by Sen. Debbie Mayfield, the bill would also pre-empt local governments from naming major commercial airports, shifting that authority to the state. An adopted amendment would require Federal Aviation Administration approval and secure rights to use Trump’s name at no cost, addressing concerns about potential trademark fees. Palm Beach County officials have warned that the change could bring significant rebranding costs, take up to two years to complete and increase security risks due to heightened protests. A bill analysis cites negative fiscal impacts for local government. Despite those concerns, a county lobbyist supported the measure, citing Trump’s influence in Palm Beach County.

“Bill recognizing ‘Judea and Samaria’ instead of ‘West Bank’ in textbooks heads to House floor” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A bipartisan proposal to replace state and public school references to the West Bank with the more historic “Judea and Samaria” is poised for a full House vote after surmounting its last Committee hurdle on a mostly party-line vote. Members of the House State Affairs Committee voted 20-4 for the measure (HB 31), which would affect government documents, school instructional materials and library collections adopted on or after July 1. The bill’s co-prime sponsor, Rep. Chase Tramont, made clear that the changes would come at no additional cost, as they’d be implemented as existing materials are replaced over time.

— MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“Senate Committee advances bills restricting biosolids use” via Kylie Williams of POLITICO — A pair of bills curbing land application of treated sewage sludge cleared a Senate panel Tuesday, even as some environmentalists called for the Legislature to tighten regulations even further. The Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources voted 8-0 to advance FL SB1294 (26R), a bill that would prohibit land application of certain biosolids from exceeding a set rate. The legislation also requires land operators to keep records of their biosolids applications and seeks to prevent biosolid dumping.

“Bill to help keep party flippers off the ballot ready for Senate floor” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — A bill that would help keep recent political flip-floppers off the ballot has sailed through its final Senate Committee. Politicians running for a partisan office are already required to give an oath that they have been registered with their current political party for at least 365 days. But Sen. Kristen Arrington, the bill sponsor, said Florida courts don’t have a way to actually enforce the provision. Arrington’s legislation (SB 62) would allow another candidate in the race or an opposing political party to turn to the courts and file a lawsuit to get candidates thrown off the ballot if they do not meet that one-year requirement. With a 21-0 vote, the Senate Rules Committee passed SB 62 with no debate and no opposition during the bill’s third and final Senate Committee stop. It will next head to the Senate floor.

“Michael Owen proposal to elect Hillsborough Superintendent heads to House floor” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — A proposal by Rep. Michael Owen to ask Hillsborough County voters whether to elect their school Superintendent cleared its final House Committee, sending the measure to the House floor. The House State Affairs Committee voted 20-5 to advance HB 4027. The legislation does not change how the Superintendent is selected. Instead, it authorizes a countywide referendum during the 2026 General Election asking voters whether the Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent should be elected in a partisan race beginning in 2028. Owen told Committee members the referendum would allow parents to decide who oversees the county’s public school system.

“Could the Groveland Four families finally be compensated?” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — A Senate Committee took the first step in compensating the families of the Groveland Four — the Black men who were falsely accused of rape in Lake County in 1949 and suffered at the hands of racist officials. The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 8-0 for Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis’ legislation (SB 694). In an emotional moment, Beverly Robinson, the cousin of the victim, Samuel Shepherd, asked Senators to support the bill. “For 70 years, these four men have had their history wrongly written for crimes they did not commit. As I have said before, while that is a long time to wait, it is never too late to do the right thing,” Robinson said.

—”Lisa Dunkley bill strengthening uterine fibroid research law advances to House floor” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics

ACLU condemns ‘ban first, review later’ school media center bill — The ACLU of Florida is harshly criticizing a measure (HB 1119) greenlit by the House Education and Employment Committee that could lead to more books being removed from school libraries. “A free state does not ban books or censor materials based on viewpoint. Freedom of speech is guaranteed by both the United States Constitution and Florida’s Constitution, and those protections prohibit the government from dictating what people may read, view or share. HB 1119 is an overly broad censorship bill that raises serious First Amendment concerns,” ACLU of Florida Interim Political Director Kara Gross said. “… The bill also creates a ‘ban first, review later’ scheme, requiring School Districts to remove books and materials from classrooms and libraries within five days of a single objection – regardless of whether the objection has merit or whether it comes from a parent or someone with a child in the school.”

— LEG. SKED. —

Happening today — Independent Universities and Colleges of Florida leaders and higher education advocates will hold a news conference highlighting support for the Effective Access to Student Education voucher program and releasing a new study examining the true cost of college in Florida, including the impact of state subsidies on tuition, access, efficiency and taxpayer return on investment. The event will feature university leaders and state Sen. Martin discussing findings aimed at informing higher education policy debates this Session: 1 p.m., 4th Floor Rotunda.

8 a.m.

Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Room 404, House Office Building.

Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee, Room 17, House Office Building.

8:30 a.m.

Fiscal Policy, Room 412, Knott Building.

9 a.m.

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

9:30 a.m.

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

10:30 a.m.

Banking and Insurance, Room 412, Knott Building.

Commerce and Tourism, Room 110, Senate Office Building.

Education Postsecondary, Room 301, Senate Office Building.

Ethics and Elections, Room 37, Senate Office Building.

1 p.m.

Agriculture and Natural Resources Budget Subcommittee, Room 314, House Office Building.

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

Economic Infrastructure Subcommittee, Room 102, House Office Building.

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

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

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

3:30 p.m.

Higher Education Budget Subcommittee, Room 102, House Office Building.

Human Services Subcommittee, Room 314, House Office Building.

Natural Resources and Disasters Subcommittee, Room 404, House Office Building.

PreK-12 Budget Subcommittee, Room 17, House Office Building.

3:45 p.m.

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

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

Finance and Tax, Room 301, Senate Office Building.

6:30 p.m.

Florida Professional Firefighters King of the Hill Softball Game, Capitol Complex.

— GOV. CLUB BUFFET —

Lunch is served — The Governors Club buffet menu for Wednesday: Smoked beef brisket, grilled salmon with spinach and artichoke Boursin cream, herb roasted red potatoes, fresh vegetable medley, Caesar salad bowl, collard greens soup and Michelle’s Sweet Treats for dessert. Buffets include a deluxe salad bar and chef’s daily soup. A full buffet is $15; soup and salad are $12. Both prices include a beverage, a choice of coffee, tea and soda.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Hakeem Jeffries says House Democrats will push to impeach Kristi Noem if she’s not fired” via Marianna Sotomayor of The Washington Post — House Democrats are set to open an investigation into Homeland Security Secretary Noem as early as next week, laying the groundwork for a push to impeach her. Majority Leader Jeffries confirmed Tuesday that Democrats would launch an impeachment investigation if Noem were not fired before the House returns next week. “The violence unleashed on the American people by the Department of Homeland Security must end forthwith. Kristi Noem should be fired immediately, or we will commence impeachment proceedings in the House of Representatives,” Jeffries said in a joint statement with Minority Whip Katherine Clark and Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar. “We can do this the easy way or the hard way.”

“Ashley Moody proposes bill to increase penalties for health care fraud” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Moody has introduced a bill to increase penalties for those who engage in health care fraud. Moody’s proposal, the Punishing Health Care Fraudsters Act, is designed to institute harsher fines and prison sentences for those who rip off health care systems and providers. “For too long, the American taxpayer has been abused at the hands of criminals who bilk weaknesses in our laws and leaders that won’t bolster enforcement,” Moody said. “The fraud that has been exposed in recent weeks is a cancer that undermines trust and stability in critical programs, steals resources from those who truly need them, and raises the cost on consumers.”

— ELECTIONS —

“GOP calls Alexander Vindman’s Senate bid a long shot against Moody” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — The Republican Party of Florida slammed former Army Lt. Col. Vindman after he announced a bid for the U.S. Senate, calling his campaign a politically driven effort unlikely to resonate with Florida voters. Vindman, who gained national attention during the first impeachment of Trump, is running against Republican Moody. “The lying impeachment grifter is back,” the party said in the release, arguing that Vindman’s Senate bid reflects “media theatrics and grievance politics — not accomplishments for voters.” The party also criticized Vindman’s role in impeachment proceedings, claiming his national profile was built on what it described as falsehoods and partisan alliances, including with Democrats such as Rep. Adam Schiff.

“Democrats say census data on Florida growth should not spark partisan gerrymandering” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — New population projections from the U.S. Census Bureau show GOP-controlled states on track for gains in House seats after the 2030 census. Meanwhile, some Democratic states could see a net loss. But Democratic groups say that they shouldn’t greenlight further GOP gerrymandering in Florida. “It’s no coincidence that Republicans have enacted mid-decade gerrymanders in states like Texas and North Carolina by drawing maps that aim to further silence the very communities driving the most population growth — and they are considering doing the same in Florida,” said John Bisognano, President of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee. “That’s because Republicans are seeing these trends, too, and they are terrified of the voters. This dynamic underscores the need for Democratic states to act with urgency to ensure we can ultimately protect a representative democracy.”

FMA PAC backs ‘Doc’ Stelnicki in HD 100 — The Florida Medical Association is backing one of its own in the race for House District 100. FMA PAC announced in a Tuesday news release that it’s putting its support behind Dr. Eric “Doc” Stelnicki, a pediatric plastic and craniofacial surgeon. “Dr. Stelnicki has a unique understanding of the issues impacting Florida physicians, not only as a medical professional but as a businessman navigating myriad regulations and obstacles that prevent doctors from practicing medicine. We look forward to working closely with him in the Florida Legislature,” said FMA PAC’s President, Dr. Andrew Borom. Stelnicki added, “I’m thankful for the FMA’s confidence in my candidacy and look forward to working with them to deliver real results for Floridians.”

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“With TPS deadline near, South Floridians urge Trump administration to protect Haitians” via Jacqueline Charles of the Miami Herald — South Florida leaders urged the Trump administration Tuesday to extend Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, warning that ending the program would devastate families, employers and communities just days before protections expire Feb. 3. Without action from Trump or a court order, more than 350,000 Haitians nationwide, including about 100,000 in South Florida, would face possible detention and deportation to a country gripped by gang violence and humanitarian crisis. Faith leaders, business groups and local officials said TPS holders are legally employed, pay billions in taxes and fill critical health care and caregiving jobs. Speakers rejected claims that Haitians pose public safety risks and called the looming expiration a preventable, man-made disaster that would harm both the U.S. economy and vulnerable families.

“Group adds 5K more signatures in ballot push to grow Miami Commission, move elections to November” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A charter reform group hoping to expand the Miami Commission and reschedule the city’s elections just delivered an additional 5,000 signed petitions to the Clerk’s Office, bringing the total to over 18,000. The newly submitted petitions move the nonprofit Stronger Miami’s campaign ever closer to the roughly 20,000 valid signatures required under state law for the measures to qualify. More petition deliveries are planned in the coming weeks, the group said. Mel Meinhardt, a Board member of the homeowner’s advocacy group One Grove Alliance and a member of the campaign, said the latest submission reflects growing participation across Miami. The message, he said in a statement, is that residents are “demanding a government that is more accountable, more responsive and more focused on results.”

“Coral Gables Mayor’s outbursts edited out of Commission meeting video” via Naomi Feinstein of the Miami New Times — Following a January 13 Commission meeting, Coral Gables Commissioner Melissa Castro went to watch the YouTube video recording to help craft a routine newsletter to residents. But oddly, the recording was not immediately available. She contacted the city clerk, Billy Urquia, who told her that he was working on uploading the video. “I write to him, ‘No edits, right?’,” she said. “I don’t know why I got that gut feeling like this was weird. Something was weird.” When the video was finally uploaded, Castro says she noticed it had been edited at least twice, removing parts of the meeting in which she had been speaking. Before both cuts, Castro was speaking when Mayor Vince Lago interjected, calling for a recess.

“A Delray Beach Commission seat will remain empty after a repeat deadlock” via Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A Delray Beach City Commission seat remains empty after Commissioners failed to agree on someone to fill the spot. Commission Seat 2 had been occupied by Rob Long, who resigned from his post when he decided to run for the House District 90 seat. Long’s victory left his Delray Beach Commission seat empty and the remaining Commissioners to decide who should fill the spot until the March 10 General Election. Three candidates are running for the Seat 2 spot for the three-year term: Andrea Keiser, Judy Mollica and Delores Rangel. According to the city’s charter, the Commissioners had two opportunities to vote on an interim Seat 2 candidate.

“Ex-Hialeah Council member Angelica Pacheco pleads guilty to lying on pandemic loan forms” via Jay Weaver and Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — Federal prosecutors dropped major health care fraud charges against suspended Hialeah Council member Pacheco on the eve of her Miami trial, instead securing a guilty plea to falsifying information on a pandemic-era loan application. Pacheco admitted Monday that she lied to the Small Business Administration about how her addiction treatment center used Paycheck Protection Program funds, spending tens of thousands of dollars on personal expenses rather than payroll. The plea leaves her with a felony conviction barring her from public office but likely spares her prison time, with prosecutors recommending probation. Sentencing is set for April 16. The original indictment accused Pacheco of conspiring to bill insurers millions for unnecessary services, charges prosecutors dismissed without explanation.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Orlando punts on trying to stop ICE facility, Orange still exploring options” via Gryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — As U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement considers opening a detention and processing facility on Orlando’s eastern edge, city attorney Mayanne Downs said the U.S. Constitution prevents city officials from blocking it. Her conclusion comes even as Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said the county’s attorneys were still reviewing their own options in response to an outpouring from residents seeking to stop the potential facility. Downs, the founding partner of the DownsAaron firm and Orlando’s longtime city attorney, wrote to Mayor Buddy Dyer and City Commissioners with her conclusion. “As an agency of our federal government, ICE is immune from any local regulation that interferes in any way with its federal mandate,” she wrote. “This is so because the Federal Supremacy Clause establishes that federal laws are ‘the supreme Law of the Land,’ and override – and pre-empt – any conflicting state or local constitutions, charters, laws or regulations.”

“OCPS could lose 5,000 more students, close more schools, Superintendent says” via Steven Walker of the Orlando Sentinel — Orange County Public Schools. set to close seven schools this year, could lose another 5,000 students and then shutter even more campuses next year, Superintendent Maria Vazquez said Tuesday. As the Orange County School Board considered new attendance plans for students at the seven under-enrolled schools set to close this year, Vazquez said the same problems are likely to carry over into the next school year. “While I wish I could sit up here and say, ‘This is the last of our consolidations.’ I’m afraid that would be an untrue statement,” Vazquez said. Orange County Public Schools lost about 5,600 students this year and have lost almost 9,000 students in the last three.

“Seminole Commissioners agree to keep funding arts group” via Martin E. Comas of the Orlando Sentinel — After more than a dozen people — including teachers, residents and PTA members — spoke in support of the arts at a county meeting Tuesday, Seminole Commissioners unanimously agreed to continue funding the nonprofit Seminole Cultural Arts Council. On a motion by Commissioner Lee Constantine, the Board approved the county giving the Arts Council — commonly known as SCAC — and the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center $50,000 each this fiscal year. In addition, Commissioners will agree in the coming weeks on how to divide $48,881 between the two organizations used solely for grants. The organizations will also have to submit detailed quarterly budget reports showing how county funds are being spent.

“Holli Herndon takes on Rebecca Bays in Citrus County Commission race” via Mike Wright of Florida Politics — A Citrus County Schools educator is taking a leap into politics. Herndon announced plans this week to run for Citrus County Commission District 4, where incumbent Bays has already said she’s running for re-election. Herndon, a Republican, is a career and technical education specialist for the Citrus County School District. It’s her first run for public office. “I’m a regular citizen who believes deeply in servant leadership and in listening first,” said Herndon, a lifelong Citrus County citizen.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Rays stadium at Tampa’s Hillsborough College could cost $2.3 billion” via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — The Tampa Bay Rays have privately shared a new cost estimate for the stadium they’re hoping to build in Tampa: $2.3 billion, not including surrounding development. That figure, according to Tampa Sports Authority CEO Eric Hart, is $1 billion more than the Rays had proposed for a stadium in St. Petersburg two years ago. It came out after a meeting of Sports Authority Board members, where Hart was peppered with questions about a preliminary agreement approved by Hillsborough College’s District Board of Trustees last week.

“The Hillsborough Society raised nearly $200K, but has only spent $3K on direct candidate contributions” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Campaign finance reports show The Hillsborough Society PC has raised just over $199,000 since March 2023, but directed most of its spending toward consulting, events and operations rather than direct candidate support. Records indicate nearly $146,000 spent, with only $3,000 going directly to campaigns, while repeated payments to Mark Hanisee Consulting Inc. totaled nearly $31,000 across eight transactions. Additional expenses included catering, venue rentals, advertising and routine administrative costs. Executive Director Mark Hanisee said the spending aligns with the Committee’s mission to connect donors, candidates and elected officials, arguing that events and infrastructure are necessary to build support. He said the group has made maximum allowable contributions where possible and aims to complement, not replace, existing party efforts.

“Developer resuscitates stalled St. Pete affordable housing project” via Mark Parker of St. Pete Catalyst — An affordable housing-focused developer is breathing new life into a long-dormant, $67.2 million project in west St. Petersburg after several years of uncertainty. Washington D.C.-based Gravel Road Partners is now building Sixty90, a 204-unit apartment community with ground-level retail space. Pinellas County Commissioners unanimously approved $6.71 million in funding for the new iteration, which will dedicate 60% of its units to households earning up to 80% of the area median income (AMI). Local real estate investment firms DDA Development and Backstreets Capital first proposed Sixty90 in December 2020. Tyler Herbert, founding partner of Gravel Road Partners (GRP), said keeping most of the original design should allow his company to break ground at 6090 Central Ave. in the Summer.

“St. Pete urged to seize troubled apartment complex that faces foreclosure” via Christina Georgacopoulos of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — A tenant advocacy group is urging the city of St. Petersburg to seize a troubled apartment complex that is facing foreclosure and demands to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in utility bills. During a recent Council meeting, the St. Petersburg Tenants Union petitioned Council members to buy The Morgan, owned by Dallas-based Lurin Real Estate Holdings, to prevent its sale to another corporate landlord at a foreclosure auction. The city’s priority remains collecting outstanding utility bills for the property, and there are currently no plans for the city to acquire the complex, a spokesperson for the city of St. Pete said.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Clay County teacher suspended over Charlie Kirk comments files lawsuit against Florida Education Commissioner” via Scott Johnson and Aydian Ahmad of News4Jax — A Clay County teacher who was suspended in September over comments they made about Kirk following his assassination has filed a lawsuit against Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas, according to federal court dockets. The lawsuit, filed on Monday, argues that the teacher’s First Amendment rights were violated and that an administrative complaint filed by Kamoutsas constituted “governmental retaliation for protected speech.” … “The threatened revocation of Plaintiff’s Florida Educator’s Certificate, which would deprive [them] of the right to practice [their] chosen profession in [their] state of residence and substantially curtail [their] livelihood, would tend to deter a person of ordinary firmness from exercising protected speech,” the lawsuit reads.

Appointed — Oscar Locklin to the Pensacola State College District Board of Trustees.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Lee GOP helping with JD Vance’s visit to Naples” via J. Kyle Foster of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Vice President Vance is coming to Naples for a spendy private fundraising event. Vance is scheduled to fly into Naples Airport on Wednesday, with airspace restricted between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Volunteers gathered by the Lee County Republican Executive Committee will help with the motorcade to and from the event, Chair Mercedes Price-Harry told the Naples Daily News. “He is coming to Southwest Florida. He will be in the Naples area,” Price-Harry said. “His team did reach out to me and ask me to assist them in finding volunteers for the event, not to go inside the event, but just to assist outside the event, and particularly in regard to transportation.”

“Adam Botana proposal shifting Naples Airport Authority to elected Board clears final House panel” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — A proposal that would overhaul the governance of the Naples Airport Authority by shifting Board selection from City Council appointments to countywide elections cleared its final House Committee stop. The House State Affairs Committee approved HB 4005, sponsored by Rep. Adam Botana, sending the measure to the House floor. The proposal would require Collier County voters to elect members of the Naples Airport Authority Board beginning with the November 2026 Election. Three of the five seats would be reserved for city residents, while two seats would be filled by voters outside Naples city limits. All five members would be elected countywide.

— TOP OPINION —

“Trump can be stopped” via Jonathan Chait of The Atlantic — Trump retreated from his administration’s hard-line posture in Minneapolis after the fatal shooting of Pretti, signaling a rare political reversal driven by public pressure and internal Republican unease. The shift punctured the perception that Trump could govern without regard for opinion or accountability.

After the killing, administration figures, including Noem and Stephen Miller, labeled Pretti a terrorist, prompting backlash as some Republicans quietly called for an investigation, an uncommon break from party discipline.

At a White House briefing, the President distanced himself from the rhetoric, while conciliatory messages followed conversations with Minnesota leaders Walz and Frey.

Trump also replaced the on-the-ground commander in Minnesota, sending Tom Homan to take over operations, another signal of de-escalation after days of controversy.

The retreat marked a setback for national conservatives, a faction that views immigration enforcement as an existential fight and rejects compromise as weakness.

Figures aligned with that movement, including Vance and Miller, have wielded enormous influence and rarely lost internal battles over Trump’s strategy.

Yet Trump’s instincts, driven more by image and political survival than ideology, ultimately overrode their demands.

Sustained resistance in Minneapolis, coupled with public outrage, raised the political cost high enough to force a change, underscoring that even this White House can be constrained.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“What should Americans do now?” via George Packer of The Atlantic — The killings of Pretti and Good in Minneapolis have drawn comparisons to the murder of George Floyd, but the aftermath underscores a stark difference: there is no clear path to accountability. Unlike 2020, when investigations and reforms followed Floyd’s death, federal agents involved in the recent killings face no local scrutiny, and the Trump administration has not withdrawn ICE or permitted prosecutions. Administration officials have dismissed the deaths, labeled protesters as terrorists and framed force as authority, reinforcing fears of unchecked power. d Trump’s limited personnel changes have not altered enforcement on the ground. Critics warn that the refusal to allow investigations marks a breakdown of the rule of law, fueling public outrage and deepening concerns that authoritarian tactics are replacing constitutional restraint.

“‘Go f*** yourself’ email from legislator could be state’s new motto” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — A few weeks ago, Seminole County resident Greg Loftus did something pretty common when he contacted his designated state lawmaker to share thoughts about an upcoming legislative issue. Specifically, Loftus told Rep. David Smith that he didn’t think much of the Republican Party’s plans to stage an off-year redistricting plan with the hopes of stacking the deck to give the GOP more seats in Congress. Loftus used pointed language, saying he had come “to expect the worst” from Smith, but that he hoped Smith would honor his oath of office and the “Fair Districts” amendments citizens passed in 2010. “Greg, as much as I want to tell you to ‘go f*** yourself,’ I won’t,” Smith wrote. Except Smith had pretty much done just that. And the distinguished gentleman from Winter Springs didn’t bother using asterisks. Smith also told his constituent: “… don’t tell me how to do my job.”

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

My best friend:

— ALOE —

“Gasparilla pirates demand key to the City of Tampa” via Dirk Shadd of the Tampa Bay Times — On Saturday, the Gasparilla Invasion begins at the Tampa Convention Center and then moves to the Parade of Pirates along Bayshore Boulevard. But before the festivities begin, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor must hand over the bounty (or key to the city).

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are Debbie Aleksander and Amy Lockhart.

___

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