Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 4.8.26

Good Wednesday morning.

Breaking late Tuesday — “U.S.-Iran peace talks expected Friday in Pakistan, sources say” via Barak Ravid and Marc Caputo of Axios — The United States and Iran are planning their first in-person negotiations since the war began, with talks expected Friday in Islamabad as part of a two-week ceasefire announced by President Donald Trump. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Tehran’s participation, signaling a potential opening toward a broader peace agreement. While White House envoy Steve Witkoff has led diplomacy so far, Vice President JD Vance is expected to head the U.S. delegation for the talks. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt cautioned that details are not final until formally announced. Pakistani officials, including Field Marshal Asim Munir, have played a key role in facilitating the ceasefire, as high-level engagement intensifies.

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Nominations needed for INFLUENCE Magazine’s Golden Rotundas — the definitive awards for the lobbying industry

Hollywood has the Oscars; music has the Grammys. The best in television is awarded Emmys, and the best on Broadway receives Tonys. Even the political consulting industry offers honors — the Pollies — to the best in its business.

Florida’s governmental affairs industry has the Golden Rotundas to recognize the best in the field.

This Spring, INFLUENCE Magazine will reveal the winners of this year’s Golden Rotundas in several categories:

— Lobbying Firm of the Year

— Boutique Lobbying Firm of the Year

— Lobbyist of the Year

— In-house Lobbyist of the Year

— Best Lobbyist in several sectors, including Appropriations, Education, Environment, Gaming, Health Care and Insurance.

Just as the INFLUENCE 150 is the benchmark for the most powerful people in Florida politics, the Golden Rotundas are the industry standard for lobbyists.

The winners of the Golden Rotundas will be determined, just like the Academy Awards are voted on by those in the movie business, by those who work in the influence industry.

The Golden Rotundas will recognize a firm or a lobbyist’s body of work for the last year, not a firm’s history or a lobbyist’s career.

The Lobbying Firm of the Year can only be awarded to a company ranked in the Top 35 for legislative branch compensation (as listed in our Lobbying Compensation Rankings). Each of the Top 35 firms has one ballot and must rank the top three firms other than themselves.

The Boutique Lobbying Firm of the Year will be awarded to a company with five or fewer full-time registered lobbyists. Voting is open to all registered lobbyists.

Lobbyist of the Year will be awarded to individuals whose professional success exceeded others in the last year. All public sector and private sector lobbyists who are actively retained or employed as lobbyists and are registered with the State of Florida as lobbyists are eligible. Voting is open to all registered lobbyists.

In-house Lobbyist of the Year will be awarded to an individual registered to lobby on behalf of his/her employer (that is not a lobbying firm). Voting is open to all registered lobbyists.

The sector awards for Education, Gaming, Health Care, and Insurance will be presented to the individual whose accomplishments in their respective silos stood above all others in 2025-26.

Voting is now underway and closes at 11:59 p.m. on April 14.

I will contact a representative from each of the Top 35 firms (by compensation) for their ranking of the Lobbying Firm of the Year.

To complete a ballot, email your selections to [email protected]. You must include your name and vote in at least three categories — only one vote per person. Entries cannot be changed. ALL BALLOTS ARE CONFIDENTIAL.

I reserve the right to add to the award categories and revise any eligibility and voting rules. My goal is for the lobby corps to recognize the best of the business, so if a suggestion is made to improve the Golden Rotundas process, it will be implemented.

Winners will be featured in the upcoming edition of INFLUENCE Magazine.

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The Southern Group is planting its flag in Southwest Florida, opening a new office in Fort Myers. The move marks the firm’s eighth office in Florida and signals a deeper push into a part of the state that’s quickly becoming a hub for growth, development and policy activity.

To lead the effort, the state’s largest lobbying firm is tapping two seasoned hands: Nick Grant and Eddie Metzger.

Grant comes to The Southern Group from Lee Health, where he served as director of government relations for one of the largest health systems in Southwest Florida. In that role, he helped secure millions in state and federal funding and built relationships with policymakers to support workforce expansion, infrastructure and access to care.

“I’ve seen firsthand the impact of Nick’s work — from helping qualified candidates get elected across Florida to securing millions of dollars in state appropriations and advancing meaningful policies that benefit our citizens, our systems and our environment,” said Sen. Ralph Massullo.

Metzger brings more than 20 years of experience spanning the Legislature, the energy sector and private practice. After starting in the Florida House, he moved into senior legislative roles with TECO Energy and Ygrene Energy before launching Coastline Strategies, where he built a client base across industries and developed a reputation for navigating complex regulatory environments.

“Eddie is a trusted advocate and friend who understands how to bring people together to move important issues forward,” said Charlotte County Commissioner Bill Truex.

The new Fort Myers office will give the firm a physical presence in a region where local government decisions are increasingly shaping major projects and investment. Grant and Metzger will represent clients before local governments across Southwest Florida while also engaging in state-level advocacy efforts.

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New polling shows Democrat Alex Vindman trailing appointed incumbent U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody by a slim margin in a state Republicans have come to treat as home turf.

The Public Policy Polling survey, conducted April 2-3, shows Moody, a former state Attorney General twice elected statewide, with a 43%-40% edge over Vindman, a former member of the National Security Council whose testimony contributed to the first impeachment of Trump.

The number that matters just as much as the topline is the sample — PPP mirrored a 2024 turnout, with Trump voters over Kamala Harris voters by 13 points, making it difficult to dismiss the result as the product of an overly Democratic screen.

The sample is also aligned with the 2022 Midterm, when registered Republicans held a 12-point edge in turnout, with 45% of all voters to 33% for Democrats.

The memo also includes other warning signs for the incumbent. Despite spending the past seven years in statewide office, she remains largely undefined with voters, with 43% saying they have no opinion of her at all.

Among those who do, views are nearly evenly split, with 30% approving and 27% disapproving. Even among Republicans, fewer than half — 47% — say they approve of her performance, while 45% say they have no opinion.

The Vindman camp, which still must win a Primary against state Rep. Angie Nixon, says the less-than-enthusiastic embrace creates an opening for the Democrat, especially given his 44%-37 % lead among third- and no-party voters.

The wild card, as always in a Florida Midterm, may be the White House. The survey found Trump underwater on the economy, with 48% disapproving and 47% approving — that’s a step above the President’s national rating, indicating Florida’s red tilt will still be visible on Election Day, but perhaps not to the extent it has been in the past couple of cycles.

The PPP poll surveyed 574 registered Florida voters, 57% of whom were reached by text and 43% by landline. It has a margin of error of +/- 4.1%.

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Lauren Book is on the move! It’s a two-city day — Sarasota and Bradenton — with back-to-back walks alongside SPARCC, Manatee Children’s Services and Centerstone, bringing advocacy and awareness to Florida’s Gulf Coast with Reps Fiona McFarland and Bill Conerly, Manatee County School Board Member Richard Tatem, Bradenton PD Captain Dennis French, and more. Follow along, watch live, or register to walk at LaurensKidsWalk.org!

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April is Second Chance Month, an initiative that celebrates second chances and aims to break barriers for men and women who have a criminal record and want to move beyond their past.

That’s why this month, Better Together—a nonprofit based in Southwest Florida that equips communities to help families thrive — is hosting its annual Nationwide Days of Second Chances, a series of second-chance job fairs designed to connect job seekers with employers who see their value.

Nationwide Days of Second Chances mobilizes churches, volunteers, businesses and nonprofits across the country around a shared mission to expand opportunities for individuals who face barriers to employment. These barriers may include past incarceration, homelessness, lack of reliable transportation or child care, or gaps on a resume.

Local events are being held in partnership with 18 churches across the country, including 13 in Florida, beginning Thursday, April 9, through the end of the month. Find more information and learn how to get involved at BetterTogetherUS.org/nwdsc.

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

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

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

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@EWErickson: What’s actually happening here is the President has embraced the “mad man” theory and is trying to convince the Iranians that he’s willing to do whatever to wipe them out in hopes of getting a deal. The failure is that the President, like so many others, doesn’t actually appreciate that the Iranians are mad men who live in a fundamentally religious world where they really do believe they are to wipe out Israel and their citizens are expendable. But no, this is not an unhinged President. It’s a man playing a role as a negotiation tactic. Unfortunately, the President is going to be backed into a corner of extreme options by doing this, or be mocked for TACO again.

—@AnnaForFlorida: Talking about the destruction of an entire civilization like it’s inevitable or acceptable is not leadership. It’s reckless, it’s dehumanizing, and it ignores the millions of innocent people whose lives are at stake.

—@Acyn: (Chris) Christie: If I were running the DCCC right now, I would take every Democratic candidate incumbent challenger, and send them to Turks and Caicos until November. Say nothing. Do nothing. Shut up. You sound stupid, too. But if you go until November, you will not piss anybody off.

—@SteveSchale: Funny enough, I once offered to pay for a candidate to go to the Caribbean for the rest of the campaign because they kept saying things we’d seen 2 days later in ads. (They got disciplined, and it was fine)

Tweet, tweet:

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Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

The Masters begin — 1; Jonah Hill’s ‘Outcome’ premieres on Apple TV — 2; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 7; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 7; ‘Jerry West: The Logo’ premieres on Amazon Prime — 8; First Qualifying Period begins (U.S. Senate) — 12; FAMU President Marva Johnson’s investiture — 13; Florida Housings Solutions Summit — 14; NFL Draft — 15; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 16; F1 Miami begins — 23; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Dutton Ranch’ premieres — 37; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 44; new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ premieres at Disney World — 44; Marvel’s ‘Spider-Noir’ arrives on Amazon Prime — 49; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 55; Florida Tech & Innovation Summit — 56; ‘Masters of The Universe’ premieres — 58; ‘Cape Fear’ series premieres on Apple TV — 58; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 61; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 64; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 65; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices — 65; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 — 67; Flag Day — 67; Trump’s 80th birthday — 67; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres — 72; ‘Supergirl’ premieres — 79; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 79; live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 84; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 87; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 92; MLB All-Star Game — 97; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 99; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 103; ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 114; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 120; Early voting period begins — 122; Primary Election Day — 132; NFL regular season kicks off — 154; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 155; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 156; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 160; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 164; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 169; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 176; General Election voter registration deadline — 180; Early Voting General Election begins — 199; General Election — 209; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 212; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 254; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 254; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 254; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 292; Super Bowl LXI — 312; Tampa Mayoral Election — 328; 2027 Oscars — 340; Jacksonville First Election — 349; Jacksonville General Election — 405; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 423; ‘MIAMI VICE’ reboot premieres — 485; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 485; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 541; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 618; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 656; 2028 Oscars — 697; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 779; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 800; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 828; U.S. Presidential Election — 944; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 1,020; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,344; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,384; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,075.

— TOP STORY —

“Criminal Hope Florida probe appears to be wrapped, but IRS inquiry could soon begin” via Alexandra Glorioso and Lawrence Mower of the Times/Herald Tallahassee Bureau — A criminal probe into the Hope Florida Foundation appears to be ending, but new scrutiny could come from the Internal Revenue Service as the charity prepares to file financial disclosures tied to a $10 million Medicaid settlement.

Experts say that how the money was spent could threaten the foundation’s tax-exempt status. Much of the funding was routed through nonprofits and ultimately into political efforts opposing a recreational marijuana ballot amendment.

Nonprofit tax attorneys warn that such spending may violate federal rules that limit lobbying and prohibit political activity by charities. One expert said the foundation has “a very, very big problem.”

Records show $10 million was distributed to two groups, which then funneled $8.5 million into a political committee tied to the campaign effort.

Critics argue the transactions suggest political intent rather than a public charitable purpose, raising red flags for regulators.

Foundation officials maintain the spending was appropriate and categorized as program services, not political activity.

If the IRS investigates and finds violations, the charity could lose tax-exempt status, face penalties and see donations decline.

— 2026 —

“Jay Collins blames ‘lobby corps’ for fundraising woes, but says there’s a ‘great chance’ Ron DeSantis endorses him” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Lt. Gov. Collins acknowledged fundraising challenges in his gubernatorial bid, saying “the lobby corps is behind Byron Donalds” and arguing major donors “don’t want the people to choose.” Collins, a former Tampa Senator appointed by Gov. DeSantis, is trailing far behind Donalds, who raised $22.2 million in the first quarter and more than $67 million overall. Collins said he would “love” an endorsement from Trump and suggested DeSantis could back him “in time,” though the Governor has remained noncommittal. DeSantis reiterated he will act when he chooses, offering no timeline. The comments underscore Collins’ uphill battle against a well-funded frontrunner with strong establishment and national support.

“After Emily Gregory nod, 22 more Palm Beach County leaders back David Jolly for Governor” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Jolly’s groundswell of support in Palm Beach County continued this week, as 22 more current and former elected leaders threw their support behind his campaign for Governor. The latest wave of endorsements — which includes officials in state, county and municipal posts — comes less than a week after newly elected state Rep. Gregory, a fellow Democrat, confirmed she is backing Jolly in the race. It also follows a poll showing Jolly leading Republican Donalds by 9 percentage points in a head-to-head matchup for Governor, and news that Jolly crossed the $5 million fundraising mark last quarter. “Palm Beach County is essential to winning Florida,” said Jolly.

Kat Cammack endorses Blaise Ingoglia for CFO — U.S. Rep. Cammack and American Grit PAC are endorsing Ingoglia in the race for Chief Financial Officer. “Blaise Ingoglia is the bold, no-nonsense conservative Florida needs as CFO— fearless with the facts, relentless with the budget, and ready to torch government waste. Floridians deserve a watchdog, not a wallflower, someone who’ll call out the bureaucratic nonsense and fight for every taxpayer dollar. That’s Blaise Ingoglia, and I’m fired up to stand with him,” Cammack said. Ingoglia said he was “honored” to have Cammack’s endorsement. “Florida has led the nation in responsible budgeting and economic growth, and as CFO, I will work every day to protect taxpayers, promote transparency, and ensure our state remains financially strong for generations to come,” he said.

“Keith Gross reports more than $5M cash on hand, mostly from his own pocket” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Gross closed the first quarter of 2026 with $5.1 million in cash on hand to run for Congress. His campaign also said it has polling showing an edge over Republican competitors for the open seat. Gross was the first candidate in a crowded field to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn in Florida’s 2nd Congressional District. Gross is now the first GOP candidate to file Federal Election Commission (FEC) reports in the race. Those show he reported nearly $5.7 million in funds since launching his campaign in January. Most of that comes out of Gross’ pocket, with the former U.S. Senate candidate’s campaign now reporting over $8 million in campaign debt. That includes $5.54 million in loans from Gross to the campaign made at the end of March. But he also netted about $79,000 in outside contributions.

“‘We are in the best position’: Scott Singer posts $1.3M opening haul toward flipping CD 23” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Singer’s bid to flip Florida’s 23rd Congressional District is off to a strong fundraising start. The Republican candidate and immediate past Mayor of Boca Raton announced that he raised more than $1.34 million in the first full quarter of his congressional campaign. The total, his campaign said, includes nearly $923,000 from more than 3,600 individual donors and a $424,000 personal loan. He’s entering the second quarter of 2026 with more than $1.2 million in cash on hand.

— STATEWIDE —

“11 states team up for business-friendly ‘Boom Belt’” via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Florida took center stage in Miami as DeSantis joined Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to promote the newly branded “Boom Belt,” a coalition of Southern states positioning themselves as hubs for business growth and migration. Speaking at the Pérez Art Museum, DeSantis highlighted Florida’s economic model, pointing to tort reforms, conservative judicial appointments and policies aimed at attracting companies fleeing higher-tax states like California, Illinois and New York. He emphasized Florida’s competitive edge in the regulatory climate and quality of life, which has drawn major firms such as Citadel Securities to Miami. While leaders touted job growth and corporate relocation, they sidestepped rising affordability concerns facing Florida residents, underscoring a tension between economic expansion and cost-of-living pressures.

“DeSantis plays down lack of Supreme Court opinion in justifying congressional redistricting effort” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — DeSantis has previously said that one of the reasons why Florida must conduct an unusual mid-decade congressional redistricting this year is because the state would likely be “forced” into compliance with an expected U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the constitutionality of key provision of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. That legal opinion has yet to be issued by the court, however, and likely won’t be by the time the Legislature reconvenes in Tallahassee on April 20 to begin the weeklong Special Session devoted to redistricting. DeSantis said that the Legislature should go ahead and begin the process nonetheless, predicting that judicial opinion may come later but that there are other legitimate reasons to move forward, beginning with the fact that the state’s congressional lines should be updated to more accurately reflect population growth over the past five years. “What I’ve said was, Florida has experienced 10 years’ worth of population growth in, like, three [years],” he said.

—”Redistricting war comes down to Virginia and Florida” via Nick Corasaniti and Patricia Mazzei of The New York Times

“DeSantis says proposed wealth taxes in other states helped drive people, money to Florida” via Jonathan Lundy of News 4 Jax — DeSantis said that people and capital are moving to Florida in unprecedented numbers, driven by the state’s policies and by proposals in other states that he called punitive to wealth creators. “Florida has had more adjusted gross income move into our state since I’ve been Governor than has ever moved into any state in the history of the United States, even adjusted for inflation,” DeSantis said. DeSantis credited Florida’s business-friendly measures, including tort reform and changes to the state judiciary, for helping spur the influx. He said the movement of people and businesses also reflects reactions elsewhere to tax proposals such as a proposed 5% wealth tax in California. “It’s a bad way to tax,” he said of the proposal, criticizing its focus on unrealized gains and the broader implications for owners of large equity stakes. “We’ve seen the flight of really, really significant folks into Florida, many of them here in the Miami area.”

“DeSantis signs measure shifting Naples Airport Authority control to voters” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — DeSantis has signed legislation transferring control of the Naples Airport Authority from City Hall to voters, mandating countywide elections for all Board seats starting in 2026. The measure (HB 4005), sponsored by Rep. Adam Botana, marks a significant change in how the Board that oversees the Naples Municipal Airport is composed and selected. Under the new law, all five members of the Naples Airport Authority will be elected by voters across Collier County beginning with the 2026 General Election — replacing the current system in which the Naples City Council appoints Board members. The overhaul also formalizes geographic representation on the Board. Three seats will be reserved for residents of the city of Naples, while two seats must be held by residents of unincorporated areas of Collier County outside the city limits.

“Environmental groups urge appeals court to lift halt on closing ‘Alligator Alcatraz’” via Mike Schneider of The Associated Press — Environmental groups on Tuesday asked a federal appellate court panel to drop its temporary halt of a lower court’s order instructing state officials to close an immigration detention center in the heart of the Florida Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz.” The Everglades facility remains open, still holding detainees, because the appellate court in early September relied on arguments by Florida and the Trump administration that the state had not yet applied for federal reimbursement and therefore wasn’t required to comply with federal environmental law. Questions by the three appellate judges during oral arguments in a Miami courtroom focused on how much control the federal government had over the state-built facility and when an environmental review was required to comply with federal law. The judges did not indicate when they would rule.

“Federal appeals court hears new arguments in Alligator Alcatraz environmental review case” via Kimberly Leonard and Kylie Williams of POLITICO — A federal appeals court weighed whether to lift a hold on an order targeting the Everglades-based “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center, with arguments centered on federal control and environmental law. Attorneys for environmental groups said the facility serves “an exclusively federal function” and should trigger review under the National Environmental Policy Act, while the state argued it built and operates the site independently. Chief Judge William Pryor pushed back, saying, “If they want to stop detaining aliens there tomorrow … they can do that.” Judge Nancy Abudu noted federal involvement and commitments to funding. Advocates warned of “immense and irreparable harm” to protected lands and species, as the court considers whether operations can continue without environmental review.

“Florida Public Service Commission says it won’t reconsider FPL rate hike case” via Kylie Williams of POLITICO — The Florida Public Service Commission declined to revisit its approval of a Florida Power & Light rate hike, rejecting arguments from consumer advocates and energy groups that the decision contained errors. Commissioners voted unanimously to deny reconsideration, with Chair Gabriella Passidomo Smith saying the motion failed to identify “any genuine error of fact or law” and instead reflected dissatisfaction with the outcome. The approved settlement allows FPL to collect an additional $6.9 billion over four years. Opponents argue the increases burden Floridians and are not in the public interest, while FPL maintains the plan supports reliability and growth. The dispute now moves forward at the Florida Supreme Court, where challengers are seeking to overturn the rate hike.

“‘Perfect recipe’: Wilton Simpson warns that drought, freezes prompt spike in Florida wildfires” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Simpson is warning that a prolonged drought and recent freezes have created “a perfect recipe” for an intense wildfire season, and prominent fire safety officials are urging residents to take precautions and help prevent additional fires. Officials say Florida is entering the peak of wildfire season with drought conditions expected to persist and are urging residents to take preventative steps as fire risk remains elevated through at least June. Simpson said Florida has already seen an unusually high number of wildfires this year, with conditions expected to worsen in the coming months. The Florida Forest Service has already responded to more than 1,500 fires this year, approaching the lower end of the state’s typical annual range of 2,400 to 2,500 fires. “Arson is a big factor in a lot of these fires. Another big factor is fire in the backyard — burning brush piles, having a barbecue, not putting those fires all the way out is leading to major fires all over the state,” Simpson said.

“Ingoglia announces funds for firefighter cancer prevention, training expansion” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Ingoglia stopped in Ocala to announce he’s directing thousands of dollars toward a regional firefighter training facility in Newberry and for equipment to address increased cancer risk. Ingoglia has awarded more than $28 million to support firefighters across the state since he took office. Speaking in Ocala, he announced $500,000 in appropriated funds for a Newberry regional first-responder training facility, as well as nearly $6,400 for the city of Ocala and just under $4,800 for the city of High Springs through the firefighter cancer decontamination grant program. “We must ensure that our fire stations and firefighters have the equipment, specifically decontamination equipment, they need to keep Florida’s families safe and to keep themselves safe,” Ingoglia said. “That’s why, when I travel the state talking about property tax reform, I have made it clear that the first thing that the local governments must fund … they must fund fire and law enforcement first.”

“UCF economist warns about Iran war uncertainty affecting economy” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The “biggest cloud of uncertainty” facing Florida’s economy is the Iran war, as some prices are already rising and affecting consumers. “What happens with the Iran conflict is going to sort of shift the path that we’re on, for better or for worse,” said Sean Snaith, the Director of the Institute for Economic Forecasting, as he gave an economic update during Tuesday’s Orange County Commission meeting. Snaith said consumers are affected first by rising prices in transportation-related industries. He pointed to airlines raising baggage fees or delivery companies adding fuel charges for shipping packages. “People are still trying to recover from that episode of inflation, and now here we go again with some costs of living being impacted by the conflict here with Iran,” Snaith said. “The impact we’ve seen immediately (is) certainly at the gas pumps. We’ve seen it in the price of oil, price of natural gas. We’re starting to see it work its way through the economy, these higher prices.”

“Lawsuit planned against ChatGPT over alleged link to accused FSU gunman” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Phoenix Ikner, the accused gunman in the April 17, 2025, mass shooting that left two dead and six injured at Florida State University, was in “constant communication” with ChatGPT, a leading AI chatbot, before the rampage. Ryan Hobbs, a Tallahassee attorney representing Betty Morales, whose husband, Robert Morales, was killed during the attack, told the Tallahassee Democrat that a lawsuit will be filed “very soon” against ChatGPT in connection with the shooting. “We have been advised that the shooter was in constant communication with ChatGPT leading up to the shooting,” Hobbs said. “We also have reason to believe that ChatGPT may have advised the shooter how to commit these heinous crimes.” Hobbs, a shareholder with Brooks, LeBoeuf, Foster, Gwartney & Hobbs, P.A., said the firm plans to sue both ChatGPT and its ownership structure. OpenAI owns ChatGPT and counts Microsoft as its single biggest investor.

“Why a ruling against State Farm is a big win for Florida auto claims” via Anne Geggis of USA Today Network — Millions of dollars that one of the state’s largest auto insurers owes to thousands of auto accident victims are set to be paid as a state appeals court agreed the insurer’s “brazen action” in not paying doesn’t stand. Complete Care, which specializes in the medical treatment of car accident patients, is suing State Farm on behalf of two accident victims whose no-fault insurance claims were not getting covered. Attorneys for Complete Care asked for a ruling on State Farm’s legal theory for not paying, which State Farm’s own testimony revealed was costing the accident clinic $600,000 a month because State Farm stopped paying on the clinic’s claims beginning April 3, 2025, court papers show.

“Chamber case study spotlights aviation workforce challenges” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — A new Florida Chamber Foundation case study is casting aviation as a key front in Florida’s workforce fight, warning that talent shortages could threaten one of the state’s biggest economic engines. Released through the Foundation’s Future of Work initiative, the report examines workforce trends in an industry that supports more than 2 million jobs and accounts for 13.5% of Florida’s GDP. The case study argues that without tighter coordination among employers, schools and workforce partners, those gaps could deepen and undermine the industry’s long-term competitiveness. “The aviation industry is essential to our state’s economic strength and global connectivity,” said Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber Foundation. “The Foundation’s Future of Work case study reinforces that sustained growth will require a stronger, more coordinated approach to developing aviation talent pipelines. Data-driven collaboration between business, education, and workforce leaders is key to making certain Florida remains competitive for decades to come.”

— D.C. MATTERS —

“The $1.7T military budget includes a massive slush fund for Donald Trump’s political allies” via Judd Legum and Noel Sims of Popular Information — Trump’s defense budget allocates at least $17.5 billion to the “Golden Dome,” a space-based missile defense system. While the efficacy of the Golden Dome is at best uncertain, the project will undoubtedly be a windfall for key Trump political allies. Elon Musk’s company, SpaceX, is expected to receive “$2 billion to develop satellites that can track missiles and aircraft“ for the Golden Dome. Palantir, founded by Trump-supporting billionaire Peter Thiel, is expected to develop software to run the Golden Dome. According to the report, Palantir is partnering with Anduril, a software company founded by Palmer Luckey. Luckey donated over $1.1 million combined to Trump’s presidential campaigns in 2020 and 2024, according to FEC data.

Happening today — U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor will join Hillsborough County Commissioner Christine Miller and community partners at 1:15 p.m. at Bahia Beach Nature Reserve, 2513 W Shell Point Road in Ruskin, to announce and present $1,092,000 in federal funding for the Ruskin Septic-to-Sewer Phase 1 Project. The investment will help replace failing septic systems with a centralized vacuum sewer system to reduce pollution, improve public health and protect Tampa Bay water quality. Officials say the project will also strengthen resilience against flooding and sewer overflows in South Hillsborough County. The event is open to the press; RSVP to Jay Rhoden at [email protected].

— ELECTIONS —

—“Ola Hawatmeh notches Hispanic Chamber of Commerce endorsement for CD 19 bid” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics

“Weston Mayor Peggy Brown backs Michael Carbonara for CD 25” via Florida Politics — Carbonara secured the endorsement of Weston Mayor Brown, adding to growing local support in his Republican bid for Florida’s 25th Congressional District. Brown, the first female Mayor in Weston and president of the Florida League of Mayors, pointed to Carbonara’s focus on South Florida families, fiscal accountability and community-driven leadership. “South Florida deserves a Congressman who has actually built something,” Brown said, calling him a leader who will bring accountability to Washington. Carbonara said the endorsement reflects a shared commitment to effective leadership and public service. Brown joins Coconut Creek Commissioner John Brodie and Pompano Beach Commissioner Audrey Fesik among local officials backing the campaign, signaling an expanding regional support base.

“Tired of culture wars, Jarod Fox wants to oust Doug Bankson in HD 39” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Florida doesn’t have many medical professionals elected into the Legislature, but one Orlando Health doctor is trying to change that. Dr. Fox is trying to unseat Rep. Doug Bankson in HD 39. Fox, a Democrat, works as an infectious disease specialist at Orlando Health. Fox accused Bankson of focusing more on culture wars than helping Floridians solve the affordability crisis. Fox’s patients helped motivate him to run for office for the first time because an increasing number of people are unable to afford their medicine or end up in the hospital because they can’t pay for basic health care services, Fox said.

“Michael Ferguson launches campaign to flip open coastal Broward House seat blue” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — The race to replace term-limited state Rep. Chip LaMarca just gained its second Democratic contender. Michael Ferguson, a military veteran, prosecutor and South Florida lawyer, announced he is running for House District 100, adding to a growing and increasingly competitive field in coastal Broward County. Ferguson, 32, enters the race as Democrats look to flip a seat long held by Republicans. LaMarca, a Lighthouse Point lawmaker first elected in 2018, cannot seek re-election in 2026. Despite being in heavily Democratic Broward County, HD 100 has remained in GOP hands for years and is considered a rare Republican stronghold in the region. Ferguson is gearing his campaign to focus on affordability, public safety and environmental protection — issues that he argues are most pressing for residents.

—“Ruth’s List endorses 5 more candidates for local office, adding to February quintet” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“‘The box’ at Alligator Alcatraz called a torture device. What we know” via J. Kyle Foster of The Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Claims of punishment and torture at Alligator Alcatraz immigration detention center via a cage-like confinement space called “the box” are under investigation by two U.S. Senators. The probe, started by Sens. Jon Ossoff and Dick Durbin, who is the Senate Minority Whip and ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, focuses on punishments, including the use of shackles and “the box” at the facility in Ochopee, Collier County. “There have been credible allegations that detainees at ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ have been punished with confinement in a small cage-like structure known as ‘the box,’ where they are held in stress positions with hands and feet tightly shackled for hours at a time, in direct sunlight with no access to food or water,” the Senators wrote March 26.

“How closed-door negotiations could make or break naming PBI airport after Trump” via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — Public safety, legal liability and the President’s personal profit margins are on the line in the high-stakes, closed-door negotiations between Trump’s affiliated companies and Palm Beach County over the renaming of the county airport. Before the county can start physically changing the signs from Palm Beach International to Donald J. Trump International Airport, the county must reach a deal on licensing the trademark for Trump’s name. County Commissioners have not voted on the airport renaming, but emails obtained by the Miami Herald through a records request show county staffers privately raised a litany of financial, safety and legal concerns about the name change to state lawmakers late last year.

“Lake Worth Beach City Manager salary could be among county’s highest” via Chris Persaud of The Palm Beach Post — The next executive chosen to run Lake Worth Beach’s daily operations, and manage its $215 million budget, could be one of Palm Beach County’s highest-paid City Managers, rivaling even the one in Palm Beach. Lake Worth Beach’s next City Manager will make as much as $345,000, City Commissioners decided on March 31. That’s more than salaries offered by bigger, wealthier towns such as West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach and Jupiter. Lake Worth Beach’s previous full-time City Manager was one of Palm Beach County’s lowest-paid municipal executives.

“Palm Beach County schools chief rejects 3.5% teacher raise recommendation” via Scott Travis of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Palm Beach County teachers will remain without a raise for now as the Superintendent has rejected a 3.5% raise recommended by a special magistrate. The matter isn’t over yet, as the School Board is expected to make a final decision at a May 6 meeting. If the School Board sides with Superintendent Mike Burke’s recommendation, teachers would get a smaller raise than the Palm Beach County Classroom Teachers Association or the magistrate has proposed. The Palm Beach County Classroom Teachers Association and the School District have been at an impasse since November over salary increases for the current school year. The District proposed a 1.5% recurring raise and 1.5% one-time bonus, saying that a $66 million reduction in state funding due to a 7,000-student enrollment decline made it impossible to offer more. The union asked for a 4.8% raise, arguing that the District has plenty of money in reserves and could make cuts elsewhere. Special Magistrate Michael G. Whelan heard the matter on Feb. 13 and, on March 26, recommended a raise between the two sides’ requests.

“Nu Stadium still awaiting occupancy certificate before next Inter Miami home game” via Tess Riski of the Miami Herald — In last week’s mad dash to open the new Inter Miami soccer stadium for the April 4 home opener, the city of Miami issued a special permit so the inaugural match could proceed as planned — albeit with fire inspectors and fire engines on standby. The “limited event permit” was issued in lieu of a temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO), which authorizes occupancy of a building before a final occupancy certificate is issued. Now, with the second home game days away, the city says that, as of Tuesday afternoon, it is “still working diligently to issue a TCO” ahead of Inter Miami’s April 11 match against the New York Red Bulls. The city and the stadium had been working on securing a TCO in the days leading up to last week’s game. Email records show the corporate counsel for Inter Miami CF emailed the city shortly after 11 p.m. on Friday, April 3 — less than 24 hours before kickoff — with a letter of intent and an emergency operations plan as part of an official request for the limited event permit.

What Juan Porras is reading — “Property manager accused of stealing hundreds of thousands from HOAs to fund plastic surgery, lavish vacations” via Patrick Chalvire of WSVN Miami — A Martin County property management bookkeeper is wanted on more than 120 charges after, investigators said, she embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from local homeowners associations and used the stolen funds to pay for plastic surgery, shopping and vacations. Alexandra Delacaridad Gonzalez, who worked as a bookkeeper for Avant-Garde Property Management, faces two counts of fraud exceeding $50,000, two counts of grand theft, 61 counts of uttering false instruments and 59 counts of embezzlement. The 46-year-old’s total bond has been set at $1.35 million.

“Former Palm Beach County Sheriff Richard P. Wille dies at 97” via Angie DiMichele of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Wille, who served as Palm Beach County Sheriff for nearly two decades, died Sunday at age 97. When Wille was first elected in 1977, the Sheriff’s Office had about 500 deputies and an $11 million budget. The Republican Sheriff led an era of exponential growth and professional development, with PBSO becoming a force of 2,500 with a $160 million budget by the time he retired early during his fifth term in 1995. Credited with seeing his agency out of “the dark ages of law enforcement,” Wille oversaw a multimillion dollar jail addition project, developed all of the agency’s volunteer programs and formed the agency’s K-9 Unit, which became one of the largest units in Florida at the time and was later embroiled in controversy. Before his decadeslong career in law enforcement, Wille served in the U.S. Marines and then as a deputy in his home state of Michigan from 1954 to 1964. He was the North Palm Beach Police chief until 1976. He earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Florida Atlantic University and was a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Brevard’s 2026 school millage measure to put funds toward teacher pay” via Finch Walker of Florida Today — Can a countywide property tax mean the difference between dinner out and scraping together cash for groceries for your favorite teacher? According to Brevard Public Schools, the answer is yes. On April 6, the League of Women Voters of the Space Coast hosted a panel in Rockledge to discuss millage and why it matters. Speakers included Brevard Public Schools Superintendent Mark Rendell; Katye Campbell, District 5’s School Board member; Brevard Federation of Teachers Vice President Vanessa Skipper; and Kathryn Rudloff, a member of Brevard Public Schools’ Independent Citizens Committee for Millage Oversight. Over the course of the evening, speakers broke down the basics of millage and what voters should know ahead of the upcoming election.

“‘Truly a team endeavor’: UCF graduate programs get recognized in U.S. News & World Report rankings” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The University of Central Florida is celebrating 15 of its graduate school programs landing Top 50 spots in the new U.S. News & World Report rankings. “From emergency management and counseling to nursing and aerospace engineering, UCF’s rise highlights a university-wide focus on faculty excellence, hands-on learning, and preparing graduates to lead in high-impact careers across critical workforces,” the Orlando school said. U.S. News compared graduate schools in Florida and around the country, producing individual rankings across many different disciplines. UCF’s Homeland/National Security and Emergency Management Graduate Program was named No. 1 in the country for the third year in a row. “To maintain the U.S. News No. 1 ranking of graduate programs in homeland security and emergency management is truly a team endeavor,” Associate Professor of Public Administration Yue ‘Gurt’ Ge said.

“Orlando celebrates 407 Day with deals, community pride” via News 6 — Every year on April 7, Orlando claims its area code — and its local businesses. On Tuesday, The City Beautiful is marking 407 Day with special deals at local businesses across the city, from coffee shops and boutiques to food trucks. The annual celebration started during the COVID-19 pandemic to highlight everything local. It has since grown into a community tradition centered on supporting small businesses and showing off city pride. Shops and restaurants throughout Orlando are offering discounts and promotions to draw residents out and into their favorite local spots. The event covers a wide range of businesses — whether it’s a neighborhood coffee shop, a small boutique, or a go-to food truck, the message is the same: today is about celebrating Orlando.

— LOCAL: TB —

“USF sees 42 programs crack Top 100 in U.S. News grad studies rankings” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — U.S. News compared graduate schools in Florida and around the country, producing individual rankings across many different disciplines. In all, 42 USF graduate programs earned Top 100 recognition. That includes 18 programs ranked in the Top 50 and five others in the Top 25 of their respective categories, including 14 USF programs that rank No. 1 or No. 2 within Florida. USF programs such as public health specialties, nursing, rehabilitation counseling and multiple engineering disciplines are among those that ranked in the Top 50, according to a USF news release. The university’s best-ranked program — industrial and organizational psychology — came in at No. 3 nationwide, while criminology and audiology each ranked No. 18.

“Hillsborough, Tampa eyeing Rays stadium vote in early May” via Nicolas Villamil and Nina Moske of the Tampa Bay Times — Before the Tampa Bay Rays returned to Tropicana Field on Monday, Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan shared details about the team’s upcoming stadium votes. Hagan, who has advocated for a Rays’ stadium in Tampa for nearly two decades, told a local radio station that Hillsborough County is looking to vote on May 6, followed by a Tampa City Council vote on May 7. “That’s not finalized, but that is our goal,” he said on WDAE, adding that he has told county staff “that every effort needs to be made to meet that timeline.” “Time is of the essence,” Hagan said.

“Pinellas Juvenile Welfare Board poised to name Glen Gilzean its next CEO” via Alexa Coultoff of the Tampa Bay Times — The Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County voted for its new CEO amid tension between Board members about whether the monthslong process was dictated by political pressure. In January, the 11-member Board of high-ranking officials and gubernatorial appointees selected three finalists: interim CEO Michael Mikurak, Manatee County Schools Associate Superintendent Kevin Chapman and Gilzean, a frequent appointee of DeSantis who was accused of misspending millions in his last position. The candidates were interviewed during a six-hour meeting in February, which ended with Board members voting 5-5 for Mikurak and Gilzean during a straw poll. Public Defender Sara Mollo abstained from the vote.

“Charlie Crist committee raises nearly $500K, surpasses $1.2M” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — The political committee supporting Crist should he run for St. Petersburg Mayor raised more than $475,000 in the first quarter of 2026, bringing the committee’s total collections to more than $1.2 million. Crist, who previously served as both Governor and the U.S. Representative for Florida’s 13th Congressional District, has not officially entered the race for Mayor. But when he does, he’ll be a leading contender. Of the funds raised, Crist maintains $1.1 million on hand. The committee spent a little less than $45,000 in the first quarter. “The growing coalition of diverse donors to the committee reflects just how strongly people believe in our vision for a brighter future for St. Petersburg,” St. Pete Shines Chair Michelle Todd Schorsch said. “We are incredibly grateful to all of those who have supported our efforts.”

“Bianca Latvala lands support from Clearwater City Council majority as she seeks to join them” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Latvala has earned support from three members of the Clearwater City Council, including the member she is running to replace. Latvala has received endorsements from Seat 3 member Mike Mannino, Seat 4 officeholder David Allbritton, and Lina Teixeira, who represents Seat 5. Latvala is seeking Seat 4 to replace Allbritton, who is retiring. The remaining City Council member, Ryan Cotton, has not yet endorsed in the race. Latvala so far faces just one candidate, community advocate and freelance journalist Jared Leone. Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector also previously endorsed Latvala. Allbritton, in his endorsement, said he is confident in Latvala’s ability to succeed him. “She understands the importance of listening to residents, respecting taxpayers, and making thoughtful decisions that keep Clearwater bright and beautiful, bay to beach,” Allbritton said. “Bianca represents a new generation of leadership — someone who is energetic, approachable, and focused on issues that matter to our residents.”

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Council postpones votes on JEA Board during ‘cloud’ of investigations” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — A vote on confirming two closely watched appointments to the JEA Board is on hold so City Council members have more time to get a handle on investigations swirling around the city-owned utility. “To say there’s a lot going on right now with JEA is a gross understatement,” City Council Rules Committee Chris Miller said in explaining his decision to postpone the confirmation votes.

“‘Delivering real results’: FSU’s graduate programs earn accolades from U.S. News & World Report” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Florida State University’s graduate programs are getting national and statewide recognition in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings for best graduate schools. Sixteen FSU graduate programs and specialties ranked in the Top 25 among public universities, with six graduate programs placing No. 1 in Florida. That included FSU’s College of Law tying for No. 1 in the state and No. 34 in the country alongside the University of Florida’s law school. In addition, FSU’s College of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice was also rated best in Florida, the school said in a press release. “These rankings show the strength of Florida State across the board,” FSU President Richard McCullough said in a statement.

“Carolyn Cummings’ supporters to wear white amid tension with attorney” via Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — The tension has yet to dissipate between County Attorney Chasity O’Steen and Leon County Commissioner Cummings, the lone woman on the dais. Supporters of Cummings plan to make a statement at the upcoming April 14 County Commission meeting. A post has been circulating around Facebook asking supporters to show up to the meeting wearing white and to “come prepared to provide public comment and stand with Commissioner Cummings.”

“Marva Johnson investiture scheduled, will toast to FAMU’s future” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Nearly a year after the FAMU Board of Trustees selected her last May, FAMU President Johnson will be formally installed as the historically Black university’s leader on April 21 with an Investiture Ceremony and post-ceremony reception. A ceremony is set at Lee Hall on the school’s campus beginning at 11 a.m. for Johnson, the school’s 13th president. The ceremony will include remarks from distinguished guests and from Johnson. A post-ceremony reception will be held at the FAMU Quadrangle, including food, music, fellowship and a toast to the university’s future. Under Johnson’s leadership, FAMU is prioritizing five pillars to shape the next generation, including student success, academic excellence, research and innovation, community and partnerships, and campus experience.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“New College to allow armed faculty if DeSantis OKs Guardian Program expansion” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — New College of Florida is preparing to allow faculty and staff to carry firearms on campus if the state expands the Guardian Program to “enhance student, faculty, and staff safety.” The college announced its plans to participate in the program pending DeSantis’ signing of HB 757, which would extend the Guardian Program — long used in K-12 schools — to colleges and universities. Under the program, selected faculty and staff could voluntarily undergo extensive state-mandated training and serve in a limited defensive role alongside campus police. The Legislature approved the measure largely along party lines, with Republicans arguing the expansion strengthens campus security while Democrats raised concerns about allowing more firearms on campus.

— TOP OPINION —

“Miami, love and letdown” via David Catanese of Too Close To Call — Miami reveals itself as both spectacle and contradiction, where surface excess collides with moments of unexpected reflection. The city’s gaudy energy — traffic, noise and inflated prices — masks a deeper pull rooted in climate, culture and constant motion.

Despite its chaos, Miami remains magnetic, especially as a global hub for electronic music. The trip becomes a convergence of friendships across time, blending past and present into a shared, if imperfect, rhythm.

A waterfront lunch anchors the visit, where conversation turns inward. Discussions of aging, relationships, health and uncertainty unfold, revealing the quiet weight carried beneath outward success.

A sudden Miami rain interrupts but also reframes the moment — fleeting, intense and quickly gone — mirroring the city itself.

On South Beach, observation turns personal. Aging, desire and memory intersect, as fleeting attractions and past relationships blur into reflection on time’s passage.

The music scene delivers its own emotional arc, with immersive sets offering both escape and a sense of physical limits after days of travel and excess.

By the trip’s end, Miami leaves a familiar imprint: alluring yet hollow, a place of promise that ultimately gives way to acceptance and return.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Trump looks frantic” via David Frum of The Atlantic — Trump’s escalating rhetoric toward Iran, including threats to “destroy” the country, underscores a widening gap between military action and strategic clarity as the conflict enters its seventh week. While U.S. and Israeli forces control Iranian airspace, the administration faces mounting consequences, including a global energy crisis triggered by Iran’s response. Trump has issued repeated ultimatums and shifting deadlines, alternating between demands for “unconditional surrender” and signals of openness to negotiation. His statements, blending extreme threats with optimistic messaging, have drawn comparisons to historical wartime rhetoric and raised concerns about global stability. Despite projecting strength, the shifting posture suggests difficulty securing a resolution or face-saving diplomatic outcome.

“The spectacular rise and sudden fall of Pam Bondi” via the Orlando Sentinel and South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial boards — Bondi’s tenure as U.S. Attorney General is drawing sharp criticism following her exit, with detractors arguing her actions undermined the Department of Justice and the rule of law. Critics say Bondi prioritized political loyalty to Trump over constitutional obligations, pursuing cases against perceived political opponents while sidelining corruption prosecutions and prompting resignations among career attorneys. Her decisions, including limiting oversight of judicial nominees and proposing restrictions on state bar investigations, have fueled calls for professional accountability. Legal groups and prominent attorneys are preparing renewed complaints that could expose Bondi to disbarment proceedings in Florida. Her departure leaves behind a reshaped DOJ and raises concerns about continued politicization under potential successors.

“Even Southern states should worry about migration to Florida” via William Mattox of The Wall Street Journal — Florida’s expansive school-choice policies are drawing education-focused families from across the country, reshaping how the state markets itself and competes nationally. The experience of the Quigley family, who relocated from Washington after frustrations with lenient school standards, highlights the appeal of Florida’s scholarship programs that give parents control over education spending. Their children now use a mix of home education, specialized programs and public-school access, reflecting the flexibility Florida offers. More than 500,000 students participate in such programs, and many K-12 students attend options outside their zoned schools. As remote work enables mobility, Florida is actively recruiting families from states like Georgia and Mississippi, positioning education freedom as a key driver of migration and growth.

“A life tragically lost, but her ideals endure” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — A week has passed since the horrific death of Nancy Metayer Bowen, an admired leader in Broward County, the Vice Mayor of Coral Springs, and a rising young star in the Democratic Party. The shock of it all has only started to subside. Hundreds of people attended a candlelight vigil at Coral Springs City Hall last Friday. The vigils continued with another one on Tuesday night at a Commission meeting in Tamarac. Metayer Bowen was shot to death at her home on the night of March 31. The police quickly charged her husband with first-degree murder, in what police called a case of domestic violence with catastrophic consequences. She was 38 years old. In the space of a few years — she was elected in Coral Springs in 2020 and re-elected without opposition in 2024 — she emerged as a transformative leader with a boundless future. She was a political trailblazer who broke barriers. She reached across traditional lines of race, gender and geography as few people in politics can. She was the first Black woman and first Haitian American to serve in elected office in Coral Springs.

“Ingoglia’s disinformation campaign at local governments’ expense” via Flagler Live — Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia is facing sharp criticism over a series of statewide appearances targeting local government spending, including a recent stop in Flagler County. Ingoglia has accused counties of “overspending” using what he describes as “high-level” comparisons, but critics argue his methodology is overly simplistic and unsupported by detailed audits. They say his formula ignores key drivers such as rising property values, expanded public safety needs and emergency reserves in hurricane-prone regions. In Flagler, much of the budget growth stems from increases in sheriff, fire and emergency services, not wasteful spending. Opponents contend Ingoglia’s claims are politically motivated and risk misleading taxpayers about how local budgets function.

“The Jacksonville Jaguars stole Orlando — and now the jealous Tampa Bay Bucs are starting to pay attention” via Mike Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel — There’s an old saying about relationships: If you ignore someone long enough, eventually they’ll find somebody who won’t. Which brings us to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the city of Orlando and, suddenly, the Jacksonville Jaguars — the shiny, new team taking the City Beautiful out on the town in 2027. And make no mistake about it: The Bucs right now look a lot like the jealous husband who just realized the mistress he took for granted has moved on. The Jaguars’ huge announcement last week that they will play the entire 2027 season at Orlando’s Camping World Stadium while their own stadium is being massively renovated should be a celebratory moment — and it is. But it’s also something else: a flashing neon sign exposing how badly the Bucs have fumbled one of the most valuable untapped NFL markets in the country.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Seminole Hard Rock Tampa secures naming rights to Motor Enclave racetrack” via Anjelica Rubin of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — One of the region’s most recognizable hospitality brands is putting its name on a high-profile Tampa attraction. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa has secured naming rights to the Motor Enclave’s 1.72-mile racetrack at its 200-acre motorsports campus in Tampa. The track will officially rebrand as “Hard Rock Speedway,” executives first announced Saturday during the venue’s Cars & Coffee event. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The multiyear partnership with Seminole Hard Rock Tampa marks one of the most high-profile branding agreements to date for the Motor Enclave, which opened in 2024 and has positioned itself as a hybrid of luxury garages, private club amenities and experiential entertainment.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best birthday wishes to former Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, who is now with Ballard Partners. Also celebrating today are Miami Man and former “Meet the Press” moderator Chuck Todd, Jim Cordero of the Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida, Elizabeth Hirst, and Jesse Phillips.

___

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