Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 10.5.26

Good Monday morning.

For the first time in the 14 years I have been publishing these birthday messages about our daughter, Ella Joyce, I want to say that she has two full-time working parents.

The moment Ella was placed in Michelle’s arms, my wife knew her No. 1 job would be raising this very special young lady. She left her career in campaigns and public affairs to be a full-time mother.

This year Michelle went back to work. She is running Charlie Crist’s campaign for St. Petersburg Mayor.

I don’t know how that campaign will turn out. With two parents going full bore on the campaign trail, Ella has somehow blossomed even more this past year.

She is a strong-willed, deep-thinking, creative, kind, and emotional teenager. She used to be shy and reluctant to speak in public. Now she is often at her mother’s side at campaign events. Sometimes she speaks to the crowd.

She is still our little girl. She still enjoys playing in her room, riding her horse, laughing, listening to music, and screaming at the top of her lungs about some heartthrob she’s obsessed with.

Thank you for allowing us to share a part of our daughter with you. Many of you have watched her grow up. This past year, she has been at Crist campaign events, at the White House Christmas party, and in the St. Pete Pride Parade.

She is rightly embarrassed that her parents have Charlie’s face on a 10-foot banner in front of her home. She knows politics is the family business. She will never admit it, but she is destined to do great, great things, probably in the public sphere.

We could not be prouder of her.

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Here’s some more news we are particularly happy to share: Our good friend Herbie Thiele is betting on himself.

After years as a partner at Sachs Media — and nearly two decades working at the intersection of communications, politics and public policy — Herbie is launching Herbie Thiele Consulting, his own government affairs and strategic advisory shop.

“I have worked in and around the legislative process for my entire career, closely observing how issues move and how lobbyists build support for their clients,” he says.

If you know Herbie, the move makes perfect sense.

“Along the way, I have embraced what I’m genuinely good at, and love doing — connecting communications strategy with policy outcomes,” he says. There are plenty of good lobbyists in Tallahassee. There are plenty of good communicators, too.

What has always made Herbie valuable is that he understands both sides of the equation.

Herbie will lobby before the Legislature, bringing 18 years of experience on financial, water and local government issues to the new venture. And he isn’t exactly leaving the family: He’ll remain affiliated with Sachs Media, co-locating there and serving as of counsel. Senate Majority Leader Jim Boyd calls Herbie “a person of integrity who knows how to navigate the process and build support for issues.”

Sunburn loves a good personnel note, but we like this one a little more than most. Ron Sachs, his former employer and longtime mentor, put it well: “This next step is a natural one for him.” We agree. Herbie has the relationships, instincts and chops to make this work.

Congratulations, our friend. Go crush it.

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Brian Clark, Budget Chief of the Florida House Health Care Budget Subcommittee for the past eight years, is joining PinPoint Results, the Tallahassee lobbying and grants consulting firm, to handle appropriations advocacy for its clients.

Clark has spent 30 years in public service, most of it in healthcare financing and Medicaid funding. He worked in the Medicaid office at the Agency for Health Care Administration before PinPoint President and Partner Robert Beck, then the Governor’s Budget Director, brought him into the Office of Policy and Budget two decades ago.

“Brian is a budget unicorn, incredibly knowledgeable across all areas of Florida’s budget, and importantly, a genuinely good and decent human being, making him a perfect fit with our firm,” Managing Partner Tanya Jackson said.

Speaker-designate Sam Garrison has worked with Clark for years. “Brian Clark has been a great friend and an incredible asset to the Florida House, and I congratulate him in his new role with the PinPoint Team,” Garrison said.

Clark joins a team that includes Beck, Jackson, Jason Maine, Bryan Cherry, former House Speaker Pro Tempore Marti Coley, Andrea Gheen, and Vance Coley.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RealDonaldTrump: Following the Historic White House Accord on Super Intelligence, where the World’s most important Technology Companies came together and confirmed their responsibilities to the American People, I am announcing the formation of the Super Intelligence Force (SIF). The Super Intelligence Force is tasked with coordinating the effort of the Federal Government to ensure that America continues to lead the World in Super Intelligence, which many say is bigger than the Industrial Revolution and the Internet, and will protect the interests and improve the lives of all Americans. The Super Intelligence Force will coordinate the Federal Government’s engagement with Consumers, Public Interest Groups, Religious Organizations, Critical Infrastructure Providers, and Super Intelligence Companies, and will be led by Director of National Intelligence, Jay Clayton, Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, Andrew Ferguson, Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering, and Chief Technology Officer, Emil Michael, and Director of the Office of Personnel Management, Scott Kupor, and will report to the President of the United States (ME!) and the Chief of Staff, Susie Wiles.

—@SenTomCotton: No one likes changing the clock, me included, but Congress has enacted permanent Daylight Saving Time multiple times before and repealed it each time once Americans experienced absurdly late sunrises in the Winter. Arkansans don’t want their kids going to school in the pitch dark, and I’ll always put Arkansas first

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— DAYS UNTIL —

‘The Social Reckoning,’ with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres — 4; Associated Industries of Florida one-on-one conversations with five top-of-ticket Republicans — 7; ‘VisionQuest’ premieres — 9; ‘The Diplomat’ season 4 premieres — 10; Optional General early voting begins — 14; ‘Six Kings Slam’ on Netflix — 16; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins — 16; General Election ballot request deadline — 17; Mandatory General early voting begins — 19; General Election — 29; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 32; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 32; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 37; ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’ starring Johnny Depp premieres — 39; ‘Paper Tiger’ starring Adam Driver premieres — 39; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me, America’ is released — 43; New legislator training sessions — 43; Senate convenes for general organization and selection of officers — 43; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 46; ‘The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 51; ‘Madden’ premieres — 52; Committee Week #1 — 56; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 74; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 74; Committee Week #2 — 91; Committee Week #3 — 98; ‘Ahsoka’ season 2 premieres — 107; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas — 112; Committee Week #4 — 119; Grammys — 125; Committee Week #5 — 126; ‘Remain,’ directed by M. Night Shyamalan, premieres — 132; Super Bowl LXI — 132; Committee Week #6 — 133; Opening day of the 2027 Regular Legislative Session — 148; Tampa Mayoral Election — 148; ‘The Thomas Crown Affair,’ directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan premieres — 151; Oscars — 160; Jacksonville First Election — 169; Miami Marlins Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. New York Mets — 171; Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. Baltimore Orioles — 171; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins — 191; Jacksonville General Election — 225; ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ premieres — 235; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 243; Citrus Series — Tampa Bay Rays at Miami Marlins — 284; ‘The Bluey Movie’ premieres — 305; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 305; Citrus Series — Miami Marlins at Tampa Bay Rays — 340; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 438; 2028 South Carolina Presidential Primary — 474; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans — 476; 2028 Nevada Presidential Primary — 484; 2028 New Hampshire Presidential Primary — 491; 2028 New Mexico Presidential Primary — 498; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 501; 2028 Michigan Presidential Primary — 505; 2028 Virginia Presidential Primary — 512; Oscars — 517; ‘X-Men’ premieres — 578; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 599; ‘Days of Thunder’ sequel with Cruise and Anne Hathaway premieres — 606; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 620; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 648; ‘Ghost Rider’ premieres — 662; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 764; ‘Black Panther 3’ directed by Ryan Coogler premieres — 802; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa — 840; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,164; College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami — 1,204; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,895.

— TOP STORY —

“Democrats dream of putting Florida back in play. Are they squandering their chance?” via Steve Contorno of CNN — The money has not followed the enthusiasm. Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds and an aligned political committee had raised more than $134 million as of Sept. 25, dwarfing Democratic opponent David Jolly’s $16.6 million. The various arms of the Democratic Party have largely remained on the sidelines in both statewide contests. Liberal donors have also skipped the state so far. Jolly and Democrats have purchased just $3 million of airtime, according to the campaign tracking firm AdImpact. “We’re not going to be able to scale up the way he has,” Jolly said. “It’s a function of money. He has a lot of money.”

With limited resources, Democrats have prioritized other battlegrounds, including a costly fight over a Texas Senate seat. “Florida is dessert,” said Orlando megadonor John Morgan. “Texas is meat.” Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has offered the most tangible assistance, giving Jolly’s political committee $50,000 last month, a fraction of the $65 million he has funneled into his own re-election. Democratic Governors Association spokesperson Kevin Donohue said the organization is “ready to capitalize on any opportunity to make a real difference in this race in the final stretch” but stopped short of committing real dollars. Steve Schale, the veteran Democratic strategist behind Barack Obama’s Florida campaigns, called his party’s approach short-sighted, saying a failure to invest this November makes it harder to compete in the 2028 Presidential race. “We’ve had success in Florida more often than anywhere else in the Sun Belt,” Schale said.

As of mid-September, Jolly’s political committee had received 18 donations of six figures or more. Donalds’ committee reported more than 300. “I worry about an environment where he skates through with no scrutiny,” Jolly said. “But we can only control what we can control.”

— 2026 —

“David Jolly’s ‘Ted Lasso’ pitch collides with Byron Donalds’ cash advantage” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Jolly is pitching himself as Florida politics’ “Ted Lasso,” promising a less coarse approach while sharpening attacks on Donalds. But fundraising remains the Democrat’s biggest obstacle. Jolly raised more than $1.05 million during the week ending Sept. 25, including state matching funds and $100,000 donations from two law firms. Donalds, meanwhile, has raised more than $135 million between his campaign and political committee — roughly eight times Jolly’s total — including a recent $1 million contribution from healthcare executive Brian Colleran. Jolly insists his campaign will remain on television through Election Day, while Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried says national donors are taking a closer look. Without additional resources, however, Jolly faces an increasingly difficult paid-media battle.

“Donalds’ donors hear warning: Florida race is a battle” via Alex Leary of The Wall Street Journal — Donalds’ campaign is privately confronting a tighter Governor’s race than once expected, with donors getting a candid assessment at a retreat at Miami Beach’s Fontainebleau. Donalds told supporters over a steak dinner the contest against Jolly had become a battle, while pollster Tony Fabrizio cautioned against expecting a blowout. The campaign has discussed creating modest distance from President Donald Trump to reach General Election voters, and Trump reportedly became concerned after prominent references to him disappeared from Donalds’ website. Aides reassured Trump by showing him a Donalds social media post from the Oval Office. Donalds is now emphasizing Gov. Ron DeSantis’ endorsement while planning appearances with Trump during the campaign’s closing stretch.

“Jolly calls for ‘public education renaissance’ in Sarasota” via Kerry Sheridan of WUSF — Jolly used a Sarasota campaign stop to promise a “renaissance” in public education, proposing a 30% teacher pay raise and a decade of reinvestment in schools. Jolly said Florida should reconsider how roughly $1 billion in tourist development taxes are spent, arguing education faces a greater crisis than convention centers. The former Republican also pledged to restore books and fuller history instruction and reduce political influence over higher education leadership. His appearance came after Sarasota voters flipped their School Board by electing Megan Tennimon and Beth Mayberry, while Jimmy Glover heads to a runoff for the remaining seat. Jolly said changing political affiliations reflects growth, not weakness, as he campaigns against Republican Donalds for Governor in November.

“Donalds, Jolly bring Governor’s race to Suncoast” via Ellie Davis of WWSB — Florida’s Governor’s race is intensifying on the Suncoast, with Donalds and Jolly sharpening contrasting messages as Election Day approaches. Donalds is touring Florida on his “Defending the Florida Dream” campaign, emphasizing low taxes, limited regulation and tough-on-crime policies while arguing Republican leadership has fueled the state’s growth. Jolly, meanwhile, used a Sarasota appearance to emphasize public education, affordability and state spending priorities, including redirecting some tourism tax revenue toward schools. Donalds is scheduled to bring his tour to Owen’s Fish Camp in Lakewood Ranch, while Jolly campaigns statewide. The race gives Southwest Florida voters an unusually close look at both nominees as they compete over Florida’s economic direction, education system and the affordability pressures confronting families.

“Angie Nixon slams JD Vance after he says she doesn’t ‘belong in America’” via Ana Goni Lessan of The News Service of Florida — Vance told a Lakeland crowd that state Rep. Nixon doesn’t “belong in America,” drawing a sharp rebuke from the Democratic U.S. Senate candidate. “The most ordinary man imaginable came to my home state to tell me to ‘get out of America’ while he & Absent Ashley enjoyed the comfort of buildings my ancestors helped build,” Nixon wrote. “Imagine standing on the shoulders of the people who built this country & then telling their descendants they don’t belong here.”

“$1.5M hurricane campaign puts Blaise Ingoglia in election-season spotlight” via Greg Fox of WESH 2 — CFO Ingoglia is facing accusations that a nearly $1.5 million taxpayer-funded hurricane preparedness campaign doubles as election-year promotion. Democratic challenger Annette Taddeo says the television PSAs, which began airing shortly after the August Primary Election, amount to taxpayer-funded political advertising. Department of Financial Services records show Strategic Digital Services received $1,499,860 for the campaign, while the ads direct viewers to a state website featuring Ingoglia’s photo. Integrity Florida’s Ben Wilcox questioned using public money in ways that could benefit an incumbent, and UCF political scientist Aubrey Jewett said the spots skirt the line between public service and campaigning. Ingoglia’s office says the ads provide hurricane information intended to protect Floridians.

“Democrats target insurers’ hidden profits in Cabinet races” via Skyler Swisher of the Orlando Sentinel — Democratic CFO candidate Annette Taddeo and Attorney General candidate José Javier Rodríguez are making insurance transparency a campaign issue after reporting uncovered a secret state-funded study of insurer finances. The 2022 analysis found that property insurers reported $432 million in losses from 2017 through 2019 while paying $1.3 billion to affiliated companies, with 20 insurers flagged for payments presumed not to be fair and reasonable. Taddeo wants insurer report cards showing claims performance and how premiums flow to affiliates. Rodríguez promises aggressive enforcement and recovery of money unfairly or illegally taken from policyholders. Republican CFO Ingoglia and Attorney General James Uthmeier counter that their records already demonstrate efforts to increase transparency and protect insurance consumers.

— MORE ELECTIONS —

“Leela Gray gains ground, but Anna Paulina Luna has seen this movie before” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Democrat Gray is turning Florida’s 13th Congressional District into a race worth watching, with four ratings shifts toward Democrats in nine days and a $1.4 million third-quarter fundraising haul. Inside Elections now rates Luna’s seat Lean Republican, joining other forecasters seeing a tighter contest. But history offers a warning for Democrats: Luna’s previous opponents Eric Lynn and Whitney Fox posted encouraging polls and fundraising numbers before losing by roughly 9 points. Gray has one Democratic-aligned poll showing her ahead, while Luna’s internal polling gives the incumbent an 8-point advantage. Redistricting also strengthened Republicans, with Trump carrying the new District by 13 points in 2024.

“Kathy Castor raises $2.5M in Q3, more than her first six quarters combined” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Castor raised more than $2.5 million in the third quarter. That is more than she collected in the first six quarters of the cycle combined. The quarter pushes her total past $4.5 million from 11,901 donors. None of it is her own money. The Republican nominee is Mike Beltran, a Riverview lawyer who served three terms in the Florida House. “This quarter’s fundraising sends a clear message: Tampa voters want Kathy Castor to keep fighting for them to lower costs, crack down on corruption, and stand up to the powerful interests making life more expensive for working families,” said Castor Campaign Manager Sarah Green.

“Castor, Mike Beltran clash as CD 14 becomes battleground” via Shauna Muckle of the Tampa Bay Times — Castor and Beltran offered voters sharply different choices during a heated radio debate in one of the nation’s few congressional toss-ups. Castor attacked Florida’s mid-decade redistricting as illegal and criticized the state’s six-week abortion ban, while Beltran defended the new map and challenged Castor’s record on abortion. The candidates also sparred over socialism, immigration and Israel, repeatedly portraying each other as outside the District’s mainstream. The stakes are unusually high for Castor, a 20-year incumbent whose once-safe Democratic seat was redrawn into a District Trump carried by more than 10 points in 2024. Beltran, a former state Representative, emerged from a crowded Republican Primary and now has a genuine opportunity to flip the Tampa-area seat.

“Pia Dandiya stresses her background as an educator, but more recently worked as lobbyist for Apple” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — CD 21 Democratic candidate Dandiya’s official biography describes her first as a “teacher, high school principal, and mom,” and a campaign video labels a school library as “this educator’s kind of data center.” But critics say that story belongs in the fiction section. “Pia is proud of her career in both public service and the private sector — from educator and principal to her work at Apple helping schools, hospitals, and government use technology to better serve people. Trying to tie that work to data centers simply doesn’t match the facts,” said Madison Palmer, Dandiya’s Campaign Manager.

“How a provocative ad on Donald Trump and immigration stirred a House race” via Patricia Mazzei of The New York Times — To hear U.S. Rep. María Elvira Salazar explain it, few should have been surprised to see her in a television ad telling Trump that his immigration crackdown had “gone too far.” She had been saying much of the same for months. But the ad struck a nerve, angering Trump and his allies and perhaps emboldening other Republicans hoping to distance themselves from the crackdown. Salazar won re-election to Florida’s 27th Congressional District by about 20 percentage points in 2024, and Trump carried it with around 57% of the vote. Few had considered it competitive this year. The ad also boosted interest in Eliott Rodriguez, her Democratic rival, a fellow Cuban American former broadcast journalist. House Majority PAC has reserved about $4.2 million in ad spending to try to flip the seat. Former U.S. Rep. Donna Shalala, who lost to Salazar in 2020, said the cumulation of problems means Salazar is “in trouble.”

— EVEN MORE ELECTIONS —

“Karla Kemp won’t call herself a socialist in public. In private, she’s a ‘hardcore Bernie and AOC fan’” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Democrat Kemp is running an underdog campaign to unseat Republican state Sen. Nick DiCeglie in Senate District 18. As of Sept. 18, Kemp had raised less than $5,000 and had just $215 remaining on hand. She ended the email by praising U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, writing that she is “a hardcore Bernie and AOC fan.” “I choose not to classify myself as there are so many misinformed people and I am trying to represent my entire community, so why classify? I feel it pigeonholes you. But I have made it perfectly clear in my speeches and on my website and flyers, by my policies, that I am Progressive,” Kemp wrote. That could pose a big problem for Kemp in a District that strongly favors Republicans.

“Elizabeth Holmes dangled ‘easy’ service hours in front of students to boost her state House campaign” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Holmes, the Democrat challenging Rep. Meg Weinberger in House District 94, told students they could earn community service hours by sharing her campaign posts on Facebook. Students in the School District of Palm Beach County must complete at least 20 community service hours to graduate. Shaun Schwartztrauber, an Instructional Support Team Leader in the North Region Superintendent’s Office, told investigators that students may earn hours for campaign work, but “such activities must be initiated by the student and should not be organized or directed by school staff.” The file does not say whether a teacher recruiting students on social media meets that standard.

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— STATEWIDE —

“‘Profoundly sick’ Death Row prisoner pleads for medical care” via Nichole Manna of The Florida Trib — Florida prison officials are refusing to give a “profoundly sick” 74-year-old man medical care while he waits for his scheduled execution on Oct. 13, drawing objections from more than 100 doctors. “Right now, the most immediate question is whether Florida will provide Mr. Thompson with the medical care and basic human dignity he so clearly needs. I hope this case also forces all of us to consider what kind of state we want Florida to be – and what we are willing to permit our government to do in our name,” said Grace Hanna, Executive Director of FADP.

“RaShon Young to the state: Leave ‘Let Us Alone’ off Florida’s new driver’s license” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — State Rep. Young says Florida should not have put “Let Us Alone” on its new driver’s licenses. The Florida Senate objected to the phrase in 1845, and the flag that carried it never became official. “Words do not exist outside of history,” Young said. “For enslaved people, demands for government noninterference meant leaving intact a system that denied their humanity and exploited their labor. Placing this phrase on credentials Black Floridians must carry is a slap in the face to communities whose ancestors endured that injustice.”

“Publicly-owned utilities mark National Public Power Week” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) is using National Public Power Week to raise awareness of the services its members provide across the state. FMEA says publicly owned utilities cost customers less. Florida has 33 public power utilities serving about 4 million residential and commercial customers, or roughly 14% of the state’s power customers. “Public power is a long-standing American tradition built on one simple principle: serving the community,” said Amy Zubaly, FMEA Executive Director.

“FPL, TECO say data center plans meet new state law” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida — Florida Power & Light and Tampa Electric are moving to ensure data centers pay their own way as Florida prepares for growth driven by artificial intelligence. The utilities filed plans under a new law requiring data centers to cover their full cost of electric service rather than shifting expenses to other ratepayers. FPL says its existing large-load tariffs satisfy the requirement, while Tampa Electric proposes customers pay for system upgrades needed to serve them. Both plans contemplate minimum 20-year contracts to guard against facilities closing after infrastructure investments. Tampa Electric also envisions expanding Big Bend Power Station capacity and adding battery storage. Regulators are considering Duke Energy Florida’s proposal separately, which consumer advocates argue falls short of the new statutory protections.

“Duke Energy says data centers won’t leave customers holding the bill” via Melissa Seixas for Florida Politics — Floridians should never be forced to finance the enormous electricity demands of data centers. Duke Energy Florida’s proposed large-load tariff puts that principle into practice by requiring prospective operators to make substantial financial commitments before building new infrastructure. Data centers would face long-term contracts, significant collateral, minimum payments, and penalties for early cancellation. The proposal also incorporates Florida’s new statutory protections against shifting data center costs onto existing ratepayers. Duke currently has no large-load data center customers, so now is the time to establish safeguards before projects arrive. The Florida Public Service Commission is reviewing the plan, and a separate rate filing planned for 2028 will provide another opportunity for public and regulatory scrutiny.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Trump directed use of taxpayer money for ads praising his presidency” via Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan of The New York Times — Trump personally instructed his budget director to use taxpayer money for TV ads praising him and his presidency, setting in motion a $20 million contract that used funds from the Department of Homeland Security. The ads have run across cable and network television — on Fox News, CNN, and MS Now, with football games on Fox and national newscasts on CBS, ABC, and NBC, including “Meet the Press,” which Trump is known to watch. Trump was eager to see the laudatory ads on the air and told Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, to find the money within the government, the people said. Mark Paoletta, the budget office’s counsel, and Will Scharf, the White House counsel, both said it would be legal to use DHS funds.

“Trump makes desperate plea to deep-red state voters” via William Vaillancourt of the Daily Beast — Trump amped up his pleas to his supporters ahead of the Midterms, calling on them to “promise” to pretend he is on the ballot. “This election, I’m asking you to pretend that I’m on the ballot,” he said. Later in his speech — with rows of empty seats visible in the upper levels of the University of South Alabama’s Mitchell Center — Trump circled back to his ask. “Think of it: I don’t need the votes. I’m doing this, you know, I’m doing this, and I’m not running for anything,” he said, sounding exasperated. “But you’re going to think of me as on the ballot, right? Everybody promise?”

“Trump, critic of voting by mail, urges republicans to do it in Midterms” via Tim Balk and Evan Gorelick of The New York Times — Trump, who has long staged a rhetorical and legal assault against voting by mail even as he used the method himself to cast his ballots, released a video on Saturday urging Republicans to vote early and by mail in the Midterm Election. “Vote early. Vote by mail. Or vote in person on Election Day,” Trump, who has been using the power of his office to try to restrict mail voting, says in the video, which he posted on his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump also promoted a Republican Party website offering guidance on voters’ options for casting ballots. It was Trump’s latest contortion on mail balloting. For years, he has promoted unfounded claims that mail voting is rife with fraud while working to restrict the practice for Americans, an effort stymied by lawmakers and the courts. As recently as July, he said: “mail-in ballots are inherently corrupt.”

To watch the video, please click the image below:

“Cuba rhetoric may be losing its political punch in Florida” via Giselle Ruhiyyih Ewing and Daniella Cheslow of POLITICO — Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are escalating pressure on Cuba, but promises of change in Havana may no longer carry the same political weight with Florida voters. Trump recently teased supporters to “watch” Rubio’s Cuba strategy, while Rubio warned the island’s leadership could learn a lesson “the hard way.” Washington has tightened sanctions, and reports suggest military options remain under consideration. But Florida experts say some Cuban Americans are frustrated that promised regime change has not materialized. FIU professor Eduardo Gamarra says even renewed threats could motivate Republican voters, while pollster Fernand Amandi argues Cuba rhetoric is being overshadowed by affordability concerns and dissatisfaction with immigration enforcement.

“Kat Cammack secures housing funds for Gainesville, Ocala veterans” via Elliot Tritto of the Gainesville Sun — U.S. Rep. Cammack announced that homeless veterans in Ocala and Gainesville will remain housed after she worked directly with the Department of Veterans Affairs to secure a new contract for Volunteers of America. Funding for the nonprofit’s previous VA contract was set to expire Sept. 30. The Veterans Affairs Contract Emergency Residential Services (CERS) program, which began Oct. 1, will fund 36 beds at Ritz Veterans Village in Ocala and 18 beds in Gainesville, as part of 102 beds across North Florida. Cammack spoke on Sept. 30 about the new contract after welcoming fellow Rep. Donalds to a campaign event at Emerson Alumni Hall at the University of Florida.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Lawsuit alleges Miramar ICE facility is acting as a de facto civil detention center” via Christine Sexton of Florida Phoenix — A federal class action was filed in Miami against the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and top executives at the agencies, alleging they’re using a Miramar field office as a de facto civil detention center. The lawsuit says the agencies are holding people illegally for days, denying them medicine and medical care, coercing them into signing documents, and restricting access to legal counsel. The attorneys are asking the Judge to declare that the facility is an ICE sub-office or field office and, as such, must be “emptied at the conclusion of daily operations,” meaning it cannot hold people overnight.

“Dem-turned-GOP candidate who said America is ‘run on hate’ is back on the ballot in Broward” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — He lost by double digits running for the Florida Senate in 2024 — still far better than he fared in other bids for Congress and the Florida House — but Imtiaz Mohammad, who declared in 2018 that America is “run on hate,” is back on Broward’s ballot this year. Mohammad, a former Democrat who switched to Republican in 2022 after becoming fed up with his former party’s support of “homosexuality and same sex marriage,” is challenging Democratic State Rep. Robin Bartleman in House District 103. Mohammad is less known to voters for his political or business acumen than for his penchant for shooting himself in the foot verbally.

“A judge pays a high price for ‘gross negligence’” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — Elected by Broward voters in 2024, Lauren Peffer now faces a 30-day suspension, a $10,000 fine, and a public reprimand from the Florida Supreme Court for actions she describes as “tremendously stupid.” When she ran for Judge two years ago, Peffer told the editorial board that trust and confidence in the courts needed to be rebuilt, but her efforts backfired spectacularly. She cited a self-published book by a fired court employee in Orlando and a fabricated recording of a phone call imitating the voices of two Florida Supreme Court Justices as proof. To make matters worse, the “deepfake” 18-minute recording was laced with racist references to a prominent Orlando Judge.

“Tension, vitriol rise in meeting on county’s Ag Reserve, Islamic Center” via Wayne Washington of The Palm Beach Post — A Palm Beach County Commissioner’s Oct. 2 community meeting on the future of the Agricultural Reserve devolved into angry outbursts of opposition to an Islamic center that has been approved for construction there. Commissioner Maria Sachs, whose District includes the site at the southeast corner of the intersection of Lyons Road and 152nd Place South where the center would be built, struggled to control the meeting at the Dr. Andre Fladell Civic Center near Delray Beach as hundreds jeered and shouted their opposition to the center. “DeSantis has labeled many of these ‘Islamists’ terrorists,” said Aaron King, one of the attendees. “You should listen to us. We don’t want it.

“Coral Gables gives $500K for Underline as it prepares to make tough choices ahead” via Michelle Marchante of the Miami Herald — As they head into a potentially difficult financial year, Coral Gables Commissioners on Tuesday agreed to redirect $500,000 meant for city projects to help support the operations and maintenance of The Underline, a 10-mile linear park underneath the Metrorail. Negotiations ran right up until the deal was unanimously approved during Tuesday’s marathon City Commission meeting and budget hearing, with Underline leaders agreeing to the city’s various asks. That included giving the city a seat on the Underline Conservancy Board that oversees the park’s operation, with the City Commission having the power to select its own appointee.

“PETA demands Fort Lauderdale officials shut down petting zoo Capybara Café” via Phillip Valys of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Capybara Café, a new Fort Lauderdale indoor zoo where customers pay to pet and feed exotic rodents, is facing calls for an immediate shutdown following animal welfare complaints, zoning disputes, and state misdemeanor charges against its nonprofit parent company. In an open letter to a Fort Lauderdale city attorney last week, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) called for the facility’s shutdown and for an investigation into its owner, Stephanie Angel. “It’s one big lie,” Angel said. “PETA doesn’t care about truth or facts or about the good that we do. They just care about accusations and innuendo. They’re a loud minority, but most people in Fort Lauderdale support us.”

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Amendment 3 divides Central Floridians as vote on property taxes looms” via Martin E. Comas and Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Amendment 3 — which would create a $250,000 homestead exemption on primary homes by 2028 — could become one of the most consequential referendums to appear on Florida’s ballot in recent years, if approved by the required more than 60% of Florida voters on Nov. 3. As local residents interviewed by the Orlando Sentinel show, it is already one of the most divisive. Sonya Stevenson, who lives on the west side of Orlando, doesn’t buy it. “You’re not going to save money, because somebody has to pay for it,” said Stevenson, who plans to vote against the measure.

“Can a Republican win in Orange County District 4? Self-described ‘underdog’ Brian Jones is giving it a go” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Jones, a registered Republican, is hoping to pull off an upset over Democrat Johanna López. Jones, a telecommunications professional, knows he’s in for a tough battle, and he’s even described himself as an underdog who needs a miracle to win. But he told Florida Politics he’s ready to fight. He called downtown Orlando a “black eye” in the county. “It’s a graveyard. It’s the worst; I’ve never seen a city so pitiful,” Jones said. “Businesses are going out of business. Usually you’ve got some nice restaurants; we don’t have that in Orlando.” Jones suggests better collaboration with the Tourist Development Council to rebuild downtown and address transportation issues.

“Central Florida families struggle to buy groceries after losing food stamps” via Michael Cuglietta of the Orlando Sentinel — Keaidy Bennett, a single mother of three, relied on $936 a month in food stamps to buy groceries for her family — until the freelance writer was cut from the program last month. In Florida, more than 570,000 people, including Bennett and her children, have lost food stamps in the last year, a 19.5% drop. “You realize you can’t have pride for certain things because you have children,” she said. “And they have needs.”

— LOCAL: TB —

“St. Pete voters face five consequential questions beyond candidate races” via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — St. Petersburg voters will decide five city-specific ballot questions alongside the Mayor and City Council races, including whether to levy property taxes for stormwater and sewer upgrades. The biggest proposal would finance $600 million in bonds to accelerate a $2.7 billion infrastructure program from 24 years to 19. Property owners could pay about $96 per $100,000 of taxable value. Other questions would remove nine city-owned lots from protected parkland for affordable housing, extend the Harborage Marina lease, allow Port of St. Petersburg leases up to 25 years without referendum approval, and clean up charter language governing election schedules. Supporters of the infrastructure measure cite flooding and hurricane vulnerabilities, while civic groups want transparency about how the money would be spent.

“Hillsborough School Board choices favor experience over politics” via Conan Gallaty and Graham Brink of the Tampa Bay Times — Hillsborough voters should choose Daniela Simic in District 2 and return Karen Perez in District 6, giving the School Board candidates with experience suited to a District losing students to charter and private schools. Simic brings classroom and state school-improvement experience, including work supporting 230 Hillsborough schools and 12,000 educators. Her opponent, Brittany Lyssy, is capable, but Simic’s education résumé provides the stronger foundation. Perez, first elected in 2018, has delivered leadership, pushed for transparency and school safety, and advocated for marginalized students. Challenger Kenneth Gay has education experience but struggled to articulate a District vision. With the Board overseeing policy, budgets and the superintendent, both races call for candidates prepared to govern immediately rather than learn on the job.

“Rays’ October run could deliver millions to St. Pete” via Nadeen Yanes of Tampa Bay 28 — The Tampa Bay Rays’ postseason return to Tropicana Field could deliver an economic jolt to St. Petersburg after Hurricane Milton disrupted baseball and businesses. St. Pete Chamber President Chris Steinocher says Major League Baseball estimates a market like St. Petersburg could generate about $4 million per playoff game, with larger-market estimates reaching $7 million. A deep run could mean tens of millions in activity. The boost matters after Milton ripped the Trop’s roof away and forced the Rays to play last season at Steinbrenner Field; Steinocher says businesses lost 30% of revenue. Yankees fans are expected to travel and spend heavily, with visitors staying four or five nights. October baseball is again demonstrating the franchise’s economic value to St. Petersburg.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Wyman Duggan puts neighborhoods, JEA bills at center of mayoral bid” via David Bauerlein of the Florida Times-Union — State Rep. Duggan is officially challenging Mayor Donna Deegan, framing Jacksonville’s 2027 Mayoral race around neighborhood investment, affordability and accountability. Duggan criticized JTA’s autonomous shuttle program and taxpayer incentives for luxury downtown apartments while arguing City Hall should scrutinize independent authorities more aggressively. He also wants JEA-related taxes and fees, and the city’s increased garbage fee, considered for reduction, though he offered few specifics. Deegan countered that her administration has invested heavily in infrastructure, first responders and historically neglected neighborhoods. Money is already flowing: Deegan’s political committee has banked $2.5 million, while a committee supporting Duggan has raised roughly the same amount, including $110,000 from the Republican Party of Florida in September.

“Lobbying firm helped shape law now roiling St. Johns development” via John Asebes of News4JAX — A new Florida law reshaping development in St. Johns County had input from a lobbying firm representing interests connected to the county’s largest agricultural enclave application. Records show staff for Sen. Stan McClain and Rep. Adam Botana, SB 686’s sponsors, exchanged bill drafts with The Southern Group while developing the legislation. The firm has represented the LLC behind a roughly 4,400-acre property near Nocatee seeking development under the new law. Commissioners say they were caught off guard by SB 686, which can automatically certify qualifying applications if counties fail to act within 90 days. Rep. Kim Kendall, who supported the bill, later said she would have voted against it had she known the potential consequences.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“PAC money moves deeper into Bradenton’s City Council races” via Dawn Kitterman of The Bradenton Times — Political committees are pouring money into two Bradenton City Council races through targeted text-message campaigns, adding outside influence to local contests. PACs and political networks, rather than candidates’ committees, are financing the messaging, showing how political money reaches voters in municipal elections. The texts offer a window into sophisticated campaign machinery operating beneath races that traditionally attract less attention than statewide contests. With Election Day approaching, the spending raises questions about who is financing the messages Bradenton voters receive and what interests are working behind the scenes. The activity shows that even City Council campaigns are no longer insulated from the PAC-driven tactics common in Florida elections, where outside groups increasingly shape political messaging.

“Amendment 3 could put Southwest Florida police budgets on chopping block” via Christian Casale of Suncoast Searchlight — The property tax amendment championed by DeSantis could force significant law enforcement cuts across Southwest Florida, despite DeSantis’ years of attacking “defund the police” policies. Sarasota County projects Amendment 3 would reduce property tax revenue by $134 million over two years, with roughly $54.2 million of that affecting the Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Kurt Hoffman is examining services that could be scaled back. Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells expects a roughly 20% budget reduction could trigger a hiring freeze, while Venice Police Chief Andy Leisenring warns his department could face Great Recession-level cuts. The amendment would dramatically expand Florida’s homestead exemption. DeSantis dismisses the warnings as “fear-mongering” and says state grants could help local police departments during a transition period.

“Naples Manor protesters demand answers after ICE encounter” via Edward Franco of Gulf Coast News — About 100 protesters gathered in Naples Manor demanding accountability after U.S. citizen Isael Trejo said an encounter with ICE agents left him hospitalized with a collapsed lung and fractured ribs. Trejo, 23, said he was picking up food near a Sept. 23 demonstration when an agent knocked him down; he says agents detained, punched and pepper-sprayed him before releasing him without charges. Friday’s U.S. 41 protest ended with a candlelight vigil and calls for ICE to leave neighborhoods. The episode comes amid expanded federal immigration enforcement in Florida and growing national complaints about excessive force. ICE had not provided details explaining Trejo’s detention when the underlying report was published. Protesters say the case demands answers and accountability from federal authorities.

— TOP OPINION —

“‘Double haters’ could hold the keys to Congress” via Aaron Zitner and Neil Mehta of The Wall Street Journal — A growing bloc of voters who dislike both political parties could determine control of Congress, with a Wall Street Journal poll finding 21% view Democrats and Republicans unfavorably. That is sharply higher than the 13% recorded during the 2022 Midterms and roughly 12% in the two previous presidential elections.

These “double haters” currently favor Democrats for Congress, 55% to 27%, helping explain why analysts see Democrats as favored to capture the House and competitive for the Senate. But their support is hardly secure: more than 40% remain undecided or are not firmly committed to either party.

Their frustration runs deeper than partisan politics. Ninety-two percent say the country is headed in the wrong direction, while 84% describe the economy as poor or not good. They tend to be younger and male, and many believe political and economic systems disproportionately reward wealthy people, corporations and politicians.

That anger is reshaping campaign advertising. Since Sept. 1, House and Senate candidates and allies have aired more than 340 ads focused on alleged corruption or congressional stock trading, backed by roughly $110 million in spending. Traditional attack ads may prove less persuasive because these voters already dislike both sides.

History suggests they matter. Double haters backed Democrats during the 2018 wave that returned the House to Democratic control, then favored Republicans when the GOP reclaimed the chamber in 2022. Their allegiance can shift quickly when dissatisfaction turns toward the party in power.

The warning extends beyond November. Even if Democrats benefit from anti-Republican sentiment, winning Congress will not guarantee lasting loyalty. Cook Political Report editor Amy Walter argues merely opposing Trump will not satisfy these voters; Democrats would have to demonstrate that governing produces tangible results.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Florida Sheriffs, fiscal watchdogs say Amendment 3 is a misleading, financial disaster” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — One of the most striking things about Florida’s Amendment 3 is that almost everybody who’s actually studied this plan thinks it’s a bad idea. The proposal is billed as a tax cut, but will actually jack up housing costs for millions of Floridians. Amendment 3 is the largest “Defund the Police” proposal ever advanced in Florida. That’s why Sheriffs — mainly Republican ones — have been leading the opposition. While your typical homeowner might save about $1,100 a year by 2028 under Amendment 3, an analyst from the right-leaning Tax Foundation estimated that corresponding tax increases on rental units would raise costs by $406 a year for apartments and $1,081 a year for rental homes.

“Endorsement: Retain trio of appeal-court judges” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — In November, three judges from the 5th District Court of Appeal, which covers 13 counties including Lake, Seminole, Brevard and Volusia, will be up for retention. Fortunately, Scott Makar, John M. Harris, and F. Rand Wallis — all three originally appointed by former Gov. Rick Scott — have extensive experience and track records that support keeping them on the job, including high marks from the state’s legal community. All three judges have proven they put justice first — and have earned the respect of voters and their legal peers. Voters should keep them on the job.

“Bale Dalton offers Congressional District 7 a break from MAGA politics” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — District 7 voters already rejected scandal-plagued former Rep. Cory Mills, and now they have a chance to choose a fundamentally different direction. Democrat Dalton brings 24 years of Navy service, State Department experience and time working for Sen. Bill Nelson, including as his NASA Chief of Staff. His priorities address housing affordability, Social Security, Medicare, immigration and economic stability. Republican Ryan Elijah, meanwhile, has avoided many public appearances and candidate questionnaires while embracing positions closely aligned with the hard right. Trump has enthusiastically endorsed Elijah as a committed MAGA candidate. For a District encompassing Seminole County and part of Volusia County, Dalton offers the experience, temperament and priorities needed to restore steadier representation in Congress.

“Darren Soto’s record makes the case for another term” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — Soto has spent a decade building a congressional record around constituent service, bipartisanship and practical problem-solving rather than political spectacle. Redistricting dramatically changed CD 9, stretching it toward Lake Okeechobee and Indian River County and adding thousands of voters unfamiliar with Soto. Yet he already has experience with priorities important to those communities, including restoration of the Indian River Lagoon. Republican Dan Green brings an impressive military and Defense Department résumé, but voters have received few specifics about his agenda. He has skipped public forums with Soto and declined interviews with the editorial board. Soto’s membership in the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus further demonstrates his willingness to work across party lines. His experience, accessibility and record make him the stronger choice.

“Florida’s voter fraud crackdown finds a crisis measured in decimals” via Stephanie Hayes of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida’s voter fraud crackdown has reached triple digits, which sounds alarming until measured against 13.5 million registered voters. The state’s Office of Election Crimes and Security has now identified about 100 alleged offenders after another 20 arrests and prosecutions. That microscopic share hardly supports treating voter fraud as an existential threat to Florida elections. Yet the state continues deploying substantial resources and political fanfare against offenders who can include former prisoners tangled in voting-eligibility rules and immigrants who registered decades ago. The spectacle also arrives as Florida’s General Election becomes increasingly competitive. Protecting election integrity matters, but treating a vanishingly small number of cases as evidence of widespread corruption requires overlooking the overwhelming majority of Floridians who vote legally.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— AI —

“Trump unveils his new Super Intelligence Force” via Anthony Ha of TechCrunch — Trump named Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton to lead a new artificial intelligence task force, putting intelligence leadership at the center of Washington’s response to rapidly advancing technology. The “Super Intelligence Force” will coordinate federal engagement with consumers, advocacy groups, religious organizations, infrastructure providers and technology companies. Federal Trade Commission Chair Ferguson, Pentagon technology chief Michael, and Office of Personnel Management Director Kupor will help lead the effort. The announcement follows a White House meeting in which AI companies signed voluntary commitments to safety and self-regulation. Trump has emphasized technological leadership and competition while resisting rules he believes could slow innovation. The group will report to Trump and White House Chief of Staff Wiles.

“OpenAI safety leader quits, warning AI company’s culture is ‘broken’” via Dan Milmo of The Guardian — OpenAI safety leader David Robinson resigned after warning that the company’s culture is broken and that AI developers are moving too quickly for existing safeguards. Robinson, who helped write safety reports accompanying product releases, argued that capable autonomous systems demand standards closer to those used in nuclear power and aviation. He cited incidents involving rogue AI agents as evidence that trial-and-error development is becoming too dangerous. OpenAI has paused training of its advanced models and withheld a next-generation release after researchers identified safety concerns. The company says it is strengthening security practices and will slow development when necessary. Robinson’s departure adds to a chorus of industry insiders warning that AI capabilities may be advancing faster than companies can reliably control them.

“The AI industry is booming. Women are getting left behind” via Arielle Pardes of The Guardian — Artificial intelligence is creating jobs, but women are capturing disproportionately few of them, raising concerns that the technology boom could widen long-standing workplace inequalities. LinkedIn data cited by The Guardian shows women account for roughly 25% of new AI hires and only 13% of executive positions, compared with stronger representation across non-AI technology jobs. Women are also more concentrated in lower-paid work such as data annotation, while men dominate higher-paying strategic and technical roles. The resulting median pay gap reaches about $45,000. Researchers point to limited mentorship, career interruptions, workplace bias and reduced institutional support as contributing factors. As AI reshapes employment, experts warn unequal access to emerging positions could harden into a significant long-term economic and leadership divide for women.

— ALOE —

“For Florida flyers, one overlooked booking detail is worth up to $700 when Europe flights run late” via René Rabeder of Florida Politics — A delayed flight from Miami to Europe can be worth nearly $700 in compensation — or no guaranteed cash compensation at all. The difference has nothing to do with the passenger’s passport or the ticket price. On the same route, it can come down to one easily overlooked line in the booking: “Operated by.” Under current EU rules, a flight leaving Miami for Madrid is covered only if an EU airline operates it. An Iberia- or Air Europa-operated flight can qualify. An American-operated flight generally does not. A flight from Madrid to Miami falls under EU protections regardless of whether American, Iberia or Air Europa operates it, because the journey begins inside the European Union.

“Universal Halloween Horror Nights celebrates 35 years of terrifying people” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Over 35 years, Universal Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) has done more than frighten guests — it’s built a fandom for the ages. HHN, which runs through Nov. 1 on select nights at Universal Studios, is celebrating its milestone anniversary by adding a few twists and a house that pays homage to its long history. Movies like “Hellraiser” and “Sinners,” along with the long-running Netflix show “Stranger Things 5,” also get the HHN treatment. One memorable haunted-house scene this year is hearing “Crazy Train” play on a train going off the rails inside the “Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness” haunted house.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are Chris Hart, Trey Price, my ol’ friend Gregory Wilson, and Joe York, one of the best in The Process.

___

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

The post Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 10.5.26 appeared first on Florida Politics – Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government..

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