Politics
Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 6.24.26
Good Wednesday morning.
The Florida Chamber of Commerce has formally endorsed Byron Donalds for Governor, throwing the state’s most influential business organization behind the Republican front-runner.
“Byron Donalds has spent a career in business. He understands local business issues,” Florida Chamber President and CEO Mark Wilson said. “He clearly understands what it means to sign the front of a paycheck, and he’s clearly spent a career championing local businesses throughout Florida.”
Wilson noted that Donalds earned a 96% voting record with the Chamber during his service in the Florida House and holds a lifetime “A” rating from the organization.
Accepting the endorsement, Donalds cast Florida as the nation’s economic model and pledged to focus on issues ranging from taxes and insurance to housing, education, energy and healthcare if elected.
“We have become the state that everybody in America, and quite frankly, the world is going to chase innovation, to chase that entrepreneurial spirit, to build dreams, to raise their children. It’s all happening here in the great state of Florida,” Donalds said.
“There was another state that was like this 50 years ago. It used to be the state of innovation. It was a state of great weather. It was a state where people had big dreams. That state was California. They used to call it the California dream. The California dream has become a California nightmare. Today in America, people are chasing the Florida dream.”
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@RealDonaldTrump: Despite their protestations and false statements to the contrary, coupled with the drumbeat of the Fake News, which is doing everything possible to make the U.S. Victory as small and insignificant as possible, Iran has fully and completely agreed to highest level Nuclear inspections long into the future (Infinity!!!). This will insure “Nuclear Honesty.” If they did not agree to this, there would be no further negotiations! Based on this and other major concessions being made by Iran, I have agreed to allow the Hormuz Strait to remain OPEN, with no further Naval Blockade. However, all ships are remaining in place should it be necessary to reinstitute the Blockade, which seems, at this point, highly unlikely. The Money and/or Sanctions that the U.S. Treasury is releasing goes into escrow, controlled by the USA, and will be used for the purchase of food and medical supplies, exclusively from the United States, including Corn, Wheat, and Soybeans from our great American Farmers. These are things that are desperately needed by Iran. This is a humanitarian crisis, and I feel it is necessary to help, NOW, before it is too late. Talks are going well! Thank you for your attention to this matter.
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—@MattGaetz: I am returning to public service! Thank you, Speaker (Daniel) Perez, for this appointment. I look forward to the work ahead as we continue improving the lives of Northwest Floridians.
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— DAYS UNTIL —
The final season of ‘The Bear’ premieres — 1; ‘Supergirl’ premieres — 2; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 2; 2026 Florida Statewide Finals – National Civics Bee — 6; live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 7; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 10; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 15; 2026 Florida Python Challenge — 16; MLB All-Star Game — 20; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 22; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 26; ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 37; ‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 42; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 43; Early voting period begins — 45; ‘Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 53; Primary Election Day — 55; NFL regular season kicks off — 77; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 78; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 79; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 83; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 87; Tampa Bay Buccaneers opener against Cleveland Browns — 88; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 92; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 99; General Election voter registration deadline — 103; ‘The Social Network’ sequel with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison premieres — 107; Early Voting General Election begins — 122; General Election — 132; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 135; 2026 Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 140; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 149; Brad Pitt returns as Cliff Booth, his Academy-award winning role, in a film directed by David Fincher, written by Quentin Tarantino — 154; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 177; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 177; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 177; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 215; 69th annual Grammy Awards — 228; Super Bowl LXI — 235; Tampa Mayoral Election — 251; 2027 Oscars — 263; Jacksonville First Election — 272; Jacksonville General Election — 328; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 346; ‘Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 408; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 408; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 464; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 541; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 579; 2028 Oscars — 620; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 702; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 723; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 751; U.S. Presidential Election — 867; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 943; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,267; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,307; Avatar 5 premieres — 1,998.
— TOP STORY —
“No fireworks ban planned in Florida, but officials recommend ‘responsible’ use” via Jim Turner of the News Service of Florida — There won’t be a state fireworks ban for Independence Day. Still, lingering drought conditions have officials advising Floridians and guests to be “responsible” when lighting “devices that fly and explode.” With 2,440 wildfires across the state since the start of the year, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson urged caution Tuesday and asked people to follow local burn regulations, calling the past six months “one of the state’s busiest fire seasons in recent memory.”
Recent rains have eased conditions enough for most counties to lift burn bans, but Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan said that hasn’t stopped “wildfire flare-ups,” urging residents to “keep a water supply nearby and be prepared to act quickly if a fire starts.” Ten of Florida’s 67 counties still have bans in place, including Brevard, Collier, Orange, Osceola, Sarasota and Seminole. The state has recorded wildfires consuming 176,028 acres so far this year, down from 228,183 acres over the same stretch a year ago.
CFO Blaise Ingoglia, who also serves as state fire marshal, called for “common sense” as school lets out and Summer parties pick up. Attorney General James Uthmeier was blunter: “Have fun. Have a good time. Enjoy some beers over the holidays this Summer. But if you’re in one of these burn ban counties … please take this seriously,” he said. “If you violate these orders, if danger takes place, if people are harmed, we will be there to prosecute.”
— 2026 —
“Byron Donalds says GOP rivals lack standing for debate stage” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds is again ruling out debates with his Republican Primary opponents, arguing they have not shown enough support to justify sharing a stage. Donalds said campaigns are competitions, not “charities,” and that it is not his role to boost rivals’ polling in single digits. Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, James Fishback and former House Speaker Paul Renner have all called for debates, but Donalds’ campaign has dismissed the idea as unnecessary. Donalds holds a wide fundraising advantage, with his campaign and committee reporting about $65 million available. Collins, Renner and Fishback trail far behind financially, mirroring public polling that shows Donalds with majority support.
“Donalds pitches ‘world-class’ education agenda” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — Fresh off securing the Florida Chamber of Commerce’s endorsement, Donalds used the Florida Learners to Earners Workforce Solutions Summit to outline an education platform aimed at preparing students for a changing economy. Donalds argued Florida’s growth in finance and commercial space industries will require a stronger pipeline of skilled workers and proposed three initiatives to meet that demand. His “Read to Succeed” plan would focus on grade-level reading by third grade, while “Personalized Success Plans” would help students chart career pathways beginning in middle school. A third proposal, “Launch Pad,” would expand internships, apprenticeships and workforce training opportunities, emphasizing skills development and real-world experience alongside traditional college preparation.
“Within Donalds’ home District, he’s well-known and a prohibitive favorite for Governor” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Within U.S. Rep. Donalds’ home Congressional District, the Naples Republican appears to be a prohibitive favorite for the GOP nomination for Governor. New polling from Victory Insights, itself a Naples-based firm, shows nearly 55% of likely Republican Primary voters in Florida’s 19th Congressional District want their Congressman in the Governor’s Mansion — a massive lead over Lt. Gov. Collins, the next closest choice, at under 11%. A name ID test shows Donalds is known to more than 94% of voters there, rivaled only by President Donald Trump and Gov. Ron DeSantis. “Donalds is the overwhelming favorite to win the nomination,” wrote senior pollster Ben Galbraith. Financial manager Fishback and former House Speaker Renner trail badly.
“Paul Renner rips ‘junk poll’ from AIF, says Donalds may not even have 30% support” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Renner is critiquing a poll from Associated Industries of Florida in the Governor’s race, saying it’s a compromised, flawed product that vastly overstates support for front-runner Donalds. The survey showed Donalds with 54% support and Renner with 2%. “That’s a junk poll. AIF, first of all, has endorsed Byron Donalds. It was a 200-voter sample,” Renner told host Todd Starnes, even though AIF claims to have sampled 386 Republican voters. “We show him in the high 20s, low 30s with undecided leading the field … This race is wide open.” Donalds’ campaign and political committee have roughly $65 million to spend.
— MORE ELECTIONS —
“Jim Davis backs Leela Gray in CD 13 race” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Former U.S. Rep. Davis is endorsing Gray in the Democratic Primary for Florida’s 13th Congressional District, adding another prominent name to her growing coalition of supporters. Davis praised Gray’s military service, leadership and commitment to public service as she campaigns to challenge Republican U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna. Gray, a retired Army brigadier general and attorney, said Davis’ record of public service sets the standard she hopes to follow in Congress. The endorsement joins backing from Kathy Castor, Jason Crow, Pat Ryan, Alex Sink, former state Rep. Ben Diamond, organized labor groups and several Democratic organizations. Gray faces John William Liccione and Brandt Robinson in the Aug. 18 Primary.
“Special ops group backs Navy reservist Bea Valenti in CD 14” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — SEAL PAC, a political committee that supports candidates friendly to the special operations forces and military community, is endorsing Republican Valenti in her bid for Florida’s 14th Congressional District. “Bea Valenti understands firsthand the sacrifice and commitment our military men and women make every day, and that’s exactly why SEAL PAC is proud to endorse her for Congress,” the group wrote. The endorsement noted that CD 14 includes MacDill Air Force Base, which serves as headquarters for CENTCOM and SOCOM. The winner of the Aug. 18 GOP Primary will face Democrat Castor in November.
Chris Collins launches first TV ads in CD 19 — Collins for Congress launched two new television ads this week — a 30-second and a 15-second spot — running across streaming and broadcast platforms ahead of the Aug. 18 Primary. The 30-second spot brands Collins as “the original Trump conservative,” noting that he was the first member of Congress to endorse Trump and that he voted with him 100% of the time. “I was with President Trump since Day One and never once turned my back on him — not even when the Deep State came after us both,” Collins said. A businessman who founded and chaired the Congressional Trump Caucus and served on Trump’s transition team, Collins and his wife, Mary, have called Collier County home for nearly a decade.
“‘The race is wide open’: Poll shows Jim Schwartzel, Jim Oberweis leading crowded CD 19 field” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A new poll shows media mogul Schwartzel and former Illinois lawmaker Oberweis topping the GOP field in Florida’s 19th Congressional District. But more than half of voters remain undecided, with less than two months until the Aug. 18 Primary. Victory Insights found those two Republicans to be the only candidates in double digits. About 13% favor Schwartzel, Sun Broadcasting president, while Oberweis, a former dairy owner, shows shy of 12% support. “No candidate has jumped out to a statistically or practically significant lead,” writes Ben Galbraith, a senior pollster with Victory Insights. “54% of voters are undecided. I’ll spare you further details — this race is wide open.”
“‘He gets things done’: Three Broward Mayors endorse Shevrin Jones for CD 24” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Jones continues to build support in the northern portion of the 24th Congressional District, with top officials from three Broward municipalities backing his bid. Mayors Felicia Brunson of West Park, Angelo Castillo of Pembroke Pines and Josh Levy of Hollywood have all thrown endorsements Jones’ way, joining several others who hope to see him succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, a fellow Democrat. Brunson praised Jones’ track record in her city. Castillo pitched Jones as an alternative to entrenched Washington politics. Jones also carries an endorsement from U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres of New York. “Shevrin Jones has always shown up for West Park and Broward County. He doesn’t just talk — he gets things done,” she said.
“Dueling polls paint starkly different pictures of Miami’s CD 27 Democratic Primary” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Two Democrats hoping to secure a place on the General Election ballot in Florida’s 27th Congressional District are each promoting new internal polling, which paints two very different pictures of where the race stands as Summer begins. Eliott Rodriguez’s internal poll of 300 likely Primary voters, conducted June 15-18 by Bendixen & Amandi International, found him crushing rival Robin Peguero by 26 percentage points, 54% to 28%. Meanwhile, an internal poll of 400 likely Primary voters GBAO Strategies conducted for Peguero found that after voters heard “biographical information” about both candidates, Peguero came out ahead of Rodriguez, 46% to 43%. Only one of the two campaigns categorically said it kept things neutral.
— EVEN MORE ELECTIONS —
“Nancy Bostock racks up local endorsements in School Board bid” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Former Pinellas County Commissioner and School Board member Bostock is adding a long list of municipal endorsements to her campaign for Pinellas County School Board District 6. New supporters include Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector, Seminole Mayor Leslie Waters, Redington Beach Mayor David Will, Pinellas Park Vice Mayor Ricky Butler and several City Commissioners from across the county. The endorsements build on backing from six of seven sitting County Commissioners, multiple constitutional officers and most of the legislative delegation. Bostock, who previously served on both the School Board and the County Commission, says her experience and local relationships will help strengthen partnerships that benefit students. She faces Amanda Lord in the November election.
“Carlos Guillermo Smith backs Gloria Reina O’Neal for School Board” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Sen. Smith is endorsing O’Neal in the race for Orange County School Board District 2, adding another prominent Democrat to her growing list of supporters. Smith praised O’Neal’s commitment to public education and said she would focus on supporting students, educators and families rather than divisive culture-war battles. O’Neal is seeking to succeed outgoing School Board member Maria Salamanca and faces Marisol Lugo in the Aug. 18 election. She has also earned endorsements from Rita Harris, Victor Torres, Angie Gallo and the Florida chapter of the National Organization for Women. Lugo, meanwhile, is backed by School Board member Alicia Farrant, a leading conservative voice on the Board.
“Millie Leeds takes helm of Duval Democrats” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Leeds is the new Chair of the Duval County Democratic Party, succeeding Daniel Henry as the organization prepares for a pivotal gubernatorial cycle in 2026 and local elections in 2027. A longtime party activist, Leeds previously served as Second Vice Chair of the local party, president of the Jacksonville Young Democrats and in multiple leadership roles with the Florida Young Democrats. She says her focus will be building a larger, more connected grassroots operation capable of supporting canvassing, phone banking, texting, digital outreach and candidate support simultaneously. Henry, who will continue serving as First Vice Chair of the Florida Democratic Party under Nikki Fried, praised Leeds’ commitment to organizing and party-building.
— STATEWIDE —
Budget watch — The clock is now ticking on DeSantis’ review of the state’s spending plan. The Governor has officially received the $114.5 billion budget for fiscal year 2026-27. As in years past, all eyes will be on DeSantis’ line-item veto authority, with an itemized veto list certain to accompany his signature before the new fiscal year begins July 1.
“James Uthmeier launches inquiry into CVS Pharmacy benefit manager” via Arek Sarkissian of POLITICO — Attorney General Uthmeier announced the launch of an inquiry into CVS Pharmacy and its pharmacy benefit manager as the state continues to implement restrictions lawmakers approved in 2023. Pharmacy benefit managers were created to help make prescription drugs more affordable for Medicare recipients, but reports of PBMs pocketing rebates and savings meant for consumers prompted the Legislature to pass new restrictions, which DeSantis signed into law. During a news conference in Miami, Uthmeier said CVS has enough market control to manipulate prices for consumers. His office will send subpoenas to the company asking for contracts and answers. “If we have to litigate, we certainly aren’t afraid to do it,” Uthmeier said.
“Florida appeals dismissal of textbook overcharging lawsuit” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida — Florida is appealing a Leon County judge’s dismissal of a lawsuit alleging McGraw-Hill and Savvas Learning overcharged School Districts for textbooks and other instructional materials. DeSantis and Uthmeier announced the lawsuit last year, alleging 5,900 instances of overcharges and arguing publishers gave better pricing to some districts while charging others more for the same products. Judge Jonathan Sjostrom ruled the state law at issue bars publishers from charging Florida districts more than districts in other states but does not prohibit pricing differences among Florida districts. The state filed its notice of appeal with the 1st District Court of Appeal.
“Challenge targets Florida Medicaid rate changes” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida — Pediatric Associates is challenging Medicaid rate changes, saying they threaten pediatric care for hundreds of thousands of Florida children. The Plantation-based provider filed a petition against the Agency for Health Care Administration over 2025 changes tied to moving applied behavior analysis services into Medicaid managed care. Pediatric Associates argues that AHCA and a consultant used a flawed rate formula that reduced reimbursements for core pediatric services, leaving some doctors paid less than the cost of care. The petition says the rate-setting process violated state and federal Medicaid rules and asks that the rates be tossed out. AHCA has directed managed care plans to negotiate with affected providers, but Pediatric Associates says that has not fixed the problem.
“Daniel Perez appoints Matt Gaetz to Triumph Gulf Coast Board” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Former U.S. Rep. Gaetz is returning to public service after House Speaker Perez appointed him to the Triumph Gulf Coast Board of Directors. The Board oversees settlement funds tied to the Deepwater Horizon disaster and supports economic recovery efforts in Northwest Florida. Gaetz, who represented the Panhandle in Congress and previously served in the Florida Legislature, will begin a four-year term July 1. He resigned from Congress in 2024 after winning re-election and withdrawing from consideration as Trump’s Attorney General. Gaetz welcomed the appointment on social media, saying he looks forward to continuing work that improves the lives of Northwest Floridians.
“Florida K-12 schools rank last in public education report” via Alaijah Cross of the Tallahassee Democrat — Florida received an F and ranked last in a new Network for Public Education report measuring states’ commitment to K-12 public schools. The nonprofit advocacy group scored Florida 14 out of 100 points, citing school privatization, finance policies and student and teacher supports. The report argues that expanding vouchers and charter schools most aggressively also underfunds traditional public schools and weakens protections for students. Critics say Florida has redirected billions of taxpayer dollars to private school programs with limited oversight, while supporters argue the policies expand educational choice. The ranking comes as the Florida Education Association sues over funding and regulatory disparities among traditional public, charter and private schools.
“Three counties moving forward with one-year data center moratoriums” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — Commissioners in three counties — Clay, Hernando and Lake — unanimously advanced moratoriums for large-scale data centers, prohibiting applications, permitting and rezoning for 12 months. The stated goal is to allow time to research the issue in depth and weigh the pros and cons. Lake County Commissioner Anthony Sabatini spearheaded his county’s prohibition. Wakulla and Jackson counties passed permanent bans earlier this month, ignoring similar warnings from their county attorneys. In all, over a dozen counties statewide have adopted or advanced data center moratoriums and bans, all in North or Central Florida. “We can’t say ‘no’ forever,” said Commissioner Steve Champion, who argued the county needed to study the issue and establish regulations in the long run. “If we just say ‘no’ like these other counties, we’re going to go to court and lose.”
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Senate votes to curb Donald Trump’s ability to resume Iran war” via Theodoric Meyer and Noah Robertson of The Washington Post — The U.S. Senate voted 50-48 to block Trump from resuming military action against Iran without congressional authorization, marking a rare bipartisan rebuke of the White House. Four Republicans joined Democrats in support of the measure, while John Fetterman was the lone Democrat to oppose it. Led by Sen. Tim Kaine, supporters argue Congress alone has the constitutional authority to authorize war and say the resolution remains necessary despite the administration’s recent agreement with Iran. Republicans backing Trump contend the measure lacks legal force and could undermine ongoing diplomacy. The vote highlights growing unease among some Republicans over the administration’s handling of the Iran conflict.
“Judge blocks ICE arrests at immigration courts nationwide” via Priscilla Alvarez of CNN — A federal judge has issued a nationwide injunction blocking the Trump administration’s policy of making immigration arrests at courthouses, delivering a significant setback to federal enforcement efforts. U.S. District Judge P. Casey Pitts ruled that the policy was “arbitrary and capricious,” citing its chilling effect on migrants seeking to attend immigration proceedings. The practice, implemented last year, allowed Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to detain migrants at courthouses shortly after hearings. Immigration advocates argued the policy undermined due process by discouraging court appearances. The Department of Homeland Security blasted the ruling as judicial overreach, while supporters of the decision said courthouses should remain places where immigrants can seek justice without fear of arrest.
“Marco Rubio announces new sanctions on Cuban mining companies and military enterprises” via Nora Gámez Torres of the Miami Herald — Rubio announced new sanctions on two Cuban mining companies and three key enterprises in Cuba’s military conglomerate, GAESA, as the Trump administration continues putting pressure on Cuban leaders to enact significant changes in the country. Rubio also sanctioned Annalie Lilliam Rueda, the wife of Gen. Alejandro Castro Espín, Raúl Castro‘s son, who headed Cuban intelligence services and was previously sanctioned this month. Rubio warned that “anyone providing services to these sanctioned actors is at risk of being sanctioned themselves.” “The Cuban military-controlled GAESA has persistently served as the main vector for regime elites to steal the island’s few resources, diverting them for repression, anti-American subversion and spying instead of schools, power plants and necessities for the Cuban people,” Rubio said.
“Congress sends sweeping housing bill to Trump’s desk” via Ronda Kaysen of The New York Times — Congress has approved the most significant federal housing legislation in more than three decades, clearing a bipartisan measure aimed at boosting housing supply and addressing affordability nationwide. The House passed the bill 358-32 after the Senate approved it 85-5, with Trump expected to sign it into law. The legislation includes incentives for new home construction, regulatory changes to speed development, expanded support for manufactured housing, infrastructure grants and new restrictions on large institutional ownership of single-family homes. Supporters say the measure tackles a housing shortage that has driven prices and rents sharply higher, while critics question how quickly consumers will see relief. The bill marks a rare bipartisan achievement ahead of the Midterm Elections.
“DOJ unveils sweeping healthcare fraud crackdown” via The Associated Press — Federal prosecutors have charged 455 people in a nationwide healthcare fraud takedown involving more than $6.5 billion in allegedly false insurance claims. Among the highest-profile Florida cases is cardiologist Jason Finkelstein, who faces charges tied to an alleged $89 million scheme involving medically unnecessary cardiovascular screenings for student-athletes. Prosecutors say Finkelstein and co-conspirators falsely diagnosed patients to secure insurance reimbursements, relied on unqualified personnel to conduct tests and routinely approved results without review. In one cited case, a teenager whose abnormal results were allegedly missed later died on a basketball court. The Justice Department said the operation reflects its intensified focus on healthcare fraud and abuse of public insurance programs.
— LOCAL: S. FL —
“Vicki Lopez launches 5-figure bilingual ad buy to defend Miami-Dade Commission seat” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami-Dade voters will soon see TV ads and online spots with County Commissioner Lopez highlighting her policymaking work and pitching herself as the best choice for District 5 on the Aug. 18 ballot. Lopez’s campaign just launched a five-figure, bilingual ad buy targeting voters in the District spanning parts of Miami and Miami Beach. In virtually identical 30-second spots in English and Spanish, Lopez emphasizes her record as a state lawmaker and, since late last year, one of 13 Miami-Dade Commissioners. “In Tallahassee, I fought hard to take on affordability challenges and deliver infrastructure funding to improve our neighborhoods,” she says in the video. “Now, as your County Commissioner, I’m focused on what matters most: keeping our waterways clean, supporting small businesses and moving faster on affordable housing. I’m not waiting to get started; I’m already on the job.”
Watch the video here:
“Miami-Dade closes 9 public schools, many eyed by ‘Schools of Hope’ charters” via Austin Horn of the Miami Herald — Nine schools across Miami-Dade will close for good this Summer after a unanimous vote from the District’s School Board. All those schools have seen their attendance drop sharply, some by more than half in the last 10 years. As of late last year, almost all the schools have received letters of intent from charter school operators under Florida’s expanded “Schools of Hope” law. The new statute requires districts to make underused and “persistently low-performing” schools available for occupancy by approved charter operators, often at a low cost. “The state has underfunded public schools to the point where this District is closing the schools that serve children who have the least,” said Lisette Fernandez, co-founder of Moms For Libros.
“A maritime veteran is taking over as PortMiami director during fuel yard turmoil” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — Miami-Dade County’s Mayor recruited a port veteran to try and stabilize PortMiami during a tumultuous time as the county-owned facility scrambles to retain a nearby fuel depot and deals with departures from senior leadership. Jonathan Daniels, director of the Port of Baltimore in Maryland, is taking the top job at Miami-Dade’s port. In 2024, Maryland hired him away from PortMiami’s top competitor, Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. In Baltimore, he was only on the job for seven weeks when the port faced its biggest crisis in history after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge shut down the shipping channel there. The Port of Baltimore reopened and last year set records in cargo activity.
“‘Clearly protected expression’: Free-speech watchdog urges FIU to drop anti-ICE protest case” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Florida International University is facing renewed criticism over its effort to discipline students who silently protested the school’s relationship with federal immigration authorities. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), a national free-speech advocacy nonprofit, is demanding that FIU abandon conduct proceedings against seven students who wore “ICE OFF FIU” shirts during a March event featuring university President Jeanette Nuñez. In a June 18 letter to Nuñez, FIRE argued the students engaged in constitutionally protected expression and that the university’s policy governing demonstrations is overly broad and legally suspect. “FIU sends a message to its students that if they want to venture indoors, they must think twice before engaging in any expressive activity that can be construed as a ‘protest’ or ‘demonstration,’” FIRE Program Counsel Garrett Gravley wrote.
“A deadly collapse at a condo happened slowly over several weeks, probe finds” via Hallie Golden of the Orlando Sentinel — The deadly destruction of a Florida beachfront condominium actually started weeks before it collapsed into a pile of rubble in the middle of the night, killing 98 people in 2021, but the building had been vulnerable from the start, federal investigators found. The National Institute of Standards and Technology said in the report that two connections between garage columns and the pool deck started to fail around early June. Most residents were asleep when the building in the tiny town of Surfside, Florida, a few miles north of Miami, collapsed into a huge pile of rubble at 1:22 a.m. on June 24, 2021. “In the case of Champlain Towers South, these margins against failure were too narrow from the start,” Judith Mitrani-Reiser, who co-led the investigation, said in a video accompanying the report.
“Miami Beach hotel to close and lay off hundreds of workers before change” via Vinod Sreeharsha of the Miami Herald — The W South Beach hotel at 2201 Collins Ave. will shut down this Summer so that its new owner can start renovations. No timeline was given, but the hotel is letting go of 337 employees effective Aug. 19 and making no promises of future work. In late 2024, new owners came on board when the investment firm Reuben Brothers acquired the property for $425 million. The W is in the Collins Waterfront Historic District. The notice also stated that the Marriott will no longer operate the hotel after Aug. 20. One unit owner in the complex, Dennis Wedlick, said a private club would become a live-music venue. Wedlick, an architect, said the owners’ presentation was “decidedly incomplete, preventing you and the public from properly assessing the project’s impact on the surroundings.”
“‘We’ve had enough’: Many neighbors urge Palm Beach County to curb growth, traffic in Ag Reserve” via Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — As part of recent efforts to gather input from residents on Palm Beach County’s Agricultural Reserve, county officials recently held two public meetings in which a majority opinion emerged: Stop development. Hundreds of county residents showed up for the meetings. Many residents, along with some of the reserve’s legacy farmers, are appealing to county officials, saying the roads cannot handle increased traffic from growth, even as the reserve’s rural nature is being eroded. Other residents made similar requests, with some even calling for a moratorium on building and a reversal of the county’s Commerce land-use designation, which allows light-industrial projects such as warehouses.
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Orange County hotel tax debate returns with new task force” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings has convened another task force to examine how the county spends billions in tourist development tax revenue, reviving a long-running debate over whether hotel taxes should fund broader community priorities. The discussion centers on whether more revenue should support needs such as transportation, housing and public safety, or continue flowing primarily toward tourism-related projects, including expansions at the Orange County Convention Center. Maxwell argues the county missed an opportunity during the last review process, when another convention center expansion received support while broader spending options remained largely off the table. With a new task force now meeting, the debate over balancing tourism investment against local infrastructure and service needs is expected to resurface.
“‘I lost everything’: Orlando resident returns home after months in ICE custody in Pennsylvania.” via Cristóbal Reyes of Orlando Sentinel — After six months in an ICE facility in Pennsylvania and a 31-hour train ride from Pittsburgh, Islam Aly stepped onto the platform of the Amtrak station in Orlando with a beaming smile. Aly was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease inside the facility, suffered some vision loss and dropped over 45 pounds. Aly had been arrested Dec. 23 after flying into Philadelphia as he was coming home from Egypt, where he was visiting following the death of his father. On Friday, Aly was released on his own recognizance by ICE, but it’s not clear why. “The R&R that I’m looking for is not ‘rest and relaxation,’ it’s recovery and restitution,” Aly said. “I lost all my property. I lost everything. I lost my damn cat. I need to find my cat.”
“Carlos Guillermo Smith backs Gloria Reina O’Neal in Orange County School Board race” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Sen. Smith is endorsing O’Neal for the Orange County School Board District 2 race. O’Neal is up against Marisol Lugo in the Aug. 18 race to succeed incumbent School Board member Maria Salamanca. Salamanca said she was unable to run for re-election because of her job. She has also endorsed O’Neal. Smith is the latest Democrat to endorse O’Neal, who has already picked up support from Rep. Rita Harris and former Sen. Victor Torres. Lugo has the backing of Alicia Farrant, the School Board’s most conservative member and a Moms for Liberty member. “Gloria Reina understands that the job of a School Board member is to protect students, support educators, and strengthen public education — not to fuel divisive culture wars,” said Smith.
“Daytona Beach Mayor claims news reports are false, but won’t say why” via Sheldon Gardner of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry criticized press reports about probes into city finances and other matters, and tried to clarify what he said were misconceptions in the community about the internal city auditor’s role. The Florida Attorney General’s Office is investigating the city’s financial practices. As part of the investigation, multiple subpoenas have been issued to officials both inside and outside City Hall.
“‘Don’t fit the character:’ Lake County moves forward with proposed 1-year ban on data centers” via Amy Russo of WKMG — District 1 Lake County Commissioner Anthony Sabatini is pushing for a one-year moratorium that would stop new data center development in the county. “These are huge centers that don’t fit the character and the feel of Lake County,” he said. At the Commission meeting, Commissioners unanimously agreed with Sabatini to create an ordinance placing a moratorium in effect. Multiple Florida counties have passed or are considering similar moratoriums, including Nassau, Pasco, and Jackson. “I don’t believe that Lake County’s an appropriate place for any data centers, but I do know that a moratorium is legal, and that’s a good way to stop and put a pause on things before anything significant happens,” Sabatini said.
— LOCAL: TB —
“‘One person’s hero is another person’s enemy’: Tampa Sports Authority won’t block Ye concert” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — With Ye’s two Tampa concerts just days away, Tampa Sports Authority Chair Patrick Manteiga says the shows will go on despite a mounting pressure campaign from elected officials, Jewish community advocates and residents urging the publicly supported venue to call off the performances. The shows have drawn opposition over his history of antisemitic remarks, including praise for Adolf Hitler, calling himself a Nazi and selling merchandise featuring swastikas. “It would be very expensive to the community to cancel this because, you know, I assume there would be lawsuits to follow up. You can’t just cancel something because you don’t like what somebody said a year ago; that doesn’t really stand up to the obligations that public venues have in allowing people to use them,” Manteiga said.
“Tampa speech controversy sparks debate over public-comment rules” via Nina Moske of the Tampa Bay Times — A contentious appearance by conservative influencer Alex Stein at a Tampa City Council meeting has reignited debate over the limits of public speech during government meetings. Stein delivered a provocative public-comment speech that included vulgar remarks and personal accusations, prompting some Council members to question whether existing rules are too permissive. Council member Luis Viera argued that some regulation is necessary to maintain order, while City Council Attorney Martin Shelby warned the city’s broad public-comment policy could weaken its ability to restrict disruptive speech. Tampa currently allows speakers to address virtually any topic during public comment. The dispute highlights the tension between maximizing public access and preserving decorum at local government meetings.
“Tampa Bay officials extend watering restrictions amid ongoing drought” via Michaela Mulligan of the Tampa Bay Times — Tightened watering restrictions stemming from a drought that has gripped Tampa Bay for months will continue through Oct. 1, extending an order that would have expired July 1. On Tuesday, the governing Board for the Southwest Florida Water Management District approved prolonging the “Modified Phase III Extreme Water Shortage” order that began in April. The water shortage is in effect for Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough, Hernando, Polk and Manatee counties, among other counties and cities. While some drought conditions have improved over the past month, water officials said it was not enough to pull back restrictions. “Now we are in the wet season, so we should see the rainfall picking up and helping,” said Tamera McBride, the District’s manager of hydrologic data.
— LOCAL: SW. FL —
“Chris Hall draws Jeffersonian challenger in Collier race” via Liz Freeman of the Fort Myers News-Press and Naples Daily News — Collier County Commissioner Hall will face Jeffersonian Party candidate Cody Davis in the Nov. 3 General Election for the District 2 seat representing North Naples. Hall, a Republican first elected in 2022, faces no opposition in the Aug. 18 Primary. Davis, who describes himself as a historian and election law expert, says his campaign is rooted in citizen-led governance, local control and Jeffersonian principles of self-reliance and stewardship. Hall points to fiscal savings achieved through priority-based budgeting, support for major conservation land acquisitions and efforts to display the Ten Commandments in county buildings. The race offers voters a stark contrast in governing philosophies.
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“Lawyers revisit JEA ex-CEO Aaron Zahn’s guilt in Jacksonville appeal” via Steve Patterson of the Florida Times-Union — Disputes about the aborted sale of JEA returned to Jacksonville’s federal courthouse as lawyers for former utility CEO Zahn and the U.S. Justice Department made oral arguments June 23 over Zahn’s appeal of his conviction on conspiracy and wire fraud charges. U.S. District Judge Brian Davis sentenced Zahn to four years in prison in 2024, saying the executive had baked a “deceitful pie” at JEA through manipulative actions that jurors decided showed his guilt. “This case does not involve a federal crime. It involves the government criminalizing local politics after watching deliberations over private-sector ideas about asset sales and benefit plans at a public utility explode ‘in the newspaper’,” defense team lead Samuel Salario Jr. had argued in a November brief that set the stage for oral arguments.
“Why a $7M sidewalk could save lives on one dangerous Jacksonville road” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — The sidewalks on both sides of Art Museum Drive start and stop in piecemeal fashion. In stretches where sidewalks aren’t available, people often walk in the road while cars whiz past them. A grassroots movement a few years ago caught the attention of city leaders, who agreed to fill in the gaps so the sidewalks would run continuously between Atlantic and Beach boulevards. But as the city moves to finally start design in the coming year and then construction in 2028, the $7.5 million price tag for 1 mile of sidewalks has made it a target of critics. “Donna’s waste is everywhere,” City Council member Rory Diamond wrote June 15 in an X post referring to Mayor Donna Deegan and the sidewalk project.
“Three-quarters of a million raised in crowded Tallahassee mayoral race” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — Four candidates are hoping to succeed Mayor John Dailey, who is not term-limited but announced in August he would not seek another term. The same day, City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow, who has repeatedly sparred with Dailey over the years, announced his candidacy. Other candidates in the race include Loranne Ausley, Daryl Parks and Michael Foust. Through June 12, the top three candidates have collectively raised nearly $725,000, with Parks raising $284,000, Ausley raising $270,000, and Matlow raising $169,000. Foust has raised $5,300. Matlow trails Parks and Ausley in fundraising but has the most small donors, with most of his contributions under $25. Bettors on Polymarket have Ausley as the front-runner, giving her a 49% chance of winning, while Matlow and Parks each have a 23% chance.
“Tallahassee honors Maggie Lewis-Butler with new road” via Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — Tallahassee drivers will now get the chance to cruise down the newly designated Maggie Lewis-Butler Honorary Roadway, as that was made official on June 22. The road naming, unanimously passed by the Commission at their April meeting along with other street renamings, covers Jim Lee Road from Magnolia Drive to its dead end just south of Saddle Creek Run. Lewis-Butler served Leon County Schools in several roles over the decades. Following her graduation from Florida A&M University in 1966, she began a 30-year teaching career, during which she taught everything from high school biology and seventh-, eighth-, and ninth-grade science to adult education courses and even served as an adjunct professor at her alma mater, teaching biology.
“Escambia cancels library meeting as fallout over director hire grows” via Jim Little of the Pensacola News-Journal — Just a few days after Pensacola City Council member Jennifer Brahier called on her fellow Council members to take a closer look at what is going on in the county’s handling of the library system, County Administrator Wes Moreno canceled all further Board meetings as fallout continues to grow over the selection of the library director. The all-volunteer Board of Governance (BOG) is charged with overseeing the operations of the library system and recommending to the County Administrator whom to appoint as library director. The Escambia County Commission appoints three Board members, and two are appointed by the city, with one coming from the Mayor and one from the City Council.
— TOP OPINION —
Florida GOP canceled the debate, but the real story is why they did it” via the Miami Herald editorial board — The Republican Party of Florida has canceled its gubernatorial debate at this weekend’s Sunshine State Showdown, and the Board argues the missing matchup “isn’t actually much of a loss for voters.” Only Donalds, the candidate backed by Trump, qualified under the party’s internal criteria — standards the RPOF released only after pulling the plug, reinforcing “the impression the party is creating” that “Donalds is the nominee. No need to hold a debate.”
A four-person debate, the Board concedes, was “highly unlikely” to change the race; such matchups “more often” pose “an unnecessary risk for the front-runner,” which is “why party leaders would rather not see Donalds on the stage defending his record.” The other contenders — Renner, Collins and Fishback — are “struggling for name recognition.” Outgoing Gov. DeSantis has led “quite an outcry” over the cancellation.
The Sunshine State Showdown will still go on, “sort of,” replaced by a candidate forum where contenders “appear on stage throughout the day.” That’s “not a bad idea,” the Board allows, but “it’s not a debate” — it denies candidates the chance “to defend their records or separate themselves from their opponents on the same stage.” By unveiling the qualification standards only after canceling, the GOP “signaled that, in its view, the Primary was effectively over.”
“Maybe that’s because Byron Donalds is the strongest candidate. Maybe he was always going to win,” the Board writes. “But deciding the nominee is what voters are supposed to do.” On Aug. 18, it concludes, “Republican voters will pick their candidate — no debate necessary.”
— MORE OPINIONS —
“Gov. Ron DeSantis built the nation’s strongest record on Jewish safety. His final budget decides whether it holds” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Florida’s 2026 budget is about to define a record that is years in the making. This year carries a different weight. Term limits mean the choices DeSantis makes when he signs the General Appropriations Act are the ones the history books actually keep. There’s no do-over on a legacy. The share of Florida college students who report being targeted, excluded or harassed in the past year runs close to half the national figure. That gap isn’t an accident. It’s a reflection of firm state leadership. That brings us to the pen, and to the items now sitting in front of it.
“Florida’s new 7-OH ban still misses the bigger kratom problem” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Attorney General Uthmeier has signed a new emergency rule once again targeting 7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly known as 7-OH, and related compounds. But major investigations from The New York Times and WIRED have pulled back the curtain on something far more troubling: an entrenched segment of the kratom industry has been working to protect its own market position by pushing restrictions on competitors, while leaving many other, more dangerous kratom products, including mixed beverages, shots and powders, on the shelves. “While the proposal before Florida focuses on 7-OH, my concern goes much further,” said Patti Wheeler, a mother who lost her son after he used kratom.
“Cancer survival should not depend on financial survival” via Michelle Flowers for Florida Politics — Surviving cancer should not mean spending years recovering from the financial toll of treatment. Even with insurance, patients often face high deductibles, coverage restrictions, prior authorization delays and high out-of-pocket costs for therapies, scans and medications. While policymakers increasingly focus on medical debt, greater scrutiny is needed on whether programs designed to improve affordability are delivering relief to patients. Reports examining the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program raise concerns about aggressive debt-collection practices and about whether discounted drug savings are reaching those they were intended to help. Improving transparency, strengthening oversight, reforming insurance practices and establishing safeguards against harmful collection efforts can help ensure cancer survivors receive the support they deserve.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— WORLD CUP —
“Trump administration loosens travel restrictions on Iranian soccer team” via Gregory Svirnovskiy and Sophia Cai of POLITICO — The Department of Homeland Security is easing the stringent security protocols facing Iran’s national men’s soccer team at this month’s World Cup. The team, which has been practicing at a base camp in Tijuana, Mexico, will now be allowed to arrive in Seattle two days before its scheduled match against Egypt, a DHS spokesperson told POLITICO. For its first two World Cup games, both played in Los Angeles, the team was allowed to arrive stateside only within 24 hours of kickoff. The loosened guidelines come as Trump works to convince a skeptical American electorate that peace with Tehran is at hand. Iranian officials have lambasted the U.S. for denying visas to its soccer staff ahead of the tournament.
“Global views of the U.S. sour as it hosts the World Cup” via Riya Misra of POLITICO — America’s stint hosting the World Cup is drawing mostly positive reviews to date, and it couldn’t come at a better time. According to a new report from the Pew Research Center, views of America across the world are worsening and confidence in Trump’s leadership is dropping. Pew surveyed 42,000 people across 36 countries between February and May and found only 23% expressed confidence in Trump’s leadership — less than Chinese leader Xi Jinping (34%) and Russian President Vladimir Putin (31%). Fewer countries — and longtime allies — believe the U.S. is a reliable partner. In Canada, where 83% of respondents described the U.S. as reliable in 2022, that number is now down to 35%.
“FSU sociologist Deana Rohlinger says World Cup fans are ‘flipping the script’ on America’s image” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — The Florida State University professor of sociology, who studies mass media, social movements and democratic participation, sees the tournament as one of the largest live experiments in “citizen diplomacy” — the idea that ordinary people, not governments, generate the kind of goodwill that reshapes how a country is seen. “Social scientists have known for decades that when people from different groups interact under positive conditions, stereotypes often break down,” Rohlinger said. “The World Cup is one of the largest examples imaginable.” According to the Pew Research Center, a median of 74% of people across 17 countries believe the U.S. is gripped by strong partisan conflict. Then they get here.
“How law enforcement is stopping drones at the World Cup” via Travis Meier of Axios — Drones are no longer simply toys for hobbyists and cameras in the sky — they’re real threats to public safety and large-scale security, experts tell Axios. U.S. leaders are pushing for hostile drone defense programs across the country, including in Kansas City, where police are using military-grade tech and working with federal law enforcement to patrol the air. The FBI reported that 22 drones have been detected in no-fly zones in Kansas City since the start of the tournament, resulting in 16 seizures, at least five federal criminal citations and one person arrested. Security is no longer just “gates, guns and guards,” says Tom Adams, director of public safety at DroneShield, the company behind KC’s defense system.
— USA 250 —
Tweet, tweet:
“Pasco County park featured in FDOT’s America 250 road trip” via Tim Wronka of Bay News 9 — Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park in Pasco County is now part of ‘Road Trip Florida,’ the Florida Department of Transportation’s celebration of America 250. FDOT placed a new historical marker at the park. FDOT has placed markers at historical sites across Florida, with at least one in each county. The state park sits just west of busy U.S. 19 in west Pasco County. The park is also a destination for kayaking and outdoor recreation. Paul Herman, a historian with the West Pasco Historical Society, said the park offers a way to experience nature, despite being close to one of the county’s heavily traveled corridors. “There’s getting to be fewer and fewer places where you can do that,” Herman said. “Pasco County is lucky because we’ve got Werner-Boyce.”
— ALOE —
“Florida’s state bird fight pits flamingos against mockingbirds” via Elizabeth Bernstein of The Wall Street Journal — Florida’s latest political flap centers on whether the American flamingo should replace the Northern mockingbird as the state bird. Rep. Jim Mooney has pushed the change, arguing flamingos are uniquely associated with Florida and increasingly present in the Everglades, while the mockingbird represents several states. Supporters include scientists, business owners, artists, Zoo Miami’s Ron Magill and author Dave Barry, who says “Big Mockingbird” is the only obstacle. Opponents, including former NRA President Marion Hammer, have defended the mockingbird and criticized the scrub jay, which Mooney also sought to recognize. The House passed the proposal 112-1, but it died in the Senate.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Celebrating today are former Justice Charles Canady, Rep. Dianne Hart, Blake Dowling, Mario Farias, Katie Flury, Tara Price, and our dear friend Rich Newsome.
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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.