Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 11.10.25

Good Monday morning.

Allegiant Strategies Group has hired Holly Bernardo, a veteran government relations and nonprofit executive, as its new Vice President of Strategic Partnerships.

Bernardo brings more than two decades of experience across government, business and philanthropic sectors, with a focus on veteran and community engagement.

Before joining Allegiant Strategies Group, Bernardo served at the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, where she developed a statewide framework connecting veterans, service members and families to housing, behavioral health and benefits programs. Her efforts strengthened cross-agency collaboration and improved access to veteran services statewide.

“Holly brought strategic insight and a deep sense of purpose to her work serving Florida’s veterans,” said Bob Asztalos, Executive Director of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities and former Assistant Director of the Veterans’ Affairs department. “Her leadership strengthened partnerships statewide and kept the focus on those we serve.”

Bernardo has also led major nonprofit initiatives, securing multimillion-dollar state appropriations — including $2.9 million for a regional family shelter and nearly $1 million for hurricane recovery programs. She has guided fundraising strategies and philanthropic partnerships supporting sustainable organizational growth.

“Holly’s unique combination of government experience, clinical insight and nonprofit leadership makes her an exceptional addition to our team,” said David Clark, Allegiant Strategies Group CEO.

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“Want more Florida Politics in your Google News feed? There’s a new tool for that.” — Google News has launched a new “preferred sources” feature, allowing users to customize their “Top Stories” feed to display content from their favorite publications prominently.

For followers of Florida’s political landscape, this tool is a game-changer, ensuring they receive timely, in-depth reporting on the Governor’s office, the Legislature, and high-stakes campaigns.

By selecting Florida Politics as a preferred source, readers can prioritize its indispensable coverage, ensuring they see the latest headlines on key issues, such as property insurance and the state budget, first. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to enable the feature. Don’t forget about other ways to connect, such as through our breaking news text messages, following @Fla_Pol on X, and signing up for newsletters like Last Call, Takeaways from Tallahassee and The Delegation.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@BurgessEverett: “Everyday that this government is shut, I lean more toward nuking the filibuster,” Sen. (Roger) Marshall tells @ChrisStirewalt.

—@RonBrownstein: Every R plan to replace #ACA has centered on 1 idea: allowing insurers to again segregate the healthy from the sick, which could lower premiums for former while raising cost & cutting access for latter. The 130m Americans w/preexisting conditions have never liked that trade

—@ForwardCarolina: Under the (Donald) Trump administration, FEMA reimbursements to Western NC counties have gone dry, and no one will say why. Mike Whatley, who Trump named as his lead Helene recovery czar, insists that solving FEMA’s holdup is not his responsibility. Meanwhile, Western NC counties are being pushed to the brink of insolvency.

—@RonDeSantis: Young people who prefer socialism to capitalism have no doubt been influenced by ideologically-slanted institutions of higher education, but they also conflate capitalism with some of the perversions of free enterprise they have seen in their lifetimes: Wall St. bailouts, corporate welfare and cronyism. These perversions are basically a form of venture socialism for the well-connected and are anathema to a true market-based economy.

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

—@EricBurris: May be tracking storms this afternoon, but temps on Tuesday will be the coldest we’ve seen since February- and the coldest air Central Florida has seen in early November… since 1993! I know where I was in 1993… it’s been a while!!!

Tweet, tweet:

—@GatorsSzn: Source: Florida State at Florida will kickoff at 9 AM EST on Cartoon Network

— DAYS UNTIL —

Ted Cruz to keynote Miami-Dade GOP’s Lincoln Day Dinner — 1; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 6; ’Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 11; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 16; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 18; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 23; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 23; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 29; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 32; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ six-episode docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 32; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 37; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 39; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 45; Special Election for HD 87, HD 52 Special Primary and two Boca Raton referenda — 64; 2026 Legislative Session begins — 64; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 64; The James Madison Institute’s 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 65; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 69; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 81; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 87; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 88; Boca Raton mayoral and City Council elections — 120; last day of the Regular Session — 123; Special Election for HD 52 (if necessary) — 134; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 135; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 136; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 147; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 156; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 156; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 161; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 165; F1 Miami begins — 172; ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 193; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 204; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 210; State Qualifying Period ends — 214; FIFA World Cup begins — 213; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 236; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 241; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 246; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 248; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 252; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 269; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 271; Primary Election Day 2026 — 281; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 305; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 309; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 313; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 318; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 325; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 329; Early Voting General Election Mandatory period begins — 348; 2026 General Election — 358; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 403; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 403; Tampa Mayoral Election — 477; Jacksonville First Election — 498; Jacksonville General Election — 554; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 572; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 634; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 690; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 767; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 977; U.S. Presidential Election — 1093; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1493; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2224.

— TOP STORY —

“Primal screams and money dreams on the floor of Miami’s celebrity business forum” via Max Klaver of the Miami Herald — The America Business Forum turned Miami’s Kaseya Center into a spectacle of ambition and wealth, headlined by Tony Robbins, Trump, Jeff Bezos, and Lionel Messi. Mayor Francis Suarez billed it as “a gift of access and inspiration,” promising that anyone could succeed with energy and drive. Tickets ranged from $100 to $10,000, drawing thousands of attendees seeking motivation in an era when 42% of Americans struggle to pay basic expenses.

Among them was Juan Perdomo, a Tampa mine technician hoping to double his salary to better support his family, and Eder Elias, a hotel maintenance worker from Homestead pursuing “financial freedom” for himself and his daughter. Both came searching for a roadmap, not just inspiration.

Bezos recalled cleaning bathrooms in a North Miami McDonald’s before building Amazon, while podcaster Patrick Bet-David described his rise from war-torn Iran to millionaire entrepreneur. Yet for many, the stories highlighted the widening gulf between celebrity success and working-class struggle.

Trump declared that “an economic miracle” was underway, but attendees like Elias said it hadn’t reached them. He still earns $22 an hour and lives with his parents. Others, like small-business owner Juan Patino, skipped day two to meet clients instead.

The Forum delivered spectacle, optimism, and powerful storytelling — but little concrete guidance. For many who came seeking transformation, the takeaway was bittersweet: inspiration alone doesn’t pay the bills. In a country chasing financial freedom, the gap between dream and reality remains wide.

— STATEWIDE —

“Blaise Ingoglia wants to add more auditors in his Office as he focuses on wasteful spending” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Ingoglia says his Office plans to spend more in order to save taxpayer money. He is pledging to probe every government in Florida and wants to hire more auditors, certified public accountants and local government experts, he said at a press conference focused on the city of Orlando’s spending. “We’re looking to expand it because the taxpayers deserve transparency and fiscal responsibility,” Ingoglia said. “We’re not going to be able to do events like these press conferences, but our goal is to do every single government, every single taxing authority in the state of Florida, and show people how their local governments are spending.”

“James Uthmeier accuses American Bar Association of violating First Amendment” via Stephany Matat of USA Today Network — In a further escalation of conservative criticism of the American Bar Association, Florida’s Attorney General is now accusing the organization of violating the First Amendment. Attorney General Uthmeier slammed the ABA, which accredits law schools, for finding that a Catholic law school in Miami Gardens hadn’t complied with the group’s anti-discrimination and equal opportunity rules. It’s the latest move against the association in Florida, where the Supreme Court also has asked The Florida Bar to stop making appointments to the ABA House of Delegates, its policymaking body, and is considering alternatives to ABA accreditation for law schools.

“Florida leaders warn against free child care, rent freezes while lamenting dangers of communism” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Florida leaders took a stand against communism — listing free child care and rent freezes among their list of concerns — during a press conference set on the state’s annual Victims of Communism Day. “It’s important to talk about in a very clear-eyed way the destruction, the lives, 100 million dead at the hands of Marxism-Leninism. But I think it’s also important that we just recognize the whole absurdity of it all, the whole idea of communism,” DeSantis said at the Miami Freedom Tower. Joining him was Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas, who used the press conference to rally against “punitive” taxes on the wealthy, free child care, rent freezes and government-run grocery stores.

“Ding-dong-ditch … dead. In Florida, kids are warned the adults may shoot pranksters” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — A recent front-page story in the Orlando Sentinel looked at teenagers in Florida held at gunpoint and even shot dead after staging ring-and-run pranks — where they ring a doorbell at night and then scurry away before anyone answers. Now, kids have been doing this kind of thing since doorbells were invented two centuries ago. But in recent years, some in Florida have ended up staring down the barrel of a gun. As a result, the story from our sister paper in South Florida quoted an array of people, including the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, defense lawyers and gun-rights advocates, issuing warnings — not to the people shooting at kids, but to the kids and their parents.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“‘Home rule’ fight over Florida’s SB 180 exposes growing rift inside GOP ranks” via Alice Herman of ABC 7 — During an October meeting of Sarasota MAGA Patriots — a rightwing coalition pursuing a range of issues, from anti-vaccine activism to emergency preparedness — attendees railed against a new state law curbing local oversight of development and the Republican lawmakers who backed it. Their ire reflects tensions inside Florida’s dominant party, between Tallahassee’s power brokers and the populist base that helped put them there. Passed this spring with near-unanimous support in both the Senate and the House, SB 180 limits counties and cities from imposing new limits on building — a measure framed as a way to help homeowners rebuild after major storms, but whose reach extends statewide and far beyond coastal areas still recovering from 2024 storms.

“Florida’s next frontier: Lawmakers weigh nuclear innovation to power a growing state” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Florida lawmakers are weighing advanced nuclear technology as a potential solution to meet the state’s surging energy demands. The House Economic Infrastructure Subcommittee met on Tuesday to explore how small modular reactors and federal licensing reforms could strengthen Florida’s energy resilience amid rapid population growth and rising data center needs. Chair Chip LaMarca led the discussion, which featured testimony from experts, including Cayce Hinton of the Florida Public Service Commission and policy specialists from national energy think tanks. Speakers highlighted how passive safety systems and new regulatory frameworks could accelerate the development of clean, reliable energy. Advocates urged lawmakers to move quickly, citing federal momentum and economic opportunity to position Florida as a leader in next-generation nuclear power innovation.

“LaVon Bracy Davis, Kelly Skidmore refile bills to let campaign funds cover child care costs” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Legislation to make it easier for Floridians with kids to run for state and local office is again up for consideration in Tallahassee. Sen. Bracy Davis and Rep. Skidmore have refiled twin bills (SB 414, HB 361) to allow candidates to use campaign funds to pay for child care expenses. The measures would enable candidates to use campaign dollars to cover child care costs only if those expenses would not exist but for the candidate’s campaign. The money couldn’t cover costs unrelated to campaigning, like personal errands or routine child care. And candidates would have to maintain and provide to the Division of Elections “clear records of all child care expenses reimbursed by campaign funds.”

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Families in limbo after Supreme Court order interrupts food stamp payments” via Tony Romm, Miles Cohen, Chris Hippensteel and Taylor Robinson of The New York Times — Millions of Americans faced fresh uncertainty over food aid Saturday after the Supreme Court granted the Trump administration’s request to continue withholding full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funding during the federal shutdown. The emergency order paused a lower court ruling that had required full SNAP payments, disrupting efforts by states like Massachusetts and Pennsylvania to resume normal benefits. Roughly 42 million people rely on the program, and many reported declined transactions or empty accounts as the freeze took effect. Critics say the administration is refusing to use available funds to prevent hunger while financing other federal priorities. State leaders vowed to fight the decision, calling it cruel and destabilizing for low-income families already struggling to buy food.

“Trump’s GOP is losing independents” via Matthew Continetti of The Wall Street Journal — Republicans are downplaying the 2025 Election losses, but the warning signs are unmistakable. Democrats dominated in Virginia, New Jersey, and Georgia, fueled by voter anger over high prices and GOP disarray. Inflation remains the nation’s defining issue — and Trump’s greatest political liability. Despite campaign rhetoric, Americans feel little relief from rising costs of housing, food, and health care. Analysts say Trump must craft a serious affordability plan and win back independents, who are abandoning Republicans in droves. Instead, the party’s policy void and record shutdowns have left voters unconvinced it can govern. With 2026 looming, Republicans have months to deliver an economic agenda or risk another Midterm rout that could cement Democratic control and deepen public frustration.

“As beef prices remain high, Trump calls for inquiry into meatpackers” via Kevin Draper of The New York Times — The Justice Department has launched a sweeping investigation into alleged price fixing and collusion among the nation’s four largest meatpacking companies — JBS, Cargill, Tyson Foods and National Beef — following President Trump’s accusation that they inflated prices and endangered the U.S. food supply. Together, the firms control roughly 85% of cattle slaughter and a majority of pork production. Ranchers have long complained that meatpackers profit while farm prices fall. The probe, led by the DOJ’s antitrust division, could reshape the cattle and beef markets if it results in charges. But past efforts have stalled despite industry lawsuits and settlements. Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater says agriculture remains a top priority under her “America First Antitrust” approach.

“Trump’s crackdown on foreign students barely impacts enrollment, data shows” via Todd Wallack of The Washington Post — Despite widespread fears of a steep decline in foreign student enrollment, new federal data show international student numbers in the United States dipped by less than 1% this Fall. The modest decline surprised higher education leaders, who had braced for steep losses following the Trump administration’s restrictions on travel, visa interviews and student protests. Homeland Security reported 1.3 million students with active visas, a figure nearly unchanged from last year. Elite universities, including Harvard, Columbia and Rice, reported only minor drops, while others, such as the University of Maryland–Baltimore County, saw steeper declines in graduate programs. Advocates say foreign students remain vital for research and campus diversity, even as future enrollment hinges on shifting immigration policies.

“The U.S. was a leader in cultural heritage investigations. Now those agents are working immigration enforcement.” via Sam Tabachnik of the Orlando Sentinel — The Trump administration has disbanded its federal cultural property investigations team and reassigned the agents to immigration enforcement, delivering a blow to one of the world’s leaders in heritage protection and calling into question the future of America’s role in repatriating looted relics. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security established the Cultural Property, Art and Antiquities program in 2017 to “conduct training on the preservation, protection and investigation of cultural heritage and property; to coordinate and support investigations involving the illicit trafficking of cultural property around the world; and to facilitate the repatriation of illicit cultural items seized as a result of (federal) investigations to the objects and artifacts’ lawful and rightful owners.”

“Venezuelans begin fleeing U.S. as protections end and threat of war looms” via María Luisa Paúl of The Washington Post — The mass revocation of temporary protected status for Venezuelans has shattered thousands of lives across the United States, triggering an exodus and deep uncertainty for families who had spent years rebuilding after fleeing political repression. As of Friday, more than 600,000 Venezuelans lost the protection that allowed them to live and work legally. Many are now packing up homes, closing businesses and saying goodbye to loved ones, fearing deportation to a country still mired in authoritarian rule and economic collapse. Immigration advocates call the decision inhumane, warning it could push people back into danger while overwhelming U.S. asylum courts already strained by millions of pending cases. In Florida and beyond, despair and disbelief have replaced once-steady hope for safety and belonging.

“Commanders owners anticipate possible stadium name discussion with Trump” via Nicki Jhabvala and David Aldridge of The Athletic — Washington Commanders ownership expects to meet with Trump on Sunday to discuss the team’s new $3.8 billion stadium project in the District, though no formal request has been made to name the venue after him. Trump, who will watch the Commanders face the Detroit Lions from owner Josh Harris’s suite, has reportedly expressed interest in securing naming rights. The new covered stadium, slated to open in 2030 on the former RFK site, was made possible after Congress transferred control of the land to D.C. The city will own the stadium, while the team retains naming rights and most revenue. Trump’s attendance marks the first visit by a sitting President to an NFL regular-season game in nearly five decades.

“Florida agriculture scores phosphate win with Interior Department” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Florida secured a major policy victory as the Interior Department added phosphate to the federal Critical Minerals List, a move championed by U.S. Reps. Kat Cammack and Scott Franklin. The designation recognizes phosphate’s essential role in fertilizer production and national food security while reducing reliance on foreign sources. Mosaic, Florida’s largest phosphate producer, hailed the decision as a boost to national security and long-term economic growth. Cammack and Franklin led a bipartisan effort pressing federal officials to include phosphate and reinstate potash, emphasizing their importance to American agriculture. With Florida home to the nation’s largest phosphate reserves, the decision positions the state as a key player in strengthening domestic supply chains and safeguarding U.S. agricultural independence.

— ELECTIONS —

“Josie Tomkow officially jumps into SD 14 Special Election, setting up competitive GOP Primary” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Republican Rep. Tomkow has entered the Special Election for Senate District 14, seeking to replace former Sen. Jay Collins, now Lieutenant Governor. Tomkow announced her campaign Friday with strong backing from top GOP figures, including U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee, key House leaders, and sheriffs from Hillsborough, Polk and Pasco counties. She begins the race with $3 million on hand, according to sources. Department of Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Melanie Griffin also filed earlier in the day, setting up a high-profile Republican Primary ahead of the Jan. 13 election. A Democrat, Brian Nathan, is also running. The District, which leans slightly Republican but has a history of swings, is expected to draw heavy spending and statewide attention.

“House Republicans back Samantha Scott in HD 52 Special Election” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — The Florida House Republican Campaign Committee (FHRCC) is backing Scott in the Special Election for House District 52. “Samantha has a proven record as a successful business leader, job creator, and community advocate and embodies the conservative, pro-family, pro-business values that will enable her to hit the ground running as a member of the Florida House of Representatives,” said Speaker-designate Sam Garrison, the FHRCC Chair. “I look forward to enthusiastically supporting her efforts on the campaign trail in both the Primary and General Elections.” Scott is running to replace John Temple, who is not seeking re-election after being appointed President of Lake-Sumter College this Summer. Both are Republicans.

“Luis Salazar to kick off HD 64 campaign with support from union, Democratic Party leaders” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Luis Salazar is officially kicking off his campaign for House District 64 on Nov. 10, after becoming the second Democrat in the race to replace term-limited Republican Rep. Susan Valdés. Salazar’s event will be at Blind Tiger Cafe, located at 6905 N. Orleans Ave. in Tampa, beginning at 6 p.m. Salazar’s host committee includes a diverse group of community and party leaders, as well as other candidates for local office such as Darren McAuley, a candidate for Florida’s 15th Congressional District; Brian Nathan, who is running for Senate District 14; and Kelly Cameron, a candidate in House District 65. Other hosts include Tabitha Hunter, assistant business manager for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers union; the Hillsborough Society’s Mike Drapak; Hillsborough County Democratic Veterans Caucus President Jose Lucena Jr.; Kristen Browde, who leads the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus; and Lydia Medrano of the League of United Latin American Citizens.

“‘Good men still exist’: Legendary Miami Beach runner Robert ‘Raven’ Kraft lauds Fabián Basabe” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Kraft, a local legend who crossed a jaw-dropping milestone this past New Year’s Day by running on the sands of South Beach every day for 50 years, wants to see Basabe win another term in House District 106. It’s not necessarily that the two agree on everything politically, though Basabe and Kraft are both registered Republicans. Instead, Kraft credited his support to Basabe’s actions last year, when Kraft came close to losing his longtime condo after the maintenance and repair fees at the building skyrocketed to untenable levels. Kraft lived modestly. While thousands of people from across the world had joined him on his daily “Raven Runs” and many publications had chronicled his journey, he’d largely earned a living working security and forwent many of life’s indulgent trappings to afford his home.

Happening tonight:

Save the date:

Save the date:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Alex Fernandez’s election win in Miami Beach this week broke a city record” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Fernandez won big this week, taking 84% of the vote to secure re-election to the Miami Beach Commission Group 3 seat — the largest share of votes ever captured by a City Commission candidate. That’s according to Assistant City Clerk Regis Barbou, who confirmed with Florida Politics that Fernandez’s margin of victory broke Miami Beach records. Fernandez, in a statement marking his win, noted that it’s also been four decades since any candidate on a Miami Beach ballot took more than 12,000 votes. He took 12,042. “This makes our victory even more special and I’ll continue working hard every day with gratitude, humility, and goodness of heart to make you proud!” he said.

“‘The voice we need’: Laura Dominguez, Fernandez back Monica Matteo-Salinas in Miami Beach runoff” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — After notching resounding re-election victories this week, Miami Beach Commissioners Dominguez and Fernandez are making clear their preferred candidate in the runoff for the panel’s Group 1 seat. Dominguez and Fernandez are endorsing Matteo-Salinas, a former Commission aide to Fernandez and outgoing Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez, the latter of whom Matteo-Salinas is running to succeed. Dominguez called Matteo-Salinas “exactly the kind of voice we need on the City Commission: experienced, empathetic, and focused on the issues that matter most to our residents.” “Monica Matteo-Salinas has earned the trust of our community through her years of service, her compassion, and her results-driven approach,” she said in a statement. “She knows Miami Beach and our potential.”

“Activist behind lawsuit against Trump library warns of impact to Miami’s Overtown” via Raisa Habersham of the Miami Herald — Along a stretch of Third Avenue in Overtown, historian and activist Marvin Dunn gave one of his searing history lessons about the historically Black neighborhood. He spoke of how Black people in Miami were pushed to the northwest corner of the city. He spoke of how Overtown used to be the epicenter of Black culture and commerce in Miami. He spoke of how some Black men living in Overtown were key to Miami’s founding. Dunn is currently locked in a legal fight with Miami Dade College over the future of a 2.6-acre parcel beside the Freedom Tower in downtown Miami — land eyed for a potential Trump presidential library. Dunn’s “teach-in” in Overtown on Wednesday highlighted the site’s history and what he argues the community would lose if the college moves forward with the land transfer.

“Broward local leaders sound alarm about potential property tax cuts” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Momentum to slash Florida’s property taxes has reached a fever pitch, but local leaders are warning of dire consequences for essential services. DeSantis has made tax cuts central to his agenda, with multiple proposed constitutional amendments circulating ahead of the 2026 Session. Supporters, including Republican lawmakers, frame the effort as long-overdue relief from rising housing and insurance costs. Critics, however, say even deep budget cuts couldn’t offset the losses, putting police, fire-rescue, roads and libraries at risk. County officials estimate billions in potential revenue shortfalls, forcing tough trade-offs or higher sales taxes. With public frustration mounting and polls showing strong voter support, the political momentum appears unstoppable — but the fiscal math remains brutally uncertain.

“Fort Lauderdale Mayor attacked and dragged across a road by ex-partner, police say” via Devoun Cetoute of the Miami Herald — Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis was assaulted and dragged across a road outside his home by his former partner, Daniel Curran, who was arrested Wednesday, police said. Curran, 34, faces charges of battery on a person 65 or older and violating a domestic violence injunction. Trantalis, 72, told a Broward County judge the incident began as an attempt to help Curran seek counseling. Police said Curran pulled the Mayor to the ground and dragged him about 15 feet, causing injuries to his wrist and legs. Curran’s bond was set at $6,000, and he was ordered to stay away from Trantalis and surrender any weapons. Prosecutors have asked DeSantis to reassign the case to another jurisdiction.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Orlando’s budget is ‘relatively sane,’ Florida CFO says” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia, who has circled the state blasting cities and counties for what he deems as “excessive and wasteful spending,” stopped in Orlando Friday to say the city wasn’t doing too bad, actually. Standing next to a poster showing $1.5 billion in alleged waste, Ingoglia said his formula found Orlando’s excess spending totaled just $22.3 million. But, he argued, that means there’s still room to shave off the property tax rate and save property owners some money on their bills. “This is a relatively sane keel of spending in an insane spending environment,” he said. “You can cut this out of the budget easily.” Mayor Buddy Dyer has argued that local governments feel the same burdens as families: insurance is expensive, building materials are spiking and public safety salaries are ever rising. “I’m proud of Orlando’s strong fiscal management,” Dyer said.

Good news about a great person — “DeSantis appoints Bartow native Kate Wallace to fill opening on Polk School Board” via Gary White of The Lakeland Ledger — DeSantis has appointed Wallace to fill a vacancy on the Polk County School Board. Wallace is the director of state government affairs for Charter Communications. A Bartow native, Wallace attended public schools before graduating in 2003 from the International Baccalaureate School at Bartow High School. The appointment fills an opening in District 3 created with the death in August of Rick Nolte after a long illness. He was in his first term, having ousted incumbent Sarah Fortney in 2022.

“Candidates withdraw from Polk County Commission, School Board elections for 2026” via Gary White of the Lakeland Ledger — The list of candidates for Polk County elections in 2026 has shrunk by two. Tommy Addison of Haines City has withdrawn as a candidate for the Polk County Commission in District 4, the Polk Supervisor of Elections Office reported. Addison, a Republican, had filed to run in August. Addison could not be reached by phone and did not respond to an email. He is a former member of the Polk County Planning Commission. Addison had not yet reported any campaign contributions.

“After ousting incumbent, new Fort Meade Commissioner says voters are tired of not being heard” via Gary White of The Ledger of Lakeland — Candice Lott scored a decisive win in the Fort Meade City Commission election, defeating incumbent Mayor Samuel Berrien and avoiding a runoff with 59.4% of the vote. Lott, 53, a Fort Meade native making her second run for office, collected 581 of 978 votes, while Berrien finished third with 16.9%. The outcome reflected a voter mandate for change in a city roiled by divisions and administrative turmoil. Lott, who works at Streamsong Resort and previously co-managed a family lawn business, said she intends to restore public trust and unity. “Residents are tired of feeling as if they’re not heard,” she said. “You can disagree and still get along and compromise — we’ve got to get that back.”

— LOCAL: TB —

“‘Everybody’s worried.’ How Tampa Bay residents are bracing for SNAP cuts” via Teghan Simonton of the Tampa Bay Times — Across Tampa Bay, anxiety is rising as the federal government shutdown slashes Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits in half, leaving millions of Floridians scrambling to feed their families. At food distributions from Gibsonton to St. Petersburg, residents lined up hours early for supplies. Many, like Diana Absher and Dylan Abruzzese, rely on modest SNAP payments to cover their children’s meals. Seniors and low-income families described skipping food or pooling resources to get by. Food banks, churches and community groups are stepping in to fill the gap, but leaders warn demand is overwhelming. Judges have urged the administration to restore full funding, yet only partial payments are expected. For many, survival now depends on local compassion and sheer resilience.

Best news of the day — “Pinellas Commissioner who was hospitalized for a month set to return” via Colbi Edmonds of the Tampa Bay Times — Pinellas County Commissioner Chris Latvala, who spent a month in the hospital recovering from four surgeries, is planning to attend county meetings virtually in November. One Monday in September, Latvala had stomach pain, and what happened next was a “whirlwind,” he said. Latvala experienced a rare condition called a dissection: One of his major arteries tore. He spent more than three weeks in the intensive care unit. “It’s been very humbling,” Latvala said. “I didn’t know, frankly, how close I came to dying until my family told me.”

“Pinellas schools to keep book challenged as promoting ‘gay ideology’” via Jeffrey S. Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — Efforts to stem the tide of removing books from Florida school libraries picked up a win in Pinellas County on Tuesday. A committee of parents and educators unanimously rejected a parent’s request to remove the children’s book “Out of the Blue” by Robert Tregoning from all schools, saying the book offered messages of individuality and trust in parents. Complainant Ciro Goncalves, who did not attend the district’s committee review of the title, wrote in his initial objection that the book promotes “gay ideology of ‘coming out of the closet.’”

“‘It was awful’: Community seeks comfort, answers after Ybor crash” via Nina Moske of the Tampa Bay Times — Aaron Luneau stooped to place a candle at the entrance to Bradley’s on 7th, an LGBTQ+ bar he frequents in Ybor City. Hours earlier, after midnight on Saturday, this stretch of Seventh Avenue was a scene of tragedy. A driver fleeing police lost control of his vehicle and veered onto the busy sidewalk before crashing into the building. Four died. Thirteen more were injured. On Saturday night, Luneau stood among more than a hundred people at a vigil outside the bar. They were there to grieve the victims — whose names have not been publicly released — and the bar itself, a pillar of Tampa’s gay community. The crash was not targeted, they said, but it felt like an attack.

“TECO customers will pay more in 2026 after rate hike approval” via Ashley Suter of WFLA — Tampa Electric customers will pay more starting in January after the Florida Public Service Commission approved a rate hike on Tuesday. The Food and Water Watch analysis said that the average TECO customer’s bills will be 82% higher or $939 more per year than they were in December 2020. “Once again, DeSantis’ PSC is maintaining their track record of ensuring the wealth of corporations over the health of Floridians. By raising energy prices yet again, the Florida families already suffering from the high cost of living will be even worse off. It doesn’t have to be this way,” Food and Water Watch organizer Isabella Moeller said. Starting in January, TECO customers using 1000 kWh/month will pay $5.51 more each month.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“DeSantis taps lawyer and wife of Education Commissioner as Florida judge” via Jim Rosica of USA Today Network — DeSantis has appointed Rachel Kamoutsas, chief of staff at the State University System and wife of state Education Commissioner Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas, as an appeals court judge. DeSantis’ office made the announcement Nov. 7, the same day he appeared with her husband at an event in Miami commemorating Victims of Communism Day. She was one of two appointments to the 6th District Court of Appeal (DCA), an appellate court created by the Legislature in 2023 and based in Lakeland.

“‘Community altering’: Concerns mount over Comp Plan changes allowing Lake Jackson development” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Concerned citizens, environmental groups and others are lining up to oppose changes to the Tallahassee-Leon County Comprehensive Plan that could open the door to large-scale development north of an already impaired Lake Jackson. The proposal would expand the urban service area boundary in the unincorporated area around Carr Lake and Mallard Pond, part of the Lake Jackson aquatic preserve, and change the land use designation to allow far more development than currently permitted.

“Jacksonville forms Duval Care Coalition to help people losing SNAP benefits” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — City Council member Ken Amaro said it initially surprised him to learn that in his Arlington district, roughly 20% of its households get SNAP assistance. He said he then thought of the long lines he’s seen at neighborhood churches providing food assistance. “The loss of SNAP benefits has left many, many families facing difficult choices,” Amaro said at an event with Mayor Donna Deegan announcing the city’s response to the cut in SNAP. “I can see parents skipping meals so their children can eat, I can see seniors stretching every dollar, choosing between the cost of medicine or the cost of food. The pain and the fear is real.”

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

— TOP OPINION —

“This Georgia upset is the real preview of 2026” via Mary Ellen Klas of Bloomberg — Pocketbook issues drove a wave of Democratic victories in Virginia, New Jersey, New York, and Georgia — a clear warning that 2026 will hinge on affordability. Nowhere was the signal stronger than in Georgia, where Democrats flipped two seats on the state’s Public Service Commission, an unlikely stage for a statewide breakthrough. The outcome underscores how economic frustrations, rising utility costs, and voter fatigue with Trump are reshaping Georgia’s political map.

Democrats Alicia Johnson and Peter Hubbard won their races with more than 63% of the vote, unseating Republican incumbents Tom Echols and Fitz Johnson. Turnout soared to 1.5 million voters — far higher than past Commission races — marking the first statewide Democratic wins in a non-federal election year since 2006.

The Public Service Commission regulates electric rates, and rate hikes have been relentless. The board, dominated by Republicans, approved Georgia Power’s requests for increases six times in three years. The average bill rose $43 a month. Voters noticed. Running on the simple slogan “My power bill is too high,” Democrats made the race a referendum on affordability.

Republicans tried to deflect with partisan theatrics, rallying behind “Don’t DEM the lights in Georgia.” Echols went further, calling his opponent a “DEI specialist” — a dog whistle that backfired. Turnout surged in blue metro areas while GOP strongholds lagged.

Analysts say the results hint at a more competitive 2026. With dissatisfaction growing and independents drifting left, Georgia’s electorate may again lean Democratic.

If Democrats keep the message simple — lower costs, steady leadership — 2026 could be their year to reclaim momentum.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Trump the unreplicable” via David Catanese of Too Close To Call — Democrats’ decisive victories across Virginia, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and beyond signaled voter backlash against Republican extremism and frustration with Donald Trump’s unchallenged grip on the GOP. The results mirror the pattern seen in 2018 and 2022 — elections driven not by love for Democrats, but by rejection of chaos and overreach. Despite Republican hopes, Trump’s focus on power over affordability has failed to connect with voters struggling with the cost of living. Democrats now face the task of translating momentum into meaningful policy, especially in harder-to-flip Senate battlegrounds such as Ohio and Iowa. With 2026 on the horizon, the challenge isn’t winning the wave — it’s proving they can govern once the tide recedes.

“The FDA’s meltdown escalates” via The Wall Street Journal editorial board — The Food and Drug Administration faces mounting turmoil as biotech firms accuse it of inconsistency and obstruction in approving life-saving therapies. UniQure says the FDA abruptly changed approval requirements for its Huntington’s disease gene therapy, despite earlier promising “breakthrough therapy” status. The shift could delay treatment for years and deter patient participation. Other companies, including Replimune and Capricor, report similar setbacks under Dr. Vinay Prasad’s leadership. Meanwhile, FDA drug division chief George Tidmarsh resigned after an ethics complaint and lawsuit alleging personal vendettas and misuse of regulatory authority. His public comments also tanked a company’s stock value. Together, the scandals and erratic oversight threaten to stall innovation, shake investor confidence, and erode public trust in the nation’s drug watchdog.

“Why I am resigning” via Mark L. Wolf for The Atlantic — After decades on the federal bench, resignation was the only way to speak freely about what has become a devastating assault on the rule of law. The Justice Department once stood as a bulwark against corruption and political abuse, but that tradition has been shattered. Prosecutorial power is now wielded as a partisan weapon — allies spared, adversaries punished. Inspectors general have been purged, corruption units dismantled, and executive orders issued that violate the Constitution’s plain meaning. Federal judges are threatened for doing their jobs, while loyalty is prized over integrity. Silence would make me complicit. The justice system must once again serve the law, not the powerful. The time has come to speak out and defend democracy itself.

“The nation saw a blue wave. In Miami Mayor’s election, it was a ‘change’ wave” via the Miami Herald editorial board — Miami voters sent a clear signal in Tuesday’s elections — they want an end to dysfunction at City Hall. Turnout climbed to its highest level since 2009 as residents rejected longtime political figures and advanced two outsiders, Eileen Higgins and Emilio Gonzalez, to a Dec. 9 mayoral runoff. Both candidates, from opposing parties, campaigned on restoring public trust and stability after years of turmoil. Commissioner Joe Carollo, once seen as a front-runner, finished a distant fourth amid ongoing legal woes and controversy. Voters also approved ballot measures imposing lifetime term limits and banning gerrymandering, reshaping Miami’s political landscape. The results mark a rebuke of entrenched power and a demand for reform in one of Florida’s most storied cities.

“New charter school law steals from our children’s futures” via Robin Bartleman for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A new Florida law allowing “Schools of Hope” charter operators to take space inside traditional public schools amounts to a taxpayer-funded real estate grab. Charter companies can now claim classrooms — even in high-performing or full campuses — without paying for utilities, security, transportation, or maintenance. Districts will shoulder those costs, diverting millions from nearly 3 million students in traditional schools. Local school boards have no authority to deny or negotiate these takeovers. One charter chain has already issued letters claiming space in dozens of Broward County schools, including technical colleges and special-needs centers. Lawmakers must rewrite the statute to restore local control, require equitable cost-sharing, and protect public school students from corporate expansion masquerading as education reform.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Hooters revamps menu, updates uniforms as original owners take over” via Daniella Genovese of Fox 13 — Original Hooters LLC, the founders and original investors behind the very first Hooters restaurant, acquired Hooters of America during its bankruptcy restructuring earlier this year. The group now plans to return the chain “to its roots as a local beach-themed hangout.” Hooters opened its first restaurant in Clearwater in 1983. All server uniforms will return to the brand’s original “beachy vibe and heritage,” with some locations incorporating palm tree–inspired décor. The iconic orange shorts will revert to their classic 1980s athletic style. In line with this shift, the company has also confirmed it will discontinue its weekly bikini nights. “We’re not just acquiring restaurants – we’re taking back the Hooters name to show the world who we really are,” Hooters Inc. CEO Neil Kiefer said, adding that the company’s vision is “ensuring that Hooters remains a place where everyone feels welcome.”

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best wishes to former House Speaker Lee Moffitt, who is celebrating his 84th birthday. Also celebrating today is our friend Samantha Sexton Greer and Mark Herron, an attorney with Messer Caparello, P.A.

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