Good Friday morning.

I have to share an amazing photo with you. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at The Workmans’ recent shoot in Washington, D.C. If you’ve worked in Florida politics, you immediately recognize that the subject in the photo is Susie Wiles, the GOAT of Florida political operatives.

Wiles is one of dozens of Florida Women and Men who will be featured in the upcoming editions of INFLUENCE Magazine as we explore the Sunshine State’s impact on Washington, D.C., and reveal our list of the 150 most influential people in Florida politics.

I had planned to drop the next edition in the next week or so, but we’re now targeting early next month for publication. I could blame the shutdown of the federal government (isn’t everyone?), but the new schedule actually reflects the expanded thematic scope and physical size of the following two editions. It’s one of those good problems that occur when, for example, you can photograph the Chief of Staff to the President of the United States in her White House office!

With that, I am reopening the window to purchase ad space in the next edition through October 17. We are only accepting full-page ads at a rate of $2,000. As I’ve mentioned before, we plan to print a larger run of the magazine for broader distribution in D.C.

If you are interested in advertising, please email me at [email protected]. Thank you.

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Pittman Law Group is expanding its statewide footprint with the addition of Kasey Denny, who will serve as Regional Director for the firm’s Government Affairs practice.

Denny most recently served as Palm Beach County’s Director of Intergovernmental Affairs, where she worked with local governments, state agencies and community organizations on issues such as infrastructure, resilience, workforce training, and public safety.

At Pittman Law Group, Denny will support clients on legislative strategy, appropriations, coalition-building and regulatory matters. She will be based in Palm Beach County, leading the firm’s operations in Riviera Beach and Miami.

“Kasey is a proven problem-solver who combines policy savvy with a genuine commitment to public service,” said Managing Partner Sean Pittman. “Our clients rely on us to deliver results that improve communities across Florida. Kasey’s experience working with local and state stakeholders makes our team even stronger, and we are thrilled to welcome her to PLG.”

Founded nearly 25 years ago, Pittman Law Group has become a fixture in Florida’s lobbying and legal community, representing a wide range of public and private clients before the Legislature and executive agencies.

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Matt Leopold, who served as General Counsel for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) during the Donald Trump administration, has joined Holland & Knight as a partner and co-Chair of the firm’s national Environment Team.

Leopold, who previously served as General Counsel for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, brings decades of experience in environmental litigation and federal rulemaking. He will be based in Washington, D.C.

“Matt’s arrival marks a significant step forward for our environmental practice nationwide,” said Rich Gold, leader of Holland & Knight’s Public Policy & Regulation Group. “He is one of the country’s top legal minds when it comes to environmental regulations that impact the oil and gas, chemical, agriculture and energy industries. His significant practice and insights into the Trump administration’s environmental policy will allow us to offer clients strong representation in the federal regulatory processes occurring now and in the future.”

Before his tenure at EPA, Leopold worked as an environmental litigator at the U.S. Department of Justice, where he was part of the legal team following the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. In private practice, he also represented Florida in a long-running water rights dispute with Georgia before the U.S. Supreme Court.

At Holland & Knight, Leopold will advise clients on regulatory, litigation and enforcement matters affecting industries such as energy, agriculture, chemicals and transportation.

“Over the past few years, Holland & Knight has assembled an incredibly experienced environmental team that I’m proud to join,” said Leopold. “The ability to contribute meaningfully to the firm’s government practice and be involved in significant environmental regulatory, litigation and transactional matters is a tremendous opportunity.”

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

Tweet, tweet:

—@MattGaetz: Congressman (Jimmy) Patronis is a leader who cares about our military families

Tweet, tweet:

—@StsiKamoutsas: Safety in our schools is non-negotiable. Every individual hired to work in a Florida school must undergo thorough employment history checks before stepping foot on campus. And parents must be immediately notified anytime an employee is a threat to campus safety. This isn’t just policy — it’s a responsibility we owe to every student, every educator and every family.

—@Daniel_PerezFL: Congratulations to my friend Sam Garrison on becoming Speaker-designate. I know the Florida House will be in good hands under your leadership.

—@Fineout: File this here for now: Senate President @Sen_Albritton answered q’s on open carry, redistricting, vaccines and prop taxes while walking thru Capitol. When asked if Senate is waiting for House or gov for new congressional map Albritton said “We’re just observing at this point.”

—@LindsayCrossFL: One year ago, Hurricane Milton devastated St. Petersburg with flooding and destruction that altered lives forever. Today, we reflect on those affected and strengthen our resolve to prepare for a safer, more resilient future.

—@ItsManda_213: Excited to share that I’ve joined the Executive Office of the Governor as Legislative Affairs Director to Lt. Governor @JayCollinsFL. Honored to continue serving the Great State of Florida and advancing the important work of Lt. Governor Collins.

—@RealJamesWoods: This Bad Bunny kerfuffle is such a nothing burger. Honestly, the halftime show will never be as extraordinary as when Prince absolutely killed it and in the rain, no less. So, it’s all just clickbait hysteria.

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Six Kings Slam,’ featuring six of men’s tennis’ best players in the world, premieres on Netflix — 5; Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 10; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 11; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 16; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 17; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 25; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 37; ’Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 42; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 47; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 49; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 54; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 54; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 60; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 63; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 68; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 70; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 76; Legislative Session begins — 95; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 95; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 100; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 112; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 119; last day of the Regular Session — 154; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 166; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 167; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 178; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 187; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 192; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 196; F1 Miami begins — 203; ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 224; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 235; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 241; State Qualifying Period ends — 245; FIFA World Cup begins — 244; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 267; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 272; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 277; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 279; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 283; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 300; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 302; Primary Election Day 2026 — 312; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 336; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 340; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 344; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 349; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 356; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 360; Early Voting General Election Mandatory period begins — 379; 2026 General Election — 389; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 434; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 434; Tampa Mayoral Election — 508; Jacksonville First Election — 529; Jacksonville General Election — 585; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 603; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 665; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 721; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 798; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1008; U.S. Presidential Election — 1124; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1524; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2255.

— TOP STORY —

“Sam Garrison designated Florida House Speaker for 2026-28” via Liva Caputo of Florida Phoenix — Republican Rep. Garrison of Fleming Island was unanimously elected Thursday to serve as the next Speaker of the Florida House, leading the chamber from 2026 to 2028. The vote, though ceremonial, formalized a decision made privately years earlier by GOP leadership. Garrison succeeds current Speaker Danny Perez, a Miami Republican known for asserting the House’s independence from DeSantis.

During his designation speech, Garrison, 48, emphasized the House’s role as the body “closest to the people,” citing its size, energy, and frequent elections as proof of its accountability. He urged colleagues to guard against complacency amid the GOP’s supermajority dominance.

“The single biggest threat to the conservative movement in Florida isn’t the Democrats,” Garrison warned, “it’s us.”

Garrison’s remarks underscored his belief that Florida’s Republicans must remain focused on results rather than resting on electoral success. His tone contrasted with Perez’s combative approach to DeSantis but reinforced the idea of legislative independence.

A former prosecutor and attorney, Garrison was first elected in 2020 to represent House District 11, encompassing parts of Clay County. He holds degrees from Samford University and the University of Illinois College of Law.

Among his most high-profile actions as a legislator was sponsoring the 2024 law banning public sleeping in Florida. The measure, signed by DeSantis, requires cities to create designated areas for unhoused residents with access to sanitation and mental health care — a move praised by conservatives but condemned by progressive advocates as punitive and impractical.

—“History, philosophy and policy: Garrison’s designation speech sets an ambitious course” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics

— STATEWIDE —

“Florida lower gun buying age sought” via the News Service of Florida — Amid a U.S. Supreme Court case on the issue, House Majority Leader Tyler Sirois filed a proposal that would lower the minimum age to purchase rifles and other long guns in Florida from 21 to 18. Sirois filed the bill (HB 133) for consideration during the 2026 Legislative Session, which will start in January. The House passed similar bills in recent years, but the Senate has not gone along. The Legislature and then-Gov. Rick Scott increased the minimum age for long-gun purchases to 21 after the 2018 mass shooting at Parkland’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School that killed 17 people.

New and renewed lobbying registrations:

Ron Book, Kelly Mallette, Gabriela Navarro: Hillsborough Clerk of the Court and Comptroller

Olivia Keller: Amputee Coalition

Jason Maine, PinPoint Results: Alliance for Aging

Rhett O’Doski, Sean Stafford, McGuireWoods Consulting: Kestra Medical Technology Services

Robert Schenck, The Legis Group: Change Everything USA, Florida Early Learning Corps, Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority

“Florida bill seeks mandatory life sentences for manslaughter of police officers” via Michelle Vecerina of Florida’s Voice — A new Florida bill seeks to broaden the scope of criminal offenses and increase penalties for those who commit crimes against law enforcement and other specified public service personnel. HB 17, named the “Jason Raynor Act,” primarily tightens the law regarding resisting arrest, making it a felony to knowingly resist, obstruct, or oppose a specified officer or legally authorized person by offering or doing violence. It also adds a provision defining “acting in good faith” for officers carrying out an arrest or detention. The bill mandates life imprisonment for defendants convicted of manslaughter against a specified officer who was acting in the performance of official duties, in addition to existing penalties for various degrees of murder or attempted murder of an officer.

“Dozens of Florida bear hunt permits snagged by non-hunters” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Most of the special permits to hunt Florida black bears in December have been claimed, a state wildlife spokesperson said this week, but more than three dozen are reportedly in the hands of hunt opponents, which may offer a reprieve to an equal number of bears. The permits were distributed through a random lottery, which cost $5 per entry. More than 160,000 entries were submitted, with application numbers bolstered by a vigorous effort from conservationists to undermine the planned 172-bear harvest, the state’s first in a decade. Shannon Knowles, a spokesperson for the state Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, said 148 applicants who were notified last week of their selection have paid the bear permit fee — $100 for Florida residents, $300 for non-residents — to participate in the 23-day event. Each bear “tag” entitles the holder to kill a single bear. Two dozen of the 172 tags remain unclaimed but could be assigned through the lottery over the next 10 days.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Senate strikes deal to vote on defense bill, breaking impasse” via Connor O’Brien of POLITICO — The Senate broke a monthlong impasse on its annual defense policy bill and secured a deal that could see the legislation pass as soon as Thursday. Senate Armed Services Chair Roger Wicker locked in an agreement on the floor to vote on 17 amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act, a substantial package of less controversial changes and passage of the bill itself “at a time to be determined” by party leaders. The deal salvages passage of the defense bill, a legislative effort Senators in both parties were concerned might have been abandoned without a breakthrough this week. Ahead of the deal, Wicker and Majority Leader John Thune had predicted votes could come as early as Thursday if Democrats agreed. Leaders of the House and Senate Armed Services panels aim to negotiate a compromise defense bill by Thanksgiving.

“The boat strikes are just the beginning” via Nancy Youssef, Gisela Salim-Peyer and Jonathan Lemire of The Atlantic — The Trump administration has launched a controversial military campaign against alleged Venezuelan drug traffickers, destroying four boats in the Caribbean and killing 21 people. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth framed the strikes as a fight against “terrorists” poisoning Americans, though evidence linking Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang to major U.S. drug flows remains thin. Critics question the legality and necessity of the attacks, noting Venezuela is neither a key producer nor transit hub for fentanyl or cocaine. Still, the administration sees political advantage in projecting strength, while allies such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio view the strikes as a path to weaken Nicolás Maduro’s regime. The White House has signaled that more operations are planned despite mounting concerns in Congress.

— ELECTIONS —

Voter registration gap widens — Florida Democrats continue to lose ground in voter registration, falling by more than 22,000 active voters from August to September, bringing the party’s rolls to their lowest level since 2003. Republicans added nearly 10,000 voters during the same period, while nonpartisan registrations dipped slightly. Overall, Florida’s active voter total declined by about 9,000. Republicans now outnumber Democrats by nearly 1.4 million registered voters, a gap that has grown steadily since 2021.

“Florida has agreements with other states to share voter data, but how many?” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — More than 2 1/2 years after Florida dropped its association with a bipartisan national voter database, Secretary of State Cord Byrd said that the state has formed agreements with “multiple states” to share that voter information. “Most of our transient people are coming from Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, the states close to you,” Byrd said. “So, we’ve entered into memorandums of understanding in data sharing.” How many states Florida has such MOUs with isn’t clear, but Phoenix has learned that Florida has such agreements with at least four states: Alabama, Georgia, Ohio and West Virginia. Byrd announced in March 2023 that after 3 1/2 years, Florida was terminating its membership in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), then a consortium of 30 states. The Sunshine State was one of several mostly conservative-led states to announce withdrawal, and it took place on the same day that Trump called on all Republican Governors to leave ERIC.

“Reggie Gaffney, Audrey Gibson set to collide in HD 13 race to succeed Angie Nixon” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Former Jacksonville City Council member Gaffney Sr. has entered the Democratic Primary for House District 13, with former Senate Democratic Leader Gibson expected to join the 2026 race soon. The contest follows Rep. Nixon’s decision to explore a U.S. Senate bid, leaving her seat open in heavily Democratic Duval County. Both Gaffney and Gibson bring deep political experience but are seeking comebacks after recent defeats. Gaffney, who lost a 2022 Senate race to Tracie Davis, says he’ll focus on bipartisan cooperation, economic growth, mental health and education, while Gibson, a former Senate leader and onetime candidate for state party Chair, says she’s ready to return to public service. The Primary winner is favored to win the seat.

“Emily Duda Buckley hits $215K raised for HD 38 battle” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Duda Buckley, one of three Republican candidates filed in the House District 38 race to replace term-limited incumbent David Smith, has now raised $215,000, her campaign announced. That includes nearly $67,000 raised in the third quarter of 2025. That brings the total raised between her campaign and affiliated political committee, Fostering Florida’s Future, to more than $215,000, with about $201,000 still on hand. Duda Buckley’s third quarter fundraising totals are self-reported. Campaign finance reports are not due to the Division of Elections until Friday, covering financial activity from July 1 through Sept. 30. “I am honored that so many Central Floridians are placing their trust in me to fight in the State House,” Duda Buckley said.

Happening this weekend:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“‘Dedication to the people’: Rick Scott endorses Emilio González for Miami Mayor” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A former Florida chief executive says former City Manager González is the best choice to lead the city of Miami. U.S. Sen. Scott — Florida’s immediate past Governor — announced his support, citing González’s military service, government experience and dedication to the “Magic City.” “With 26 years in the Army and service at every level, Emilio will make Miami a city where families thrive, businesses grow and government works for everyone,” Scott said. “I’ve worked with him since I was Governor of Florida, and now I know he will bring that same dedication to the people of Miami.”

“AFL-CIO chapter backs ‘friend to working people’ Laura Dominguez for re-election in Miami Beach” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Yet another labor union is getting behind Miami Beach Commissioner Dominguez’s re-election bid. And it’s a big one. The South Florida AFL-CIO, which says it represents more than 250,000 workers across Miami-Dade and Monroe counties, is endorsing Dominguez in the Miami Beach election next month. The group’s president, Jeffrey Mitchell, called her “a true friend to working people — someone who listens, shows up and delivers.” “She understands that our economy only thrives when workers do,” he said in a statement.

“‘A new era.’ Miami-Dade to have the first electric rapid bus system in the U.S.” via Sonia Osorio of the Miami Herald — South Dade residents will have access to a new transportation connection from Florida City to Dadeland South: Metro Express, Miami-Dade’s first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and the longest fully electric one in the United States. Miami-Dade County announced on Monday the launch of Metro Express, designed to transform the way thousands of residents in the area commute along the busy U.S. 1 corridor. The service will be offered beginning Oct. 27 by the Miami-Dade Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW). Metro Express will feature an exclusive 20-mile lane along U.S. 1 from Dadeland South to Florida City, protected by safety barriers and given priority during peak traffic hours, allowing for faster, safer and more reliable travel.

“County looks at scaled-back support to spur vast American Dream Miami” via Miami Today — Long-delayed American Dream Miami is in line for a scaled-back jump-start via county legislation this week. The latest version of Commissioner Juan Carlos Bermudez’s lifeline would lift rules that bar the use of both impact fees and state and federal funds to help get the Northwest Miami-Dade retail theme park moving. A package floated in July would have allowed tax increment financing and the use of county funds for local roads to benefit the mega-project. Those elements were cut from this week’s proposal. When the county allowed the project in 2018, it restricted aid at the behest of major mall owners. Bermudez, who represents the area where the mall would rise, says it alone was restricted in that way. His legislation says those “are restrictions on the county itself, and the county creating these types of formal restrictions on itself is detrimental to the county.”

“Charter school operator seeks to co-locate on 27 Broward school campuses rent-free” via Scott Travis of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A Miami-based charter school operator has made a formal request to co-locate rent-free on the campuses of 27 Broward schools, initiating what one state legislator described as a “land grab” that could hurt public schools. Roberto C. Blanch, president of Miami-based Mater Academy, sent 27 letters to Superintendent Howard Hepburn on Wednesday informing him that the charter school provider wants to open charters known as “Schools of Hope” on various campuses starting in August 2027. Broward isn’t the only District that received letters. Sarasota and Hillsborough counties, as well as several others, have received similar requests by Mater, according to State Rep. Robin Bartleman, who fought against the state law.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“President of Florida Polytechnic in Lakeland eliminates Office of General Counsel” via Gary White of the Lakeland Ledger — Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland is now the only state university without its own legal department. In an email to staff members, Florida Poly President Devin Stephenson announced that he had eliminated the Office of General Counsel. The office, headed by General Counsel David Fugett, had three other employees. “As part of our ongoing efforts to manage resources wisely and ensure long-term sustainability, the University has decided to eliminate the current Office of General Counsel,” Stephenson wrote. “This adjustment will allow us to reduce costs by utilizing an outsourced model for the university’s legal needs.”

— LOCAL: TB —

“Fearing Donald Trump crackdown, Tampa ends Racial Reconciliation Committee” via Colbi Edmonds of the Tampa Bay Times — Tampa City Council dissolved its Racial Reconciliation Committee, following guidance from a city attorney that it likely runs afoul of federal efforts to dismantle programs promoting diversity, equity and inclusion for minorities. But the Committee can continue to meet as an independent organization. If it does, it would no longer be obligated to follow Florida’s Sunshine Laws, which prevent members from discussing their work in private. Committee members can also bring their ideas to the City Council, similar to any other community organization, Council member Bill Carlson said.

“St. Pete stadium funding source faces early termination” via Mark Parker of St. Pete Catalyst — St. Petersburg officials are reconsidering a 2024 decision to extend the Intown Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) to 2042 to help fund a new Tampa Bay Rays stadium and surrounding redevelopment. A City Council Committee voted unanimously to explore ending the District early, possibly in 2032 or 2034. Council member Richie Floyd, who opposes the CRA as a “large subsidy for downtown,” is leading the rollback effort following former owner Stuart Sternberg’s exit from the Gas Plant project. The CRA, created in 1982, redirects tax revenue to local redevelopment, which critics say now deprives other citywide needs. Mayor Ken Welch is reviewing a new $6.8 billion redevelopment proposal, while the Rays’ ownership pushes for a public-private partnership to finance a new ballpark.

“Ken Welch selects developer for historic South St. Pete parcel” via St. Pete Catalyst — Welch’s administration has selected a proposal to create affordable housing at the former site of a cultural landmark along 22nd Street South, colloquially known as the Deuces. Fort Lauderdale-based Green Mills Group will transform the now-vacant,.68-acre city-owned property in South St. Petersburg into Heritage Grove. The $20 million project will provide 54 income-restricted apartments and 2,500 square feet of street-level retail space. Officials received development proposals from the site’s former owner and South St. Pete resident Elihu Brayboy, who led the Tall Cotton Initiative, Green Mills and Fort Lauderdale-based Alexander Goshen/Goode Van Slyke Architecture after launching the procurement process in August 2024.

“Joe Spataro joins Shumaker, bringing white-collar defense chops” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Shumaker has added Spataro as a Partner in its Litigation and Dispute Service Line, specifically boosting the firm’s white-collar defense and investigation capabilities. Spataro has about 20 years of litigation experience and is a Board-certified specialist in criminal trial law. He has built a successful track record of navigating complex criminal and regulatory matters. Spataro previously served as Associate Deputy Attorney General for Criminal Justice Programs and as Cyber Fraud Enforcement with the Florida Attorney General’s Office. “I am proud to join Shumaker’s team with an outstanding reputation for excellence in litigation and its commitment to teamwork and client service,” Spataro said. “The firm’s White Collar Defense & Investigations team is composed of highly skilled attorneys who approach every matter with integrity, strategy and purpose. I’m excited to contribute my experience and help clients navigate complex challenges with confidence.”

— LOCAL: N. FL —

Donna Deegan’s ‘Duval for All’ committee tops $1M — Jacksonville Mayor Deegan’s political committee “Duval for All” has raised more than $1 million to date, including $643,150 in the third quarter. “I’m grateful for the trust and support from people across our city, including Democrats, Republicans and independents alike, who believe in working together to move Jacksonville forward,” Deegan said. According to a news release, the committee has received significant contributions from both Democratic and Republican supporters who share Deegan’s vision for a stronger, more united Jacksonville. Deegan added, “Jacksonville’s strength comes from our shared commitment to progress. When we put people over politics, we can get things done and build a city that truly works for everyone.”

“Former Escambia Elections Supervisor David Stafford named Pensacola’s City Administrator” via Jim Little of the Pensacola News Journal — Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves confirmed to the News Journal that he was hiring Stafford as the next City Administrator. “David Stafford brings three strong decades of leadership experience and a sterling reputation to City Hall,” Reeves told the News Journal. “I’m excited to work together on transforming this city — our shared hometown — in the months and years to come.” Previous City Administrator Tim Kinsella left the city last month for a job with Navy Federal Credit Union. Stafford was elected to serve as Escambia County’s Elections Administrator for five terms, but he left county government in early 2024 to take a job with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

“Donna Adelson faces a ‘mandatory sentence’ of life in prison on Oct. 13” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Adelson, the matriarch of the South Florida family behind the 2014 murder-for-hire of Dan Markel, is scheduled to be sentenced to life in prison a bit sooner than initially expected. Leon Circuit Judge Stephen Everett set her sentencing hearing for 3 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13. Everett, who presided over her trial starting in late August, set the date after her pre-sentence investigation was handed in by the state.

“FSU’s Ethan Pritchard, ‘alert and responsive,’ being moved to Jacksonville facility” via Chris Hays of the Orlando Sentinel — The Florida State University athletic department sent out an email announcing that freshman linebacker Pritchard has been released from Tallahassee Memorial Hospital and is being moved to Brooks Rehabilitation in Jacksonville for the next stage in his recovery process. Pritchard, who played high school football at Sanford’s Seminole High, is recovering from a gunshot wound suffered on the night of Aug. 31. Pritchard was visiting family in nearby Havana and was giving his aunt and young cousin a ride from the gathering when the vehicle he was driving was ambushed with gunfire. Pritchard was shot in the back of the head and medical personnel eventually arrived and rushed him to TMH. He had surgery that night; doctors monitored him for several weeks, concerned about fluid around his brain.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Sarasota Sheriff’s budget soars amid $2.52 billion county spending surge” via Melissa Pérez-Carillo of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Sarasota County’s Sheriff’s Office budget has taken a steep climb, jumping sharply as part of a $2.52 billion county budget approved on Sept. 24. Sarasota County Commissioners approved the total budget, a 73% increase in spending from just three years ago, as property tax revenues have soared. Commissioner Tom Knight was the only Commissioner to oppose the budget in a roll call vote. County Commission Chair Joe Neunder and Commissioners Teresa Mast and Mark Smith voted in favor. Commissioner Ron Cutsinger was not in attendance. “The budget, to me, is increasing rapidly and it has my concern,” said Knight, the former county sheriff. “The sheriff’s office budget is increasing rapidly – again.”

“Lee County Commissioner, former Red Sox player Mike Greenwell dies” via Stacey Henson of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — A former Red Sox player, lifelong Lee County resident and County Commissioner has died of thyroid cancer. Lee County Government made the announcement about 2 p.m. Oct. 9 that Mike Greenwell, 62, who represented District 5, has died. “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Commissioner Mike Greenwell, a lifelong Lee County resident,” the Facebook post said. “He was a strong advocate for the people and businesses of Lee County and will be remembered for seeking meaningful solutions to the challenges his community faced.

Tweet, tweet:

“Lee County teachers’ social media posts on Charlie Kirk spark rallies, Board votes Nov. 4” via Mickenzie Hannon of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Supporters and critics of Lee County School District employees under investigation for social media comments about Kirk’s death rallied outside the Lee County Public Education Center Tuesday, Oct. 7, ahead of a packed School Board meeting. Inside, the Board reaffirmed that it will not prejudge the cases before a final vote expected next month on Superintendent Denise Carlin’s recommendation to terminate the employees. The District said findings from the investigations have also been sent to the Florida Department of Education, which may take separate disciplinary action.

“Kirk memorial road approved for Bradenton area amid divided public reaction” via Jesse Mendoza of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Manatee County will designate a portion of 51st Street in the Bradenton area after Kirk. The Manatee County Commission unanimously approved a pitch by at-large Commissioner Jason Bearden to rename a county road after Kirk. Known for debating politics on college campuses, Kirk often espoused far-right ideals deemed controversial by those who support opposing viewpoints. He was killed on Sept. 10 at Utah Valley University during one such public appearance. Commissioners talked Bearden out of a full renaming of a road because of likely expenses and complexities, but they agreed to designate an unbuilt portion of 51st Street in his honor. The Board’s vote specifically directs staff to prepare a resolution to name the roadway after Kirk for future approval during an advertised public hearing.

“After Kirk’s death, Richard Corcoran assures FIRE that New College will protect free speech” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — An academic freedom watchdog voiced concern that New College of Florida (NCF) won’t respect speech from critics of slain conservative activist Kirk. But New College President Corcoran says the community can rest assured the school won’t apply a double standard. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) sent letters marked “urgent” to Florida universities sounding alarms about a State University System (SUS) directive from Chancellor Ray Rodrigues. In September, Rodrigues stressed to public universities that “celebrating or excusing campus violence — and in this case, the murder of Charlie Kirk — by members of our university system will not be tolerated.”

— TOP OPINION —

“The real threat to Florida jobs isn’t AI – it’s ignoring it” via Edward Longe for Florida Politics — Florida stands at a crossroads as artificial intelligence transforms the national economy. Despite AI’s growing role in business, nearly one-third of Florida workers report never using it, according to recent polling. Younger employees are three times more likely to use AI daily than older ones, creating a generational divide that threatens the state’s competitiveness. Every day Florida delays widespread adoption represents lost productivity and economic opportunity.

Fears that AI will destroy jobs persist, but these fears are outdated. Businesses that resist AI aren’t protecting workers—they’re ensuring those jobs become less efficient and less secure in a marketplace that rewards innovation. AI doesn’t replace people; it empowers those who use it.

Across Florida’s key industries, early adopters are already seeing measurable gains. In tourism, AI systems manage multilingual customer service. In health care, they analyze diagnostic images faster and with greater accuracy. In logistics, they optimize delivery routes, saving time and cutting fuel costs. These aren’t incremental upgrades—they’re competitive revolutions.

Research shows AI boosts productivity by 20% to 40% across workflows. Companies that fail to adopt it aren’t maintaining the status quo — they’re falling behind Texas, Georgia, and other states moving faster toward an AI-integrated economy.

The solution lies in training and inclusion, not replacement. Florida must upskill its workforce, particularly experienced employees whose institutional knowledge remains invaluable. AI should extend its reach, not end its relevance.

Florida has thrived through every technological leap in its history. The challenge now is simple: this transformation or be left behind.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Choice without truth is a lie” via Crystal Etienne for Florida Politics — Florida’s so-called “school choice” system rewards billionaires and political insiders while draining resources from traditional public schools. Under DeSantis and state leaders, the Schools of Hope program is funding Success Academy’s Miami expansion with millions in subsidies that could instead reduce class sizes, add counselors and improve neighborhood schools. Supporters call it progress, but it’s a two-tier system — one fully accountable to the public and another privately managed with limited oversight. Miami-Dade’s A-rated, high-performing District proves traditional schools succeed even without proper funding. Rather than hollowing them out, Florida should invest in their success. Public schools remain community anchors — open to every child, serving every family — and their future shouldn’t be sold to the highest bidder.

— WEEKEND TV —

ABC Action News Full Circle with Paul LaGrone on Channel 10 WFTS: Legal expert Jeremy Rosenthal on presidential power limits in deploying troops to U.S. cities, Tallahassee correspondent Forrest Saunders on GOP property tax cuts, Democratic insurance reforms and FPL’s $10 billion rate hike request, and LaGrone hits the streets of Tampa to talk with Lightning fans as the Bolts begin a new season.

Facing South Florida with Jim DeFede on CBS 4 in Miami: The Sunday show offers viewers an in-depth look at politics in South Florida and other regional issues.

In Focus with Allison Walker on Bay News 9/CF 13: A discussion recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and what both women and men need to know regarding the fight against breast cancer. Joining Walker are Michelle Stone, District 5, Marion County Commission, and Dr. Lyndsay Rhodes, Department Chair, Biological Sciences & Professor, Florida Gulf Coast University.

Political Connections on Bay News 9 in Tampa/St. Pete and Political Connections on CF 13 in Orlando: The weekly Sunday show is now a joint weeknight show airing Monday through Friday at 7 p.m.

The Usual Suspects on WCTV-Tallahassee/Thomasville (CBS) and WJHG-Panama City (NBC): Gary Yorton speaks with Dr. Bob McClure of The James Madison Institute..

This Week in Jacksonville with Kent Justice on Channel 4 WJXT: Rep. David Jolly, Democratic candidate for Governor, Jacksonville City Council President Kevin Carrico, and Rick Mullaney, Executive Director of the Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Comet tracker for Friday: When and where to see the two green comets” via Jamie Carter of Forbes — Two green comets, Lemmon (C/2025 A6) and SWAN (C/2025 R2), will glow together in mid-October as the Orionid meteor shower peaks, potentially visible to the naked eye around Oct. 20–21. Both are already observable from the Northern Hemisphere with binoculars or a small telescope. On Oct. 10, Comet Lemmon will appear before dawn in the northeast near the Big Dipper, while Comet SWAN will be visible low in the southwest after sunset near Antares in Scorpius. Currently shining near magnitude 6, both comets hover on the edge of naked-eye visibility under dark skies. Lemmon’s orbit was recently shortened by Jupiter’s gravity, ensuring its next return in about 1,150 years. Both comets will brighten as they approach Earth later this month.

“Blue Origin to build new Florida satellite processing site for Space Force” via Richard Tribou of the Orlando Sentinel — While Blue Origin was kept out of the Space Force’s latest round of national security missions, the government has opted to rely on Jeff Bezos’ company to build a new place to prep satellites for launch. Space Systems Command announced it had awarded Blue Origin a $78.25 million contract to construct a space vehicle processing facility on the Space Coast by 2028. Right now, the Department of Defense is limited in its satellite processing capacity at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, which can cause a logjam for missions. The job involves fueling the space vehicles and then packing them for transport, and would be done for multiple companies, not just Blue Origin’s own craft.

“Make sure to grab some Starbursts for Halloween — Florida’s favorite candy” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — With Halloween fast approaching, it’s probably a good idea to start stocking up on candy supplies for trick-or-treaters looking to visit. In Florida, that means being ready to hand out plenty of Starburst. A new study ranked the most popular Halloween candy not only in the United States, but also in each state. Starburst is the most popular candy in the Sunshine State — and nationwide. “America is bursting with joy for Starburst candy: it came out on top in an impressive 13 states,” according to the Innerbody study. The second-most popular candy across America was Sour Patch Kids, with eight states saying it’s their favorite. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Skittles and Sour Punch all tied for third, with four states each preferring those treats.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are David Mica, Jared Ross of the Florida Beer Wholesalers Association, and Barry Rubin.

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