Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 6.16.26

Good Tuesday morning.

The Southern Group is expanding its Central Florida team with the addition of Julian Cintron to the firm’s Orlando office.

An Orlando native and former legislative staffer, Cintron will focus on local government advocacy, helping clients navigate policy, economic development, land-use and infrastructure issues before City Councils, County Commissions and regional governing bodies.

“Building out our local advocacy bench across the state has been a deliberate focus for us, and we’ve made it a priority to have the right people in the right markets,” said Rachel Cone, Senior Managing Partner at The Southern Group. “Julian is exactly the kind of addition we need to help grow our local advocacy practice in Central Florida.”

Before joining The Southern Group, Cintron worked for several Central Florida lawmakers, including Reps. Joy Goff-Marcil, Leonard Spencer and Anna Eskamani, as well as Sens. Carlos Guillermo Smith and Victor Torres. His legislative work included issues such as workforce development, artificial intelligence and transportation innovation.

“The Southern Group is the premier firm in Florida,” Cintron said. “After five years in the process, I get to come home to Orlando and help shape the future of a region I’m personally invested in.”

In addition to his legislative experience, Cintron helped lead Orlando YIMBY, a housing advocacy organization focused on land-use and growth policy issues. He also managed Spencer’s successful 2024 campaign in House District 45, the only Democratic state House pickup in Florida that cycle.

“Central Florida continues to be one of the most dynamic regions in the state, and our clients need experienced advocates who understand the local governments driving that growth,” said Seth McKeel, Central Florida Market Lead at The Southern Group.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RealDonaldTrump: On July 4th, at The Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, in beautiful and safe Washington D.C., we are going to host the most spectacular TRUMP RALLY of them all, a “TRIBUTE TO AMERICA.” Starting at 7 P.M. EST, this HUGE Celebration will honor our Country’s People, Spirit, Strength, Resolve, and Triumphs. With the backdrop of the Lincoln Memorial and surrounding the beautifully new Reflecting Pool, more than 300 Members of our strong and talented Military Bands, Orchestras, and Ceremonial Units, will perform Patriotic Melodies and American Classics, and my Playlist (We will have none of those people that put you to sleep and constantly complain!), as we celebrate our Country, and Rally into the next 250 years. This ensemble will be the largest formation of Joint Military Music and Ceremonial performances in History. There will be incredible Flyovers and Airshows featuring our Top Military Pilots and Equipment, and I will deliver keynote remarks that you will not want to miss. To conclude the program, and commemorate this Historic Occasion, I will be launching, what will be, the LARGEST FIREWORKS SHOW IN HISTORY, right here in our Nation’s Capital. Do not miss it. See you on JULY 4th in Washington, D.C.

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Toy Story 5’ premieres — 3; House of the Dragon season 3 premiere — 5; the final season of ‘The Bear’ premieres — 9; ‘Supergirl’ premieres — 10; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 10; 2026 Florida Statewide Finals — National Civics Bee — 14; live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 15; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 18; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 23; 2026 Florida Python Challenge — 24; MLB All-Star Game — 28; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 30; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 34; ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 45; ‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 50; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 51; Early voting period begins — 53; ‘Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 61; Primary Election Day — 63; NFL regular season kicks off — 85; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 86; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 87; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 91; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 95; Tampa Bay Buccaneers opener against Cleveland Browns — 96; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 100; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 107; General Election voter registration deadline — 111; ‘The Social Network’ sequel with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison premieres — 115; Early Voting General Election begins — 130; General Election — 140; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 143; 2026 Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 148; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 157; Brad Pitt returns as Cliff Booth, his Academy-award winning role, in a film directed by David Fincher, written by Quentin Tarantino — 162; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 185; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 185; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 185; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 223; 69th annual Grammy Awards — 236; Super Bowl LXI — 243; Tampa Mayoral Election — 259; 2027 Oscars — 271; Jacksonville First Election — 280; Jacksonville General Election — 336; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 354; ‘Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 416; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 416; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 472; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 549; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 587; 2028 Oscars — 628; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 710; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 731; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 759; U.S. Presidential Election — 875; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 951; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,275; College Football Playoff national title game in Miami — 1,315; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,006.

— TOP STORY —

“James Uthmeier sues TikTok in latest move against tech giants” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Officials sued tech giant TikTok in an attempt to enforce the state’s 2024 law restricting social media access for children. The civil lawsuit, filed in St. Lucie County circuit court, is the latest major pushback against Big Tech, which has become a prominent foil for state GOP leaders.

Attorney General Uthmeier brought the suit against the short-form social video platform and its parent company, ByteDance, accusing the app of exposing sexual content to its young users and fueling addictive use. He said TikTok is liable for allegedly deceiving parents and exposing children to harmful content on its app.

The 66-page complaint, filed in St. Lucie County Circuit Civil court, seeks money damages — “potentially billions,” Uthmeier said — and a finding that the platform “constitutes a public nuisance.”

“Time is up for TikTok,” Uthmeier said. “TikTok happens to be one of the most egregious social media applications when it comes to the dangers that are there at the fingertips of kids.”

Uthmeier laid the blame on the app’s design. “They design the application with unlimited scrolling, push notifications, videos that just go nonstop, and it’s designed to keep kids stuck on those screens for hours and hours a day,” he said.

— 2026 —

“Pete Buttigieg to keynote Florida Democrats’ Leadership Blue Gala” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Buttigieg will headline the Florida Democratic Party’s Leadership Blue Gala in Central Florida, giving Democrats a nationally watched speaker as they look toward 2026 and beyond. Party Chair Nikki Fried called the former Transportation Secretary one of the party’s sharpest messengers, saying he can translate Democratic values into language that reaches everyday voters. Leadership Blue Weekend is scheduled for July 17-19 at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, with Fried, Maxwell Frost, Darren Soto, Tracie Davis, Christine Hunschofsky, and Leonard Spencer also on the program. Buttigieg, a likely 2028 presidential contender, remains prominent in early polling and has been outspoken against Gov. Ron DeSantis‘ anti-LGBTQ policies.

“Kalshi touts Byron Donalds’ odds after donating to his campaign” via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — Kalshi, a prediction market that allows users to wager on elections, promoted Donalds’ chances in the 2026 Governor’s race after donating $25,000 to his political committee last year. The company posted that Donalds had reached a “new all-time high” with a 95% chance of winning the Republican Primary, a message Donalds reposted. His campaign said the post reflected reality, while Kalshi said it posts about candidates when odds change. The company’s political spending comes as prediction markets face questions over whether they should be regulated as gambling platforms under state law or financial exchanges under federal law, a debate with clear stakes in Florida.

Does it? — “Alex Vindman’s Senate bid puts Florida on Democrats’ reach-state map” via Scott MacFarlane of Scott MacFarlane Reports

“Ron DeSantis keeps pressing GOP to hold Governor’s race debates” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis continues to urge the Republican Party of Florida to hold debates in the 2026 Governor’s race, saying the Sunshine Showdown would be a natural venue for candidates to appear together. The party has said candidates must meet polling, fundraising and donor thresholds to qualify, standards that only Donalds currently meets. Instead, the RPOF plans to give candidates speaking slots. Jay Collins, James Fishback and Paul Renner have expressed support for debates, while DeSantis has criticized the party’s approach and questioned whether the current rules would have allowed him to participate when he first ran in 2018. Donalds has disputed that claim, saying his campaign reviewed the criteria.

“Uthmeier accuses James Fishback of intentionally using ‘gross’ slave slur against Donalds” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Uthmeier is speaking out against Fishback calling U.S. Rep. Donalds a “slave” as a line of attack in the Governor’s race. Republicans have been slow to comment on Fishback’s remarks, but Uthmeier condemned them when asked about Fishback’s attack on the man who could be the first Black Governor. Fishback has made a number of racially charged attacks on Donalds, calling him “By’rone” and a “DEI Republican,” and saying Donalds is a “slave to the corporate interests, to the tech bros.” “I think somebody (who’s) going to call a Black candidate a slave clearly has some intentionality there. I think it’s gross. I don’t think there’s any room for that in Republican politics. It’s certainly not my brand of politics,” the Attorney General said during a news conference.

Happening tonight — Donalds hosts a post-qualifying rally on his Defending the Florida Dream Tour, 7 p.m., Hotel Haya, 1412 E. 7th Ave., Tampa. Media check-in opens at 6:30 p.m. RSVP to [email protected].

Annette Taddeo earns endorsement from former CFO Alex Sink in campaign for Chief Financial Officer — Former state Senator and candidate for Chief Financial Officer Taddeo announced the endorsement of former CFO Sink, adding one of the most respected financial leaders to her campaign. “Annette Taddeo has the experience, integrity, and independence Florida needs to serve as our next Chief Financial Officer,” Sink said. Sink served as CFO from 2007 to 2011 and later founded Ruth’s List Florida, which works to elect pro-choice Democratic women. “I am incredibly honored to have Alex Sink’s support,” Taddeo said. “Alex set the standard for what it means to serve as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer.”

Happening today — CFO Blaise Ingoglia holds a news conference in Boca Raton on government accountability, 11 a.m. Credentialed media may RSVP to Abigail Weeks at [email protected] for location details; media are to arrive at 10:30 a.m.

— MORE ELECTIONS —

“Mark Davis threatens to ‘dox’ Sons of Confederate Veterans members over Confederate flag flying in Hillsborough” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — A congressional candidate wants to release identifying information for individuals behind the massive Confederate flag near the Interstate 4/Interstate 75 interchange in Hillsborough County. Davis, a veteran and business owner who qualified to run in the 16th Congressional District as a no-party candidate, took to Facebook to denounce the flag and those who maintain it. “Just got back from Tallahassee after officially getting on the ballot, and one of the first things I see is that giant Confederate flag towering over a Florida highway,” Davis wrote. “To the Sons of Confederate Veterans and everyone still defending that symbol: I want your f*cking addresses.”

“Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris endorses Oliver Gilbert in CD 24 hometown showdown” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Gilbert has picked up the endorsement of Harris, the Miami Gardens Mayor who succeeded him, in the Democratic Primary for CD 24 — a nod that plants the city’s sitting chief executive firmly in Gilbert’s camp. Harris served alongside Gilbert on the Miami Gardens City Council before succeeding him as Mayor in 2020. The seat is open after U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson announced she would not seek a ninth term. Seven Democrats qualified, including former state Sen. Shevrin Jones, who, like Gilbert, calls Miami Gardens home — giving Harris’ endorsement an extra edge in a race where both front-runners are fighting for the same turf.

“Six Mayors in CD 27 back María Elvira Salazar for re-election” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Salazar just locked in the endorsements of every non-Democrat holding top elected municipal posts in her District. Six Mayors — Joseph Corradino, Karyn Cunningham, Eric Diaz-Padron, Vince Lago, Tim Meerbott and Joe Rasco — are all supporting Salazar for re-election in the 27th Congressional District. Each cited federal investments Salazar delivered for their communities. Since winning her seat in 2020, Salazar’s campaign said, she has secured more than $89 million in community project funding. Salazar, in a statement accompanying an announcement of the endorsements, said she is “honored to have the support of these outstanding Mayors.” “They know firsthand that I listen, I show up, and I fight for every community in FL-27,” she said.

— EVEN MORE ELECTIONS —

“Amid extra Sessions, Ileana Garcia raises $40K to defend SD 36 against new challenger” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami Republican Sen. Garcia spent more time than usual in Tallahassee over the past few months, due to Special Sessions on property taxes, redistricting and to finalize the next state budget. Despite those added commitments, she raised more than $40,000 between her campaign account and political committee, No More Socialism, between April 1 and May 31. Last week, Garcia got a Democratic challenger: George Lávin, a legal discovery consultant from West Miami who enjoyed support from the Florida Democratic Party when he ran unsuccessfully for the West Miami City Commission in April. It remains to be seen how strong a state-level fundraiser Lávin is, but he’ll likely fall short of Garcia’s more than $750,000 in reserves, which she depleted only slightly through about $3,600 in spending last period.

“SD 38 candidates stack up very different war chests heading into Summer” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Democratic entrepreneur Richard Lamondin led the Senate District 38 field in fundraising during the April 1 to May 31 period, raking in more than $300,000 — 70% more than incumbent Republican Sen. Alexis Calatayud. But that haul included $100,000 in self-loans and a $30,000 transfer from his closed federal campaign account. That means in terms of new dollars entering their campaigns, Calatayud took in more, though very little of it came from people rather than corporations or political committees. No-party candidate Jeffrey Solomon, who ran for the Florida House four times, most recently in 2018, raised a comparatively meager $9,000, including $2,000 in self-loans. Calatayud collected nearly $176,000 in the last period between her campaign account and her political committee, Vision & Integrity for Florida.

“Majority of Pinellas County Commission backs Melissa Rutland for HD 60” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Most members of the Pinellas County Commission are endorsing Melissa Rutland for House District 60. Rutland, a Republican, is seeking to replace outgoing Rep. Lindsay Cross and flip the seat, which Democrats have long held. Now, five of the seven members on the County Commission are offering their support, including Dave Eggers, Vince Nowicki, Kathleen Peters, Chris Scherer and Brian Scott. Eggers, the longest-serving Commissioner of the endorsers, suggested that a Republican might be a more successful representative for the District. “Pinellas County works best when every level of government pulls in the same direction,” Eggers said. “Melissa understands the importance of growing our economy and bringing good-paying jobs to Pinellas. As a proven business leader, she understands how to deliver results. She will be an outstanding partner for Pinellas in the Florida House.”

Luis Salazar announces endorsements from West Central Florida Labor Council and Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith — Salazar, the Democratic candidate for House District 64, announced his campaign has received the endorsement of the West Central Florida Labor Council, AFL-CIO, as well as state Sen. Guillermo Smith. The Labor Council is one of the largest labor organizations in the state, representing approximately 116,000 active and retired union members from more than 100 local unions throughout the Tampa Bay region. The endorsements add to a coalition that previously included state Sen. Brian Nathan, state Rep. Mitch Rosenwald, Ironworkers Local 397, Engage Y’all PAC, The Hillsborough Society, the Hillsborough County, Florida Jewish Democrats and the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund. “I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of both the West Central Florida Labor Council and Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith,” Salazar said.

“Disqualification baffles Paula Stark, St. Cloud Republican, but state cites missing papers” via Jeffrey Schweers of the Orlando Sentinel — State Rep. Paula Stark, a two-term Republican from St. Cloud, drove all the way to Tallahassee to hand in paperwork needed to run for re-election to the state House District she’s represented for the last four years. She got her documents filed and stamped, including the required payment, before the noon deadline and thought she was all set to run unopposed in the Republican Primary, only to discover later that day that her name was removed from the state candidate website. Now she’s trying to figure out why that happened and how to get back on the November ballot. “We were completely caught off guard when it went from active to disappeared,” Stark said. State elections spokesperson Gretl Plessinger said that Stark “did not submit all the necessary qualifying items.”

Happening tonight:

— PROPERTY TAX BATTLE—

“Jane Castor warns property tax changes could mean ‘brutal choices’ for Tampa budget” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Tampa Mayor Castor is warning voters that a proposed constitutional amendment raising the homestead property tax exemption could force the city into painful budget choices that include an impact on first responders. Castor said property taxes brought in $380 million for Tampa’s 2026 budget, but argues that the money does not cover the city’s police and fire budgets as things stand today. She estimated the amendment would cut at least $35 million in city property tax revenue in 2028 and at least $60 million in 2029. “Your City Council members and I already make hard budget choices every year, but this proposal could turn those into brutal choices,” Castor said.

“Analysts project property tax measure would slash local revenue” via Gray Rohrer of News Service of Florida — State economists estimate a proposed property tax cut on the November ballot would reduce revenue for cities, counties and special districts by nearly $5 billion in its first year and almost $12 billion by year five. The amendment would raise the homestead exemption from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, while exempting school taxes from the increase. It would also lower the cap on annual assessment increases for non-homestead properties from 10% to 5%. DeSantis says the measure would deliver major affordability relief, but local officials warn it could strain basic services. A lawsuit argues the ballot language is misleading.

— STATEWIDE —

“DeSantis signs law to inventory unused school land. Is a giveaway next?” via Jeffrey Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — There’s a new law that some education advocates have suggested is a gateway to a “public school land grab.” Public education supporters raised yellow flags of caution early in the 2026 Session when they saw the legislation (SB 824), which would initially have required School Districts to transfer undeveloped taxpayer-owned property to private interests. Bill sponsors later backed off the early language, eliminating all references to charter schools and focusing instead on creating an inventory of the property rather than on creating a plan to give it away. DeSantis signed that version. Observers have said they still worry that the original intent remains in the offing, but at least for now, the immediacy is gone.

“Supreme Court to review Florida six-person juries” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida — The U.S. Supreme Court will take up a challenge to the state’s use of six-person juries in most criminal trials, a case that could reshape a practice the state has relied on for decades. The dispute centers on whether smaller juries satisfy the constitutional right to a jury trial, with the outcome potentially turning on whether justices revisit a 1970 precedent that upheld six-member panels. Florida is among the states that allow six-person juries in noncapital criminal cases, a system supporters view as efficient, but critics argue weakens deliberation and reduces the odds of diverse viewpoints in the jury room. A ruling against the state could force major changes in criminal courts statewide.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Frustrated by courts, Donald Trump weighed suspending a constitutional right” via Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan of The New York Times — Last Spring, Will Scharf, an arch-conservative lawyer serving as the White House staff secretary, wrote a secret memo to the Chief of Staff that reflected growing unease in the West Wing about one of the extreme measures being weighed by Stephen Miller, the powerful adviser driving President Trump‘s deportation campaign. The second Trump White House was deliberating an explosive new claim of presidential power: the suspension of habeas rights for unauthorized immigrants. The Constitution, Scharf wrote in his memo to Susie Wiles, the White House Chief of Staff, permits suspension of habeas corpus only in cases of rebellion or invasion. He added: “Even where Congress has explicitly suspended habeas corpus rights, the Supreme Court has held that some alternative process must be provided to defendants, with procedural safeguards akin to a habeas corpus action.”

“Universities’ legal and lobbying costs surge under Trump pressure” via Alan Blinder of The New York Times — Elite universities are spending sharply more on lawyers and lobbyists as they respond to the Trump administration’s scrutiny of higher education. Tax returns covering July 2024 through June 2025 show Ivy League schools outside legal costs rose 37%, topping $333 million, while lobbying spending increased 76%. Harvard and Columbia posted the largest legal bills, but schools beyond the Ivy League also reported steep increases, including Johns Hopkins, George Washington and the University of Southern California. Some universities say the spending is tied to research funding, compliance, federal investigations and the protection of academic missions. The figures offer an early look at the cost of defending institutional independence as Washington pushes to reshape campus policy.

“White House halts Anthropic AI model over security fears” via Sophia Cai and Cheyenne Haslett of POLITICO — The Trump administration’s decision to impose export controls on Anthropic followed a tense 24-hour scramble over security concerns tied to the company’s newly released Fable AI model. Senior officials pressed CEO Dario Amodei to pull the model after Amazon and others raised concerns that its guardrails could be bypassed. Amodei defended the safeguards and asked for more time, but Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other officials were unconvinced. The export controls forced Anthropic to disable Fable 5 and Mythos 5 for all customers while the company complies. Anthropic called the order disproportionate, while White House officials said national security concerns left them no choice.

“Anna Paulina Luna proposes resolution declaring Trump’s first impeachment invalid” via Kennedy Owens of Florida’s Voice — U.S. Rep. Luna said she plans to introduce a resolution seeking to void Trump’s first impeachment, arguing newly declassified intelligence documents undermine the basis for the 2019 proceedings. Luna cited these documents, saying they support long-standing claims by Trump allies that intelligence officials improperly targeted the President. While the resolution would have no legal effect on Trump’s impeachment, which cannot be undone by a later Congress, Luna and other supporters view the effort as a way to formally condemn the proceedings and establish a congressional record that the impeachment was based on false or misleading allegations. “I will be putting forward a resolution to void the fraudulent impeachment of Trump during his first term in office,” Luna wrote. “History should reflect what actually transpired.”

New IGC poll finds Americans willing to pay more at the pump to stop a nuclear Iran — A new national survey from Florida State University’s Institute for Governance and Civics finds Americans may be more willing to accept the costs of military action against Iran than conventional wisdom suggests. When presented with a choice between ending the conflict and returning gas prices to roughly $3 per gallon or continuing military action that could dismantle Iran’s nuclear program but push gas prices to $6-$7 per gallon for several months, a 43% plurality chose the latter option. Just 32% preferred ending the conflict immediately, while 24% were unsure. The survey also found that 57% of Americans view a nuclear-armed Iran as an extremely or very serious threat. “The dominant story has been that Americans are overwhelmingly opposed to the Iran war,” said IGC Director Ryan Owens.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Hialeah Mayor cited while driving city SUV with emergency lights” via Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — Hialeah Mayor Bryan Calvo received two civil citations during a traffic stop Sunday in or near Coconut Grove while driving a city-owned SUV equipped with emergency lights. According to records and sources familiar with the stop, a Miami Police motorcycle officer initially pulled Calvo over for an alleged illegal left turn before issuing a second citation related to the vehicle’s blue emergency lights. Calvo said the equipment had been installed before he took office and before the SUV was assigned to him. Municipal attorneys told the Miami Herald that Florida law generally limits the use of blue lights to authorized emergency vehicles and does not provide a specific exemption for Mayors. Calvo was not arrested and may contest the citations.

“Jeffrey Epstein paid Palm Beach deputy for jail favors” via Julie K. Brown of the Miami Herald — Sarah Kellen, a longtime assistant to Epstein, told the House Oversight Committee that the convicted sex trafficker arranged payments and gifts for a Palm Beach County jail officer while serving a sentence at the county stockade in 2008 and 2009. According to testimony released from the Committee’s investigation, Kellen said Epstein provided cash and Disneyland tickets to a deputy but said she did not know what he received in return. She also testified that Epstein used a jail computer to contact her via Skype and persuaded her to undress on camera while he was incarcerated. The testimony sheds new light on long-standing questions about the special treatment Epstein received during his time in custody.

“Cuba delivery portal shuts down amid tightening U.S. sanctions” via Gisela Salomon of The Associated Press — Envioscuba.com, one of the primary online platforms used by Cuban Americans to send food, clothing and other goods to relatives on the island, has stopped accepting new orders as the Trump administration expands sanctions on Cuba. The company said previously approved orders will still be delivered, but did not explain the shutdown. Analysts say platforms such as Envioscuba often operate through businesses tied to GAESA, the Cuban military-run conglomerate targeted by recent U.S. sanctions. The move comes as many Cubans face food shortages, medicine shortages and frequent blackouts, increasing reliance on support from family members abroad. Observers expect other similar delivery services to face growing pressure as sanctions expand.

“Broward weighs bid for former Spirit Airlines headquarters” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Broward County Commissioners will decide Tuesday whether to pursue the former Spirit Airlines headquarters in Dania Beach as a future county government center. The six-story, 180,000-square-foot office complex is headed for bankruptcy auction on July 22 after Spirit ceased operations in May. County officials estimate acquiring and converting the property could cost about $450 million, substantially less than the projected $663 million needed to renovate a previously identified Fort Lauderdale site. Supporters say the purchase could save taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, while skeptics caution that significant questions remain unanswered. The proposed motion would authorize County Administrator Monica Cepero to bid up to $100 million using reserve funds rather than taking on new debt.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Epic Universe debuts ‘Universal Celestial Goodnight’ July 7” via Dewayne Bevil of Orlando Sentinel — “Universal Celestial Goodnight,” a nighttime spectacular with fireworks and other illuminated effects, will debut at Epic Universe theme park on July 7, Universal Orlando Resort announced. “Goodnight” will be the park’s first nightly fireworks show since it opened in May 2025. The end-of-night event will pay tribute to the “inspiring characters and adventures” within Epic’s lands, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe and How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, Universal said. The show will be staged in Epic’s Celestial Park, which stretches from the entrance to the foot of the Helios Grand Hotel. “Celestial Goodnight” will feature synchronized choreography utilizing the park’s 600 light fixtures, 350 water fountains, 7 million embedded LEDs and pyrotechnics set to a “high-energy musical core,” Universal said.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Charlie Crist joins calls to cancel Ye concert in Tampa over antisemitic remarks” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Crist is joining calls to cancel Ye‘s upcoming concerts at Raymond James Stadium, adding a prominent local Democratic voice to a bipartisan push against the Tampa performances over the artist’s history of antisemitic remarks. Crist, a former Governor and a current St. Petersburg mayoral candidate, appeared at a news conference at the Florida Holocaust Museum alongside U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody, Jewish community leaders and other officials calling for the Tampa Sports Authority to block the shows.

“Crist political committee drops latest ad brutally attacking Ken Welch over Moffitt loss” via Florida Politics — The political committee supporting Crist for St. Petersburg Mayor is out with its latest ad, critical of incumbent Mayor Welch over his decision not to move forward early in his tenure with a Moffitt Cancer Center-related development. The St. Pete Shines ad features Crist describing the drive from St. Pete to Moffitt in Tampa. “Twenty-three miles, 45 minutes of traffic right here,” Crist says to open the ad. “This is where Moffitt was going to build a cancer center until Ken Welch spiked it.” In his first year in office, Welch axed a project to create a Moffitt campus downtown, saying the proposal didn’t include enough affordable housing. “He doesn’t have the executive leadership to close the deal — not with Moffitt, not with the Rays, not for our city,” Crist says to close the spot.

To watch the ad, please click the image below:

“Darryl Rouson backs Crist while still praising Welch” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Rouson is endorsing Crist for St. Petersburg Mayor while making clear he is not withdrawing support from incumbent Welch. Rouson said both candidates should advance from the Aug. 18 Primary and praised Crist’s “integrity and dedication to public service.” The endorsement gives Crist support from one of the city’s most trusted Black political voices as he tries to consolidate his place as Welch’s top challenger. Crist has raised more than $1.6 million between his campaign and political committee, far outpacing Welch’s latest fundraising. The race also includes Brandi Gabbard, Jim Large, Maria Scruggs and Kevin Batdorf, though Crist and Welch remain the leading contenders.

“After filing late, Welch’s latest PC fundraising shows him still far behind Charlie Crist” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Welch’s re-election operation posted a six-figure fundraising report after a late filing, but he still fell far short of the fundraising leader in the race: former Gov. Crist. St. Petersburg Progress, the political committee supporting Welch’s campaign, reported $114,000 in monetary contributions from April 1 through May 31. Crist’s affiliated political committee, St. Pete Shines, reported just over $282,500 raised during the same period, more than double what Welch’s committee raised. Overall, St. Pete Shines has raised nearly $1.5 million since launching. Welch is now on his third political committee after the state terminated his original committee over repeated filing and other failures related to campaign finance reporting requirements.

“County Attorney: No removing Sports Authority members before end of term” via Nicolas Villamil of the Tampa Bay Times — Hillsborough County Commissioners cannot remove Tampa Sports Authority members before the end of their terms, according to the County Attorney’s Office. The legal opinion is requested by Commissioner Christine Miller, who asked how it might remove a Sports Authority member mid-term. Commissioners, the opinion states, lack the authority to do so because the legislation establishing the agency contains no provision for removing Board members. Miller made her request after the Sports Authority voted to send letters to the County Commission and the Tampa City Council, asking them to ensure that any stadium deal with the Tampa Bay Rays does not hamstring future funding for Raymond James Stadium.

“Wade Boggs goes to bat for Alan Cohn in Tampa City Council race” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Boggs, a New Tampa resident, is endorsing Cohn in his bid for Tampa City Council, District 7. District 7 covers parts of north Tampa, including parts of the university area, Temple Terrace and New Tampa. Cohn, a Democrat, is one of two candidates to file for the race to replace incumbent Luis Viera, who is not seeking re-election and is instead running for a Florida House seat. Cohn entered the race in mid-April and has not yet filed his first campaign finance report, which is due July 10 for the period covering April through June. Cohn’s only opponent, Morris Lopez III, has already raised more than $36,000.

“Pasco has no data centers. Residents want to keep it that way” via John Cotey of the Tampa Bay Times — Pasco County doesn’t have any large data centers. And there aren’t any seeking approval, in the development pipeline or under construction. After 3½ hours, the Planning Commission voted to support an ordinance establishing a temporary moratorium on “data centers, large-scale data centers and other large load customers” in the county. However, staff emphasized that “the moratorium is not a permanent ban on such uses,” even if the room was filled with people who want it to be. Planning and Economic Growth director David Engel told the Commission that Pasco’s own rules have not kept pace with the technology, which is why the county was asking the Commission to endorse the moratorium. “Pasco County doesn’t permit data centers, and hopefully we’ll have a moratorium,” said Engel.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“School Board hopefuls outline visions at Sarasota forum” via Ian Swaby of The Observer — Candidates Heidi Brandt, Teresa DeWitt and Jimmy Glover offered sharply different perspectives on the future of Sarasota County schools during a Tiger Bay Club forum focused on the race to succeed Bridget Ziegler in District 1. The candidates discussed school choice, literacy, District finances and the role politics should play in a nonpartisan School Board race. DeWitt defended parental choice programs and emphasized fiscal responsibility, while Brandt highlighted support for public schools, literacy initiatives and parental engagement. Glover focused on rebuilding trust in District leadership, addressing reading challenges and supporting underserved students. All three candidates discussed the impact of state voucher programs, while differing on how the District should respond to enrollment and funding pressures.

“Everglades City seeks concessions on Collier land purchase” via J. Kyle Foster of the Fort Myers News-Press and Naples Daily News — Everglades City officials are seeking a greater role in plans for a proposed $6.9 million Collier County purchase of 53 waterfront acres near the Everglades Airpark. The City Council voted to support the use of Conservation Collier funds only if the county agrees to several conditions, including dropping plans for a public boat ramp, reimbursing the city for lost property tax revenue and expanding the adjacent airpark. County Commissioner Bill McDaniel said he would bring the concerns to fellow Commissioners, but stopped short of making commitments. The property, envisioned for a mix of aviation, recreational and residential uses, would be removed from the local tax rolls upon acquisition. The county is expected to vote on the purchase before a scheduled July 20 closing.

“Gulf aftershock felt by some Floridians” via Chad Gillis of the Fort Myers News-Press and Naples Daily News — A magnitude 4.9 aftershock struck off the coast of Cuba Monday morning, a week after a magnitude 6.1 earthquake rattled parts of the Gulf. The U.S. Geological Survey said the aftershock occurred in water about 10 miles deep, and some Floridians reported feeling the tremor. The National Weather Service said it had received no official reports of shaking in Southwest Florida by Monday afternoon. Officials said aftershocks can continue for months or years after earthquakes larger than magnitude 6.0, though they usually decrease in size and frequency. NOAA did not issue a tsunami advisory or warning, and forecasters said a 4.9 magnitude quake typically does not produce one.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Contact-lens maker Johnson & Johnson to spend $1B on Jacksonville sites” via Steve Patterson of The Florida Times-Union — Healthcare giant Johnson & Johnson will spend $1 billion upgrading its contact-lens production and distribution facilities in Jacksonville, the company said. “This investment reinforces our long-standing conviction that advanced manufacturing in the United States is essential to delivering … healthcare solutions to patients at home and around the world,” CEO Joaquin Duato said. With that money, Duato said, “we are enhancing the resilience of our U.S. supply chain while helping more people see better and live better.”

“What investigation uncovered after casket, remains found in Tom Brown Park” via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — The Department of State’s Division of Historical Resources said it couldn’t compile a full biological profile because of “the fragmentary and incomplete nature of the skeletal remains,” but the area the bone fragments were found in was in line-of-sight of a known cemetery made up of four marked graves that goes by several names — Tom Brown Park Cemetery, Ross Cemetery and Kilpatrick Cemetery No. 1. “An analysis of the burial hardware recovered confirms both the historic nature of this burial, as well as its likely association with the known cemetery,” says the state’s report. Casket handles and other hardware helped analysts date the burial as likely between 1900 and 1935.

“Skip Foster to cut the red tape at Capital Tiger Bay on June 18” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — The Capital Tiger Bay Club, the Tallahassee forum that has been needling newsmakers since 1971, has booked a guest who built a second act out of needling local government. Skip Foster — founder of Red Tape Florida and the former president and publisher of the Tallahassee Democrat — headlines the club’s June 18 luncheon for a conversation on media, messaging, public affairs, and the permitting and bureaucracy fights that now consume most of his attention. The Tiger Bay format should suit him: the club has spent more than five decades pairing nonpartisan programming with irreverent introductions and the occasional roast of its own guests — a crowd unlikely to let a former publisher off easy.

“Callahan forum raises questions about Nassau challengers” via Peter Schorsch for Florida Politics — A candidate forum in Callahan offered a revealing look at the Nassau County Commission District 2 race. Questions about impact fees, growth and the county budget exposed what was portrayed as a lack of preparation from challenger Laura Dotson, who declined to take firm positions on key fiscal issues and acknowledged she had not reviewed the county’s latest budget proposal. Yet when the discussion shifted to beach driving on Amelia Island, Dotson forcefully backed restrictions favored by south-end homeowners. The piece also scrutinizes challenger Douglas Greene, citing a past dispute over the removal of a protected tree. Taken together, the forum reinforced the argument that incumbent Hupp Huppmann‘s experience and record remain the strongest case in the race.

“One Commission contest, three School Board races contested in Clay County” via Fabrizio Downey of Florida Politics — With qualifying closed, Clay County’s ballot is set — and it’s the School Board, not the County Commission, generating the heat. Only one of the two Commission seats drew a contest, with Republican Lolita Smoak and Democrat Leroy Edwards running to replace retiring incumbent Alex Compere in District 2; Betsy Condon coasts to another term in District 4 after two NPA challengers failed to qualify. All three School Board incumbents drew opponents, with the best-funded challenge coming from VyStar’s Michael Rathjen, who has raised nearly $36,000 to unseat Michele Hanson in District 4. Board Chair Erin Skipper, fresh off a $33,600 haul, faces administrator Lara Libretto in District 1, while three-term incumbent Ashley Gilhousen fends off a two-way challenge in District 5.

“Pace neighbors demand public hearing over Taminco chemical plant” via Tom McLaughlin of the Pensacola News Journal — Taminco, a subsidiary of Eastman Chemical, has requested to continue to be allowed to discharge up to 1.23 million gallons a day of wastewater into Escambia Bay in the event of a 25-year storm event, a term that puts the probability of such a storm at 4% each year. The problem, as environmental activists see it, is that the chemical processing plant now operating at 4575 U.S. Highway 90 in Pace, as Taminco U.S. LLC, has already caused considerable environmental damage and, by extension, harm to the local population over its many years of operation. County Property Appraiser records indicate the U.S. 90 site had been approved for heavy industrial uses as far back as 1968.

— TOP OPINION —

“A garish spectacle of American decline” via Michelle Goldberg of The New York Times — America’s 250th birthday should have been a moment of civic pride. Instead, the White House lawn became a cage-fighting arena wrapped in crypto ads, ring girls and macho spectacle, while the administration tried to frame failure in Iran as victory.

The Iran deal may have ended a disastrous war, but it did not deliver strength. The Strait of Hormuz, open before the conflict, appears to be the main prize. Iran kept its regime, its missile program and its leverage.

That weakness made the timing of Trump’s UFC birthday pageant feel less accidental than symbolic. The spectacle was meant to project toughness, but it revealed something more decadent.

The Roman comparisons are hard to miss and not flattering. A crowd cheering a White House colosseum while foreign policy falters is not populism. It is rot with better lighting.

The defense that ordinary Americans like UFC misses the point. Popularity is not a standard for what belongs at the White House. If everything popular is dignified, then dignity means nothing.

This was not bread and circuses. There was no bread. Public access required a Paramount+ subscription, Trump held shares in UFC’s parent company, and the whole thing looked less like a celebration than another sale of American institutions for parts.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Remove the darkness in Congress’ CLARITY Act to protect seniors” via Dominic Calabro of Florida Politics — Congress should close crypto loopholes to protect seniors better. Helping law enforcement track and prosecute these criminals is why Congress should take a closer look at the proposed CLARITY Act, legislation currently under consideration in Washington. Despite its name, the CLARITY Act contains provisions that could reduce transparency in parts of the digital asset marketplace. As written, the bill would exempt certain cryptocurrency intermediaries from anti-money laundering requirements that traditional financial institutions must follow. The National Sheriffs’ Association has already warned lawmakers about the risks posed by the current loophole. As the organization noted, “Scammers defraud victims — often the elderly — of billions of dollars each year, and it’s time to stand up for victims, potential victims, and law enforcement.”

“On data centers, Palm Beach County can lead or be left behind” via Jamie Grant for Florida Politics — As states take part in the global competition to build the physical infrastructure required to power the next generation of commerce, Florida can either continue to lead or be left behind. That is the opportunity in front of the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners at their July 15 zoning hearing regarding Project Tango. Data centers are more than just industrial buildings; they are the backbone of everything we do online, from banking to healthcare and education. Florida is currently competing with other states to attract these clean, high-value projects. When local governments reject this kind of infrastructure, the demand doesn’t go away — the investment, high-paying jobs, and tax revenue that data centers bring just go somewhere else.

“Former UF Board Chairs rally behind Stuart Bell” via Manny Fernandez, Dianna Morgan, Carlos Alfonso and David Brown for the Tallahassee Democrat — Bell is the right choice to lead the University of Florida into its next era, and the Board of Governors should ratify his selection on June 25. Bell brings the rare mix of executive experience, academic credibility and vision needed to guide a world-class research university. During his decade as president of the University of Alabama, the school achieved R1 research status, expanded enrollment, improved retention and graduation rates, and strengthened its academic and physical footprint. His experience in the Southeastern Conference also matters at a flagship university where athletics, fundraising and national reputation are intertwined. UF’s trustees ran a diligent search and unanimously chose Bell. Now the Board of Governors should finish the job.

“Florida’s universities are strong. But viewpoint diversity is weak.” via Ryan Owens for Florida Politics — Florida’s public universities remain among the strongest in the nation, but strength alone should not end the conversation. When faculty and staff political donations overwhelmingly flow in one direction, questions naturally arise about whether campuses expose students and scholars to the broad range of viewpoints needed for rigorous debate and discovery. The concern is not that professors are indoctrinating students. It is that intellectual uniformity can narrow the assumptions challenged, the questions asked, and the ideas tested. Healthy scholarship depends on disagreement, and healthy public institutions depend on public trust. Broadening recruitment, encouraging civil discourse and creating environments where competing perspectives can be heard would strengthen universities already performing well and help ensure they remain worthy of public confidence.

“Drop the budget fight, Gregory Tony” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — Broward Sheriff Tony should drop his appeal over last year’s rejected budget increase and seek a fresh start with County Commissioners before asking for even more money. His office is seeking $937 million from county property taxes next year, a $104 million increase, while the full proposed budget would reach $1.55 billion. Deputies need competitive pay, but this is the wrong year to add major recurring costs. A proposed statewide property tax amendment could slash Broward’s revenue, making long-term commitments risky. Tony has the right to pursue his appeal, but continuing the fight with the same Commissioners who control his budget is politically unwise. A conciliatory move now would serve him better.

“Fatherhood has changed, and families are better for it” via Frank Bruni of The New York Times — Fathers once measured success by providing for their families and serving as authority figures. Today, many measure it by something different: being present. Conversations that once might have lasted minutes now stretch for hours, covering careers, relationships, dinner parties and life’s uncertainties. The result is a deeper intimacy between parents and children that often continues well into adulthood. That shift reflects broader cultural changes that have loosened rigid expectations about gender and parenting, allowing fathers to embrace roles once reserved largely for mothers. Far from diminishing men, those changes have expanded their lives, creating richer relationships with their children and proving that tenderness, guidance and emotional connection can be every bit as important as providing a paycheck.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— WORLD CUP —

“Spain held to 0-0 draw by Cape Verde: Is this World Cup’s biggest shock?” via Dermot Corrigan, Felipe Cardenas and Anantaajith Raghuraman of The Athletic — The World Cup has its first big surprise result after Spain were held by debutants Cape Verde in their Group H opener. Luis de la Fuente‘s side might be many people’s pre-tournament picks for the trophy, but they struggled in front of goal against inspired opponents, who are 61 places below them in FIFA’s rankings. A 0-0 result and a first World Cup point for Cape Verde will be talked about for years to come. More importantly, it will be celebrated in Cape Verde well into the night. Cape Verde was organized defensively in a traditional back five that at times included a midfielder, creating a wall of six defenders.

“Saudi Arabia stuns Uruguay with early World Cup lead in Miami” via Michelle Kaufman of the Miami Herald — Saudi Arabia grabbed a surprise 1-0 halftime lead over favored Uruguay in the first World Cup match played at Miami Stadium, with Abdulelah Al-Amri scoring off a corner kick in the 41st minute. The result quieted a heavily pro-Uruguay crowd that filled much of the 64,479-seat venue for the Group H opener. The match gained added significance after Spain and Cape Verde played to a scoreless draw earlier in the day, leaving the group standings wide open. Off the field, tournament organizers largely avoided the logistical problems many feared, with shuttle service operating smoothly despite heavy traffic around the stadium. Uruguay entered the match ranked No. 16 in the world, while Saudi Arabia stood at No. 60.

“Lionel Messi opens what could be his final World Cup” via The Associated Press — Argentina begins its quest for a second straight World Cup title Tuesday when Messi and the defending champions face Algeria in Kansas City. The match marks the start of what is widely expected to be Messi’s final World Cup appearance, his sixth tournament and likely last chance to add to an international résumé already capped by Argentina’s 2022 championship. The 39-year-old enters the tournament managing muscle fatigue and a recent hamstring issue but remains central to Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to repeat as World Cup champions. Elsewhere on Tuesday, France opens against Senegal, Norway faces Iraq, and Austria takes on Jordan as group play continues.

“Petitions seek FIFA review of Haiti’s World Cup opener” via Jacqueline Charles of the Miami Herald — More than 100,000 people have signed petitions calling on FIFA to investigate officiating decisions in Haiti’s 1-0 loss to Scotland in its opening World Cup match. Petition organizers contend several calls by referee Mustapha Ghorbal, including alleged missed penalty opportunities and disciplinary decisions, unfairly affected the outcome. One petition launched from Paris topped 100,000 signatures, while another started in Florida attracted more than 15,000 supporters. Signatories are seeking a formal review of the match and the officiating crew’s performance. The controversy comes as Haiti makes its first World Cup appearance in 52 years. Les Grenadiers return to action Friday against Brazil before closing group play against Morocco on June 24.

“World Cup shuttles ease trip to Miami Stadium” via Michelle Kaufman and Vinod Sreeharsha of the Miami Herald — Getting to Miami Stadium for the World Cup opener was far easier for fans who used shuttle buses than for those who drove. Fans with parking passes faced heavy traffic around Hard Rock Stadium before Uruguay played Saudi Arabia, but ticket holders who used free county coach buses from park-and-ride hubs reported smooth trips. Miami-Dade is offering shuttle service from four county sites and one Broward County location on all seven local match days: June 15, 21, 24, 27 and July 3, 11 and 18. Fans interviewed after using the buses said the service was organized, timely and convenient, a promising start for a region not known for easy public transportation.

“Miami-Dade teens earn World Cup spotlight through Boys & Girls Clubs” via Amaia Gavica of the Miami Herald — Four Miami-Dade teenagers will step onto the field at Hard Rock Stadium as flag bearers during a World Cup knockout match July 3 through a partnership between Coca-Cola and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade. The students earned the opportunity after participating in Coca-Cola’s Future Careers Academy, a program designed to introduce teens to careers in sports beyond playing on the field. Participants explored opportunities in marketing, media, sponsorships, leadership and other fields tied to the soccer industry. Club leaders said the selection process emphasized commitment, teamwork and participation throughout the year. In addition to serving as flag bearers, other Boys & Girls Club members and families will attend World Cup matches in Miami.

— USA 250 —

“Spectrum News rediscovers the American spirit in ‘Across America at 250’” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Tim Boyum, the Spectrum News political anchor, hosts “Across America at 250,” a 90-minute special that follows him more than 6,000 miles across the country to rediscover what it means to be an American. With stops in more than 24 states, Boyum trains the camera less on the landmarks than on the everyday Americans around them. In Orlando, an airboat ride among the gators doubles as a look at the tourism economy that drives so much of Florida. He also meets Martin Luther King III in Atlanta, Lee Greenwood in Nashville, and documentarian Ken Burns in Walpole, New Hampshire. It airs June 17 at 8 p.m. local time on Spectrum Bay News 9 and Spectrum News 13.

— ALOE —

“Orlando-built, Moon-bound: NUVIEW clears ESA’s next gate for its lunar LiDAR shot” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — The Orlando space-LiDAR startup co-founded by Clint and Katie Graumann has been tapped to lead a Phase A study for the European Space Agency’s Moonraker mission, which would drop a LiDAR-equipped spacecraft into lunar orbit to map the Moon’s South Pole for future landing sites. NUVIEW is the prime contractor on the international consortium, with Canada’s SFL Missions and Germany’s DLR aboard. Early backer Leonardo DiCaprio — the company was his first space bet — is along for the ride. Launch is no earlier than 2028.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Happy birthday to Rep. Kim Kendall, our dear friend Natalie King of RSA Consulting, Omar Khan of WSP USA, Kurt Kelly of the Florida Coalition for Children, Anna Grace Lewis of Metz, Husband & Daughton, and Ramon Maury.

___

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