Politics
Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 5.7.26
Good Thursday morning.
Capital City Consulting goes deeper in Palm Beach, names Todd Bonlarron Managing Partner — Nick Iarossi is doubling down on Palm Beach. Capital City Consulting is escalating its Palm Beach County operation with the hire of Bonlarron as Managing Partner — adding county-government heft to an office CCC opened with former State Attorney Dave Aronberg and veteran lobbyist Tom DeRita Jr. The hire continues CCC’s run of senior-level pickups this cycle.
Bonlarron joins after a 30-plus-year career in PBC government, most recently serving as Chief Deputy County Administrator and previously as Interim County Administrator, Assistant County Administrator, and the county’s Legislative Affairs Director for 15 years.
“Palm Beach County is the hottest county in Florida right now for business and wealth relocation,” said Iarossi, repeating the thesis he debuted when CCC opened the Palm Beach office. “After three decades in county government, no one knows how to maneuver in the county better than Todd.”
The blessing from inside the county government was unusually direct. “Todd brings a rare combination of experience, integrity, and practical business insight that will serve his clients and our community well for years to come,” said Palm Beach County Administrator Joseph Abruzzo, who called Bonlarron “someone I’ve trusted and relied on, always grounded, always focused on doing what’s right.”
In recognition of his service, the County Commission named the Green Cay water reuse education facility the Todd J. Bonlarron Green Cay Learning Center.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
Tweet, tweet:
—@SenRickScott: Unfortunately, this morning’s jobs numbers confirm what I have been sounding the alarm on for months, and what many Florida families are already feeling — Florida is falling behind on jobs. We’re losing tens of thousands of jobs every month and our unemployment is behind the national average AGAIN. Something needs to change. There needs to be a relentless focus on growing our economy, recruiting more job creators, and getting Florida BACK TO WORK.
Tweet, tweet:
—@RAlexAndrade: The Governor called me a jackass at a press conference after I discovered $10,000,000 in Medicaid $ was stolen. No one cared. It made voters question why @GovRonDeSantis was whining about it. Voters aren’t stupid, Governor. Pick fights at the expense of your own legacy.
—@cstegmaier: Assuming Ted Turner’s funeral will start at 7:05 p.m.
— DAYS UNTIL —
‘The Punisher: One Last Kill’ premieres on Disney+ — 5; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Dutton Ranch’ premieres — 8; French Open begins — 14; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 15; new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ premieres at Disney World — 15; Marvel’s ‘Spider-Noir’ arrives on Amazon Prime — 20; Rafa Nadal documentary ‘Rafa’ premieres on Netflix — 22; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 26; Florida Tech & Innovation Summit — 27; ‘Cape Fear’ series premieres on Apple TV — 29; ‘Masters of the Universe’ premieres — 29; 2026 Florida Chamber Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 32; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 32; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 35; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 36; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices — 36; Flag Day — 38; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 — 38; President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday — 38; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres — 43; ‘Supergirl’ premieres — 50; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 50; live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 55; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 58; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 63; MLB All-Star Game — 68; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 70; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 74; ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 85; ‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 90; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 91; Early voting period begins — 93; Primary Election Day — 103; NFL regular season kicks off — 125; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 126; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 127; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 131; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 135; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 140; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 147; General Election voter registration deadline — 151; Early Voting General Election begins — 170; General Election — 180; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 183; 2026 Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 188; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 197; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 225; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 225; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 225; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 263; Super Bowl LXI — 283; Tampa Mayoral Election — 299; 2027 Oscars — 311; Jacksonville First Election — 320; Jacksonville General Election — 376; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 394; ‘Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 456; ‘MIAMI VICE’ reboot premieres — 456; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 512; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 589; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 627; 2028 Oscars — 668; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 750; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 771; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 799; U.S. Presidential Election — 915; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 991; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,315; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,355; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,046.
— TOP STORY —
“Equal Ground asks court to block implementation of Florida’s new congressional map” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Attorneys challenging Florida’s new congressional map are asking a Leon County judge to block the plan from taking effect, arguing the districts were intentionally drawn to favor Republicans in violation of the Fair Districts amendment in the state Constitution. The lawsuit, filed by the Equal Ground Education Fund, claims the map signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis unlawfully disadvantages Democratic voters ahead of the 2026 Elections.
Lawyers with Democratic attorney Marc Elias’ law firm filed a motion for a temporary injunction, arguing there is “no serious dispute” that the map was crafted with partisan intent. Attorneys submitted a 63-page memo that they say documents both direct and circumstantial evidence that partisan considerations drove the redistricting process.
The challenge points to testimony from legislative staffer Jason Poreda, who acknowledged that partisan and electoral data were used while drawing district boundaries. Plaintiffs argue that conflicts with prior Florida Supreme Court guidance interpreting the Fair Districts amendment, a voter-approved constitutional provision adopted in 2010 that bars districts designed to favor political parties or incumbents.
State attorneys countered that a more recent Florida Supreme Court ruling weakening minority voting protections under the amendment suggests the court could ultimately strike down broader portions of the provision entirely. Equal Ground’s lawyers argued that the defense effectively acknowledges that mapmakers ignored constitutional restrictions while drawing the new lines.
The lawsuit also argues that the new map unnecessarily splits counties and cities while creating districts that are less compact than the 2022 plan it replaces. Plaintiffs claim Democratic voters were deliberately “packed” and “cracked” across districts to dilute their political influence statewide.
—2026 —
“Most major gubernatorial candidates say state should never legalize recreational marijuana” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Republican gubernatorial candidates Byron Donalds, James Fishback, Jay Collins and Paul Renner all say they oppose legalizing recreational cannabis in Florida, even after nearly 56% of Floridians voted for it on the November 2024 ballot — short of the 60% required for passage. Democrat David Jolly is the exception, telling the Phoenix, “I think the Governor’s role is to represent the majority of the state, and the majority of the state asked for it, and I think that we should do it.” Jolly says he actually voted against Amendment 3 in 2024 but pledged to introduce legislatively any amendment that got more than 50%. Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings’ camp did not respond.
Byron Donalds leans into POTUS endorsement in new ad — The Donalds’ campaign is running a new ad, titled “Fighter,” that highlights his Trump endorsement and emphasizes his record on lowering taxes. The ad will run on streaming and online platforms. The ad features clips of Trump saying, “A man who never stops fighting for the state of Florida. I know it. He is a fighter. Byron Donalds. … This guy is going to be a great Governor.” A campaign press release announcing the ad also touted endorsements from, in addition to Trump’s endorsement, Donald Trump Jr., Charlie Kirk, Elon Musk, U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, dozens of Florida sheriffs, U.S. House leadership and 17 members of Florida’s congressional delegation.
Donalds unveils plan to make Florida the ‘most transparent government in America’ — During the latest stop on his statewide tour, U.S. Rep. Donalds outlined a sweeping government transparency and accountability proposal designed to make Florida the “most transparent government in America.” “Florida taxpayers are the owners of the government, and they deserve to see exactly how their money is being spent,” Donalds said. “Under my administration, we will protect every tax dollar by making Florida the Most Transparent Government in America.” The proposal would require local governments to upload contracts and spending data into a searchable statewide system modeled after Florida’s existing financial transparency infrastructure.
“In Orlando, Donalds criticizes Jerry Demings, supports redistricting” via Silas Morgan of the Orlando Sentinel — Donalds sharply criticized Orange County Mayor Demings, his possible rival for Governor, saying Demings represents a brand of politics driving newly arrived Floridians out of their home states. Donalds also backed the new congressional maps signed into law by DeSantis, saying past racial discrimination in elections against Black and Hispanic voters no longer exists. “Why would we have somebody lead our state who agrees with a Kathy Hochul in New York … or agrees with a Gavin Newsom of California,” Donalds said. On the new map breaking up a majority-Hispanic District represented by Democratic U.S. Rep. Darren Soto: “I think they don’t have a leg to stand on except that they’re upset that now they can’t racially gerrymander in order to maintain Democratic political power.”
Paul Renner takes aim at ‘soaring electric costs’ — Gubernatorial candidate Renner, during a news conference, addressed “skyrocketing electricity costs” that are driving the state’s “affordability crisis.” The event featured a roundtable where Tampa Bay-area residents shared personal accounts on how rising housing costs, growing property taxes, and climbing utility bills are stymieing their ability to get ahead. They also pointed out that Florida’s regulatory structure allows utilities to earn guaranteed profits based on how much they spend on delivering electricity, rather than on how efficiently they operate. “If that seems backward, it’s because it is,” Renner said. “Utilities are rewarded for spending more, instead of saving customers money.”
— MORE ELECTIONS —
“Redistricting shuffle: Leela Gray doubles down on CD 13 bid” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Retired Brig. Gen. Gray says she will continue her campaign in Florida’s 13th Congressional District despite a newly approved congressional map she argues was designed to help Republicans. Gray accused leaders in Washington and Tallahassee of illegally gerrymandering districts to protect incumbent Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna from a competitive race centered on affordability concerns. The revised map removes heavily Democratic areas of southern Pinellas County from the District while adding portions of neighboring territory. Gray said the redraw will not change voter frustration over rising insurance, housing, gas and grocery costs. Her campaign reported raising about $564,000 during the first quarter and highlighted endorsements from Rep. Kathy Castor, EMILY’s List and veterans groups.
“Harvey Shifrin jumps into HD 72 contest, setting up Democratic Primary against Luther Wilkins” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Shifrin is entering the race for House District 72, setting up a Democratic Primary contest against Wilkins. Shifrin was previously a candidate for the Manatee County School Board in the current election cycle but withdrew his candidacy on April 30. According to a mid-April post in the Education Matters in Manatee County Facebook page, citing a previous press release, Shifrin is a lawyer and certified public accountant with decades of experience in law and finance. He also worked with elementary and middle school students for 27 years through the Odyssey of the Mind and Destination Imagination programs.
“Donald Trump endorses ‘MAGA Meg’ Weinberger for re-election” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — Trump threw his support behind state Rep. Weinberger, calling the Republican lawmaker an “America First Patriot” and giving her his “complete and total endorsement” for re-election to Florida’s 94th House District. In a post on his Truth Social, Trump praised Weinberger’s alignment with his agenda and her work in the Florida House. “State Representative ‘MAGA’ Meg Weinberger is an America First Patriot who is doing an incredible job representing Florida’s 94th State House District!” Trump wrote.
— STATEWIDE —
“‘Structural advantage’: Ron DeSantis revels in visibility edge over lawmakers” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis says Florida’s political structure gives Governors a major advantage over lawmakers because most voters know little about their individual legislators. Speaking during an interview with the Hoover Institution, DeSantis argued that Republican voters are far more familiar with the Governor than with rank-and-file legislators, making it politically risky for lawmakers to oppose him publicly. DeSantis said he uses a “bottom-up” strategy by traveling the state, promoting issues directly to voters and encouraging constituents to pressure legislators to support his agenda. The Governor has frequently challenged legislative leaders on issues including congressional redistricting and has publicly criticized House Speaker Daniel Perez. DeSantis also highlighted former lawmakers elevated into statewide appointed positions, including Collins and Blaise Ingoglia.
“Months after pitching homestead property tax repeal, DeSantis still ‘running studies’ on how it will work” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis says his administration is still studying how to implement a proposed repeal of Florida’s homestead property taxes, signaling the plan could be rolled out gradually rather than all at once. Speaking at the Hoover Institution, DeSantis said the proposal is “doable” but acknowledged the state must determine how to replace lost local government revenue, including potential funding for fiscally constrained counties. Administration officials have suggested the plan could phase in over one to six years. Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia recently referenced a possible six-year “glide path,” while Lt. Gov. Collins discussed a shorter timeline. Any proposal would require legislative approval and support from at least 60% of voters statewide.
“DeSantis blasts SPLC as ‘race-neutral’ map faces second liberal legal challenge” via Michelle Vecerina of Florida’s Voice — DeSantis welcomed a second legal challenge to Florida’s new “race-neutral” congressional map Wednesday, mocking the involvement of a prominent left-leaning advocacy group. In a social media post highlighting the new litigation, DeSantis noted that the plaintiffs are represented by lawyers from the Southern Poverty Law Center, or SPLC. “Glad to see the SPLC is not on our side!” DeSantis posted on X, alongside an image of the legal filing. Legal efforts seek to dismantle a map that DeSantis signed into law with the message “Signed, Sealed, and Delivered,” arguing the lines constitute an illegal partisan gerrymander.
“State seeks to remove judge in case pitting DeSantis against Muslim group” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida — Florida attorneys are asking the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to remove U.S. District Judge Mark Walker from a lawsuit challenging DeSantis’ executive order labeling the Council on American-Islamic Relations a terrorist organization. Lawyers for Attorney General James Uthmeier argued Walker has shown “long-standing hostility” toward DeSantis and cannot fairly oversee the case. The appeal follows Walker’s March injunction blocking the order, which barred CAIR from receiving government contracts or benefits. Walker ruled the order likely violated First Amendment protections and accused the state of choosing “political posturing” over constitutional rights. State attorneys say Walker’s repeated criticism of Florida officials demonstrates bias and warrants reassignment of the case to another federal judge.
“A secret ICE directive is testing one of Florida’s strongest traditions: open government” via Monique O. Madan of the Florida Trib — A new directive from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), issued in secrecy, bars local law enforcement agencies across Florida from answering questions about their role in immigration enforcement, raising concerns about transparency and whether public records are being lawfully observed. The directive, emailed to hundreds of participating Florida and Texas agencies, says “information obtained or developed” through a 287(g) arrangement — including any document created by local law enforcement — is “under the control of ICE” and cannot be released without federal approval. That secrecy arguably applies to the written directive itself, which was initially obtained on a background-only basis from several Florida police departments, out of fear of retaliation from federal authorities.
“The scorched scenes showing how Florida’s wildfire seasons could look in the future” via Kylie Williams of POLITICO — Florida could be on track for a record-shattering year of wildfires after nearly 2,000 blazes have scorched the state so far, fueled by the state’s most intense drought in decades. Forty-nine of Florida’s 67 counties have instituted burn bans. “Typical year, we have [2,200] to 2,400 fires in a whole year, and we’re almost there already,” Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan said. “And we’re just now coming into May.” The Highway 41 Fire burned less than 30 miles from “Alligator Alcatraz” — the detention center has a “compress and shift” evacuation plan and nearly executed it earlier this year, FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie said: “We had buses on the ground … about 15 different buses to do a full evacuation of that facility.”
“Florida university leaders appeal ruling blocking arbitration limits” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida — Florida university leaders are appealing a federal judge’s ruling that struck down part of a 2023 state law limiting professors’ ability to challenge employment decisions through arbitration. Attorneys for the state university system’s Board of Governors and the University of Florida Board of Trustees filed notice they will take the case to the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals after U.S. District Judge Walker ruled the law conflicts with the Federal Arbitration Act. Walker found the law improperly barred arbitration in disputes involving evaluations, promotions, tenure, discipline and termination decisions. The lawsuit was filed by the United Faculty of Florida and its university chapters, which argued the law violated collective bargaining agreements. Separate legal challenges to the law also remain pending in Florida state courts.
“Amid NIL tumult, Florida mulls regulating college sports agents” via Jim Turner of News Service of Florida — Florida officials want tighter state oversight of college sports agents as more student athletes score endorsement deals — and in some cases, get burned on them. Possibilities include capping agent commissions, adding new registration requirements and charging fees to prove agents are legitimate. Nearly 70% of agents operating in Florida — 470 of 686 — registered since 2021, when the NCAA opened the door for NIL. NFL agent fees are capped at 3% and the NBA’s at 4%, but Florida officials say agents are sometimes taking 20% or more. “I can promise you, it is not 20% — and that is what is happening in some cases,” said Rob Higgins, the University of South Florida’s CEO of athletics.
“Blaise Ingoglia announces arrest in $2.8M SNAP fraud scheme” via Kennedy Owens of Florida’s Voice — Ingoglia announced the arrest of a man accused of orchestrating a multimillion-dollar public assistance fraud scheme involving federal food benefits. According to the Department of Financial Services, Abbas Rehman was arrested on April 30 after an investigation by the agency’s Criminal Investigations Division into alleged fraud targeting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Investigators said Rehman carried out multiple identity fraud schemes, including submitting fraudulent merchant applications and manipulating bank deposit information using the stolen identities of four retailers authorized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Authorities allege the scheme resulted in the theft of about $2.88 million in SNAP funds.
“State, federal lawmakers call for ban on endangered marine species capture after 2025 manta ray controversy” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — A bipartisan group is urging the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to postpone a vote on tightening restrictions on giant manta ray capture and instead pursue a full prohibition. Signatories include U.S. Rep. Brian Mast, state Sens. Don Gaetz, Ileana Garcia and Jason Pizzo, plus more than a dozen House members. “While we recognize this proposal as a marginal step in the right direction from the current allowances, it remains fundamentally inconsistent with the Commission’s responsibility to conserve and protect Florida’s marine wildlife,” the letter reads. The issue came to light after a video showed Dynasty Marine Associates capturing a giant manta ray off Panama City Beach for Sea World Abu Dhabi. Florida is the only state that allows the harvest of the species.
New and renewed lobby registrations
Brian Ballard, Adrian Lukis, Scott Wagner, Ballard Partners: Fisher Island Club
Brian Bautista, David Browning, Anna DeCerchio, Mercer Fearington, The Southern Group: Hillwood
Slater Bayliss, John Schrader, The Advocacy Partners: Classic Learning Initiatives
Rob Bradley, Oak Strategies: BusPatrol America
Chip Case, SKB Consulting Group: VOOP
Rosanna Catalano, Arrow Group Consulting: Elite Care Group
Liam Connell: Florida Authors and Publishers Association
Alex Cronin: Department of Environmental Protection
James Daughton, Douglas Bell, Anna DePaolo, Leslie Dughi, Allison Liby-Schoonover, Aimee Lyon, Andrew Palmer, Karl Rasmussen, Metz Husband & Daughton: OFFOR Health
Edward Metzger III: Captiva Erosion Prevention District
Jessica Melkun: Florida Wildlife Federation
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Poll suggests businesses should engage Trump on policy more” via Daniel Barnes and Jacob Wendler of POLITICO — Speaking out against the Trump administration on policy differences may not be as risky as corporate leaders think, according to a new poll from the Public Affairs Council and Morning Consult. Forty percent of adults said businesses have an ethical responsibility to speak out against major policy shifts they disagree with, while only 16% said businesses should actively support the administration. “Businesses, you don’t have to run scared,” PAC President and CEO Nneka Chiazor said, pointing to Costco’s lawsuit against the administration over tariff refunds. “Costco did not run scared of talking about why they would stick to their values. And I know based on this data that that’s what Americans want to hear more of.”
—”Lobbyists bracing to blitz Capitol Hill in post-recess sprint” via Kate Ackley of Bloomberg Government
“Marco Rubio heads to Italy as Trump feuds with Pope Leo XIV” via Daniella Cheslow and Giselle Ruhiyyih Ewing of POLITICO — Secretary of State Rubio takes off today to meet Pope Leo and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at a time when the U.S. role in global conflict has strained ties with both. Trump said Monday the Pope was “endangering a lot of Catholics” and “thinks it’s just fine for Iran to have a nuclear weapon.” A senior Vatican official, Rev. Antonio Spadaro, told POLITICO the trip “was born out of a crisis, and is designed to manage its fallout. On one side, Rubio extends a hand and tries to bring the confrontation back to an institutional register; on the other, Trump blows through the diplomatic ceiling his own administration is trying to rebuild.”
—”Trump lashes out at Pope Leo again ahead of Rubio trip to Rome” via Anthony Faiola of The Washington Post
“FDA blocked publication of research finding COVID and shingles vaccines were safe” via Christina Jewett of The New York Times — Officials at the Food and Drug Administration have blocked publication of several studies supporting the safety of widely used vaccines against COVID-19 and shingles in recent months, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services confirmed. The studies, which cost millions of dollars in public funds, were conducted by scientists at the agency, who worked with data firms to analyze millions of patient records. They found serious side effects to be very rare. In October, the scientists were directed to withdraw two COVID-19 vaccine studies that had been accepted for publication in medical journals. Aaron S. Kesselheim, a Harvard medical professor who studies FDA regulation, suggested that the request to pull the papers was an act of “censorship.”
“Howard Lutnick admits to having prolonged ties to Epstein in closed-door interview” via Hailey Fuchs and Ali Bianco of POLITICO — For reasons he said were “inexplicable,” Lutnick acknowledged visiting Epstein’s island seven years after he claimed to have severed his relationship with the convicted sex offender, according to lawmakers present for the Commerce Secretary’s closed-door testimony Wednesday. The acknowledgment, however, did not satisfy Democrats on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee participating in Wednesday’s interview with Lutnick as part of the panel’s ongoing investigation into Epstein’s crimes and the powerful people in his orbit.
—”James Comer says Lutnick ‘wasn’t 100% truthful’ about being on Epstein’s island ahead of interview” via Sudiksha Kochi of The Hill
“Kash Patel’s personalized bourbon stash” via Sarah Fitzpatrick of The Atlantic — Patel has given out bottles of his personalized whiskey to FBI staff and civilians he encounters in his duties. The bottles bear the imprint of Woodford Reserve and are engraved with “Kash Patel, FBI director” and an FBI shield. He and his team have transported the whiskey on a DOJ plane, including to Milan during the February Olympics, where one was left behind in a locker room. In March, Patel brought at least one case to a Quantico “training seminar” where UFC athletes provided MMA instruction to aspiring agents. When a bottle went missing, the director “lost his mind,” according to clients of Kurt Siuzdak, a retired agent who counsels FBI whistleblowers. “It turned into a shitshow,” Siuzdak said.
“ICE to end shortened training programs after criticism” via Ryan Mancini of The Hill — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is planning to end its shortened training programs intended to release new officers into the field sooner, multiple outlets reported. Two Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials told The Washington Post that ICE will revert to 72 days of training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia. The accelerated program implemented last Fall was 42 days. The change is underway after ICE completed a hiring surge that more than doubled the number of immigration officers to 22,000, the officials told The Post.
— LOCAL: S. FL —
“Ken Griffin ‘doubling down’ on Miami, expanding office space in Brickell tower” via Catherine Odom of the Miami Herald — Ken Griffin, the hedge fund CEO who has positioned himself as Miami’s hometown billionaire, is “doubling down” on South Florida. Griffin said in a CNBC interview that he’s planning to add hundreds of thousands of square feet of office space to the new Citadel headquarters in Brickell, on top of the planned 1,049-foot tower at 1201 Brickell Bay Dr., which will be one of Miami’s tallest buildings when completed. Griffin said the decision came in response to New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s proposed tax on second homes worth more than $5 million, which Mamdani promoted with a video shot in front of Griffin’s roughly $238 million Midtown Manhattan penthouse. Griffin called the video “creepy and weird.” During remarks at the Milken Institute Global Conference, Griffin said Mamdani’s New York “doesn’t welcome success” and that the Mayor’s video and policies are “triggering the trauma” he “went through in Chicago.”
“Miami-Dade eyes $25M spending bump to finish upgrading Metrobus shelters in UMSA” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A Miami-Dade County initiative to add shelters to passenger stops along Metrobus routes in the Unincorporated Municipal Service Area (UMSA) needs about $25 million more to finish, and Commissioners will soon weigh spending it. The County Commission’s Transportation Committee will consider a resolution next week to authorize $24.98 million in halfpenny funds for 500 additional shelters, to be paid to Outfront Media Group, which has installed 717 shelters across UMSA since 2020. The expansion would push covered-stop coverage from 67% to roughly 89% of the area’s 2,304 bus stops. “The remaining 247 locations do not meet installation criteria due to right of way limitations, physical constraints or insufficient ridership,” County COO Jimmy Morales said.
“Miami-Dade Schools relaunches school bus camera program” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Miami-Dade County Public Schools is announcing the relaunch of the school bus camera safety program administered by BusPatrol, marking a renewed and coordinated effort to protect students at bus stops across the county. On April 22, the School Board unanimously voted to restart the program. The program, one of the largest in the nation, uses artificial intelligence stop-arm camera technology installed on nearly 1,000 school buses to detect drivers who illegally pass stopped buses while children are boarding or exiting. “This initiative is focused on ensuring we are doing everything possible to protect children during one of the most vulnerable times of their day, while making certain the process is fair, accountable, and transparent,” said Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz.
“Fort Lauderdale City Manager on rocky ground after Commission bosses say no to raise” via Susannah Bryan of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — City Managers come and go, but those who keep their bosses happy stay awhile. Tuesday night, it was clear that Rickelle Williams has not done that in her first year as the top boss at Fort Lauderdale City Hall. Williams, 40, started off by proudly touting her accomplishments at the start of her job performance review, but soon found herself under fire from three of her five Commission bosses. The two-hour discussion grew increasingly tense, with her supporters shouting in protest as Mayor Dean Trantalis and Commissioners John Herbst and Steve Glassman critiqued Williams and her first year on the job. Trantalis faulted Williams for not sharing key information with the Commission.
“Broward judge reprimanded by Supreme Court for serving as lawyer for a friend” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Broward County Judge Woody Clermont stood before the Florida Supreme Court to take what was coming to him — a public reprimand for showing up in another judge’s courtroom to serve as a lawyer for a friend facing a domestic violence accusation. The incident took place on April 11, 2025. According to the Judicial Qualifications Commission, which polices judicial misconduct and recommends penalties to the Supreme Court, Clermont spoke to prosecutors on his friend’s behalf and told the presiding judge he was appearing as counsel. His actions violated rules against judges appearing as counsel and “lending the prestige of office” to sway cases in which they are not involved.
“Palm Beach School Board breaks District-union impasse with 3.5% teacher pay raise” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Palm Beach County educators secured a larger pay raise than District administrators wanted this week after School Board members sided with the teachers’ union in a closely watched labor dispute stretching back months. In a 6-1 vote during an impasse hearing, the School Board approved a 3.5% salary increase for teachers, rejecting a proposal from Superintendent Mike Burke for a smaller, recurring raise combined with a one-time bonus. Special Magistrate Michael Whelan had recommended the compromise figure. “Our teachers are our most valuable assets,” said School Board member Matthew Jay Lane, who made the motion. “We have an obligation to provide them with the compensation they need and that they deserve.”
—”Palm Beach School Board approves 3.5% teacher raises, siding with union” via Scott Travis of the Sun-Sentinel
‘Operations Guru’ Mario Guzman enters District 6 race for Palm Beach County Commission via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — After more than 25 years in local government, Guzman is running for elected office. He filed paperwork this week to run for the District 6 seat on the Palm Beach County Commission, where he plans to bring a “results-driven approach” to governance with reliable services, safe neighborhoods and a strong return on investment for taxpayer dollars. “I’ve spent my career making governments work better — cutting through red tape, fixing problems, and delivering results,” he said in a statement. A Democrat and longtime Royal Palm Beach resident, Guzman hopes to unseat first-term Republican Commissioner Sara Baxter. He has ample public-sector experience to lean on.
“Navy terminates Key West Mole Pier lease after months of growing tension over a lack of cruise revenue repairs” via Ted Lund of Above the Fold — The U.S. Navy has formally terminated the City of Key West’s lease for the outer Mole Pier at Naval Air Station Key West, ending the agreement Aug. 3 amid a growing dispute over cruise ship revenue and infrastructure obligations. Critics fear the Navy could negotiate directly with a private operator, potentially reopening the door to larger cruise ships at the federally controlled pier — outside the reach of the “One Ship Policy” the City Commission unanimously adopted in 2022. Commissioner and mayoral candidate Sam Kaufman: “The people of Key West have been very clear about their expectations when it comes to cruise ship activity. Any proposal that moves in that direction needs to be fully transparent, carefully reviewed, and consistent with the will of our community.”
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Deltona Commissioner says fellow official threatened, touched her” via Sheldon Gardner of Daytona Beach News-Journal — Deltona Commissioner Emma Santiago accused Commissioner Dori Howington of touching her without consent and making her feel threatened following a contentious May 4 City Commission meeting. The Volusia Sheriff’s Office submitted a report to the State Attorney’s Office to decide whether to prosecute. The tensions began after Santiago questioned whether Howington’s job as chief financial officer at the Volusia County Clerk of Courts was a conflict of interest. When Santiago made her request, “Howington mumbled, ‘I’m going to get that bitch,’ which was overheard by Mayor (Santiago) Avila,” according to the Sheriff’s report. Later, Santiago said Howington touched her shoulder during a confrontation the next day at City Hall. Howington declined to comment in the report.
“The scorched scenes showing how Florida’s wildfire seasons could look in the future” via Kylie Williams of POLITICO — Florida could be on track for a record-shattering year of wildfires after nearly 2,000 blazes have scorched the state so far, fueled by the state’s most intense drought in decades. Forty-nine of Florida’s 67 counties have instituted burn bans. “Typical year, we have [2,200] to 2,400 fires in a whole year, and we’re almost there already,” Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan said. “And we’re just now coming into May.” The Highway 41 Fire burned less than 30 miles from “Alligator Alcatraz” — the detention center has a “compress and shift” evacuation plan and nearly executed it earlier this year, FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie said: “We had buses on the ground … about 15 different buses to do a full evacuation of that facility.”
“Disney leaders optimistic about theme parks despite attendance dip” via DeWayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel — Disney’s theme parks in Florida and California recorded a 1% drop in attendance but a 5% gain in revenue in The Walt Disney Co.’s second financial quarter. Bookings for the second half of the fiscal year are strong. “Disney World bookings are pacing up strongly,” Chief Financial Officer Hugh Johnston said. “However, we’re mindful of the macro uncertainty consumers are facing, and we’re not immune to the impacts, including how a significant further rise in fuel prices from current levels could eventually lead to changes in consumer behavior.” Revenue for Disney’s Experiences segment was $9.5 billion for the quarter ending March 28, up 7% from a year earlier.
“‘Powerful accelerant’: Josh D’Amaro discusses how AI technology could be used at Disney theme parks” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Disney is turning to artificial intelligence to help Disney World guests plan vacations, give personalized recommendations for Disney+ shows and forecast labor demand at its theme parks. Disney CEO D’Amaro called technology “a real powerful accelerant for Disney” on the earnings call, where second-quarter earnings beat Wall Street expectations and operating income for Disney Experiences jumped 5% to $2.6 billion. “We’re using AI to reduce the complexities around planning and booking a trip and trying to make that whole experience specifically tailored to what our guests want most,” D’Amaro told investors. Park attendance dipped 1% at Disney’s California and Florida parks in the first quarter, but executives expect improvement as excitement around Universal’s Epic Universe wanes.
“Orange County’s March tourist-tax collections ‘rewrote the record books’” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — March is almost always good for tourism in Central Florida, but it was never as fabulous as it was this year. Comptroller Phil Diamond — whose office tracks Orange County’s tourist tax, widely seen as a barometer of the regional tourism market — indicated this week that receipts would continue the surge that began last April. He texted one word to a reporter asking about the numbers: “Blockbuster.” Diamond later confirmed that March “didn’t just set a new monthly high — it rewrote the record books.” Collections for March 2026 totaled $42.9 million, topping the previous one-month high of $40.5 million set in March 2024 — a 6.8% jump over March 2025.
“Florida Poly reaches student housing capacity as growth continues” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Florida Polytechnic University’s campus housing has reached maximum capacity for the upcoming school year. Students seeking housing are being placed on a waitlist while the University evaluates immediate and long-term solutions to support its rapid growth. The capacity issue comes as Florida Poly has seen a 39% increase in student net deposits, which secure students’ place in the university, compared to this time last year. “Our growth is a direct result of the vision set by state leadership to expand opportunity in high-impact fields,” Florida Poly Board of Trustees Chair Beth Kigel said of the state’s flagship STEM-only institution.
— LOCAL: TB —
“After devastating marine lab fire, lawmakers, donors rally around USF” via Max Chesnes and Lucy Marques of the Tampa Bay Times — When state Rep. Lindsay Cross stood outside the charred University of South Florida Marine Science Lab, she saw striking juxtapositions of a once-humming research college: Singed metal and murky water stains alongside an unscathed yellow kayak and a bicycle still locked to a rack. It’s been four days since a blaze engulfed the research center in downtown St. Petersburg, and Cross is among the Pinellas County lawmakers vowing to secure funding for its rebuild. The college announced Wednesday that the USF Foundation was starting the Marine Science Operating Fund. “We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support we’ve received,” said Tom Frazer, the college’s dean.
“Packed house greets Tampa Rays stadium proposal debate” via Nina Moske of the Tampa Bay Times — Tampa officials and residents packed a lengthy City Council workshop to debate the Tampa Bay Rays’ proposed $2.3 billion stadium project, with supporters calling it a transformational investment and critics warning about neighborhood impacts and public spending. Rays executives outlined plans for a new stadium while acknowledging many funding details remain unresolved, including who would cover bond interest costs tied to more than $1 billion in proposed public subsidies. City officials said funding could come from redevelopment dollars and Hillsborough County’s Community Investment Tax, though negotiations remain ongoing. Community leaders, police and fire unions, neighborhood advocates and other local groups voiced a mix of enthusiasm and concern about the fast-moving proposal. Rays CEO Ken Babby said the team hopes to finalize a memorandum of understanding with local governments this month.
—”Ken Babby warns Tampa that the clock is ticking on Rays ballpark negotiations” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“Dot Inman-Johnson announces bid for Tallahassee City Commission” via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — Former Tallahassee Mayor Inman-Johnson is making another attempt to return to the City Commission, filing to run for City Commission Seat 5 — the one Dianne Williams-Cox currently holds. “I’m not willing to let Dianne Williams-Cox be re-elected without a meaningful challenge,” Inman-Johnson said. “City Hall is in disarray; it’s clear we are going to need stability and ethical leadership in Seat 5 to guide our city through this interim period.” Last cycle, she narrowly lost to Commissioner Curtis Richardson by 50.71% to 49.29%. The race will have a personal edge: during the 2020 naming ceremony of Dot Inman-Johnson Park at Kleman Plaza, Williams-Cox praised Inman-Johnson, whom she called her “big sister” and “mentor.”
“New AI gun detection tool leads to arrest at FSU parking garage” via Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — A new law enforcement tool that uses AI to identify firearms led to the arrest of a teen after he was caught brandishing a gun at FSU, police said. Tyler Farmer, 19, was charged with possession of a firearm on school grounds, improper carrying of a concealed firearm, improper display of a firearm, and grand theft of a firearm. Florida State University police responded to the St. Augustine Parking Garage on May 2 in reference to a “ZeroEyes camera notification,” according to court records. The system works by integrating with existing security technology to analyze live feeds and detect any firearms. After a check of the firearm’s serial number, it turned out the gun was stolen out of Miller County, Georgia.
“North Florida Land Trust officials broker deal for 500-acre land protection in Putnam County” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The North Florida Land Trust (NFLT) is continuing its conservation acquisition push with a deal covering more than 500 acres in Putnam County. NFLT partnered with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) on conservation easements totaling 518 acres within the Ocala to Osceola (O2O) Wildlife Corridor, valued at about $1.18 million. The tract is surrounded on three sides by the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake George conservation area. While NFLT brokered the deal, the DEP purchased the land using funding from the Florida Forever Program, which has acquired more than 1 million acres for protection since 2000.
— LOCAL: SW. FL —
“Sarasota County may ask voters for tax hike to fund roads” via Earle Kimel of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Sarasota County’s priority transportation goals can be broken down into seven projects, ranging from a hurricane evacuation route for Englewood to extending Lorraine Road north to Fruitville Road, with a projected cost of $322 million. Sarasota County must still find about $26.5 million to upgrade that hurricane evacuation route, known as the River Road Regional Interstate Connector. But Sarasota County Commissioners learned at a transportation workshop that the county may be $1.77 billion short in revenue to cover $2 billion in long-range transportation needs — something that could prompt them to ask voters to approve a dedicated half-cent sales increase as soon as the 2028 General Election.
“Collier County teacher pay finalized as Board slams union ‘circus’” via Mickenzie Hannon of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — The Collier County School Board voted 5-0 Wednesday, May 6 to formally adopt a teacher salary package for the 2025-26 school year. The decision ends a labor dispute that reached a formal impasse after eight months of failed negotiations between the District and the Collier County Education Association (CCEA).
— TOP OPINION —
“Florida bro-flakes. They’re angry, loud, entitled and convinced they’re victims” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida’s political culture is increasingly being shaped by grievance-driven identity politics centered on claims that White Americans, particularly White men, are being unfairly marginalized. Critics describe the rise of “bro-flakes” — loud, entitled conservatives who reject discussions about racial inequality while portraying themselves as victims — as moving from social media into mainstream Florida politics.
DeSantis is presented as a leading figure in that shift through policies targeting diversity, equity and inclusion programs and efforts to reshape discussions about race and history. His comments describing White males as a “disfavored” group in America are highlighted as part of a broader political strategy rooted in cultural resentment and opposition to dissenting perspectives.
Attorney General Uthmeier is also criticized for challenging diversity hiring efforts and pursuing policies opponents say weaken oversight of inequality and discrimination. Meanwhile, gubernatorial candidate Fishback has drawn attention for rhetoric tied to Christian nationalism and attacks on minorities and Jewish Americans, reflecting how increasingly divisive messaging is gaining traction among some conservative voters.
The broader warning is that years of political “othering” aimed at minority communities have normalized resentment politics in Florida. While legitimate debates over diversity initiatives exist, critics argue the current climate is driven less by honest policy disagreements than by efforts to silence opposing viewpoints and inflame cultural division.
— MORE OPINIONS —
“The Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act. Here’s how to fix it” via Michael Li for Florida Politics — The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais represents a dramatic turning point for voting rights and fair representation in America, threatening decades of progress achieved through the Voting Rights Act. The ruling effectively allows states to defend racially discriminatory voting maps by claiming partisan motivations, even where race and politics are deeply intertwined. The consequences could extend beyond congressional districts to local School Boards, City Councils and community representation. Southern states are already moving to redraw districts that gave Black and Latino voters greater political influence. Congress still has the power to ban partisan gerrymandering and modernize the Voting Rights Act. With another Census approaching, protecting representative democracy has become increasingly urgent.
“This is our time to unite the United States” via Monesia ‘Mone’ Brown for Florida Politics — Spring celebrations, graduation milestones and shared community experiences offer a reminder that Americans still crave connection during an era dominated by division and political hostility. A simple dance showcase became a reflection on how strangers can still unite through joy, pride and common purpose. The fleeting national relief following a recent security scare at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner underscored how rare collective unity has become in modern public life. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, there is an opportunity to recommit to the principles of equality, liberty and shared humanity that shaped America’s founding. Genuine optimism, civic pride and everyday acts of empathy may be the strongest tools available to rebuild common ground.
“The big question lurking beneath the AI debate” via Derek Thompson — In April 2025, Arvind Narayanan and Sayash Kapoor published an essay entitled “AI as Normal Technology,” arguing that AI was a general-purpose technology in the lineage of electricity, the car, and the internet. The “normal” essay is simply one of the best and wisest pieces of writing I’ve seen about AI. But what if it’s wrong? Taking the other side of the debate is a phalanx of technologists, philosophers, and writers who believe that AI is on a glide path toward superintelligence. Anthropic cofounder Jack Clark has written that the RSI threshold has a 60% chance of arriving by 2028. Cars changed the world, after all. But they did not transform themselves into fighter jets and coronaviruses.
“Why your best ideas aren’t original” via David Epstein and Derek Thompson — In 1798, Thomas Malthus published “An Essay on the Principle of Population,” in which he claimed that population growth would inevitably outstrip the food supply and doom human civilization to cycles of poverty and mass death. But Malthus’ essay was not merely wrong. It was usefully wrong. Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace co-invented one of the most radical and significant theories in scientific history by drawing on lessons from the same economic essay. The sociologist Robert Merton called this phenomenon “multiple discovery.” Most breakthroughs in science and art are born as twins and triplets. You don’t need the right answer to unlock a breakthrough. You need a frame precise enough that the right answer becomes findable.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— ALOE —
“‘The Bear’ gets premiere date for fifth — and last — season on FX and Hulu” via Rick Porter of The Hollywood Reporter — FX has confirmed that season five of The Bear will mark the end of the Emmy-winning drama, with all eight episodes premiering June 25 on Hulu and airing weekly on FX through early August. The final season picks up after Carmy, played by Jeremy Allen White, exits the restaurant business, leaving Sydney, Richie and Natalie to keep the struggling operation alive while pursuing a Michelin star. The announcement follows the surprise release of a prequel episode centered on Richie and Mikey, written by Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Jon Bernthal. Series creator Christopher Storer returns to direct the final season, which promises to focus on teamwork, survival and the relationships that define the restaurant.
“New College to receive Berlin Wall segments in major historical donation” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Philanthropist Jack Jawitz is donating multiple original segments of the Berlin Wall — from the rarely seen East German side — to New College of Florida, anchoring programming on free speech, Cold War history and civic discourse stretching into 2027. “These authentic segments of the Berlin Wall are witnesses to the horrors of communism,” New College President Richard Corcoran said. “May the Wall remind us what happens when speech is silenced, dissent is punished, and ideology is enforced by force.” The college hosted Reagan speechwriter Peter Robinson on May 5 and is planning events tied to the 39th and 40th anniversaries of “Tear Down This Wall.” New College says the segments will form one of the largest collections of East German wall remnants in the world.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Happy birthday to INFLUENCE Magazine Creative Director Christy Jennings Ploch, Jennifer Edwards, Jeff Howell, former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz, and former U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch.
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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.