Politics
Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 1.7.26
Good Wednesday morning.
Brittany Wise is launching B.Wise Communications and Strategic Advising to help universities and other public-impact organizations advance strategic goals, protect institutional reputation and demonstrate value. Wise, a veteran higher education communications professional, is partnering with Bascom Communications Group to combine system-level, flagship-university and public-affairs expertise.
Wise has 15 years of higher education experience, including leadership roles with the Florida Board of Governors and the University of Florida. She is the only professional in the state who has led communications strategy for both the State University System and at the institution level. Her experience will offer clients a full range of communications and marketing services while allowing Bascom Communications Group, led by veteran strategic and crisis communications expert Sarah Bascom, to expand its footprint in the higher education sector.
“We are excited to form this new partnership and expand our scope of services with Brittany and B.Wise Communications and Strategic Advising,” Bascom said. “Brittany’s tenure in the strategic communications higher education space is unmatched, and our team is proud to add our brand and unrivaled level of expertise to this joint endeavor. Strategic higher education communications is a specialized niche, with many internal and external audiences, and we are ready to help institutions in Florida and across the country succeed in this evolving landscape.”
The partnership between Wise and Bascom Communications Group is already attracting praise.
“I’ve known Brittany and Sarah for many years, and together they form a powerful partnership combining institutional and system-level insight with deep experience in Tallahassee and public affairs,” said Marshall Criser III, president of Piedmont University and former Chancellor of the State University System of Florida. “In today’s changing higher education landscape, it is hard to think of a pair better equipped to help institutions succeed.”
Likewise, Mark Kaplan, the former vice president for Government and Community Relations at the University of Florida, said Wise and Bascom will offer “unmatched guidance on protecting and enhancing” university reputations in what he describes as a “rapidly evolving environment.”
“Their partnership unites two trusted voices who know the policy landscape and the mission of higher education,” Kaplan said.
In addition to the new firm, Wise is also launching The Wise Higher Education Council to provide university Boards, presidents and senior leadership with confidential access to a national roster of expert higher education advisers, such as current and former Trustees, university presidents, chief academic and financial officers, communications leaders and government affairs executives.
Read more about this launch here.
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Top South Florida-based public affairs firm EDGE Communications is promoting David Cruz Ramos to Chief of Staff.
Cruz Ramos is fresh off a win as Campaign Manager to newly elected Miami Commissioner Rolando Escalona, and EDGE said his elevation reflects his expanding role across campaign strategy, client engagement and firmwide coordination.
“David is the kind of leader every candidate hopes for: steady, strategic, and relentless in his pursuit of excellence,” Escalona said in a news release. “We both came to this country from Cuba with a dream, and I couldn’t have asked for a better partner to help bring our message of hope and integrity to the City of Miami.”
EDGE Founder and CEO Christian Ulvert added, “David has earned this promotion with his unwavering dedication and sharp political instincts. He leads by example and with heart — and in this new role, he will help guide the firm’s continued growth and impact.”
Since joining EDGE in 2023, Cruz Ramos has played a central role in several high-profile campaigns in South Florida. In addition to his work on Escalona’s campaign, Cruz Ramos made key contributions across EDGE’s 2025 portfolio. The firm helped secure wins for new Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins and Miami Beach Commissioner Monica Matteo-Salinas, as well as the re-elections of Miami Commissioners Laura Dominguez and Alex Fernandez.
“I’m grateful to work alongside such passionate colleagues and mission-driven clients,” he said. “EDGE does so much more than run campaigns — our team builds trust, elevates voices and delivers results that matter. I’m proud to continue that work in this next chapter.”
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@Atrupar: words fail at the brazenness of the dishonesty in the White House’s new January 6 timeline
Tweet, tweet:
—@RealDonaldTrump: It is my Great Honor to endorse America First Patriot, Jon Maples, who is running to represent the wonderful people of Florida’s 87th State House District. Jon is a very successful Businessman and Civic Leader, who is known and loved, and also endorsed by so many of my Palm Beach County friends, including by Great State Representative “MAGA” Meg Weinberger. Jon will be a terrific Legislator! As your next State Representative, Jon will fight tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Stop Migrant Crime, Safeguard our Elections, Support our Military, Veterans, and Law Enforcement, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment. Jon Maples has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Florida HD-87. Early Voting ends January 11th, and Primary Election Day is January 13th. GET OUT AND VOTE FOR JON — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!
—@AGJamesUthmeier: Today, we sent a violation notice to the city of Winter Haven for allowing parks and street corners to be taken over by homeless. This is an unacceptable public safety issue for families, and we expect it to be corrected in short order.
— DAYS UNTIL —
‘Industry’ season four premieres — 4; Australian Open begins — 5; Special Primary Election for HD 87 — 6; HD 51 Special Primary and two Boca Raton referendums — 6; Legislative Session begins — 6; Florida Chamber Legislative Fly-In — 6; The James Madison Institute Red, White & Bluegrass event — 7; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 11; Florida Tourism Day — 14; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 23; The Grammy Awards — 25; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 29; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 30; Special (General) Election for HD 87 — 47; ‘Paradise’ season two premieres on Hulu — 47; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Y: Marshals’ premieres — 53; Boca Raton Mayoral and City Council Elections — 62; last day of the Regular Session — 65; The Oscars — 67; ‘Peaky Blinders’ movie premieres on Netflix — 72; Special Election for HD 51 (if necessary) — 76; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 77; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 78; new season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 86; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 89; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 98; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 98; First Qualifying Period begins (Federal) — 103; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 107; F1 Miami begins — 114; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 135; new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ premieres at Disney World — 135; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 146; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 152; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 155; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 156; State Qualifying Period ends — 156; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 163; Mexico will face live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 175; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 178; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 183; MLB All-Star Game — 188; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 190; Primary Election: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 194; Primary Election: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 211; Primary Election: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 213; Primary Election Day — 223; Yankees host the Mets to mark the anniversary of 9/11 — 247; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 251; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 255; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 260; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 267; General Election: Deadline to register to vote — 271; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 290; General Election — 300; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 345; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 345; untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 345; Tampa Mayoral Election — 419; Jacksonville First Election — 440; Jacksonville General Election — 496; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 514; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 576; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 632; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 709; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 919; U.S. Presidential Election — 1035; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1435; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2166.
“Capitol Police could expand Tallahassee reach to target crime, vagrancy” via Jim Rosica and James Call of the Tallahassee Democrat — Florida lawmakers are weighing legislation that would significantly expand the authority of Capitol Police, extending their jurisdiction beyond state office buildings to nearby streets, parking areas and public spaces in downtown Tallahassee. Supporters say the change would strengthen security around the seat of state government, while critics warn it could encroach on local law enforcement and deepen tensions over homelessness.
Companion bills filed for the 2026 Legislative Session would expand the Capitol Complex security perimeter north to Park Avenue, incorporating portions of the Chain of Parks that unhoused residents have long used as gathering areas. The measures direct state officials to develop enhanced security plans to address crime and vagrancy in regions surrounding the Capitol.
The proposal follows recent efforts to enlarge the security perimeter around the Governor’s Mansion, including property acquisitions and demolitions in nearby neighborhoods. Together, the moves reflect a broader push by state leaders to tighten security around key government facilities.
Democratic Rep. Allison Tant of Tallahassee said she is concerned the bills could allow Capitol Police to overstep and undermine existing coordination among city and county law enforcement. She said discussions are planned with the Leon County Sheriff and the Tallahassee Police Chief.
Other provisions would allow the Department of Management Services, with approval from top state leaders, to close streets near the Capitol, expand security authority in state parking facilities and formally assign Capitol Police responsibility for safety across the expanded area. The bills also authorize new outreach-focused policing positions.
If approved and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the changes would take effect July 1. The proposal arrives amid ongoing local efforts to address homelessness downtown, including restrictions on panhandling and measures discouraging public solicitation.
— STATEWIDE —
“Ron DeSantis says Florida looking ‘very seriously’ at bringing state charges against Nicolás Maduro” via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — DeSantis said Monday that the Attorney General’s Office is seriously evaluating whether to file state charges against Venezuelan leader Maduro following his arrest and court appearance in New York on federal drug trafficking charges. DeSantis argued Maduro’s alleged role in trafficking drugs into Florida and sending prisoners, including members of the Tren de Aragua gang, across the U.S. border could justify state prosecution. The Governor said Florida statutes are under review and teased potential action on social media, though no charges have been announced. The Attorney General’s Office declined immediate comment. DeSantis also questioned whether a Manhattan jury could fairly hear the federal case and said state proceedings could move faster. Democrats criticized the move as political theater, while Republicans broadly supported pursuing state charges.
“DeSantis: Florida should require congressional candidates to answer about stock trades” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — DeSantis said Monday he supports efforts to curb stock trading by members of Congress and wants Florida to require congressional candidates to disclose whether they plan to trade stocks if elected. Appearing in Clearwater with Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, DeSantis endorsed Luna’s proposal to ban individual stock trading for lawmakers, calling the practice a “bipartisan ailment.” He argued some members have posted investment gains that defy normal patterns and said voters deserve transparency before casting ballots. While acknowledging that the state cannot directly regulate Congress, DeSantis said a disclosure requirement at the ballot qualification stage would inform voters. The push comes as Luna’s bill gains traction and amid scrutiny of stock trading by Florida members ahead of the 2026 Elections.
“Tax collections top projection” via Florida Trend — Driven by sales taxes, state general-revenue collections in November topped expectations by about 6%. The Legislature’s Office of Economic & Demographic Research reported last week that Florida collected about $4.031 billion in net general revenue in November, $228.7 million over the amount forecast in August. A panel known as the Revenue Estimating Conference meets periodically throughout the year to revise revenue forecasts, which inform lawmakers’ budget decisions. General revenue is closely watched because it plays a major role in funding education, health and prison programs. During November, the state collected $3.014 billion in sales taxes, or $172.1 million more than expected. As another example, earnings from investments came in at $137.6 million, $18.6 million above forecast. Meanwhile, corporate income taxes totaled $95.7 million in November, or $24.6 million below expectations. The report also said Floridians continue to have a “subpar” personal savings rate.
— LEGISLATIVE —
“Lawmakers can’t access ‘Alligator Alcatraz’, judge rules” via Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — A Leon County Circuit Judge rejected a lawsuit filed by five Democratic lawmakers who sought access to the immigrant-detention center dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” saying laws about access to state prisons and local jails do not apply to the Everglades facility. Judge Jonathan Sjostrom ruled in favor of the DeSantis administration in a lawsuit filed after lawmakers made an unannounced visit to the detention center in July and were denied access. The Democrats argued that the denial violated laws that allow legislators to visit correctional facilities.
“Darryl Rouson proposes mandatory electronic alerts in schools to curb student truancy” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — New legislation proposed by St. Petersburg Democratic Sen. Rouson would require Florida School Districts to implement mandatory electronic alerts when students reach truancy thresholds. SB 1190 would direct School Boards to implement electronic alert systems meant to notify school administrators, child study teams and parents when a student misses too many days from school. State law already requires districts to monitor truancy and to intervene when students accumulate too many unexcused absences. Rouson’s bill would standardize early notification by mandating a statewide alert system, rather than leaving the decision to local authorities.
“10 years after state incentives ended, Florida could revamp its film policy — via license plates” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Lawmakers may soon revisit Florida’s long-running debate over film incentives — not through tax credits, but by creating a specialty license plate to aid the industry while gauging residents’ appetite for broader action. A to-be-filed bill by Rep. Fabián Basabe would create a “Florida Film Legacy” specialty license plate. Proceeds from plate sales would go to Feature Florida Partnerships, a nonprofit that supports local filmmakers and works to rebuild the state’s motion picture infrastructure. Basabe said the proposal offers a “grassroots way to engage Floridians” in shaping the future of Florida’s film and creative industries, adding that strong plate sales would signal public interest in renewed state involvement. “Florida once had a vibrant film and television presence that created jobs, developed local talent and highlighted our communities,” he said.
New this month: ABLE eligibility expands — With the federal ABLE Age Adjustment Act now in effect, ABLE United (Florida’s official ABLE program) says more than 400,000 Floridians with disabilities, including many veterans and adults with later-onset conditions like MS, TBI, PTSD, lupus and vision loss, are newly eligible to open tax‑advantaged ABLE accounts without jeopardizing SSI/Medicaid. “Florida has always been a leader in empowering individuals with disabilities to build financial independence,” said John Finch, Director of ABLE United. “With the Age Adjustment Act, we’re expanding that opportunity to thousands more Floridians -veterans, adults with later-onset conditions, and families who’ve long been excluded. This is more than policy, it’s progress.” The change raises the disability‑onset age threshold from 26 to 46, and ABLE United is offering a $50 incentive for new accounts opened Jan. 5–Apr. 30, 2026.
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Marco Rubio takes on his most daunting role yet” via Andrea Mitchell and Abigail Williams of NBC News — President Donald Trump ordered the military operation in Venezuela to capture Maduro. But in the aftermath, Rubio is in the spotlight. Tasked with overseeing the transition of a post-Maduro Venezuela, Rubio has stepped into his fourth — and potentially riskiest — Trump administration role, and the coming weeks and months could define his standing as one of the President’s top advisers. A fixation for Rubio for more than a decade, Venezuela has now become a high-stakes gambit for Trump that could shape his own legacy. And at a news conference with Trump following the stunning capture of Maduro and his wife, an emboldened Rubio put other world leaders on notice they could be next.
“Defying Donald Trump’s NASA proposal, Congress looks to maintain budget, including science, near current levels” via Richard Tribou of the Orlando Sentinel — A bipartisan congressional appropriations deal would essentially reject Trump’s proposed deep cuts to NASA, restoring funding levels close to current spending for the 2026 fiscal year. The House and Senate minibus bill allocates $24.44 billion to NASA, far above Trump’s $18.8 billion proposal and only slightly below the agency’s 2025 budget. The measure preserves funding for science programs, Artemis missions, space technology and STEM education, which Trump’s budget sought to eliminate or sharply reduce. Advocacy groups praised lawmakers for protecting U.S. leadership in space and science, warning earlier that the proposed cuts would have gutted nearly a third of NASA’s science portfolio. The bill must still clear both chambers and receive Trump’s signature.
“Rick Scott wants Senate Aging Committee to make a safer nation for seniors, both in their communities and online” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Scott promises a safer country for seniors in 2026. The Naples Republican chairs the Senate’s Select Committee on Aging, where he has worked in bipartisan fashion with U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, the ranking Democrat, on several health care and social service issues. But he also promised to use the gavel to deliver accountability regarding bureaucratic overreach and abuse. “Throughout my career in health care, as Governor of Florida, and now as a U.S. Senator, standing up for America’s seniors has always been a top priority,” Scott said, “and as Chairman of this Committee, I look forward to continuing our bipartisan work with President Trump and my colleagues.”
“Lois Frankel raises community concerns about Mar-a-Lago air space restrictions to Secret Service” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Can Palm Beach ever host regular air traffic while Trump serves? The Secret Service, as it protects a Commander in Chief who has already survived an attempted assassination on the campaign trail, wants to ground flights within a nautical mile of Mar-a-Lago at all times. But U.S. Rep. Frankel, at a briefing with the Secret Service, stressed a need to balance out community needs with national security. “My goal is to facilitate a solution that keeps the President and our country safe, using flight restrictions that impact the least number of people in the safest, fairest way possible,” Frankel wrote.
— ELECTIONS —
The Associated Industries of Florida is endorsing two Republican candidates running for open House seats in Northwest and Southwest Florida.
The business advocacy group is backing Jon Fay in House District 2 and Liesa Priddy in House District 82, citing both candidates’ professional backgrounds and alignment with AIF’s priorities.
Fay is one of a half-dozen Republicans vying for the Escambia- and Santa Rosa-based seat currently held by term-limited Rep. Alex Andrade. Fay graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, where he played running back for the football team, and later served 24 years in the military as a naval flight officer.
“Jon Fay’s distinguished Naval career is a testament to his leadership, discipline, and commitment to service, and he brings that same level of excellence to his work in the private sector,” said AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis.
“His exceptional record in the military, paired with his business acumen, makes him uniquely qualified to advocate for policies that strengthen Florida’s economy – lowering insurance costs, modernizing infrastructure, protecting Florida’s water and natural resources, and keeping our tourism industry strong. AIF is proud to endorse his campaign.”
Priddy is one of four Republican hopefuls competing to succeed Rep. Lauren Melo in HD 82, which covers a swath of Southwest Florida, including Hendry County and parts of Collier County. Melo, who is running for Senate rather than a fourth term, previously endorsed Priddy.
“Liesa Priddy’s distinguished background in business, agriculture, and conservation makes her an exceptional advocate for Florida’s economy and natural resources,” Bevis said. “We know her staunch conservative voice will be an asset for Florida’s business community in the Florida House, and we are proud to endorse her campaign,” Bevis said.
Save the date:
— LOCAL: S. FL —
“Dozens of South Florida prosecutors reviewing Jeffrey Epstein files, filing reveals” via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — The U.S. Department of Justice is reviewing more than 2 million additional documents related to investigations into Epstein, and dozens of South Florida lawyers have been called in to help, Attorney General Pam Bondi revealed in a letter to a New York judge Monday. The Justice Department has posted about 12,000 documents in response to a December deadline to release its files under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. There are more than 2 million additional documents “that are in various phases of review,” Bondi wrote. The new transparency law required the Justice Department to release files from all investigations into the convicted sex trafficker — who is believed to have abused about 1,000 victims — by Dec. 19. The department blew past that deadline, releasing less than 1% of the potentially relevant files in its possession so far.
“Palm Beach County hits $1B mark in Israel bond investments” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Palm Beach County just hit a new milestone in its record investment in Israel bonds. Clerk Mike Caruso announced that the county made a new $350.5 million bond purchase — an acquisition that brings Palm Beach’s total investment in Israeli bonds to exactly $1 billion. The purchase marks the “most significant investment in Israel bonds of any investor in the world,” a press note from Caruso’s Office said, and “provides the most significant returns of any investment option in the County’s portfolio.” Caruso, a certified public accountant and former state lawmaker whom DeSantis appointed Clerk in August, added that the purchase was strategically timed to maximize returns for taxpayers and is expected to generate $47.2 million in interest income over three years.
“$52M project to keep 15 tons phosphorus, 34 tons nitrogen out of river” via Timothy O’Hara of Treasure Coast Newspapers — A $52 million project designed to improve water quality in the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River will be completed in the first quarter of 2026. Polluted freshwater from farms and urban development in northwest Martin County and southwest St. Lucie County will be cleaned before being released into the St. Lucie River, if at all. The freshwater could be reused. A 6-mile-long canal will send about 1.7 billion gallons of water a year from the C-23 Canal south into the C-44 Reservoir and its stormwater treatment area, instead of the lagoon and river estuary, according to South Florida Water Management District spokesperson Jason Schultz.
“Deerfield Beach would save millions by no longer using Broward Sheriff’s Office, study says” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Deerfield Beach would save more than $8 million a year, and $500 million over the next two decades, if it dumped the Broward Sheriff’s Office and provided its own police and fire-rescue services. But that savings would only come after significant startup costs associated with restarting independent agencies and hiring a host of new leadership, officers, paramedics and support staff. Still, the findings by the independent Center for Public Safety are likely to add stress to the tense relationship between the city and the Broward Sheriff’s Office, which erupted over the Summer when City Manager Rodney Brimlow accused Sheriff Gregory Tony of threatening him during a meeting of the agency’s brass.
“This is not the year to do away with Fourth of July fireworks” via Susannah Bryan of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Some cities have traded fireworks shows for drone light shows. Fort Lauderdale won’t be one of them. Not this year, anyway. A controversial proposal to swap out the city’s Fourth of July fireworks for drones quickly fizzled on Tuesday after Commissioners said no to the idea. Instead, they agreed to consider using a drone light show alongside fireworks. With the nation on the verge of celebrating a very important anniversary — the signing of the Declaration of Independence 250 years ago — this is not the year to do away with fireworks, Vice Mayor John Herbst argued Tuesday during a City Hall meeting. “This is the 250th anniversary of our country,” Herbst said. “I don’t think this is the year to experiment with it. Since the founding of this country, we have celebrated with fireworks. This is a tradition that goes back to our very first Fourth of July. I think it’s important to honor that. I’m open to experimenting with this, but I don’t think this is the year to do that.”
—”Elliman Report: South Florida home sales end 2025 on an upbeat note” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Orange County hotel tax revenue up 9% for November” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — For the first November that Epic Universe has been open, Orange County’s hotel tax revenue jumped nearly 9% compared to the same time period in 2024. The 6% surcharge on hotel rooms and short-term stays generated about $34.5 million for November. “There was one more reason to be thankful in November. Tourist Development Tax (TDT) collections for November set another record and were the highest collections ever recorded for the month,” Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond said. Perhaps the busy Thanksgiving foreshadows another surge in hotel tax revenue in December, as the holiday season comes to a close. Diamond said December’s figures will be disclosed in early February.
“About 170 super-speeders charged in Volusia under new law since July” via Frank Fernandez of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — About 170 people were charged in Volusia County under the new super speeder law between July 1, when the law took effect, and Nov. 19. The new statute elevates excessive speeding to a criminal charge. The Florida Highway Patrol charged the most people, about 107, while the Volusia Sheriff’s Office charged about 50 drivers. A law enforcement officer who stops a super speeder can either take the driver to jail or issue a citation. Holly Hill Police Chief Byron K. Williams said in an interview that “enough is enough” and that the super speeder law gives law enforcement “a little more teeth” to address outrageous violations, like the driver reportedly doing 90 mph in a 25 mph zone.
— LOCAL: TB —
Port Tampa Bay has named Merissa Lynn Director of Communications, where she will oversee executive messaging, media relations, crisis communications, digital content and stakeholder engagement to support Port Tampa Bay’s long-term Vision 2030 priorities and continued growth.
Lynn comes to the port with extensive experience in executive communications, crisis management, public safety, health care and media.
“Merissa brings an exceptional blend of strategic communications expertise, crisis leadership, and real-time media experience,” Port Tampa Bay President and CEO Paul Anderson said. “As Port Tampa Bay continues to advance Vision 2030 and deliver major infrastructure and economic development initiatives, her leadership will ensure our story is told clearly, credibly, and with purpose.”
Lynn most recently served as Director of Executive & Strategic Communications for University of South Florida Athletics, where she directed executive-level communications, guided departmentwide messaging and led storytelling for transformative initiatives, including the construction of USF’s on-campus stadium. She also oversaw crisis communications and led high-profile transitions involving senior leadership and head coaches.
Lynn called the new position an honor, particularly at what she describes as “an exciting moment.”
“The port plays a vital role in our economy, supply chain, and community, and I look forward to helping share its story, support its mission, and advance a clear, future-focused vision,” she said.
“Nancy Bostock launches School Board bid, earns endorsement from Stephanie Meyer” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Former County Commissioner and School Board member Bostock has launched a campaign for the Pinellas County School Board, picking up an early endorsement from outgoing Board member Meyer. Bostock announced her candidacy Tuesday, framing the race around student achievement, fiscal priorities and the pressures facing public schools as costs continue to rise. Pinellas County Schools recently earned an “A” rating from the state for the first time, but Bostock said inflation, housing affordability and demographic shifts threaten to strain classrooms, families and educators.
“HART CEO’s salary sparks debate after a year of big wins” via Breanne Williams of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) Board kicked off 2026 with a debate about how much of a raise its CEO deserves. The Board evaluated CEO Scott Drainville’s annual performance review and agreed to give Drainville a 5% raise. Drainsville was promoted from interim to full-time CEO of HART in 2023, with a base salary of $245,000 — roughly $42,500 less than his predecessor, Adalee Le Grand, earned in her final year. According to a HART spokesperson, Drainville’s salary was $254,800. The 5% merit increase brings his salary to $267,540. The Board may grant an additional merit-based salary increase of up to 15% if it deems it appropriate.
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“American Magic HQ in Pensacola is complete, bringing 170 high-wage jobs” via Jim Little of the Pensacola News-Journal — The $20.8 million American Magic headquarters at the Port of Pensacola is finally complete. Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves said at his weekly news conference Jan. 6 that the completion of the project establishes the city as a preeminent home for sailing and watercraft innovation in the United States. Reeves announced the completion of the 56,000-square-foot Warehouse No. 10 at the port, alongside city and port staff and Greenhut Construction staff. The city and American Magic will hold an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at the port on Wednesday. While no direct city tax funds went to the project, it was funded with state backing in the form of an $8.5 million grant from Triumph Gulf Coast, a $5.6 million grant from the Governor’s Job Growth Grant Fund and a $2.3 million grant from the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Program.
“Tom Petty Park revamp nears completion with new pickleball courts, restrooms” via Elliot Tritto of The Gainesville Sun — Tom Petty Park will no longer be running down a dream with its long‑awaited renovations, as Wild Spaces and Public Places announced that a completion date is on the horizon. Work at the more than 20-acre park at 501 NE 16th Ave. is being completed in two phases by Gainesville-based Scorpio and includes new pickleball courts and restrooms. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on April 4, 2025. Wild Spaces and Public Places Program Director Rachel Mandell told The Sun on Jan. 6 that the first phase will make the west side of the park more accessible to visitors by early February. The first phase — for $1.9 million — includes eight dedicated pickleball courts, are‑routed multi‑purpose trail to increase ADA accessibility, a pedestrian entrance from the Northeast 16th Avenue crosswalk, a new stormwater pond, and enhanced parking‑lot lighting. All project costs are being funded through the voter-approved Wild Spaces and Public Places half-cent sales tax.
“Nick Pachota lands James Buchanan’s endorsement in HD 74 GOP Primary” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Republican House District 74 candidate Pachota has picked up the endorsement of term-limited Sarasota Rep. Buchanan, earning the support of the district’s longtime Representative as he runs in a crowded GOP Primary. Buchanan has held the HD 74 seat in Sarasota County since 2018 and currently serves as Chair of the House Commerce Committee. Now term-limited, he’s running for the Senate District 22 seat to replace term-limited Sen. Joe Gruters, leaving the HD 74 seat open. Gruters, meanwhile, now serves as Chair of the Republican National Committee.
— TOP OPINION —
“Florida TaxWatch prepared to carry out its founder’s vision” via Jeff Kottkamp for the Tallahassee Democrat — I stepped into this role Jan. 1 with a deep sense of responsibility rooted in continuity, mission and accountability to Florida taxpayers. This transition is not about a title or a milestone. It is about carrying forward a legacy built over decades and honoring the trust Floridians place in Florida TaxWatch.
For 45 years, Florida TaxWatch has served as the state’s most trusted nonpartisan fiscal watchdog. It was built to challenge waste, expose inefficiency and demand accountability regardless of who holds power. That credibility was earned through rigorous research, fair analysis and a singular focus on protecting taxpayers, not political interests.
That standard does not change as we move forward. Even as our founder launches the Florida TaxWatch Foundation, independence, credibility and data-driven advocacy remain the foundation of everything we do. Our only agenda is fiscal responsibility and good government.
This leadership transition comes at a pivotal moment. Florida’s state budget has grown more than 60% over the past decade, while economic forecasts point to a revenue slowdown beginning in 2026. When budgets tighten, scrutiny matters more. Our most recent Budget Turkey Watch Report identified more than $1.2 billion in questionable spending, including hundreds of appropriations that bypassed meaningful legislative review.
I have seen firsthand how Florida TaxWatch’s work delivers results, from helping eliminate the business rent tax to supporting historic property tax relief. Our research informs leaders across the political spectrum and reinforces Florida’s reputation as a national model for fiscal discipline.
As Florida enters another challenging budget cycle, Florida TaxWatch remains fully independent and privately funded. My commitment is simple and unwavering: keep taxpayers at the table, protect public dollars and ensure fiscal responsibility remains central to Florida’s future.
— MORE OPINIONS —
“I was a drug dealer. Would Trump kill me?” via Mitchell S. Jackson of Esquire — Since Operation Southern Spear began, there’s been much debate about the legality of those strikes. On the one hand, the White House first claimed the strikes were meant to combat drug trafficking and “narco-terrorists.” Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson claimed, “Each strike conducted against these designated terror organizations is taken in defense of vital U.S. national interests and to protect the homeland.” On the other hand, United Nations experts contended the “attacks do not appear to have been conducted within the context of national self-defense, an international or non-international armed conflict, nor against individuals posing an imminent threat to life, thus violating fundamental human rights laws prohibiting arbitrary deprivation of life.”
“The data center rebellion is here, and it’s reshaping the political landscape” via Evan Halper of The Washington Post — A Christmas parade float depicting a hulking data center overshadowing a gingerbread house captured growing resistance to massive AI-driven data center projects in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, and similar communities nationwide. As tech companies race to build energy-hungry facilities, residents in rural and suburban areas are pushing back against annexations, secrecy agreements and rezoning efforts they say threaten farmland, water supplies, electricity costs and community character. Opposition has emerged across party lines, including in deep-red areas where many voters support leaders promoting AI expansion. The backlash has reached national politics, with lawmakers, advocacy groups and even administration officials warning that developers are losing public trust. Dozens of projects have been delayed or blocked, underscoring a widening clash between economic incentives, local control and community concerns.
“Florida’s voucher program at a crossroads” via Liz Barker for Florida Politics — Florida’s rapidly expanding taxpayer-funded voucher program is drawing scrutiny after an independent audit found widespread oversight failures and mounting fiscal risks. The audit of the Family Empowerment Scholarship concluded that the program has grown faster than the state’s ability to manage it, with gaps in student tracking, weak eligibility verification and financial controls unable to keep pace. Auditors said roughly 30,000 students, representing about $270 million, cannot be accounted for at any given time, and warned that voucher spending is obscured within public school funding formulas. Analysts project $4 billion to $5 billion in annual voucher costs could push Florida toward a budget deficit. Critics argue that most recipients were never in public schools, redirecting funds without equivalent accountability standards. A bipartisan Senate bill seeks reforms.
“Just 10 men for high court is a clear failure” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — Any one of thousands of qualified and capable legal minds would improve the Florida Supreme Court. But only 10 applied for the current vacancy — and all are men. Taking the easy path, a nominating panel submitted six — the most the Constitution allows — to DeSantis. All six, like DeSantis, are members of the conservative Federalist Society. Its co-Chair, Leonard Leo, has privately advised the Governor on Florida Supreme Court appointments. Whoever DeSantis picks will join five justices who owe their appointments to him and almost always vote as he likes. The seventh and senior justice, Jorge Labarga, born in Cuba and raised in Pahokee, will continue to write solitary dissents. This one-sided court doesn’t reflect Gov. Reubin Askew’s goal when he established the wistfully named merit selection system in 1972 or what he, legislators and voters intended when they provided in 1976 that future appellate judges would be appointed, not elected.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— ALOE —
“Anheuser-Busch to pump $30M in new money into First Coast brewing operations” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — One of America’s leading brewers is stepping up its financial commitment in North Florida. Anheuser-Busch announced it’s investing another $30 million in the company’s Jacksonville brewery and can plant. The infusion of new funding will be used to upgrade the company’s brewing and packaging equipment at its plant on the city’s Northside. The new money is designed to increase production at the plant that brews products such as staples as Michelob Ultra, Busch Light, Budweiser, Bud Light, Cutwater Spirits and other beverages. “Investing in our Jacksonville facilities enables us to brew more of the highest-quality American beers that consumers love, including Michelob Ultra, the No. 1 top-selling and fastest-growing beer in America,” said Brendon Whitworth, CEO of Anheuser-Busch.
“FSU opens the doors to its College of Business facility, a ‘legacy’” via Tarah Jean of the Tallahassee Democrat — The new year comes along with a new experience for Florida State University’s College of Business community with the grand opening of the school’s five-story home. And for billionaire philanthropist Herbert Wertheim – founder and president of the world’s largest optical tints manufacturer Brain Power Incorporated – he says the recent opportunity of donating a transformative $65 million gift to the business school for it to bear his name was a “final solution” within one of his longtime goals as a major donor. “The business school is my idea of the final solution to health care,” Wertheim told the Tallahassee Democrat Jan. 6 after a ribbon-cutting ceremony. FSU officials and other stakeholders officially renamed what’s now the Herbert Wertheim College of Business and the Wertheim Center for Business Excellence – formerly known as Legacy Hall.
— CES —
“From 86’d to x86’d, StarBot is backing up the service industry” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Service industry businesses need workers. StarBot has them. The Santa Barbara-based robotics company is coming to CES 2026 with tech specifically designed to help restaurants, hotels and other service industry outfits struggling amid an ongoing labor crunch. StarBot’s answer isn’t full automation. Its humanoid robots aren’t designed to displace human teams but assist them — especially when things get busy. In restaurants and hotels, StarBot robots can assist with customer service tasks, guide guests, navigate shared spaces, and support staff during peak periods. In other commercial settings, they can help with security and facility monitoring, maintaining a steady presence without requiring constant supervision.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
A special shoutout to one of the absolute best people in The Process, Ron Pierce, of RSA Consulting.
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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.