Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 11.12.25

Good Wednesday morning.

Breaking overnight — “Supreme Court extends its order blocking full SNAP payments, with shutdown potentially near an end” via Geoff Mulvihill and Margery Beck of The Associated Press — The Supreme Court on Tuesday extended an order blocking full SNAP payments, amid signals that the government shutdown could soon end and food aid payments resume. The order keeps a chaotic situation in place at least for a few more days. In some states, people who depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to feed their families have received their full monthly allocations, while others have received nothing. The order will expire just before midnight on Thursday. The Senate has approved a bill to end the shutdown, and the House of Representatives could vote on it as early as Wednesday. Reopening the government would restart the program that helps 42 million Americans buy groceries, but it’s not clear how quickly full payments would resume.

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Our friend Taylor Biehl is celebrating his 41st birthday today. Help us wish him a happy birthday by messaging him at @TaylorBiehl.

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In case any of our esteemed readers miss me, or are just itching for my latest take on all things Florida politics, I’ll be in Central Florida Thursday with not one, but two (2!!) opportunities to hear my hot takes.

In the morning, I’ll be moderating a legislative panel discussion with three powerhouse insiders — Michael Cantens of Flagler Strategies, Ron LaFace of Capital City Consulting, and Amanda Stewart of Johnston & Stewart — at the Florida Association of Health Plans’ annual conference at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando at 10:30 a.m.

Later in the day, I’ll be delivering the keynote address at the Tiger Bay Club of Volusia County’s annual dinner, located at the Jim W. Henderson Administration and Welcome Center at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, 600 S. Clyde Morris Blvd. in Daytona Beach.

Stop by and say hello.

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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 —

Tweet, tweet:

—@SenRandPaul: The hemp provision in this appropriations package wipes out nearly 100% of legal hemp products overnight: killing jobs, crushing farmers, and overriding 23 state laws that already regulate hemp responsibly. Our farmers have turned to hemp as a lifeline when fertilizer, fuel, and equipment costs skyrocketed and crop prices fell. Instead of working with us to crack down on bad actors and synthetic cannabinoids, some in Congress chose prohibition. Kentucky jobs are not collateral. Our farmers are not bargaining chips.

—@Redistrict1: Dems score huge redistricting victory in Utah, as judge overrules GOP Legislature and orders a map w/a new Harris +24 #UT01, guaranteeing Dems a one-seat pickup.

—@Cameron_Easley: The @MorningConsult survey we conducted over the weekend was the worst of the year for the GOP. 1. -10 net approval rating for (Donald) Trump (lowest so far) 2. -12 net fav rating for Rs in Congress (lowest so far) 3. D+5 on generic ballot (highest so far)

—@JamesBlairUSA: This guy (re: James Fishback) is invoking my name to say he’s a tough guy standing up to D.C. or something. It’s a lie. I’ve spoken to him twice for a total of 2 minutes. Never “urged him not to run.” This is our whole conversation about it. I never called. Free advice: don’t lie.

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 4; ‘Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 9; ‘Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 14; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 16; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 21; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 21; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 27; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 30; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ six-episode docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 30; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 35; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 37; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 43; Special Election for HD 87; HD 52, HD 51 Special Primaries and two Boca Raton referenda — 62; 2026 Legislative Session begins — 62; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 62; The James Madison Institute’s 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 63; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 67; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 79; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 85; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 86; Boca Raton Mayoral and City Council Elections — 118; last day of the Regular Session — 121; Special Elections for HD 52, HD 51 (if necessary) — 132; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 133; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 134; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 145; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 154; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 154; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 159; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 163; F1 Miami begins — 170; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 191; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 202; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 208; State Qualifying Period ends — 212; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 219; FIFA World Cup begins — 211; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 234; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 239; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 244; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 246; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 250; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 267; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 269; Primary Election Day 2026 — 279; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 303; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 307; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 311; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 316; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 323; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 327; Early Voting General Election Mandatory period begins — 346; 2026 General Election — 356; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 401; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 401; Another untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 401; Tampa Mayoral Election — 475; Jacksonville First Election — 496; Jacksonville General Election — 552; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 570; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 632; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 688; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 765; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 975; U.S. Presidential Election — 1091; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1491; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2222.

— TOP STORY —

“Florida voters object to government interference on ballot initiatives, survey shows” via Jeffrey Schweers of the Orlando Sentinel — A new poll by Republican strategist Tony Fabrizio shows Florida voters overwhelmingly want the power to decide major policy issues like marijuana legalization and abortion rights, rather than leaving those choices to elected officials.

The survey, commissioned by Smart & Safe Florida, found that 92% of Floridians believe voters should make the final call, while just 5% think politicians should. Fabrizio, who served as Trump’s chief pollster, said the findings directly challenge the DeSantis administration’s efforts to block a marijuana amendment.

Smart & Safe Florida, which led the 2024 legalization campaign, accuses the state of delaying Supreme Court review of its new petition and tightening ballot rules to stifle citizen-led amendments. The organization said the poll confirms that “voters are clearly and overwhelmingly upset by the government’s attempts to stifle their voice.”

The survey found 89% of Floridians believe they should have the right to vote on adult-use marijuana, a view shared across party lines. “Elected officials trying to move the goalposts on this amendment are acting contrary to the will of the electorate,” Fabrizio said.

Smart & Safe Florida spent more than $100 million — mostly from Trulieve, the state’s largest medical marijuana provider — on its 2024 campaign, which earned 56% support, just short of the 60% threshold. The DeSantis administration spent an estimated $35–45 million opposing it, including $10 million redirected from a Medicaid settlement.

Now, the group has filed multiple lawsuits alleging officials illegally blocked its 2026 initiative and violated state law in rejecting valid signatures.

— STATEWIDE —

“Ted Cruz endorses Byron Donalds for Governor” via Michelle Vecerina of Florida’s Voice — Texas Sen. Cruz has endorsed Donalds for Governor, giving the two-term Congressman a significant boost ahead of the August 2026 Republican Primary. Cruz praised Donalds as a “strong conservative leader” grounded in faith, freedom and constitutional principles, saying he would fight “against the encroaching ideas of the left.” The endorsement adds momentum to Donalds’ campaign, which has already secured backing from Trump, 17 members of Florida’s congressional delegation, 15 sheriffs, most of the Florida House GOP caucus and Texas Rep. Chip Roy. Donalds has also reported strong third quarter fundraising and leads in early polling against both Republican and Democratic opponents as the race to succeed DeSantis continues to take shape.

Happening today — Former House Speaker Paul Renner is hosting a veterans town hall in Orlando to hear directly from service members and their families about the challenges they face. The event will bring together veterans, active-duty personnel and the broader military community to discuss priorities such as veterans affairs, affordability, public safety and health care. Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Christopher De Ruyter will moderate the conversation: 5:30 p.m., The Celeste Hotel Orlando, 4105 North Alafaya Trail, Orlando. Media should arrive at 5 p.m. ET; parking is free at the hotel. RSVP in advance by email for event coverage at [email protected].

Happening today — Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia will hold a news conference in Lakeland to address issues related to firefighters, 2 p.m., with media arrival at 1:30 p.m. All credentialed media are invited to attend. RSVP by contacting Abigail Weeks at [email protected]. Additional location details will be shared following confirmation.

“Coming soon: Florida’s new standards on teaching history of communism” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Florida education officials are poised to approve sweeping new K-12 standards this week that will dramatically expand how students are taught about communism, making the state’s approach among the most extensive in the nation. Backed by DeSantis and the GOP-led Legislature, the new lessons are designed to permanently embed instruction about the “atrocities” of communist regimes — from Fidel Castro’s Cuba to the Soviet Union and China — while warning students about modern “repackaged” Marxist ideas spread through media and social platforms. The 30-page curriculum will require students to compare communism’s death toll with wartime casualties, examine propaganda in entertainment, and contrast “The Communist Manifesto” with the Bill of Rights. Critics say the lessons blur the line between education and political messaging.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“Major gambling bill in the works for Florida Legislature” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — Florida lawmakers are gearing up for a major rewrite of the state’s gambling laws — including long-awaited clarity on fantasy sports. A nearly 100-page bill (PCS for HB 189) released Monday by a House panel would, for the first time, establish formal regulations for major fantasy sports operators such as FanDuel and DraftKings. The measure bans proposition bets, which have been linked to recent scandals involving professional athletes and coaches. The bill’s early release — two months before the 2026 Legislative Session — signals strong backing from House Republican leadership and sets the stage for intense lobbying among Florida’s powerful gambling interests. Lawmakers say the overhaul aims to modernize gaming oversight while addressing decades-old legal gray areas.

“Corporate income tax collections dip” via the News Service of Florida — General tax revenue in Florida for September came in just below expectations of state economists due to “lower-than-expected corporate income tax collections.” The Legislature’s Office of Economic & Demographic Research, in a report, said Florida collected about $4.117 billion in net general revenue in September, $27.5 million less than the economists’ forecast. The report noted that corporate income taxes for September totaled $813 million, about $156.4 million below estimates. Another $12 million collected through beverage taxes fell $1.1 million short of the projection for the month, while $8 million collected on tobacco taxes was just $100,000 below the forecast.

“Florida Republicans try again to ban political, Pride flags on government buildings” via the Florida Phoenix — Florida Republicans are trying for the fourth year in a row to ban political flags atop government buildings, including Pride, MAGA or Black Lives Matter banners. Filed by Republicans Sen. Clay Yarborough and Rep. David Borrero, SB 426 and HB 347 would ban flags referencing politics, race, gender, or sexual orientation from being flown on government-owned buildings. This is the fourth time Borrero, from Miami, has carried this legislation. It’s died each year before reaching either the House or Senate floor. The language bans schools, universities, state governments, local governments, or political Boards from displaying flags depicting “any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawing, symbol, or advertisement of any nature which represents political partisanship, political ideology, race, gender, or sexual orientation.”

“Broward legislators seek to blunt ‘Schools of Hope’ charter school law” via Scott Travis of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Some Broward legislators say they may not be able to repeal a controversial law that allows charter schools to co-locate on existing school campuses, but they do think they can blunt the impact on School Districts. The new law allows special charter schools known as “Schools of Hope” to occupy space at traditional schools rent-free. It was a major area of discussion during a joint meeting on Monday between the Broward School Board and Broward legislators. Most Broward legislators are Democrats and opposed the law, which Republicans championed in the supermajority. School Districts are expected to receive numerous applications this week from charter school providers seeking to operate Schools of Hope. The program raised major concerns and confusion among school leaders in Broward and throughout the state.

“Lawmakers refile bill to require cursive proficiency for elementary school students” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Some of America’s formative documents were penned in a format that today’s youth may find indecipherable. That’s a shame, and it should be addressed, according to Republican lawmakers who are again carrying legislation to require elementary school students to learn how to read and write cursive. Sen. Erin Grall and Reps. Toby Overdorf and Dana Trabulsy have filed twin bills (SB 444, HB 127) to mandate cursive instruction in grades two through five. The instruction must include lessons on letter formation, proper spacing and alignment, and practice writing complete words and sentences in cursive. By the end of fifth grade, each student must demonstrate proficiency in cursive, writing legibly in upper- and lowercase and being able to read script.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Democrats lose shutdown battle — as Donald Trump, Republicans risk losing war” via Hannah Knowles, Natalie Allison, Emily Davies and Theodoric Meyer of The Washington Post — Democrats ended the nation’s longest government shutdown this week without securing Affordable Care Act subsidy extensions, triggering anger from progressives and confusion across the party. The 40-day standoff exposed deep divisions, even as Democrats feared long-term damage for Republicans, whose refusal to renew ACA tax credits could raise health insurance costs for millions. Trump and GOP leaders declared victory, but internal polling shows the public largely blames Republicans for the shutdown — and supports extending health care subsidies. Democrats salvaged a temporary win by reversing 4,000 federal layoffs, but their inability to secure ACA protections left them politically bruised. Both parties face fallout as the House prepares to vote on the deal to reopen the government.

“Shutdown leaves a mark on an already-struggling economy, from lost paychecks to canceled flights” via Christopher Rugaber of The Associated Press — The longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history appears to be nearing an end, but not without leaving a mark on an already-struggling economy. About 1.25 million federal workers haven’t been paid since Oct. 1. Most of the lost economic activity will be recovered when the government reopens, as federal workers will receive back pay. But some canceled flights won’t be rescheduled, missed restaurant meals won’t be made up, and some postponed purchases won’t happen at all. “Short-lived shutdowns are usually invisible in the data, but this one will leave a lasting mark,” Gregory Daco, chief economist at accounting giant EY, said, “both because of its record length and the growing disruptions to welfare programs and travel.”

—“Airline problems will linger even if government shutdown ends” via Niraj Chokshi of The New York Times

“The President’s most annoying buddy” via Vivian Salama, Ashley Parker, and Michael Scherer of The Atlantic — Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, a longtime Trump ally and former Wall Street executive, has drawn intense scrutiny for missteps and erratic behavior in Trump’s second administration. He wrongly claimed Japan gave the U.S. $550 billion with no restrictions, angering Tokyo and embarrassing both governments. Officials accuse Lutnick of misunderstanding trade policy, moving “goalposts” in negotiations, and alienating allies with an abrasive style. Despite concerns about competence and ethics, Trump values Lutnick’s loyalty, wealth, and shared belief in aggressive tariff strategies. His offhand comments about Jeffrey Epstein also infuriated aides and reignited controversy. Still, Lutnick remains in place as Trump’s trusted confidant and economic enforcer — powerful, unpredictable, and emblematic of the administration’s unconventional approach to diplomacy and trade.

“Trump asks Supreme Court to overturn E. Jean Carroll civil verdict” via Erica Orden of POLITICO — Trump has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a $5 million civil judgment finding him liable for sexually abusing and defaming writer Carroll, calling her claims “politically motivated.” A Manhattan jury in 2023 awarded Carroll $5 million after determining Trump assaulted her in the 1990s and later defamed her. A second jury in 2024 awarded her $83.3 million for additional defamatory remarks. Trump’s petition argues that lower courts wrongly allowed “inflammatory” testimony from other women and evidence such as the “Access Hollywood” tape. If the Supreme Court accepts the case and overturns the initial verdict, it could also undermine the larger defamation judgment. The justices are expected to decide early next year whether to hear it.

“Laura Loomer’s endless payback” via Antonia Hitchens of The New Yorker — Loomer has reinvented herself from stunt-prone far-right provocateur into a hyper-online enforcer of loyalty to Trump, operating in the gray zone between activist, oppo researcher and unregistered lobbyist. Banned from major platforms in her 20s, she rebuilt her influence through relentless posting, conspiracy-laden attacks and public “Loomering” of perceived enemies, often claiming credit when officials are fired or policies change. She has direct access to Trump, a large MAGA following and a reputation for scorched-earth tactics that factions inside and outside the administration now weaponize for their own ends. Funded over the years by wealthy patrons and clients, her perceived power rests on one fragile asset: Trump’s continued approval.

“Will federal hemp ban upend Florida’s continuous attempts at developing a regulatory framework?” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Florida officials have tried and failed to regulate hemp products over the last three years. Now, Congress appears poised to take nearly all hemp-infused products off shelves nationwide. But at least one lawmaker central to last year’s hemp discussions voiced relief that the issue could be settled for now. “I’m encouraged to see the Senate include hemp-related language as this bill moves to the U.S. House,” said state Rep. Michelle Salzman, a Pensacola Republican. “My focus has always been on common sense safeguards that protect Americans while supporting responsible industry. This is another step in that ongoing conversation, and I look forward to continued collaboration as the process moves forward.”

—“Floridians react to federal legislation that could ‘devastate’ state’s hemp industry” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix

“Floridians may have to brace again for battle over offshore drilling” via Tom McLaughlin of the Pensacola News Journal — Speculation over what goals the Department of the Interior intends to lay out in its soon to be released five-year plan for offshore oil lease sales has conservationists and Florida lawmakers alike on high alert and ready to take a stand in defense of the state’s coast. Information leaked to news sources indicates the federal Bureau of Ocean Management had drawn up a plan to open federal waters in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans to offshore drilling. The information, which was attributed to anonymous sources, mentioned plans to drill off the southern coast of California and in “at least a small sliver” of the Eastern Gulf 100 miles off Escambia County and the Florida coast.

— ELECTIONS —

“Gov. Ron DeSantis sets Special Election to replace Josie Tomkow in HD 51” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — DeSantis has set dates for a Special Election in House District 51 to replace Tomkow, who is resigning to run for Senate. The Special Primary will be Jan. 13, with the Special General Election set for March 24. Tomkow announced last week that she was running in the Special Election for Senate District 14, hoping to succeed former Sen. Jay Collins, whom DeSantis tapped earlier this year as his Lieutenant Governor. Tomkow was already facing term limits in the House, meaning candidates had already begun filing for the 2026 race to replace her. Three candidates have filed for the race so far, including Republicans Hilary Holley and Dorothea Taylor Bogert and Democrat Octavio Hernandez.

“Democrats seek to oust Paula Stark as her campaign finance troubles persist” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Democrats see another opportunity to flip House District 47 as Republican Rep. Stark faces renewed scrutiny over her campaign finances. Her political committee, Friends of Paula, owes more than $16,000 in fines for late reports and is more than $10,000 in debt. The Florida Department of State recently warned it could revoke the committee’s registration. Stark’s Democratic challengers include Jorge Figueroa, president of the Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, and Anthony Nieves, a former state financial crimes investigator. Figueroa said his campaign will focus on affordability, property insurance reform and economic opportunity. Stark, first elected in 2022 and narrowly and in 2024, has not responded to questions about the committee’s finances or spending.

“Ashley Perez-Biliskov to kick off HD 116 bid with fundraiser in Miami-Dade” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Republican Perez-Biliskov, a medical speech-language pathologist and sister of House Speaker Daniel Perez, is officially kicking off her campaign for House District 116 with a fundraising event Wednesday evening at A Love Story Winery & Bistro in Miami-Dade County. Running unopposed so far, Perez-Biliskov aims to succeed her term-limited brother and advance “America First solutions” focused on family and community. She has pledged to support congressional term limits and promote accountable government. Her campaign has already raised about $185,500 through her account and political committee, APB for Florida, with backing from prominent Republican leaders and an endorsement from U.S. Sen. Rick Scott. The GOP-leaning District includes parts of Kendall, Sunset, Tamiami and Sweetwater. The Primary is Aug. 18, 2026.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“After election loss, Hialeah’s interim Mayor blocks access for Mayor-elect Bryan Calvo” via Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — Days after finishing a distant third in Hialeah’s Mayoral Election last week, Hialeah Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves has moved to restrict communication between city employees and the Mayor-elect, Calvo, a step that threatens to complicate the city’s first extended transition of power. An email Garcia-Roves sent Monday afternoon to department heads, assistant directors, union employees, administrative staff, City Hall personnel, fire command staff and police officers instructed them to “restrict communication with the Mayor-elect effective immediately.”

“Boca Raton redevelopment plan should be halted until analysis is done, lawsuit argues” via Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A Boca Raton woman, concerned about a development plan near her neighborhood, is suing the city. In her lawsuit, she argues that a government-campus redevelopment plan must be halted because the city hasn’t yet completed the critical analysis required by law to determine whether the proposal is in the public interest. But the city, named as the defendant, says it is complying with state law and the lawsuit should be dismissed for various reasons, including that “the time for the city to perform the analysis has not yet expired,” records show. The lawsuit — filed by resident Lorraine Blank — remains listed as an open case, with a hearing scheduled for next month.

“Key West families sue Balfour Beatty, alleging toxic living conditions in military housing” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — A series of lawsuits against Balfour Beatty is raising serious concerns about the company’s management of residential housing, particularly at Naval Air Station Key West, where military families report unsafe and unhealthy conditions. The 175-page complaint filed in Monroe County by 56 families cites mold, collapsing ceilings, infestations and hazardous materials, alleging Balfour Beatty concealed problems and falsified repairs, causing illness and emotional distress. The company’s credibility remains in question following a 2021 federal fraud conviction and $65 million fine. With Balfour Beatty now involved in Fort Lauderdale’s City Hall project, city officials face growing pressure to ensure transparency, accountability and strict oversight to protect public interests and prevent similar maintenance failures in critical community infrastructure.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Orange County prepares overdue crackdown on Visit Orlando spending” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — Visit Orlando’s lavish spending has drawn sharp scrutiny from Orange County auditors and elected officials. Over the past decade, the tourism bureau’s publicly funded budget tripled from $35 million to $105 million, while private contributions from hotels and theme parks remain minimal — about $3 million a year. An audit by Comptroller Phil Diamond flagged questionable expenses, including a $12,000 car allowance, $75,000 party in New York, and $20,000 on VIP events, while warning that as much as $20 million in taxpayer money may have been misclassified as private funds. Diamond said public dollars must be spent transparently and legally. Commissioners Mayra Uribe and Kelly Semrad are calling for reforms, citing poor oversight, weak accountability, and the need for stricter bidding and spending rules.

“Plunging temps break Orlando record set in the Great Depression” via Brian Bell of the Orlando Sentinel — Low-temperature records set in Orlando during the Great Depression and in Sanford when John F. Kennedy was President were broken as the region endured a blast of cold. Meteorologist Brendan Schaper with the National Weather Service in Melbourne said the 36-degree readings in each city set unofficial records — they’re not official until the weather service issues its daily record event reports. Brisk north winds pushed the wind chill — how cold it feels outside — well down into the 20s for a few hours before daybreak, he added. Orlando’s official temperature is taken at MCO, but outlying areas in Orange and Seminole counties reached the low 30s.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Ken Welch’s 30-day Gas Plant proposal window faces City Council challenge” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — St. Petersburg City Council member Richie Floyd hopes to give developers more time to submit proposals for the redevelopment of the city’s historic Gas Plant district, setting up a potential conflict with Mayor Welch’s administration over how quickly the process should move forward. Welch’s administration has called for a 30-day request for proposals (RFP) period to begin in mid-November. Still, it was done so with an unsolicited redevelopment pitch from developer Casey Ellison and investor Cathie Wood, and a separate offer from the Pinellas County Housing Authority already in hand. Floyd’s resolution, set to be considered at Thursday’s City Council meeting, asks the administration to extend the submission period to at least 90 days. The measure also requests that the city issue a formal RFP outlining clear criteria, guidelines and benchmarks for potential developers.

“Tropicana Field repairs near completion; Rays paying for some upgrades” via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — Twenty out of 24 roof panels have been installed at Tropicana Field — a sign of visible progress for an iconic St. Petersburg landmark that has become a political football after it was damaged during last year’s Hurricane Milton. The rest of the panels are slated to go up by next week. Inside, construction work is underway. City Development Administration Managing Director Beth Herendeen said she expects repairs to be done by the end of February, well ahead of the Tampa Bay Rays’ home opener on April 6. Hurricane Milton last year shredded the roof and made the dome unplayable. St. Petersburg is obligated under its 1995 agreement with the Rays to make the dome suitable for home games. The Rays played this past season at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa but are expected to return in 2026 and stay through 2028.

“City ordinance would shorten qualifying period for St. Pete candidates, align election dates with Midterms” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — St. Petersburg City Council will consider an ordinance that would shorten the qualifying period for local candidates and formally align the city’s 2026 Election dates with the state’s election calendar. The proposal would establish a one-week qualifying window for municipal candidates, mirroring the period used for state, county and federal elections. The city currently allows a two-week qualifying period beginning 11 weeks before the municipal Primary, along with a separate two-week “pre-qualifying” period. Assistant City Attorney Brett Pettigrew wrote in a memo that the change is intended to give the City Clerk a whole week to process candidate paperwork and meet ballot submission deadlines set by the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections (SOE). If approved, the new schedule would reduce that overall window from three weeks total to two weeks of pre-qualifying followed by a one-week qualifying period.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Alachua County Democratic Party Chair resigns for personal reasons” via Elliot Tritto of the Gainesville Sun — The Chair of the Alachua County Democratic Party quietly stepped down from the position after less than a year on the job. Vice Chair Tyler Foerst confirmed to The Sun via email that Chair Ebonie Bryant resigned for personal reasons at the Oct. 8 Alachua County Democratic Executive Committee (ACDEC) meeting. “The core mission of the ACDEC is to elect Democrats, and this will never change. I am confident that regardless of who is elected, the party will continue to build on the momentum we’ve created over the past year under Ebonie’s leadership,” Foerst said. A new Chair will be named at the ACDEC’s Nov. 12 meeting.

“Recreational and commercial applications for Apalachicola Bay oyster harvesting are now being accepted” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida officials are now accepting applications to begin harvesting oysters in one of the best areas for snagging the shellfish. Commercial and recreational oyster harvesters for Apalachicola Bay can start applying for the 2026 season. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) began accepting applications on Monday. They’ll continue taking those submissions through Dec. 16. The 2026 oyster season in Apalachicola Bay runs from Jan. 1 through Feb. 26. Any commercial harvesters that want to participate in the Apalachicola Bay oyster fishery have to obtain a commercial endorsement from the state for the season. It secures their participation for future seasons as well, and any commercial interests can apply online through the state’s commercial licensing system.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Oakes Farms sues former executive, accusing him of stealing millions from the company” via Laura Layden of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — A former executive of Oakes Farms is accused of stealing millions of dollars from the company to support a lavish lifestyle. The accusations are at the root of a lawsuit filed in Collier Circuit Court on Oct. 31. In the suit, Oakes Farms alleges that Steven Veneziano Jr. used his position of power in the company to “steal millions of dollars in funds, equipment and assets.” The high-profile company, headquartered in Collier County, claims Veneziano engaged in various fraudulent schemes to “fund his lavish lifestyle, which included high-dollar gambling, regular trips to Las Vegas, a multimillion-dollar house, and the purchase of a Lamborghini, among other luxuries.”

“School district, teachers union reach accord” via Meghan Bradbury of Sanibel Captiva — The School District of Lee County approved the Teachers Association of Lee County contract on Nov. 4, which officials say will further enhance teacher retention due to an up-to-7% raise. “I’m excited to keep supporting these teachers,” Board member Sam Fisher said. “Some of this would not be possible without the prior work of Dr. Ken Savage and Dr. (Denise) Carlin to find money through the cuts. Kudos to your team.” Superintendent Carlin said they are very blessed as the District is down to 20 teacher vacancies — four in the east region, four in the north, five in the south, six in the west and one in a special center. “I cannot tell you the last time those numbers existed in the District,” she said of nearing 33 years. “The kids are the winners when we fill classes.” Carlin said they now have an up to 7% raise, while others around the state were able to give 2%, 1% or 0.5% raises to their teachers.

“How many flights are being canceled at SRQ during shutdown? See the numbers” via Jason Dill of the Bradenton Herald — Despite not being one of the 40 airports facing mandatory Federal Aviation Administration flight reductions, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) has seen flight cancellations and delays amid the ongoing government shutdown. On Saturday, SRQ had six canceled flights and 42 delays. Sunday had 13 canceled flights and 57 delays. Monday saw six flights canceled and 48 delays. The cancellations are higher than average for the airport.

— TOP OPINION —

“A 50-year mortgage is a bad deal” via The Wall Street Journal editorial board — Trump’s latest housing proposal — a 50-year mortgage — is being billed as a fix for affordability but could end up deepening the problem. After last week’s Democratic election sweep, Trump is seeking quick ways to cut costs for voters. Extending mortgage terms from 30 to 50 years may slightly reduce monthly payments. Still, borrowers would pay far more in interest over time, while taking longer to build equity and increasing risks for taxpayers who back most home loans.

Home prices have risen 56% since 2020, fueled by stimulus spending and low pandemic-era rates. The Federal Reserve’s inflation fight sent mortgage rates soaring, pushing the average monthly payment up 80% in five years and driving the median age of first-time buyers to a record 40.

Trump, reportedly encouraged by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte, argues that longer loans would ease pressure on families. But the concept echoes the 2000s housing bubble, when 40-year mortgages let borrowers stretch beyond their means — and later walk away when prices fell. Regulators capped loan terms at 30 years after that collapse for good reason.

A 50-year mortgage would likely fuel demand, inflate prices, and enrich builders and lenders while leaving homeowners trapped in debt. Nearly 70% of new FHA borrowers already carry risky debt-to-income ratios, a sign that the system is overstretched.

By prioritizing optics over substance, Trump risks repeating the same easy-credit mistakes that triggered the 2008 crisis — trading long-term stability for short-term politics.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Now we know Trump’s Kryptonite” via E. J. Dionne Jr. of The New York Times — Democrats scored sweeping victories Tuesday, powered by campaigns grounded in empathy rather than outrage. Governors-elect Abigail Spanberger in Virginia, Mikie Sherrill in New Jersey and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani won by meeting voters where they are — focusing on cost of living, health care and respect for working people. Their success dismantled the myth of Trump’s enduring political magic and showed that connection and compassion still move voters. Each built trust through listening, not lecturing — Spanberger by engaging rural Virginians, Sherrill by championing unions and affordability, and Mamdani by reviving Obama-era hope to reengage the disillusioned. Together, they demonstrated that empathy — not anger — is the surest path to defeating Trumpism.

“Pam Bondi made a risky calculation to stay at the top of Trump’s DOJ” via the Miami Herald editorial board — During Bondi’s confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate in January, she vowed that, as Trump’s attorney general pick, “The partisanship, the weaponization” of the Department of Justice “will be gone. America will have one tier of justice for all.” Words that ring hollow 10 months later. As the nation’s top law enforcement official, Bondi has done what Trump’s previous attorneys general eventually balked at: using the DOJ for partisan retribution. And she doesn’t appear to be trying to hide her intentions. Bondi has reaped the rewards of her alliance with Trump. That may serve her well in her political future and make her a hero in the eyes of many Floridians in this now-red state. Bondi’s biggest job is to uphold the rule of law, but her actions so far indicate that allegiance to Trump is her priority.

“South Florida Republicans are right to sound the alarm on Zohran Mamdani’s victory” via Mary Anna Mancuso of the Miami Herald — Rep. Carlos Giménez during a news conference last week, compared Mamdani to Castro and labeled him a Marxist, saying, “I’m the only member of Congress born in Cuba. My family was forced from home after the Communist takeover — I recognize the extremists when I see them.” Giménez isn’t stoking fear, he’s raising legitimate concern. Miami-Dade County Commissioner Roberto Gonzalez echoed Giménez’s concern in an op-ed he wrote for Townhall, saying, “Miami-Dade County residents know socialism all too well and call it a dirty word.” Neither Giménez nor Gonzalez is overreacting. They’re warning everyone what’s at stake — and they’re right to speak up.

“When veterans succeed, everyone wins” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — Florida’s 1.3 million working veterans remain a vital part of the state’s economy, yet many still face barriers to opportunity. Despite their strong record of professionalism, leadership and education, too many veterans remain underemployed or financially insecure. A Wounded Warrior Project study found that more than half of working veterans are underemployed, and one in four Floridians who served fall into the “ALICE” category — working but unable to meet basic needs. Navy veteran La’Tonya Stark of the Orlando Regional Realtor Association argues employers must make a deliberate effort to hire veterans while government agencies strengthen support systems. Florida’s workforce and veterans’ services programs offer valuable assistance, but looming budget cuts threaten to reverse that progress. Supporting veterans isn’t charity — it’s an investment in Florida’s future.

“Closing early math gaps to secure Florida’s future workforce” via Chad Aldeman for Florida Politics — Florida’s math scores reveal a growing problem that threatens the state’s future workforce. Just 63% of third graders met grade-level standards on the latest FAST exams, and even fewer reached the “likely to excel” benchmark. By high school, only 60% passed Algebra and 55% passed Geometry. Early math gaps rarely close — they widen, limiting future success in STEM fields and higher education. Florida once led the nation in math gains, but progress has stalled since 2017, especially among lower-performing students. Solutions include stronger early instruction, consistent math time across districts and targeted interventions to catch gaps early. Investing in early math isn’t about test scores — it’s about preparing students for the economy they’ll inherit.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Florida-based Disney Destiny cruise ship christened with drone show magic” via Patrick Connolly of the Orlando Sentinel — In a christening celebration complete with drone show magic, live music and plenty of signature fanfare, Disney Cruise Line officially welcomed the Disney Destiny to its fleet Monday night. Godmother Susan Egan — who was the first to play Belle in Broadway’s “Beauty and the Beast” and voiced Megara in “Hercules” — helped officially launch the company’s third Wish-class ship and the cruise line’s seventh overall ship in Port Everglades. While the ceremony did not feature actual Champagne, it did include a large bottle of bubbly projected onto the side of the Destiny, which popped at precisely the moment Egan christened the 144,000-gross-ton ship, which can accommodate 4,000 passengers.

“‘This is our Super Bowl’: Christmas-themed restaurants, bars are booming across South Florida” via Phillip Valys of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The hot gossip from Santa’s Workshop flies fast and heavy at Rosalia Kitchen’s in Miramar. “Candy Cane Clara only glued two gumdrops on her gingerbread house. She’s such a slacker,” squeaks one elf over a loudspeaker in the restaurant’s restroom. “And did you see Mrs. Claus lost 3 pounds?” a second elf chimes in over the clatter of toymaking sounds. “I heard she got a Peloton.” Eavesdropping on tea-spilling elves is part of the immersive vibes at Rosalia’s Holiday Extravaganza, a Christmastime makeover of the Mediterranean-Italian restaurant. Less a pop-up than a total tacky transformation, the dining room features hundreds of shiny ornaments, gift-wrap wallpaper and a trellis draped in faux snow, serving up dishes like Xmas Tree Spaghetti and 3D-printed cocktails like D’Grinch, with a felt-green hand pinching a cherry stem over a sour apple martini. Total cost this year: $10,000, estimates co-owner Rafael Brazon-Di Fatta, which includes a promotional blitz of slick influencer videos.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are former Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp, Megan Fay, Shawn Frost, Lindsay Harrington, Jackie Pons, Gray Rohrer, and Greg Ungru.

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