Good Wednesday morning.

Happening today — Teen Day returns for its third year of Children’s Week Florida™. A hundred middle and high school students from counties across the state will spend the day at the state Capitol. Students will learn about the Legislature’s history and the legislative process from legislators, lobbyists, state agency heads, local elected officials and child advocates.

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Updates from the Road: Lauren Book is on the move! Today, the Walk in My Shoes team continues their journey through Brevard County with a powerful 8-mile walk from Satellite Beach to Indialantic. Friendship bracelet making during registration supports survivors from the Children’s Advocacy Center of Brevard and Sexual Assault Victim Services (SAVS) at the Women’s Center of Brevard. Every step helps protect kids and support survivors. Learn more or register at LaurensKidsWalk.org!

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RapidResponse47: @POTUS says he’ll soon announce a program to help illegals self-deport: “We’re going to give them a stipend … and a plane ticket.”

Tweet, tweet:

—@JoeGruters: Former Florida First Lady @FLAnnScott has always been and continues to be a truly wonderful human being. During her time as First Lady, she dedicated herself to the cause of childhood literacy, making a lasting impact on our state. Her contributions in that area — and so many others — will be remembered for years to come.

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Andor’ season two premieres — 6; ‘Carlos Alcaraz: My Way’ premieres on Netflix — 7; ‘The Accountant 2’ premieres — 9; ‘Chef’s Table: Legends’ premieres on Netflix — 12; Beyoncé‘s ‘Cowboy Carter’ Tour begins in Los Angeles — 12; ‘Thunderbolts’ premieres — 16; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting — 27; Florida Chamber Leadership Conference on Safety, Health + Sustainability — 29; Epic Universe grand opening — 36; Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’ premieres — 37; ‘Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning’ premieres — 37; Florida Chamber Florida Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 43; ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ premieres — 44; Tony Awards — 53; Special Election for SD 19 — 55; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet will meet — 56; Special Primary Election for Senate District 15 to succeed the late Geraldine Thompson — 69; Florida Chamber Florida Learners to Earners Workforce Solution Summit — 69; ‘Squid Game’ season three premieres — 72; James Gunn‘s ‘Superman’ premieres — 86; ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ premieres on Netflix — 100; “Fantastic Four – First Steps” premieres — 100; Florida Freedom Forum — 108; ‘Eyes of Wakanda’ premieres on Disney+ — 112; Florida Chamber Florida Technology & Innovation Solution Summit — 118; Special Election for Senate District 15 — 139; the Emmys — 151; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 154; Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 163; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 194; ‘Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 219; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 231; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 231; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 245; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 247; Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 296; ‘Avengers 5’ premieres — 384; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 401; FIFA World Cup 26™ final — 422; Another untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 612; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 752; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 898; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1185; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 1301; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1701; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2432.

— TOP STORY —

“‘Mistakes were made,’ Hope Florida charity leader tells lawmakers” via Lawrence Mower, Alexandra Glorioso and Ana Ceballos of the Times/Herald Tallahassee Bureau — The Hope Florida Foundation, a charity created by the DeSantis administration to support First Lady Casey DeSantis’ initiative, faces intense scrutiny following revelations of major governance failures and the questionable handling of a $10 million donation. Board Chair Joshua Hay admitted to a House Committee Tuesday that the foundation lacked meeting minutes, a budget, bylaws, failed to file tax returns, and asked few questions before rapidly funneling the $10 million to two dark money groups.

Lawmakers found that the state-created charity ignored basic ethics, oversight and governance requirements. The $10 million originated from a legal settlement with Medicaid contractor Centene, which said it was “directed” by officials to donate after overbilling the state. Within days of receiving the funds – the largest donation in its history – the foundation approved $5 million grants each to a Florida Chamber-affiliated group and Save Our Society from Drugs, both 501(c)(4) nonprofits that don’t disclose donors. Hay stated he relied on legal counsel Jeff Aaron’s assurances that the transactions were “aboveboard.”

Subsequent reporting revealed both grant recipients transferred funds to Keep Florida Clean, a political committee controlled by James Uthmeier, DeSantis’ then-Chief of Staff and current Attorney General. Millions then flowed to the Republican Party of Florida and DeSantis’ own Florida Freedom Fund, also led by Uthmeier.

Rep. Alex Andrade, investigating the charity, called it potentially a “conspiracy to use Medicaid money to pay for campaign activity” and suggested Uthmeier should return the funds.

While Gov. DeSantis defended the charity and attacked House investigators, alleging political motives, Hay acknowledged “mistakes were made” and “lapses in reporting.” The foundation Board, composed of executives and lobbyists with state business ties, including Hay, whose company received millions in state contracts, plans to address the deficiencies.

Lawmakers expressed astonishment and planned further hearings.

—“Ron DeSantis calls Hope Florida a ‘great success story.’ Lawmakers, experts doubt results”

— LEGISLATIVE —

“Senate pauses Hope Florida bills as questions swirl about Casey DeSantis’ organization” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The delay comes as House Republicans raise questions about the legality behind funding for Hope Florida, the First Lady’s pet project. “Given the questions raised by the Florida House, the President felt it appropriate to take a pause at this point,” Senate President Ben Albritton’s spokesperson, Katie Betta, said in response to a question about the delay. The Senate Appropriations Committee on Health and Human Services was supposed to take up Republican Sen. Danny Burgess’ legislation (SB 1144, SB 1146) Tuesday morning. However, Republican Sen. Jason Brodeur, a member of the Committee, said the bills had been temporarily postponed without explanation. Hope Florida leaders are scheduled to appear at a Health Care Budget Subcommittee later Tuesday morning.

“DeSantis slams ‘least productive Florida House’ in modern history” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis is channeling Donald Trump to attack the House for “weaponizing (its supermajority) to try to attack our administration.” DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis have sharpened their attacks on a frequent critic. They brought the road show to Pensacola, home of Republican Reps. Andrade and Michelle Salzman. “When they’re attacking me, they’re attacking you,” the Governor said, before contending later that Republican legislators were “stabbing (voters) in the back.” He even labeled the body “the least productive Florida House of Representatives in the modern history of the Florida Republican Party.” The goal: to overshadow a local elected official in his own district and his narrative of money laundering and corruption related to the First Lady’s Hope Florida charity.

“DeSantis threatens to veto university presidential search reforms: ‘That’s not how I roll’” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — DeSantis warned state lawmakers that he could veto proposed changes to university presidential searches that he claims will “kneecap” his higher education reforms. The veto threat puts the Legislature at a crossroads, with the House slated to take up its bill and possibly pass it, on the floor Wednesday. A priority of House Speaker Daniel Perez, the legislation has become a flashpoint this Session, as a feud between the House and DeSantis is fueled by the provision barring the influential Governor from discussing presidential vacancies. “Imagine that they bring some communist in to be the president of a university, and I’m just supposed to sit there and twiddle my thumbs,” DeSantis said Tuesday during an event in Pensacola. “That’s not how I roll. I’m not going to let that happen to you.”

“Senate Committee unanimously rejects Joel Rudman appointment as Pensacola State Trustee” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The Senate Higher Education Appropriations Committee has unanimously voted down appointing former Rep. Rudman to the Pensacola State College Board of Trustees. Rudman faced trouble from the Committee based on comments he made on a recent X Spaces chat. Senators said the apparent threats to expose or embarrass lawmakers if he wasn’t confirmed would not be tolerated. “There’s no way you can read those comments and, with a straight face, tell people that they weren’t intended to intimidate and influence the Senators on this panel,” said Sen. Tom Leek, “and that is something I cannot abide.” The comments in question included remarks that lawmakers had committed crimes, along with assertions that he knew embarrassing details about elected officials serving in the Legislature. “I do have a confirmation hearing in front of the Senate this Tuesday. Some of these cards I have to keep on me,” Rudman said on X.

— MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“‘Rural Renaissance’ bill gets full support from USDA” via Andrew Powell of Florida Politics — A major piece of legislation that backers hope will usher in a modern-day renaissance in rural communities across Florida has the full support of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Sen. Corey Simon is spearheading the bill (SB 110) to create an opportunity for rural communities to expand education, improve access to health care services and modernize commerce. The measure has been a priority of Senate President Albritton, who announced Tuesday that the USDA is putting its full support behind the legislation. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and senior adviser for Rural Prosperity and former Oklahoma House Speaker T.W. Shannon detailed in a letter how the nation is facing a $49 million deficit, an increase in costs, the loss of farmland and a 14% poverty rate in non-metro areas — making the need for bold measures even more important.

“Senate tees up tax plan for talks” via Jim Turner of the News Service of Florida — A Florida Senate Committee approved a $1.83 billion tax cut package Tuesday, setting up negotiations with the House, which favors a vastly different $5.43 billion plan centered on cutting the overall sales tax rate. The Senate proposal (SPB 7034) includes permanently eliminating the sales tax on clothes under $75, vehicle registration credits, and several tax holidays – notably a controversial, lengthy one for hunting gear. Despite the differing approaches amid economic uncertainty, Senate Finance and Tax Chair Bryan Avila expressed optimism about reaching a compromise before the May 2 Session deadline. The House proposal focuses on broader rate cuts, while Gov. DeSantis has pushed for property tax relief, which the Senate bill only proposes studying.

“House poised to cast final vote on new landlord-to-renter flood risk disclosure requirements” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Legislation designed to better inform renters of potential property damage due to flooding is now possibly one vote from passing. Members of the House Commerce Committee voted unanimously to advance HB 1015, which would extend to landlords and renters the same flood risk disclosure requirements mandated in property sales. The bill will now join its upper-chamber companion (SB 948) on the House floor for a full-chamber vote. Both bills cleared their respective Committee stops with uniform support. Rep. Christine Hunschofsky, the bill’s sponsor, can now either amend HB 1015 so its language matches SB 948, table HB 1015 in favor of SB 948 or send the Senate bill back across the rotunda for similar consideration from its sponsor, Sen. Jennifer Bradley.

“House tax package wants to expand Live Local Act, end opt-outs for local governments” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A new taxation bill from the House would revise provisions of the Live Local Act to change tax breaks for land used for affordable housing. A proposal released by the House Ways and Means Committee would take a nonprofit land lease exemption created by the landmark housing act and extend it to land leased by a charity from a housing finance authority. The tax exemption would apply if the nonprofit subleased the land to provide housing for those with restricted income limitations and committed the property for that purpose for 99 years. A staff analysis suggests that doing this would expand the pool of charities that want to address the housing crisis even without owning land to do so outright. The new proposal would require all local governments to provide a “missing middle” exemption.

“House package cuts taxes on jet fuel, cardrooms and gold bars” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A tax proposal from the House would eliminate an aviation tax, cut taxes on cardrooms and eliminate all taxes on the sale of gold bars. Legislation unrolled by the House Ways and Means Committee lays out several ways taxes could be cut in the state. The repeal of the tax on aviation fuel could have the most dramatic fiscal impact, with budget estimators saying the legislation could cost $1.8 million in general revenue in the first year and $2.2 million in recurring funds. State trusts could take a $22.3 million hit in the first year alone without the tax and $25 million in further years.

“House to consider 15% tax on consumable hemp goods” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Rep. Salzman amended House hemp legislation overnight to levy a 15% excise tax on THC-infused goods. New proposed language for a House Committee bill (HB 7029) would impose the tax on consumable goods derived from hemp. The legislation, first passed out of the House Housing, Agriculture & Tourism Subcommittee, would have imposed higher taxes similar to cigarettes for edible products. However, this legislation sets a lower 15% excise tax on hemp consumables. That’s a lower amount than Salzman discussed with Florida Politics over the weekend, when she suggested a 20% charge would be proposed. That suggests House conversations are shifting toward lower charges being adopted. The amendment will be taken up at a House Budget Committee meeting at 8 a.m. on Wednesday.

“Budget vote opens questions about schools’ college prep, career training funding” via Steve Patterson of The Florida Times-Union — Lawmakers’ plans to curb public school funding dedicated to advanced academics and career education have triggered questions, and critics’ alarm, as school administrators plan for a budget year that starts July 1. School districts across Northeast Florida stand to lose a combined $23 million in funds set aside to underwrite career and professional education programs, dual enrollment and Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) courses. Losses in Duval, St. Johns, Clay, Nassau and Baker County school districts in the 2025-2026 budget would equal program funding for 4,314 students.

“No hotels. But disc golf? Parks bill advances as key lawmaker weighs amendments” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — A Florida Senate Committee approved a significant state parks protection bill Tuesday, legislation prompted by Gov. DeSantis’ earlier proposals for developments like golf courses. However, Committee Chair Sen. Brodeur supported language balancing conservation with recreation. While opposing golf courses or hotels within parks, Brodeur suggested activities like disc golf and picnic pavilions are appropriate uses. “We want to strike a balance,” Brodeur said, emphasizing that parks are “meant to be used” while needing preservation. Environmental groups are pushing for stricter conservation language, setting the stage for further debate on the bill’s final form and the extent of allowed park activities.

— EVEN MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“Condo safety bills advance in Senate, House with changes to address cost concerns” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Bills to further shore up Florida’s condo safety laws are again advancing after changing their most recent Committee stops. The House bill (HB 913) by Rep. Vicki Lopez will next go to a floor vote. Sen. Jennifer Bradley’s Senate analog (SB 1742) has one more panel to clear. Bradley and Lopez introduced strike-all amendments to alter their respective proposals on Tuesday. Both included provisions allowing condo associations to use lines of credit to comply with structural integrity reserve requirements and safeguards against self-dealing by condo Board members and contractors. Other changes to SB 1742 largely clarified requirements already outlined in the measure and adjusted some of its timelines. Amendments to HB 913 did similarly and also excised a contentious section unique to the House bill that would have blocked Citizens Property Insurance from issuing or renewing policies for condo owners and associations that don’t comply with building inspection requirements.

“Thoroughbred horse racing decoupling measure stalls in Senate, clears final Committee in House” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — A push to allow thoroughbred horse tracks to hold cardroom and slot machine permits without a requirement that they also host live racing has stalled in the Senate, but continues to move through the House. A Senate version of the measure (SB 408) was temporarily postponed at the Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government. A House version (HB 1467) cleared the Commerce Committee, teeing it up for the full House floor. The decoupling measure, originally Rep. Adam Anderson’s bill (HB 105), was wrapped into a broader bill containing several other gambling measures, including strengthening penalties for illegal gambling and authorizing fantasy sports. Numerous group representatives and members of the public either waived in opposition to the bill or spoke against it, most directly to the decoupling provision, which separates live horse racing from the ability to maintain slot machine and cardroom permits.

“Senate panel approves bill to establish blood clot tracking amid changes and new questions” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — A bill that would establish a statewide tracking and treatment registry for blood clots in Florida is one Committee stop away from heading to the Senate floor. The Senate Appropriations Committee on Health and Human Services approved the “Emily Adkins Family Protection Act.” That panel concluded that the state should establish a statewide registry for blood clots reports within the Department of Health. The proposed measure is named after Emily Adkins, who died at 23 years old due to an undetected blood clot following a broken ankle in 2023. While the Senate Committee approved the measure, some new questions came up about the bill (SB 890) sponsored by Sen. Clay Yarborough. The Committee deleted earlier language that would have required tracking impacts from thromboembolism and additional training for personnel who are not physicians.

—”House panel moves forward free medical pot cards for vets” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics

“Legislature shuns refined ‘Safe Waterways Act’ a year after DeSantis veto” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Florida lawmakers voted unanimously in both chambers last year to create a statewide system under the Department of Health (DOH) to send warnings and issue beach, canal and pool closures within 24 hours of a safety issue. The bipartisan measure known as the “Safe Waterways Act” then went to DeSantis, who vetoed it. He said the bill suffered from “a fatal infirmity” because it granted DOH authority to supersede local jurisdictions on beach operations. So, two of the legislation’s three sponsors, Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez and Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman, considered the Governor’s feedback when crafting a more modest proposal for the 2025 Session. The result was twin bills (SB 156, HB 73), which would have transferred water sampling duties from DOH to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), created new reporting requirements and a publicly accessible interagency database, and established a process to close public bathing areas where contaminations occur.

— LEG SKED —

The House and Senate will spend most of the day in floor Sessions, but a handful of Committee meetings will be held in the morning.

First up is the House Budget Committee at 8 a.m. The panel will discuss three bills, including HB 7029 regarding the taxation of hemp and THC products. The House Ways & Means Committee also meets at 8 a.m. and will hear a proposed Committee bill on taxation (PBC WMC 25-02).

The lone Senate Committee Wednesday is Rules, which will decide the fate of more than two dozen bills.

The House will enter Session at 10:30 a.m. and the Senate will follow at 2 p.m. Both Sessions will go through the end of the day. View bills on the Senate calendar here.

Happening tonight:

— LOBBY REGS —

New and renewed lobbying registrations:

Robert Fingar, Guilday Law: Florida Petroleum Marketers Association

Jefferey Johnston, Amanda Stewart, Anita Berry, Lauren Lange, Johnston & Stewart Government Strategies: GeneDx

Richard Lindstrom, Rutledge Ecenia: Transportation Control Systems

Bob Martinez, Holland & Knight: Florida Education Fund

Carlos San Jose, Corcoran Partners: Melbourne Tillman Water Control District

Dominique Whiting, Shumaker Advisors Florida: Miami-Dade College

— 3 QUESTIONS —

Highland Beach Rep. Gossettt-Seidman’s bill list for 2025 covers several policy areas, from water quality and local bond issues to public input on state land management. One bill she filed this Session now strongly positioned for passage is HB 213, which would give local police more authority to assist commercial landlords in removing squatters from their property. The bill mirrors a law passed last year that applies to residential property.

Q: What prompted this legislation? Is commercial squatting that big of an issue?

I had a family call me. They own this building. I know exactly where it is. I go to the diner next door. And they said, “Our parents passed away. We just boarded it up. People moved in, we can’t get them out, and they’re almost at the point of claiming ownership.” They’ve tried everything, and it’s costly. I looked into it, and sure enough, it is an issue, and one very prevalent in Miami-Dade County.

So, Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez talked to me about sponsoring a bill, and I said, funnily enough, I have that exact issue near me right now, too. So, we ran the bill and it gained so much interest and traction. We heard from so many people all over the state. Orlando has something like 120 cases pending, the third worst in the country. It’s all over Gainesville. And the police do not have the power in statute to remove and arrest them if there is criminal activity. They would have to go through the court system, which takes a lot of time, energy, funding. So, this will bring it into alignment with our bill last year that covered residential properties.

Q: Is it correct to assume that the pandemic exacerbated this on both the commercial and residential sides?

Yes. One of the biggest scams came one or two years after COVID. People started taking vacations again. They’d take maybe a month off, and people would move into their homes unlawfully — breaking a window, jimmying a door, whatever. They would formulate a false lease for rent or lease, and they’re doing it for commercial properties now. So, if someone calls and says, “Please send the cop; these seven people took over my parents’ former restaurant,” the cops show up and the squatters show a lease. Police have no way of knowing if the lease is valid or not. It’s one word against another of two private citizens or entities, and they have no ability to arrest them. Meanwhile, some of the people who unlawfully move in are engaged in criminal activity. There’s human trafficking, storage of materials, whatever else, and it’s going on unbeknownst to people because it could be in some warehouse that you don’t drive by or see any reason to suspect something’s going on.

Q: What are the potential negative impacts of this bill and the law passed last year?

There have been two cases I could find. One was an unlawful removal. It was someone who should have been there and had an appropriate lease, but for some reason, it wasn’t deemed an appropriate lease. The person went through the court system and recovered the capability of resuming living in the residence. And there was another case where someone claimed they were unlawfully removed, but their removal was upheld in court. I suppose there can always be manipulation of facts and taking advantage of situations, but this bill also allows for penalties and fines if there’s criminal activity found. It would be a case-by-case basis, but the law does provide for remedy if there’s an unlawful occurrence or if someone is lawfully there.

This came up in a Committee: What happens if a homeless family takes cover in a warehouse during a storm? That could happen. Now, if those people are removed, the bill provides for a peaceful, normal, lawful removal of the squatters and their property with the proper paperwork filled out by the landlord or owner, and nothing happens to those people. But we could not think of too many other ways that there are upstanding, taxpaying, wonderful citizens being taken advantage of by squatters using fake leases and fake papers of ownership. And this is happening way more than people realize.

— 100 DAYS —

“Donald Trump’s approval rating falls as 59% say the economy’s in bad shape” via Rachel Barber of USA Today — Trump’s approval ratings on the economy and inflation have fallen after weeks of tariff policy twists and turmoil in the stock market. The survey found that 44% approved of Trump’s handling of the economy and 40% approved of his handling of inflation, both down 4% from March 30. The President’s overall approval rating dropped to 47% this month, down from 50% in March and 53% in February. Views on Trump’s tariff plans varied depending on respondents’ political affiliations. At 91%, nearly all Republicans said Trump has a clear plan on tariffs and trade. Only 43% of independents and 16% of Democrats said the same. In all, 58% of respondents said they oppose new U.S. tariffs on imported goods.

“DOGE is collecting federal data to remove immigrants from housing, jobs” via Rachel Siegel, Hannah Natanson and Laura Meckler of The Washington Post — The Trump administration is using personal data normally protected from dissemination to find undocumented immigrants where they work, study and live, often with the goal of removing them from their housing and the workforce. At the Department of Housing and Urban Development, for example, officials are working on a rule that would ban mixed-status households — in which some family members have legal status and others don’t — from public housing, according to multiple staffers who spoke on the condition of anonymity out of fear of retribution. Affiliates from the U.S. DOGE Service are also looking to kick out existing mixed-status households, vowing to ensure that undocumented immigrants do not benefit from public programs, even if they live with citizens or other eligible family members.

—”They never thought Trump would have them deported” via Caitlin Dickerson of The Atlantic

“Inside Trump’s plan to halt hundreds of regulations” via Coral Davenport of The New York Times — At the Department of Health and Human Services, Trump administration officials want to reverse a regulation that has required nursing homes to have more medical staff on duty. At the Mine Safety and Health Administration, powerful lobbying groups have asked the administration to eliminate a rule to protect miners from inhaling the dust of crystalline silica, a mineral that is used in concrete, smartphones and cat litter but that can be lethal in the lungs. And at the Federal Communications Commission, which regulates radio and television broadcasting and satellite communications, Trump’s appointees published a seemingly exuberant notice asking for suggestions on which rules to get rid of, titled “DELETE, DELETE, DELETE.” Across the more than 400 federal agencies that regulate almost every aspect of American life, from flying in airplanes to processing poultry, Trump’s appointees are working with the DOGE to launch a sweeping new phase in their quest to dismantle much of the federal government: deregulation on a mass scale.

“Trump administration will ask Congress to cut funding for NPR and PBS” via Frances Vinall, Scott Nover and Patrick Svitek of The Washington Post — The Trump administration will seek to cut funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which contributes money to NPR and PBS. Rescissions, requests to cancel funding already appropriated by Congress, are expected to be sent to Capitol Hill once lawmakers return from recess later this month. The CPB cuts are part of a larger $9.3 billion package that includes further proposed cuts to the State Department and the U.S. Institute for Peace. Russell Vought, who leads the Office of Management and Budget, sent a memo to influential lawmakers requesting that Congress rescind portions of approved funds, including $1.1 billion — about two years of funding — for the CPB, the paper reported. In the same memo, he also requested an $8.3 billion cut to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

“Trump threatens Harvard’s tax status, escalating billion-dollar pressure campaign” via Tyler Page, Andrew Duehren, Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan of The New York Times — Trump threatened Harvard University’s tax-exempt status on Tuesday after the school rebuffed his administration’s demands for a series of policy changes, a dramatic escalation in the feud between the President and the nation’s richest and oldest university. “Perhaps Harvard should lose its Tax Exempt Status and be Taxed as a Political Entity if it keeps pushing political, ideological, and terrorist inspired/supporting ‘Sickness?’” Trump posted on Truth Social on Tuesday morning. “Remember, Tax Exempt Status is totally contingent on acting in the PUBLIC INTEREST!”

— MORE D.C. MATTERS —

“More than 20,000 IRS employees offer to resign” via Andrew Duehren and Eileen Sullivan of The New York Times — Approximately 22,000 Internal Revenue Service employees have taken a resignation deal offered by the Trump administration, sources confirm. This exodus, combined with 5,000 earlier resignations and 7,000 potential layoffs, could see the tax agency lose a third of its roughly 100,000-strong workforce this year. Experts warn that staff reduction will severely impact tax collection, potentially leading to abandoned audits and decreased revenue. The move reverses the Joe Biden administration’s expansion efforts. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s office committed to “efficiency” while improving service. Acting Commissioner Melanie Krause is among those departing, reportedly partly due to concerns over sharing taxpayer data with ICE for deportation efforts, a policy causing widespread alarm within the IRS.

“Pentagon senior adviser Dan Caldwell ousted during investigation into leaks” via The Associated Press — Caldwell, a senior adviser to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, has been placed on administrative leave and was escorted out of the Pentagon by security on Tuesday, two defense officials said. The officials said Caldwell’s sudden downfall was tied to an investigation into unauthorized disclosure of department information. Caldwell, who served in the Marine Corps, was one of several senior advisers who worked closely with Hegseth. Caldwell’s ties to the secretary go back to Hegseth’s time as the head of Concerned Veterans for America, a nonprofit that fell into financial difficulty during his time there. Caldwell worked at CVA beginning in 2013 as a policy director and later as an executive director.

“Commerce Department to end tomato suspension agreement with Mexico” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The U.S. Department of Commerce announced it will nix an agreement with Mexico regarding the import of tomatoes. This follows years of farmers in Florida and elsewhere complaining about the dumping of weak products across the border. U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan applauded the decision. “Terminating the 2019 Tomato Suspension Agreement is a long-overdue victory for Florida’s tomato growers and the broader U.S. produce industry,” Buchanan said. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that Florida growers produce 56% of domestic fresh round tomato truck shipments, so the import of tomatoes into the U.S. disproportionately impacts the state’s agriculture.

“Town Hall meeting turns raucous as Trump fans, foes spar before Brian Mast” via Maya Washburn of The Palm Beach Post — It was America in miniature as U.S. Rep. Mast took questions at a Town Hall forum at Calvary Church on April 15. Supporters of Trump — some wearing red hats and other Trump merch — mostly sat on one side of the sanctuary. Trump opponents sat on the other side, and Mast, a Republican and one of the President’s strongest supporters in Congress, stood in the center in front of a podium onstage. Mast urged people at the forum to be courteous to one another, but the morning’s comments at times flamed the passions of both sides over the next two hours, with a chant of “Trump! Trump! Trump!” breaking out at one point in the church sanctuary.

— STATEWIDE —

“Legal clash over Governor’s Mansion land grab for DeSantis family safety” via James Call of the USA Today Network-Florida — A joint legislative Committee has found the state rule used to purchase and demolish the historic Gladstone Mansion near the Governor’s residence is “impermissibly vague” and invalid. The Department of Management Services (DMS) cited a 1975 rule to justify acquiring the 127-year-old building last year for security expansion, bypassing local permits and preservation efforts. The Committee ruled that the vague language improperly delegated authority, failing to clearly define the Governor’s Mansion grounds or guide future land acquisition. DMS has 30 days to amend or repeal the rule or face potential court action. The decision comes after public outcry over the mansion’s demolition and highlights ongoing friction between state lawmakers and the Governor’s office.

“Watchdog group exposes red state college administrator explaining ‘loophole’ around anti-DEI law” via Andrew Mark Miller of Fox News — Newly released video appears to show an administrator in the Florida university system bragging about the ways her school is skirting a state law prohibiting the practice of DEI. The video, obtained by conservative watchdog Accuracy in Media (AIM) and posted online, shows University of South Florida St. Petersburg administrator Heather Klišanin explaining to an undercover investigator how the school had attempted to skirt Florida law banning public funds from promoting DEI by using a “loophole.” “It is a student-funded area, so it changes some things in regards to what we are able to do because student-funded things are not affected by the changes in regulation and law,” Klišanin, director of student conduct and ethical development and dean of student ambassadors at USF St. Petersburg, can be seen saying on video, suggesting that the school is using student fees to fund DEI programs.

— ELECTIONS —

“Byron Donalds says relationship with DeSantis still ‘frayed’ after backing Trump” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — During an interview with WPEC, the gubernatorial candidate and Congressman suggested that DeSantis never got over the slight and that he doesn’t know if DeSantis would back his run for Governor. “I want to have his support. I want to have his endorsement,” Donalds said. “I think our relationship was a little frayed after I backed President Trump. That’s the way politics works. It is what it is.” Despite the current lack of communication, Donalds hopes to earn the current Governor’s backing. “We’ll see what happens over the next month or two and who decides to do what. But I would love to have his support and, more than that, to pick his brain,” Donalds added.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Broward schools chief gets a contract extension and $10,000 raise” via Scott Travis of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — As Broward School Board members grapple with significant budget cuts, there’s one place they’ve decided not to skimp — their Superintendent. The School Board voted Tuesday to give Superintendent Howard Hepburn a $10,000 raise as part of a contract extension, even though it was a request he didn’t ask for in negotiations. The increase brings his salary up to $360,200. The School Board also agreed to a request Hepburn did ask for, extending his tenure until June 30, 2030, three years longer than his initial contract. Board members were divided on whether to give him the raise, noting a discussion the School Board just had last week about a need to make painful cuts over the next year due to the district’s failure over the years to make adequate staff cuts despite years of dwindling enrollment. Still, they were unanimous in their praise for Hepburn, who started a year ago, and their desire to extend his contract.

“Tax break for Palm Beach County residents: Part of sales tax going away” via Mike Diamond of The Palm Beach Post — After Dec. 31, the sales tax in the county will be cut as the county’s Infrastructure Sales Tax will expire after generating nearly $3 billion during the past nine years. It funded improvements for schools, the county and municipalities. The 1% surtax applies to all transactions subject to the state sales tax. More than 400 projects have been approved, and more than 130 have been completed. The surtax applies to all transactions subject to the state sales tax. The sales tax in the county will be cut from 7% to 6.5%. In November, voters approved the continuation of half the 1% sales tax increase for schools.

“Brightline’s South Florida commuter pass is nowhere after it got $34 million in tax money” via Chris Persaud of The Palm Beach Post — Brightline has broken its own deadline for reviving its South Florida commuter pass, scrubbing from its website its promise to do so after receiving nearly $34 million in tax money. The for-profit passenger train company announced on Jan. 10 that it would “reintroduce” a commuter pass for passengers traveling between Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties thanks to a $33.8 million grant from the Biden administration. Brightline in 2024 replaced its South Florida pass — $10 per ride for 30 trips between West Palm Beach and Miami — with one costing $35 per ride. Trains lacked space for passengers who wanted to pay higher fares for the rail company’s more expensive and profitable route to its Orlando International Airport station, which is why it hiked prices for South Florida trips, the company has said in its financial and ridership reports.

“‘The right person’: Richard Lara nets nod from former foe in Coral Gables Commission race” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Coral Gables Commission candidate Lara is heading into Tuesday’s Runoff Election with support from a former opponent. Claudia Miro, who placed third behind Lara and candidate Tom Wells in the city’s General Election race for the panel’s Group 3 seat earlier this month, wants to see Lara win the contest. She cited Lara’s objection to the big pay raises that three of the City Commission’s five members gave themselves in 2023 and voted against having an independent Inspector General as key to securing her endorsement. Lara’s campaign announced Miro’s nod on Tuesday. “Richard Lara is the right person to help lead the Coral Gables Commission into the future,” Miro said.

“Federal authorities arrest Miami man who allegedly cracked down on protesters in Cuba” via Syra Ortiz Blanes of the Miami Herald — Federal authorities have arrested a South Florida man they say is a former Cuban official who assaulted protesters during mass anti-government demonstrations on the island. Homeland Security Investigations, a law enforcement agency within the Department of Homeland Security, said on Monday that it had arrested 57-year-old Daniel Morejón García at his Miami home. Morejón García did not disclose that he had been a member of the island’s communist party and had worked in the Ministry of Interior when he applied to enter the United States, according to the agency. HSI, which collaborated with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the FBI on the case, said its investigation was based on government documents and other sources.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Orlando intends to follow immigration law, Buddy Dyer says. The Trust Act’s future is unclear.” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Orlando Mayor Dyer said he and the city have no intention of violating federal and state immigration laws in response to a threatening communication from Florida’s Attorney General, but the Mayor didn’t address the future of the city’s so-called “Trust Act.” The policy — which says city employees cannot ask residents their immigration status — came under fire late Monday after Attorney General James Uthmeier sent a letter to Dyer, charging that the Trust Act is illegal under a 2019 Florida law. Uthmeier, appointed to the role by DeSantis earlier this year, alleged it was a “sanctuary policy” and that consequences for enforcing it ranged from legal action to removing Dyer from office. Dyer, Orlando’s Mayor since 2003, responded with his own letter Tuesday morning, informing Uthmeier that “we take your letter, Florida law, and federal immigration law very seriously.”

“David Sullivan appointed to Palm Coast City Council to fill seat vacated in February” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The Palm Coast City Council has a new member. City officials have announced that Sullivan is replacing Ray Stevens on the city panel. Stevens abruptly resigned from his District 3 Council seat on Feb. 28, with little explanation other than submitting a letter saying he was stepping down. A few days later, Palm Coast officials searched for a replacement. The District 3 term runs until the next election in November 2026. City Hall began accepting applications and held a hearing process where potential replacements explained why they should be the new City Council member. Current City Council members made the final call to select Sullivan. Sullivan is no stranger to politics in Palm Coast. He’s just coming off an eight-year stint on the Flagler County Commission, where he was on the Board from 2016 to 2024.

“Tavares Council wants to triple impact fees on new homes” via Rachel Whetstone and Laura Kinsler of the Orlando Sentinel — The Tavares City Council is set to vote this month on a proposal to raise the city’s municipal impact fees for the first time in nearly two decades to help pay the costs of its rapid growth. But the new rates would add thousands more to the cost of new homes and businesses. The fees would increase 233%, from $1,058 to $3,512 per new single-family home. The fees for apartments and non-residential uses would spike even more, in many cases by more than 300%. Impact fees are one-time charges on new construction to pay for growth-related capital improvements. While Lake County assesses impact fees on new development for transportation and schools, cities in the county levy such fees to pay for municipal services such as police, fire and parks.

“Daytona Beach’s First Step Shelter Board OKs contract for director 4-2 despite objections” via Eileen Zaffiro-Kean of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — The Board that oversees First Step Shelter, which aims to provide permanent homes for the homeless in the county, voted 4-2 to approve a new contract for the shelter’s executive director at Monday evening’s meeting, with the Mayors of Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach voting against the new agreement. Three of the four Board members who cast yes votes cited the shelter’s accomplishments since it opened more than five years ago, including the more than 900 residents placed in housing and the ability now to serve 100 shelter residents at once. “This contract gives us stability and knowledge (that) we’ll have a director for three more years,” said shelter Board member Shawn Goepfert, a Port Orange City Council member.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Senate passes claims bill to pay $1.2M to Pasco man maimed in school bus crash” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Legislation to compensate a man for life-altering injuries he sustained in a roadway crash nearly two decades ago is now one vote from passing. Senators voted unanimously for SB 8, which would authorize Pasco County Schools to pay $1 million to Marcus Button and $200,000 to his mother, Robin Button, for injuries, suffering and lost wages due to a 2006 collision with a school bus. The bill will now join its twin (HB 6507) on the House floor for a final vote. It’s the closest any legislative attempt to financially assist the Buttons has come to passing since former Sen. Mike Fasano filed the original legislation in 2010. SB 8 and HB 6507 are claims bills, a special classification of legislation intended to compensate a person or entity for injury or loss due to the negligence or error of a public officer or agency.

“St. Pete property insurer raises $30M for launch in Florida” via Christina Georgacopoulos of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — A group of well-known industry insiders recruited key executives from Florida’s state-backed insurance company to lead the launch of a new carrier in St. Petersburg. Patriot Select Property and Casualty Insurance raised $30 million from several large insurance-related institutional investors, family offices and a group of local investors ahead of its approval for business in Florida on Monday, said John Rollins, Patriot Select CEO. Pitching investors on a new carrier as the Florida market was still recovering from a historic industry crisis was tricky, Rollins said. But the tumultuous hurricane season last year was ironically a strong selling point to jump into the market, he said.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Trump administration revokes visas of three FSU international students amid national crackdown” via Tarah Jean of the Tallahassee Democrat — Florida State University confirmed Tuesday that visas for three of its international students have been revoked, part of a wider Trump administration action canceling hundreds of student visas nationwide. FSU cited student privacy in withholding further details about the students or timing. The revocations, affecting students across the U.S., have sparked alarm. FSU’s Students for a Democratic Society demanded visa reinstatement and university support, condemning the move as anti-immigrant. Nearby Florida A&M University reported one student visa revocation. Both FAMU and Tallahassee State College have signed ICE 287(g) immigration enforcement agreements; FSU is reportedly in the process of signing its own.

“DeSantis to UWF: ‘Buckle up,’ change is coming” via Jim Little of the Pensacola News-Journal — DeSantis delivered a message to the University of West Florida on Tuesday. “University of West Florida, buckle up,” DeSantis said. “You’re going to see a lot of changes there for the better. How does, like, the most conservative part of the state have some of the most liberal programs in the state? It doesn’t make any sense. So, the times are a-changing there, too.” DeSantis’s only specific public criticism of UWF was a comment he made in February, in which he pointed to the university’s gender studies program, which he called “gender ideologies.” DeSantis’ latest comments came during a 90-minute news conference Tuesday at Pensacola State College, where DeSantis blasted House Republicans over investigations into Hope Florida and bills he says undermine conservative reforms he’s made.

“Valparaiso Commissioner Edward Crosby resigns due to health concerns” via Collin Bestor of the Northwest Florida Daily News — The Valparaiso City Commission is currently looking for a new member. At its regular meeting on April 14, Mayor Brent Smith announced that Commissioner Crosby had resigned due to medical reasons. Smith did not elaborate. Crosby has been a City Commissioner since 2018 and was serving his second term. Commissioner Tom Browning will temporarily take over Crosby’s duties on the Council during his absence. The city Commission will take applications to replace Crosby, and the Board will vote on a replacement at next month’s meeting.

“Inside Tallahassee Commissioners’ email boxes: An avalanche of notes on possible TMH sale” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — City Hall faced a torrent of over 600 emails and texts after news broke that officials were exploring options for Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH), including a potential sale or transfer to Florida State University. The backlash followed TMH leadership accusing city officials of plotting a “hostile takeover” and urging citizens to defend the hospital’s local, nonprofit status. Residents, TMH staff, doctors, and patients overwhelmingly demanded the city abandon any sale considerations, fearing negative impacts on care if a for-profit entity or FSU took control. While the city owns TMH assets, it doesn’t manage operations. The controversy ignited during discussions over TMH’s proposed new bylaws and regional branding.

“On Tax Day, Randy White launches run for Duval County Tax Collector” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Westside Republican White is launching a campaign for Duval County Tax Collector. And appropriately enough, he announced the run on Tax Day. “Public safety has always been my calling — and so has public service,” White said. “As Fire Chief, I managed emergency operations on a citywide scale. As Council President, I’ve worked to deliver results and transparency for Jacksonville families. I’m running for Tax Collector because I can use my experience to bring the same professionalism, efficiency, and trust to the office that I’ve shown in my more than four decades of experience.” Incumbent Jim Overton is term-limited in 2027. White, a former deputy director Assistant Fire Chief and head of the Jacksonville Association of Fire Fighters, will be the instant establishment favorite to take over the position.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Lee County bill heads to floor vote that would let voters decide on single-member districts” via Brendon Leslie of Florida’s Voice — A bill that would allow Lee County voters to decide if the voters should elect County Commissioners in their respective districts — rather than by all county residents — passed unanimously last Tuesday, despite opposition from two current Lee County Commissioners. The bill puts a referendum on the county ballot, asking if voters want the County Commission to move from five at-large seats to five single-member districts. Currently, while each Commissioner represents a specific district, all county voters can elect Commissioners, regardless of their district. If the bill passes, only voters in each district could vote for their respective district’s Commissioner. Rep. Mike Giallombardo is carrying the bill, HB 4001.

“Will fluoride stay in Manatee’s drinking water? Officials decide” via Ryan Ballogg of the Bradenton Herald — Manatee County leaders are bringing the county’s decades-long practice of adding fluoride to drinking water to an end. Amid a renewed national controversy over fluoride safety, Commissioner Amanda Ballard proposed ending Manatee County’s fluoride program in January. Public debate at Commission meetings reflected national conflict over the issue, with residents and medical professionals who believe fluoridation is a beneficial public health measure clashing with residents who question its safety.

“New College Trustees advance through Committee despite residency controversy” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A Trustee for New College of Florida defended a conservative takeover of the one-time progressive haven. Charles Kesler, one of several conservative think tank academics named as a trustee by DeSantis in 2023, told a Florida Senate Committee that New College has only been improved in his time on the Board. “When I first arrived at New College, it was a very forlorn looking campus,” Kesler said. “I had never seen a campus with so much deferred maintenance, dormitories, and office buildings abandoned because of the typical tropical problems of rust, mold and so forth. That campus that originally just a couple of years ago looked rather decrepit now looks very vigorous.” He praised New College President Richard Corcoran, who was hired after new trustees promptly fired former College President Patricia Okker, and the Florida Legislature for overseeing an investment in the campus.

— TOP OPINION —

“I have never been more afraid for my country’s future” via Thomas Friedman of The New York Times — It’s telling when, amid a chaotic trade war, the administration prioritizes bolstering a declining coal industry, praising miners while actively working against burgeoning clean-tech sectors like wind and solar, which employ far more Americans. This focus seems trapped in a past-tense ideology, blind to where real job growth lies.

This presidency feels like a cruel farce, driven not by a vision for the 21st century but by personal vendettas and outdated 1970s ideas. The haphazard trade war, launched without allies or preparation, underscores a fundamental misunderstanding of today’s interconnected global economy. Attacking allies and rivals simultaneously, while cozying up to Russia and championing climate-damaging industries, is triggering a severe loss of global confidence.

The world is starting to see America as a rogue state led by an impulsive figure unbound by the rule of law. The consequences are already emerging: wavering investor confidence possibly affecting Treasury yields and the dollar, allies treating visits like trips to hostile nations (issuing burner phones), and declining interest from international students vital to our innovation engine.

While China strategically invests in future industries through plans like “Made in China 2025” – focusing on AI, clean energy, and robotics – we seem adrift, driven by impulse. China has its own major flaws and needs rebalancing, but at least it has long-term plans and options. Trump’s actions, conversely, undermine the very pillars of American strength: alliances, the rule of law, global appeal, and economic stability. The fear for America’s future has never felt more acute.

— OPINIONS —

“Is there a new U.S. risk premium?” via The Wall Street Journal editorial board — The biggest issue in financial markets these days, other than tariffs, is the fate of U.S. dollar assets. Are Trump’s herky-jerky decision-making and border taxes causing the world’s investors to shy away from the dollar and U.S. Treasury bonds? Trump pooh-poohed last week’s bond-market ructions that played a role in his 90-day pause on the worst of his tariffs. “The bond market’s going good. It had a little moment, but I solved that problem very quickly,” Trump told reporters on Friday. Well, maybe, or maybe not. The bellwether 10-year Treasury yield popped by some 50 basis points last week and at one point crossed 4.5%. The 30-year rose nearly as much, while the WSJ U.S. dollar index continued its decline from its recent peak around Inauguration Day.

“At FIU, foreign students are afraid to speak up. That’s exactly what Trump wants” via the Miami Herald editorial board — American universities have a long tradition of welcoming international students, but now there’s a growing fear among them that saying the wrong thing will land them in Trump’s crosshairs. As the Herald has reported, the Trump administration revoked the F-1 student visa status of 18 students at Florida International University as of April 10. It’s unclear why. Nationwide, more than 1,000 students — including eight at the University of Florida — have had their legal status changed by the State Department. In some cases, students had participated in pro-Palestinian protests or defended pro-Palestinian causes.

“At last, Republicans hold DeSantis accountable” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — The ground is shaking in Tallahassee. For years, DeSantis seemed untouchable, swatting away questions about no-bid contracts and hidden records while fellow Republicans looked aside. Not anymore. Now, his own party members are leveling serious accusations, suggesting potential criminal activity linked to the First Lady’s Hope Florida initiative. The core issue? A lack of transparency surrounding public funds, specifically a murky $10 million transfer. Money from a Medicaid settlement flowed to the Hope Florida Foundation, then seemingly to political committees controlled by now-Attorney General James Uthmeier and the Florida Chamber, groups fighting the marijuana amendment DeSantis opposed. House Republicans aren’t just asking questions; they’re talking subpoenas for the AG and using words like “criminal fraud.” While DeSantis fumes, calling it a “smear,” the sudden GOP scrutiny marks a stunning, overdue shift. The Governor, long accustomed to operating without challenge, is finally facing serious checks from within his own ranks.

“Expanding eye care access in Florida is a vision worth fighting for” via Steven Silverstone for the Orlando Sentinel — After 31 years practicing optometry in Florida, I’ve seen firsthand that too many Floridians struggle to access vital eye care. Twenty-six counties lack ophthalmologists, leaving rural and Medicaid patients facing long waits or no options at all. That’s why HB 449 is crucial. This isn’t politics; it’s about letting Florida’s 4,000+ licensed optometrists use our extensive training – honed over years – to perform Board-approved laser and non-laser procedures and prescribe certain needed medications. We are rigorously trained, yet Florida law lags behind states like Oklahoma, Kentucky, and Louisiana, restricting our ability to provide timely, necessary care. Preventable blindness is a tragedy. HB 449 offers a proven, common-sense solution to bridge the gap.

“The party’s over for Broward Judge Gary Farmer” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — There’s genuine meaning in the idiom “sober as a judge.” That goes double for judges themselves. Their conduct must always be above reproach, as the Canons of Judicial Ethics require. With freedom, fortunes and sometimes lives at stake, it’s no place for the sort of “party-like demeanor” of which Broward Circuit Judge Farmer stands formally accused. This troubling case could end Farmer’s career as a judge, less than three years after voters elected him to the bench. It will surely add one more stain to the reputation of Broward’s judiciary.

“From surplus to hardship? The economic risks of moving The Ringling to New College” via Nancy Parrish for Florida Politics — A proposed transfer of the prestigious Ringling Museum from Florida State University (FSU) to the much smaller New College of Florida (NCF) is sparking outrage and dire warnings. Critics call the move a major threat to the cultural institution, citing NCF’s alarming record of alleged financial mismanagement, governance issues, and inflated costs per student. Under FSU, The Ringling thrived, becoming a top national museum with stable finances. In contrast, NCF faces accusations of misallocated funds and alienating alumni. Experts warn that the handover would jeopardize The Ringling’s accreditation, stability, and donor confidence, which has already plummeted since the plan surfaced. FSU’s proven stewardship clashes with NCF’s perceived lack of capacity.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“‘Home Alone 2’ Director Chris Columbus says Trump cameo is a ‘curse’ he wishes he could cut” via Jake Kanter of Deadline — Columbus has said he has a Trump-shaped albatross around his neck. The American director admitted that his decision to include the future U.S. President in “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” is akin to a curse on the much-loved franchise. Columbus said he would like to cut the seven-second cameo from the 1992 movie but worries the Trump administration will deport him. “It’s become this curse. It’s become this thing that I wish it was not there,” he said, later adding: “It’s become an albatross for me. I just wish it was gone.”

“Google’s new AI is trying to talk to dolphins — seriously” via Isaac Schultz of Gizmodo — In a collaboration that sounds straight out of sci-fi but is very much grounded in decades of ocean science, Google has teamed up with marine biologists and AI researchers to build a large language model designed not to chat with humans, but with dolphins. The model is DolphinGemma, a cutting-edge LLM trained to recognize, predict, and eventually generate dolphin vocalizations. The project has yielded an extraordinary dataset — one packed with 41 years of sound-behavior pairings like courtship buzzes, aggressive squawks used in cetacean altercations, and “signature whistles” that act as dolphin name tags. This trove of labeled vocalizations gave Google researchers what they needed to train an AI model designed to do for dolphin sounds what ChatGPT does for words. Thus, DolphinGemma was born: a roughly 400-million parameter model built on the same research that powers Google’s Gemini models.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Happy birthday to comms pro (and one of our favorite Instagrammers) Cory Tilley.

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

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