Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 3.25.26

Good Wednesday morning.

It turns out Florida Democrats have a pulse.

In a stunning upset, Democrat Brian Nathan defeated Republican Josie Tomkow in Senate District 14, flipping a seat that had been widely viewed as a safe GOP hold.

The margin — just 408 votes — falls just outside of automatic recount territory, and Tomkow late Tuesday night conceded defeat at her Ybor City Election Night party, telling supporters, “welcome to my General Election campaign announcement.”

Nathan’s victory upends expectations in a district where Republicans held advantages in voter registration, fundraising and early voting, and where Tomkow entered the race with backing from prominent GOP leaders and a significant financial edge.

Early-vote totals on Monday, assuming Republican voters cast ballots for Tomkow and Democrats for Nathan, suggested Tomkow would have the edge, with 44% of ballots cast. In comparison, Democratic ballots would account for a little less than 39%.

Democrats also notched a win in House District 87, where Emily Gregory defeated Republican Jon Maples 51.15% to 48.85%, flipping the Palm Beach County that includes President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence and in which he cast a ballot.

Republicans avoided a sweep in House District 51, where Hilary Holley held on to the reliably red northern Polk County seat Tomkow ceded to run for Senate. The unofficial count puts her at 54% to Democrat Edwin Pérez’s 46% — a clear win, but slightly less dominant than the 57% share Tomkow earned when she was last re-elected in 2024.

November might be interesting after all.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@realDonaldTrump: Democrats are desperate to keep illegals, no matter how bad or dangerous they may be, in the Country. They want them to VOTE! That’s why they are fighting so hard to neutralize ICE. We will fight them all the way, and WIN!

Tweet, tweet:

—@CordByrd: After listening to the oral argument in the Election Day case, SCOTUS should simply say, “In matters concerning elections, just do what Florida does.”

—@RepMaggard: Last year, I filed HB 79 to try and prevent tragedies like this from happening. Regretfully, it did not pass, but it will be the first bill I file this year. I will continue to fight to get this legislation approved to help protect these children. Praying for Kennedi’s family.

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

New season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 9; NCAA Final Four begins — 10; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 12; Handmaid’s Tale sequel series ‘The Testaments’ premieres — 14; The Masters begin — 15; Jonah Hill’s ‘Outcome’ premieres on Apple TV — 16; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 21; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 21; First Qualifying Period begins (U.S. Senate) — 26; 2026 Florida Housings Solutions Summit — 28; NFL Draft — 29; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 30; F1 Miami begins — 37; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Dutton Ranch’ premieres — 51; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 58; new mission for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run premieres at Disney World — 58; Marvel’s ‘Spider-Noir’ arrives on Amazon Prime — 63; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 69; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 75; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 78; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 79; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices — 79; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 — 81; Flag Day — 81; Trump’s 80th birthday — 81; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres — 86; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 93; live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 98; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 101; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 106; MLB All-Star Game — 111; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 113; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 117; ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 128; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 134; Early voting period begins — 136; Primary Election Day — 146; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 170; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 174; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 178; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 183; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 190; General Election voter registration deadline — 194; Early Voting General Election begins — 213; General Election — 223; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 226; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 268; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 268; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 268; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 306; Super Bowl LXI — 326; Tampa Mayoral Election — 342; Jacksonville First Election — 363; Jacksonville General Election — 419; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 437; ‘MIAMI VICE’ reboot premieres — 499; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 499; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 555; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 632; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 670; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 793; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 814; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 842; U.S. Presidential Election — 958; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 1,034; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,358; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,398; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,089.

— TOP STORY —

“Ron DeSantis signs bill to extend affordable AIDS drugs program through end of June” via Romy Ellenbogen of the Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau — Gov. DeSantis has approved a legislative fix to preserve access to HIV medications for thousands of Floridians, averting immediate cuts to the state’s AIDS Drug Assistance Program.

The move follows a Department of Health proposal that would have sharply reduced eligibility and removed key benefits, putting roughly 12,000 patients at risk of losing support.

Lawmakers intervened with a stopgap measure restoring income eligibility to 400% of the federal poverty level, reversing a planned drop to 130%. The fix includes about $31 million to fund the program through June 30.

Sen. Alexis Calatayud confirmed that the Governor signed the legislation on Tuesday, following bipartisan concern over the proposed reductions.

Still, the compromise leaves major changes intact, including eliminating insurance premium assistance and limiting access to certain medications such as Biktarvy.

Uncertainty remains beyond the Summer, as lawmakers continue budget negotiations for the next fiscal year with no final agreement in place.

Advocates warn that disruptions in treatment could lead to drug resistance, worsening health outcomes, and increased transmission of HIV statewide.

— STATEWIDE —

“Byron Donalds floats school accountability overhaul” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Donalds contended Florida’s A-F school accountability scale needs an update to reflect the evolution of education — and school choice — since it was established under former Gov. Jeb Bush. The idea could be a massive undertaking for the state and Donalds. “The grading system … is something that Florida needed at the time that Gov. Bush brought it in,” Donalds said. “But it is now time to relook at how we, not just grade our schools, but how we communicate to parents what the various schools in the state of Florida bring to the table, how they’re going to prepare their children to be excellent,” Donalds added. “How they’re going to prepare their children to be able to have the skills or the credentials — or the academic knowledge — to make them economically viable in the world that they are going to inherit.”

“‘Profit is not going to be a bad word’: Donalds wants to reshape education” via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — Donalds is outlining an education overhaul as part of his campaign for Governor, proposing changes to school grading, expanded school choice, and individualized learning plans for all students. Speaking at Miami Dade College, Donalds criticized Florida’s current A–F grading system as inadequate and called for a broader evaluation of student readiness that includes life skills. Erika Donalds emphasized expanding private-sector involvement, saying profit should not be stigmatized in education. The plan builds on existing school choice policies but adds new accountability measures. Erika Donalds’ ties to charter school companies have raised conflict-of-interest questions, which she both defended, citing her experience and business background.

“Blaise Ingoglia targets Citrus County for ‘wasteful’ spending” via Mike Wright of Florida Politics — Four Citrus County Commissioners sat in a room and learned they’re taxing citizens at an alarming rate. That critique didn’t come from Citrus County taxpayers, who tend to show up sparingly at county budget meetings. And it didn’t come from the community’s opinion writers, business organizations or anti-government zealots. Instead, it was Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia, who formerly represented Citrus County in the Senate, setting the scene before a handful of county politicians and leading Republicans at the Realtors Association of Citrus County in Lecanto. Ingoglia said Citrus County spent $39 million more this year than it should have. He based the estimates on a formula that takes the 2019-20 general fund budget, indexes it for population and inflation, and arrives at a budget number for where the county should be today.

“Real deal: FGCC seeking public input from cardroom dealers around the state on regulations” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) is holding public meetings across the state with potential cardroom rule updates on the agenda. FGCC officials are urging licensed cardroom operators in the state to attend the information gathering sessions. State regulators are inviting as much input as they can from professional, legal card dealers and operators to advise on improvements and modifications to current regulations. “Broad participation in these sessions will help ensure that all perspectives are considered as FGCC reviews potential changes to … the Florida Administrative Code,” an FGCC news release said this week.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“From elections to redistricting, Jenna Persons-Mulicka’s footprint grows in the House” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Rep. Persons-Mulicka emerged from the 2026 Session with high-profile policy wins on election integrity and efforts to curb foreign influence. Now in her sixth year in the Legislature, Persons-Mulicka has carved out a policy portfolio focused on election law, government accountability and state security, while also holding one of the House’s most influential budget posts as Chair of the PreK-12 Budget Subcommittee and serving on the House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting. “I’m proud that I had the opportunity to work on many pieces of significant legislation that I think will impact our state for generations to come,” Persons-Mulicka said. “Everything I work on, I look at, ‘How will this bill make our state better for the next generation?’ As a mom of a 2-year-old and a 22-year-old stepson, it is incredibly important to me to not only have a vision for the present but a vision for the future.”

“Carlos Guillermo Smith, Equality Florida celebrate DeSantis signing bill that helps people with AIDS” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — DeSantis has signed legislation restoring access to HIV medications for thousands of Floridians after bipartisan lawmakers approved nearly $31 million in emergency funding for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program. The fix, added to HB 697, reverses a Department of Health decision that lowered eligibility from 400% to 130% of the federal poverty level, a change that would have left more than 10,000 patients without coverage. Advocates and lawmakers, including Sens. Alexis Calatayud, Ileana Garcia, Shevrin Jones, Rosalind Osgood and Smith, pushed the stopgap measure, which runs through June 30. Supporters called it a critical but temporary solution, warning that long-term funding must still be secured to prevent future disruptions in care.

“Failed push to scrap license plate decals raises questions” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — A proposal to eliminate Florida’s familiar yellow vehicle registration decals died quietly this Legislative Session, but not before surfacing a simple question: Why? The legislation (HB 841) would have removed the requirement for physical validation stickers and instead required registration renewals to be recorded electronically. Drivers would still need to renew annually; the only thing disappearing would be the small decal affixed to license plates. Supporters, led by Miami-Dade Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez, framed the proposal as modernization. Fernandez argued that digital verification systems already used by law enforcement make the physical sticker redundant and potentially wasteful. On its face, the idea is simple. But the policy’s origin and who, exactly, would benefit have drawn scrutiny.

“Personnel note: Natalie Brown departs RSA, heads back to Senate as Danny Burgess senior aide” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Brown is leaving her post as Director of Government and Community Affairs at RSA Consulting Group to return to the Florida Senate, where she will serve as Senior Legislative Aide to Sen. Burgess. Brown’s final day at RSA was last week, and she begins with Burgess on April 6. She and her husband are taking what they are calling a “Spring Break” between the two gigs. Brown’s most recent employer praised her service. “Team RSA is grateful to have had Natalie Brown as part of our team over the past 2 ½ years, and although disappointed to see her leave us, we could not be more excited for her next season of life, personally and professionally,” said Natalie King, RSA’s vice president and Chief Operating Officer.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Why Marco Rubio is escaping the brunt of fury over Iran” via Nahal Toosi of POLITICO — As more Americans, including many Republicans, grow alarmed about the U.S.-Israel war with Iran, one person has largely escaped the backlash: Rubio. Trump is getting most of the heat. Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have also drawn ample scrutiny for their positions. Rubio’s political star, meanwhile, is on the rise in the GOP, while many Democrats have stayed relatively quiet about his failures. This is especially notable because Rubio, in addition to serving as Secretary of State, has spent nearly a year serving as Trump’s national security adviser. That role, as traditionally defined, ensures that U.S. national security decisions are fully thought out and that the entire U.S. government is coordinating and prepared for, say, going to war. That can include checking whether U.S. agencies and departments are engaging other capitals or affected parts of the private sector, such as oil companies.

“Rick Scott sues contractor over leaked tax returns” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — Sen. Scott has filed a lawsuit against government contractor Booz Allen Hamilton and former employee Charles Littlejohn over the leak of his confidential tax returns, which were also shared with media outlets alongside those of Trump and other wealthy individuals. Filed in federal court in Florida, the suit alleges systemic failures and negligent oversight allowed Littlejohn to access and disclose sensitive IRS data. Scott, who called the leak a “weaponization of government,” is seeking compensatory and punitive damages for privacy violations and ongoing financial harm. The case follows Littlejohn’s 2024 conviction and sentencing and comes as scrutiny continues over contractor safeguards and the handling of taxpayer information.

“USDA promotes new ‘Product of USA’ label requiring full domestic production” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — The U.S. Department of Agriculture launched a national public awareness campaign to promote a strengthened voluntary “Product of USA” label for meat, poultry and egg products, which took effect Jan. 1, and requires animals to be born, raised, harvested and processed entirely in the United States. Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins announced the effort on National Agriculture Day, saying the label will help American consumers support domestic producers and bring greater transparency to the food supply. “Our great patriot ranchers and producers grow, raise, and harvest the world’s safest, most affordable, and abundant food supply,” Rollins said. “American consumers want to support America by buying American, and this label will strengthen our food supply chain through transparency, fairness, and trust.”

Happening today — Rep. María Elvira Salazar will join Rep. Veronica Escobar and a bipartisan group of lawmakers, business leaders, and faith advocates to launch the Dignity Coalition, a national effort backing the DIGNITY Act to reform the immigration system. The event will also kick off a nationwide “Dignity Tour” aimed at building bipartisan support for workforce stability, community strength, and immigration enforcement reforms. The Coalition includes partners such as the American Business Immigration Coalition and other national organizations. Media RSVP to [email protected]: 2 p.m. ET, U.S. House Triangle, United States Capitol, Washington, D.C.

— ELECTIONS —

“‘Run, Sydney, run’: Donald Trump pushes Sydney Gruters to run for Vern Buchanan’s seat in Congress” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The President announced on Truth Social he would support the New College Foundation leader if she runs to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Buchanan. “Word is that Sydney Gruters, the wife of our GREAT Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Joe Gruters, is considering launching her Campaign for Congress in Florida’s 16th Congressional District! A Highly Successful Civic Leader and Public Servant, Sydney has dedicated her life to serving her Community, and she and her family are fierce advocates for our Movement to, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” Trump posted on Truth Social. “Should she decide to enter this Race, Sydney Gruters has my Complete and Total Endorsement. RUN, SYDNEY, RUN!”

“Prediction markets put Donalds, David Jolly in comfortable leads” via Michael Van Sickler of the Tampa Bay Times — Statewide polls show Donalds with a commanding lead in the GOP Primary and former U.S. Rep. Jolly with a narrow lead over Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings in the hunt for the Democratic nomination. But polling in Florida can be treacherous. It’s a massive state that’s hard to grasp with a history of upsets. Republican Adam Putnam and Democrat Gwen Graham each had sizable leads in the polls leading up to the 2018 gubernatorial race, only to lose their Primaries to a little-known congressman named DeSantis (who surged after winning Trump’s endorsement) and then-Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum, respectively. So, when it comes to handicapping statewide races, polls only do so much.

“Paul Renner vows to cut funding to schools promoting Sharia law, target groups with ‘terrorist ties’” via Anita Padilla of Florida’s Voice — Renner laid out a hard-line plan Tuesday to restrict Muslim immigration and block the application of Sharia law in the state, arguing that both pose a threat to the U.S. Constitution and American values. Speaking at a news conference in Tampa, Renner framed his proposals as a defense of public safety and the rule of law rather than an attack on individual Muslims. “As Governor, I will protect every Floridian from the threat posed by radical Islam,” Renner said. “Sharia law is antithetical to every foundational tenet of our Constitution and is not compatible with the American way of life.” Renner called for a permanent federal ban on Muslim immigration, citing national security and public safety concerns. He also proposed denaturalizing and deporting immigrants convicted of terrorism-related offenses, fraud against taxpayers, or other serious crimes.

“Source: Evan Power a ‘favorite’ to secure Trump endorsement in CD 2” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Trump is nearing an endorsement in Florida’s 2nd Congressional District, with Republican Party of Florida Chair Power emerging as the likely pick, according to sources close to the White House. The crowded GOP field includes Keith Gross, Austin Rogers, Nick Lewis, Luke Murphy, Audie Rowell, and Jim Norton following Neal Dunn’s retirement. Trump’s backing is expected to shape the race significantly, as it has in other Florida contests, including victories by Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine in recent Special Elections. Trump has also endorsed Sydney Gruters in another open seat, but has not yet weighed in on the 19th Congressional District. His decision in the Panhandle race could quickly narrow the field.

“DCCC reaches voters at the pump in 4 Congressional Districts” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — House Democrats will remind voters in four Republican-controlled congressional districts in Florida to check gas pump prices before they vote. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) launched a digital ad campaign in 44 targeted Districts in Play. That includes Florida districts represented now by U.S. Reps. Laurel Lee, Anna Paulina Luna, Cory Mills and Salazar. The simple six-second spot shows a gas meter running to $71.45 for 12.113 gallons of gas, about $5.90 a gallon. It then jumps to an image of a sticker with a GOP logo and the phrase “D.C. Republicans did that!” The campaign lays the rising price of gasoline on Trump, whose policies have included recent military action against Iran, and a Republican-controlled Congress that won’t keep the administration in check.

“Victor Torres lands endorsements from Jerry Demings, Buddy Dyer” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — In his bid for Orange County Commission, Victor Torres has picked up two key endorsements from Orange County Mayor Demings and Orlando Mayor Dyer. “Vic Torres has always been a strong advocate for the people of Central Florida,” Dyer said. “His background in public service and his firsthand understanding of transportation and infrastructure issues make him uniquely qualified to serve on the Orange County Commission. Vic will work every day to make our community more connected, more affordable, and stronger for families.” Demings also said he was proud to support Torres for District 8, which is one of the new Districts created on the Orange County Commission during last year’s redistricting. “Vic Torres has dedicated his life to serving others, whether in the Marine Corps, in law enforcement, or in the Florida Legislature,” Demings said.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Rubio testifies against friend accused of secretly working for Nicolás Maduro” via Teo Armus of The Washington Post — Both sons of Cuban immigrants, they befriended each other as campaign volunteers in the 1990s and climbed the ranks of local politics side-by-side. Rubio testified as a witness against his onetime confidant, who is accused of serving as an unregistered foreign agent for Venezuela. Rubio recounted to a jury how he met with David Rivera in 2017 and then delivered a speech on the Senate floor using some of Rivera’s talking points on Venezuela. He said he did not know at the time that his old friend had received a $50 million contract to represent “an entity controlled by the Venezuelan government.”

“As DeSantis slams sheriffs over immigration arrest concerns, Palm Beach County holds the course” via Jake Shore of WLRN — As sheriffs are expressing public reservations about excessive immigration enforcement, the Sheriff of Palm Beach County says his stance has not changed. Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said his officers weren’t conducting sweeps, raids, or proactively enforcing immigration law, something he has maintained since last year. “ I’ll do what I have to do in the normal course of law enforcement contacts and business because you can’t do anything less than that,” Bradshaw said. “But we’re not out here looking for people,” he continued, “Stopping ’em on the streets, knocking on people’s doors, going to places where people are working that we know are Hispanics. ‘Ain’t happening.” The interview with Bradshaw follows comments by prominent, conservative Florida sheriffs last week voicing concerns about non-criminals caught in the enforcement dragnet — concerns which Bradshaw seemed to agree with in the interview.

“Pompano Beach advised to extend Broward Sheriff’s contract one year” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The decision to cut ties with the Broward Sheriff’s Office and create a standalone police department for the first time in decades is too important to rush, and Pompano Beach’s City Manager is urging the City Commission to extend the relationship for a year while the facts are considered. Pompano Beach commissioned a study last year to determine whether it would be better off continuing to pay the Sheriff’s Office for police services. Or, whether it’d be better to re-form the Pompano Beach Police Department, which merged with the Sheriff’s Office in 1999. Independent researchers found the city would spend more with its own department but have more say in how it’s run, while it would cost less to stay the course with the Sheriff’s Office, which controls its own agency. The study was presented to Commissioners last month. But the study cannot account for what’s happening in Tallahassee, warned Pompano Beach City Manager Greg Harrison.

“A new Boca Raton police chief? City starts a national search” via Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Boca Raton is looking for a new police chief and is sweeping the United States for candidates. On March 12, city officials announced that former Police Chief Michele Miuccio had left the police department after nearly 40 years of service. This change followed the city’s leadership structure review, resulting in the “realignment” of the police department. Now, the city will conduct a national search for the next police chief, launching a “competitive process to identify the leader who will help guide the future of public safety,” according to a statement. “The city is seeking an experienced, principled and forward-thinking law enforcement professional with significant command experience, strong executive presence and the ability to lead complex operations with professionalism, accountability, innovation, transparency and a strong sense of public trust,” city officials wrote.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Grady Judd goes viral for recruiting ICE agents, getting roasted by John Oliver” via Florida Politics — Just one week after drawing controversy over his immigration enforcement comments, Polk County Sheriff Judd is back in the spotlight. This time, it’s for a viral social media video recruiting federal agents to join his office, and an even more widely shared segment from comedian Oliver criticizing his use of sting operations. Judd’s comments recruiting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents touted a $20,000 hiring bonus and a reliable paycheck from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. The video quickly racked up about 192,000 views, 300 comments, 1,200 reposts and 5,300 likes in the first 24 hours after it was posted Monday afternoon.

“Orange County awards federal funds for a family shelter and a food pantry” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Orange County Commissioners signed off Tuesday on funding recommendations for $39 million in federal grant awards, including $15 million to the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, Inc., for a new shelter for women and children experiencing homelessness. “This is a much-needed facility with a lot of time — and a lot of work — in the planning,” said Martha Are, CEO of Homeless Service Network of Central Florida, which works closely with the Coalition. “We know that, according to our annual Point-in-Time Count, nearly 20% of our homeless population is made up of children. Having safe housing and access to care and educational opportunities are critically important to their development, helping to break the generational cycle of poverty.” It’s unclear where the new shelter would be located. Coalition leaders did not immediately return calls for comment Tuesday. Other favored projects include a replacement for United Against Poverty’s storm-damaged food pantry in Orlando.

“Circuit Judge Randell Rowe, a longtime Volusia judge, retiring” via Frank Fernandez of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Circuit Judge Rowe will retire after 21 years on the bench presiding over cases ranging from a dispute over a Batmobile to the Deltona Xbox mass murder and his departure, unlike recent cases in the circuit, will allow voters to select his replacement, not the Governor. The 64-year-old Rowe said that while some of his colleagues have asked him to reconsider, he decided to retire even though the mandatory retirement age for judges is not until 75.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Cruise terminal, superyacht marina floated for redevelopment of Port of St. Petersburg” via Emma Behrmann of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — St. Petersburg is reimagining its waterfront south of downtown, which could include a cruise terminal, superyacht marina and restaurants. Consultants from Moffatt & Nichol presented a draft master plan for the city-owned Port of St. Petersburg at a Public Services and Infrastructure Committee meeting earlier this month. The proposed plan, which the city has not yet adopted, would turn the area into a mixed-use waterfront destination, intending to expand public access and maritime activity. Moffatt & Nichol is expected to refine the proposal before presenting a finalized version to City Council later this year.

“A Tampa assistant police chief is on leave. No one has said why” via Dan Sullivan of the Tampa Bay Times — One of the Tampa Police Department’s two assistant chiefs was placed on administrative leave this week, and no one has said why. The agency’s public information office confirmed that Ruth Cate was on administrative leave, but the office did not respond to a follow-up email seeking more information. A spokesperson for Tampa Mayor Jane Castor referred questions about the matter to the police department. Cate remained employed with the department as of Monday. She has been the assistant chief of operations since 2025. She serves alongside Assistant Chief Brett Owen, who oversees investigations and support. Cate and Owen report directly to police Chief Lee Bercaw.

“Tampa Bay Rays, Rowdies announce wave of internal promotions” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — The Tampa Bay Rays and Tampa Bay Rowdies are announcing promotions and title changes spanning marketing, communications, security and community engagement roles. The Rays’ moves elevate several longtime staffers into senior leadership positions as the organizations continue to expand business operations alongside ongoing stadium talks in Hillsborough County. Yanna Boutzoukas has been promoted to vice president of Marketing & Promotions, where she will oversee advertising, promotions, digital strategy and experiential marketing efforts. Boutzoukas enters her third season with the club after a decade with the Florida Gators, most recently as Director of Marketing. Brian Deck was elevated to vice president of Security after joining the Rays in 2024 as Security Director.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Former JEA Chief of Staff recounts ‘toxic’ interactions with CEO” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — A special City Council Committee heard former JEA Chief of Staff Kurt Wilson recount two times he experienced a “toxic workplace” while working for utility CEO Vickie Cavey and the Committee will move ahead with an employee survey to see how widespread Wilson’s experiences with Cavey are at JEA headquarters. Speaking under oath as the Committee’s first witness on March 23, Wilson detailed how Cavey slapped the table and cut him off when he tried to speak during a meeting of JEA administrators. He said in another meeting, Cavey “chewed me up and down” in front of other utility executives because he spoke to a lobbyist Cavey had instructed him to no longer contact. City Council President Kevin Carrico formed the Special Investigative Committee on JEA Matters to examine allegations of “racism and a toxic workplace culture” at JEA, and also how JEA has handled collecting capacity fees from large commercial accounts.

“Leon County considers charter change to trump Tallahassee city laws” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — County Commissioners are exploring a charter amendment that would make county ordinances pre-empt city ones. Commissioners voted 6-1 to direct staff to prepare a charter amendment that would give the county the upper hand over the city in conflicts between their local ordinances. Several Commissioners peppered their comments with criticism about the city, which has faced public blowback over its handling of the sale of Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare to Florida State University and other issues. The city and county remain at odds over fire services fees, with the county exploring the possibility of launching its own fire department.

“Federal court preserves UF faculty right to appeal workplace disputes” via Chelsea Long of The Gainesville Sun — Faculty at the University of Florida will continue to have the right to appeal workplace disputes to an impartial judge after a federal court ruled in favor of a lawsuit filed by the university’s faculty union challenging a 2023 state law that granted public university presidents final authority over such disputes. UFF President Robert Cassanello said the Legislature overstepped its constitutional authority when it passed SB 266 and said the ruling helps protect faculty from threats to academic freedom. The law barred faculty from appealing decisions involving “evaluations, promotions, tenure, discipline or termination” beyond the university president or a designated official, according to court records, and stated that the president’s written decision was final and not subject to arbitration.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Sarasota ends 18-month search with hiring of first female City Manager” via Christian Casale of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Sarasota has confirmed the hiring of its first female City Manager after the Commission approved the contract of Karie Friling. Friling will begin on May 29 — about 21 months since Sarasota last had a permanent City Manager. The city will pay her an annual salary of $279,500, with a 2% cost-of-living increase. She said in a statement that she was honored by the Board’s confidence in her. “I believe in visible, engaged leadership – listening first, building strong relationships, and working collaboratively with Commissioners, staff, local businesses, and residents,” Friling said.

“‘Going to keep working with ICE’: Lee County, FL, Commissioner on airport” via Tomas Rodriguez and Tayeba Hussein of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — A day after federal immigration agents began to patrol Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers, officials are addressing their presence. Lee County Commissioner Cecil Pendergrass’ immigration remarks followed a news conference in Matlacha on another matter. Pendergrass’ remarks come a day after at least 10 federal immigration agents patrolled the departure and arrival floors, and the concourses at RSW — one of five international airports across Florida. Pendergrass is also the Chair of the Board of Port Commissioners.

— TOP OPINION —

“One word describes Trump” via Jonathan Rauch of The Atlantic — Trump’s second term is being cast by critics as a fundamental shift in how the federal government operates, not just a change in leadership. They argue his approach prioritizes personal authority over long-standing institutional norms.

Since taking office, Trump has made a series of personnel decisions and policy moves that critics say weaken traditional governance structures. Mass firings and the appointment of loyalists have reduced the influence of career civil servants and policy experts.

Supporters see these moves as a necessary effort to disrupt entrenched bureaucracy, but opponents contend they undermine the effectiveness and stability of government operations. Legal challenges have also emerged as the administration tests the limits of executive authority.

In foreign policy, Trump has pursued an unconventional path, including disputes with allies and headline-grabbing symbolic actions. These decisions reflect a governing style that places a premium on personal direction rather than coordinated diplomatic strategy.

Some political scientists describe this approach as “patrimonialism,” in which power is exercised through personal relationships and loyalty rather than through formal institutions. In this framework, the government can begin to function more like a network centered on the leader.

Critics warn that such a system can erode institutional capacity over time, as experienced officials depart and accountability mechanisms weaken or are ignored. This can make it harder for agencies to respond effectively to complex national challenges.

They also argue that corruption becomes a greater risk under this model, as decisions may favor allies and political interests. Whether that vulnerability becomes a decisive political issue could shape the trajectory of Trump’s presidency.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Homeowners get stiffed — and gaslit — on property insurance” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — For years, Florida journalists have done the job that the state’s so-called insurance “regulators” have not — trying to reveal what’s really going on with Florida’s insurance industry. There’s obvious stuff, like sky-high salaries for insurance executives while the industry is claiming it can barely make ends meet. Here are three big ones: 1) Many homeowners involuntarily became customers of startup companies without proven track records, thanks to the state’s decision to offload customers of the state-run Citizens Property Insurance Corp. 2) Some companies play shell games with their profits, shipping them out of state to make it look like they’re struggling to get by in Florida — and get help from the state hiding that information as well. 3) There are questions about whether some of these new companies could even pay all their claims if a big disaster strikes, with the state keeping that information hidden as well. You can’t find out if your own insurer failed the state’s financial “stress tests.”

“School choice debate isn’t ignoring evidence, it’s asking for it” via Crystal Etienne for Florida Politics — Florida’s school choice debate is less about ideology and more about incomplete evidence, as critics argue current data does not support claims of improved outcomes. Using Florida Department of Education metrics, traditional public schools show higher graduation rates and lower dropout rates than charter schools, while voucher-funded private schools lack comparable reporting requirements. The expansion of universal vouchers in 2023 has also changed the system’s scale, making long-term conclusions difficult. Meanwhile, the state now spends more than $4.5 billion annually on vouchers, with significant funding going to students already in private schools. Critics say true accountability requires consistent standards, transparency, and measurable results across all schools that receive public dollars to ensure policies deliver real value for families.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“UCF is raising money for scholarship fund to honor Jim Clark” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The University of Central Florida has started a scholarship in honor of a beloved history professor who died last year. The school plans to award a Dr. James C. Clark Scholarship each year, open to all students, regardless of major. The school is accepting donations for the scholarship fund as part of the upcoming UCF Day of Giving on April 9. You can learn how to donate online. To be eligible for the scholarship, students will be required to draft a 500-word essay on what Florida history means to them. They must also complete AMH 2020, the class that Clark taught for years. “Applicants working toward a major or minor in history or Florida Studies Minor are encouraged to apply,” the school said.

“NRF forecast: Retail sales across America should see an increase this year” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — A consumer spending forecast projects that retail sales across America should increase in 2026, and Florida is expected to keep pace. The report published this month by the National Retail Federation forecasts retail sales to rise to $5.6 trillion nationwide this year. That’s a 4.4% increase over the 2025 figure. “Consumer spending was a steady and reliable engine of growth in 2025, even as broader economic conditions fluctuated,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “We expect that consumer resilience to continue into 2026, with household spending once again serving as a pillar of economic support.” While the outlook for national retail spending is robust, Florida will likely keep pace. “Florida’s retail industry doesn’t follow national trends; it helps set them,” said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Happy birthday to U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee, Ralph Arza, Brittany Dover, director of External Affairs at Volunteer Florida, Scott Dudley, and the legendary Charlie Gray.

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