Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 8.28.26

Good Friday morning.

A top of the ‘burn birthday shoutout to Andy Gonzalez, former Florida Realtors vice president of Public Policy, now serving as Airbnb’s Public Policy Lead for the Southeast and Gulf.

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Scoopage — “Ron DeSantis, Byron Donalds signal post-Primary thaw in Tampa” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Gov. DeSantis will appear with Republican gubernatorial nominee Donalds at a Sept. 1 leadership forum in Tampa, their first public event together since last year’s Alligator Alcatraz opening. The appearance marks a notable post-Primary thaw after months of tension between the two. DeSantis and Donalds were once allies, but their relationship cooled after Donalds endorsed President Donald Trump in the 2024 Presidential Primary. The Governor had also criticized Donalds during the 2026 Primary season and praised rival Paul Renner. Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, Attorney General James Uthmeier, and CFO Blaise Ingoglia are also scheduled to participate, underscoring a broader push for Republican unity.

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Breaking late Thursday — “Tampa gives Rays stadium deal a narrow green light” via Emma Behrmann of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — The Tampa Bay Rays’ proposed $2.36 billion stadium cleared a major hurdle as Tampa City Council approved the development and financing agreement 4-3. The city would contribute $80 million for infrastructure, while the Rays have increased their commitment to $1.37 billion. The revised deal drops a previously proposed $100 million Drew Park CRA contribution and removes Community Investment Tax dollars as the source of the city’s $80 million. But significant pieces remain unresolved, including the community benefits agreement and guarantees for the surrounding mixed-use development. Hillsborough County, which is considering a much larger $796 million contribution, votes Friday.

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The Florida Council on Aging has honored PinPoint Results lobbyist and advocate Robert Beck for his work on behalf of older adults and aging-service providers across Florida.

Beck received the Dr. Carter Osterbind Outstanding FCOA Member Quality Senior Living Award, which recognizes statewide service and advocacy for older Floridians. The award is sponsored by Florida Power & Light.

FCOA said Beck has helped coordinate advocacy efforts and represent the needs of older adults at the state level. His work in advocacy and public policy began in 1990 with the Pepper Commission, followed by several positions in state government. He is now president and partner at PinPoint Results alongside his wife and business partner, Tanya Jackson.

“What distinguishes Mr. Beck most is his unwavering focus on fiscal responsibility and the measurable impact of programs. He possesses a unique ability to work across sectors, bringing clarity, accountability, and results-driven leadership to complex policy environments,” Independent Living Systems CEO Nestor Plana and Chief Administrative Officer Josefina Carbonell said in a joint statement.

Plana and Carbonell also credited Beck’s volunteer advocacy work with helping secure increased state funding for programs including Community Care for the Elderly, Home Care for the Elderly and the Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative, as well as additional general revenue benefiting aging and disability service providers.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

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—@AngieNixon: I am proof government assistance works. A down payment program helped me buy a home on a $28K salary — and I paid it back. Trump and (Sen. Ashley) Moody want to cut programs just like this that help everyday, hard-working Floridians. I will fight to protect them.

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—@JacobsononAir: You’d have to be brainless to vote for Lynn Hurtak after this display

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— DAYS UNTIL —

Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards — 4; NFL regular season kicks off — 12; Republican National Midterm Convention — 12; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in the first-ever NFL regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia — 13; Yankees host the Mets for the 9/11 anniversary — 14; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 18; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 22; Tampa Bay Buccaneers home opener against the Cleveland Browns — 23; General Election domestic ballot send window begins — 27; General Election domestic ballot send deadline — 34; ‘Digger,’ with Tom Cruise, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, premieres — 35; General Election voter registration deadline — 38; ‘The Social Reckoning,’ with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres — 42; Associated Industries of Florida one-on-one conversations with five top-of-ticket Republicans — 45; ‘VisionQuest’ premieres — 47; Optional General Election early voting begins — 52; ‘Six Kings Slam’ on Netflix begins — 54; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins — 54; General Election ballot request deadline — 55; Mandatory General Election early voting begins — 57; General Election — 67; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 70; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 70; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit begins — 75; ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol,’ starring Johnny Depp, premieres — 77; ‘Paper Tiger,’ starring Adam Driver, premieres — 77; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me, America,’ is released — 81; New legislator training sessions — 81; Senate convenes for general organization and selection of officers — 81; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 84; ‘The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 89; ‘Madden’ premieres — 90; Committee Week #1 — 94; untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 112; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 112; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 112; Committee Week #2 — 129; Committee Week #3 — 136; ‘Ahsoka’ Season 2 premieres — 145; College Football Playoff National Championship Game in Las Vegas — 150; Committee Week #4 — 157; Grammys — 163; Committee Week #5 — 164; Super Bowl LXI — 170; Committee Week #6 — 171; opening day of the 2027 Regular Legislative Session — 186; Tampa Mayoral Election — 186; ‘The Thomas Crown Affair,’ directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan, premieres — 189; Oscars — 198; Jacksonville First Election — 207; Miami Marlins Opening Day/Home Opener vs. New York Mets — 209; Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day/Home Opener vs. Baltimore Orioles — 209; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins — 229; Jacksonville General Election — 263; ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ premieres — 273; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 281; Citrus Series — Tampa Bay Rays at Miami Marlins — 322; ‘The Bluey Movie’ premieres — 343; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 343; Citrus Series — Miami Marlins at Tampa Bay Rays — 378; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 476; 2028 South Carolina Presidential Primary — 512; College Football Playoff National Championship Game in New Orleans — 514; 2028 Nevada Presidential Primary — 522; 2028 New Hampshire Presidential Primary — 529; 2028 New Mexico Presidential Primary — 536; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 539; 2028 Michigan Presidential Primary — 543; 2028 Virginia Presidential Primary — 550; Oscars — 555; ‘X-Men’ premieres — 616; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 637; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 658; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 686; ‘Ghost Rider’ premieres — 700; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 802; ‘Black Panther 3,’ directed by Ryan Coogler, premieres — 840; College Football Playoff National Championship Game in Tampa — 878; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,202; College Football Playoff National Championship Game in Miami — 1,242; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,933.

— TOP STORY —

“Hope Florida grand jury found misuse — but couldn’t identify who did it” via Jim Vertuno of The Associated Press — A Florida grand jury concluded that $10 million in taxpayer money was “misappropriated” through Hope Florida and ultimately used for political purposes.

But investigators could not answer the crucial question: who specifically made the decision to divert it.

Witnesses repeatedly could not identify — or remember — who directed money from a $67 million Medicaid settlement with Centene to the Hope Florida Foundation. That evidentiary dead end prevented jurors from establishing individual criminal responsibility.

“Despite our finding that the money was misappropriated, we find insufficient evidence to charge anyone criminally,” jurors concluded. They said the inability to determine who was responsible impeded prosecution, even while finding taxpayer money was misused to oppose the 2024 marijuana amendment.

Attorney General Uthmeier, then Gov. DeSantis’ Chief of Staff, was described as “in a position of authority” over officials involved in the settlement. His Keep Florida Clean committee received most of the money, but the report did not establish that Uthmeier ordered the diversion.

Then-Attorney General Moody’s office knew about plans to direct $10 million to Hope Florida, the report says. Moody maintains her office had no knowledge of how the money would subsequently be spent. Neither finding established who initiated the arrangement.

That unresolved question now defines the scandal. The grand jury found misuse but no provable culprit, leaving prosecutors without charges and Floridians without a clear answer about who was responsible. DeSantis says no laws were broken; Democratic gubernatorial nominee David Jolly wants the investigation reopened, heading into November’s statewide elections.

— 2026 —

“Paul Renner hits trail for Donalds as GOP unifies post-Primary” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Former House Speaker Renner is putting the Republican Primary behind him and campaigning for Donalds, despite spending months warning Donalds could lose the General Election to Jolly. In Jacksonville, Renner urged Republicans to unite, arguing that Jolly would bring higher taxes, bigger government, and a reversal of conservative priorities. Donalds responded by praising Renner’s “conviction” and legislative record. The alliance marks a sharp turn for Renner, who during the Primary called Jolly a “moderate Democrat” and predicted he would defeat Donalds. Renner had also attacked Donalds over his congressional stock trades, wealth, missed votes and decades-old arrests, arguing Republicans risked losing with a “compromised nominee.”

“Donalds expands law enforcement support with 17 Sheriff endorsements” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — Seventeen Florida Sheriffs endorsed Republican gubernatorial nominee Donalds, expanding his coalition of law enforcement leaders as he campaigns with running mate Bryan Ávila ahead of the November General Election. Donalds and Ávila have met with Sheriffs and other law enforcement officials across the state, from Northwest Florida to South Florida, to discuss public safety, support for officers and efforts to keep communities safe. “Florida is the law-and-order state, and as Governor, I will make sure it stays that way,” Donalds said. Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, who also serves as president of the Florida Sheriffs Association, praised Donalds’ commitment to law enforcement.

“David Jolly backs Escambia data center moratorium, hits Donalds” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jolly is backing Escambia County’s moratorium on large-scale data centers and using the issue to draw a contrast with Donalds. Jolly said voters are increasingly rejecting the facilities due to concerns about environmental impacts, noise, property values, and public health, and he pledged to impose a statewide moratorium on his first day in office. Donalds opposes bans, arguing Florida should embrace data centers while requiring them to pay their own way and use technologies such as small modular nuclear reactors and closed-loop water systems. Jolly also accused Donalds of siding with developers after receiving millions in support from pro-AI interests.

“Jolly says data center moratorium could become permanent ban” via Kylie Williams of POLITICO — Jolly is making opposition to hyperscale data centers a central piece of his campaign for Governor, saying the one-year statewide moratorium he would impose could ultimately become a permanent ban. Jolly said Florida should pause construction while studying impacts on electricity costs, water supplies, public health and rural communities, adding he is “not sure it’d ever make sense” to build the facilities in the state. Several Northwest Florida counties have already adopted moratoriums, while Walton and Wakulla counties have enacted permanent bans. Republican nominee Donalds opposes statewide bans and favors allowing data centers with guardrails, including protections for ratepayers and the environment. Jolly says Floridians increasingly want the projects stopped altogether.

— MORE ELECTIONS —

“‘Proven pro-growth voice’: U.S. Chamber endorses Mike Haridopolos re-election” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The U.S. Chamber of Commerce held an event in Orlando to spotlight its support of U.S. Rep. Haridopolos. Regional leaders of the nation’s biggest business advocacy group praised the Indian Harbour Beach Republican’s focus on free market issues. “The Space Coast needs a proven pro-growth voice in Congress, and that is why the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is proud to endorse Mike Haridopolos for re-election,” said Clark Jackson, senior director for the Southeastern Region at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Haridopolos, who won his freshman term in the U.S. House in 2024, faces a challenge this year from Democrat Jennifer Jenkins, a former Brevard School Board member.

— EVEN MORE ELECTIONS —

First in Sunburn — The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee said it will support candidates in 17 Florida legislative districts this cycle. That includes 13 Florida House districts and four Florida Senate seats.

The DLCC intends to defend Brian Nathan in Senate District 14 and Reps. Allison Tant in House District 9, Leonard Spencer in House District 45, Emily Gregory in House District 87, Debra Tendrich in House District 89 and Kevin Chambliss in House District 117. The group also aims to defend Senate District 26, where Democrat David Silvers is running, and House District 60, where Democrat Lindsay Polega-Quigley is running under the party banner.

But the organization has more seats where Democrats are playing offense. It will back John Lowndes’ attempt to upset Republican Sen. Jason Brodeur in Senate District 10 and Richard Lamondin’s effort to defeat Republican Sen. Alexis Calatayud in Senate District 38. On the House side, it supports August Mangeney’s efforts to beat Rep. Anne Gerwig in House District 93, Todd Delmay as he tries to unseat Rep. Hillary Cassel in House District 101, and Lucía Baez-Geller as she challenges Rep. Fabián Basabe in House District 106.

Finally, the DLCC hopes to flip four open seats held now by Republicans. The group will support Luis Salazar in House District 64, Jane Aman in House District 37, Michael Ferguson in House District 100 and Gloria Romero Roses in House District 113.

“Democrat Michelle DeJesus withdraws from HD 38 race in Seminole County“ via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Democratic DeJesus dropped out of the race for House District 38 to replace term-limited Rep. David Smith, forcing the Florida Democratic Party to find a replacement to put on the ballot, a spokesperson said. Whoever the party picks will face Republican Emily Duda Buckley in the November General Election. DeJesus told Florida Politics she was dealing with family issues that forced her to withdraw from the race as she was preparing to ramp up her campaign for the General Election. “Unfortunately, things took a toll on my personal life that I have to address and take priority to,” DeJesus said Thursday afternoon. “I just can’t keep up with the campaign.”

“Melissa Rutland pitches business case in bid to flip House District 60” via Aaron Styza of Poliverse — A day after kicking off her campaign at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, Republican Rutland is betting House District 60 voters can be persuaded to return the seat to the GOP after two consecutive Democratic wins. Rutland faces Democrat Lindsay Polega-Quigley in the Nov. 3 General Election for the open seat being vacated by Rep. Lindsay Cross, who decided late in qualifying not to seek another term. Cross won the newly drawn District for Democrats in 2022, defeating Republican Audrey Henson with 54.2% of the vote, then retained it in 2024 against former St. Petersburg City Council Member Ed Montanari with 53.6%.

Happening tomorrow:

Happening Tuesday:

— STATEWIDE —

“DeSantis says Hope Florida reporting smeared Casey DeSantis” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Gov. DeSantis is defending the handling of $10 million in Medicaid settlement money routed through the Hope Florida Foundation and blasting coverage he says unfairly targeted First Lady Casey DeSantis. Speaking in Lake City, DeSantis said the settlement was lawful, advanced state interests and did not involve his wife. He also called the leak of a grand jury report potentially criminal and promised consequences. Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jolly said the report showed state Medicaid money was improperly diverted for political purposes and vowed to reopen an investigation if elected. Moody separately defended the settlement process, saying her former Attorney General’s Office had no role in directing how the money was ultimately spent.

— “The Hope Florida scandal: Here are 5 key grand jury findings” via Christopher O’Donnell of the Tampa Bay Times

“Senate Democrats escalate Hope Florida fallout with resignation demands” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Florida Senate Democrats are taking the Hope Florida controversy a step further, unanimously demanding that Uthmeier and Moody resign. The caucus said the grand jury findings show a breach of public trust even without criminal charges, calling the conduct “outrageous” and “immoral.” Senate Democratic Leader-designate Tracie Davis also said she plans legislation next Session to tighten transparency rules governing public dollars. Democratic Attorney General nominee José Javier Rodríguez separately called on Uthmeier to resign, “come clean” and turn himself in. The report’s political fallout is now expanding beyond criticism of the underlying transaction into direct calls for removal and new legislative safeguards.

“Inside DeSantis’ $2M quest to put up bronze American statues” via Liv Caputo of the Tampa Bay Times — First came the bronze-cast statue of George Washington. Then came Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin and 11 other American icons, their homes ranging from the Florida Keys to the Panhandle. Florida has so far approved spending nearly $2 million for 18 statues in honor of America’s 250th anniversary, a Tampa Bay Times/Miami Herald analysis of state records found. DeSantis, a history and baseball buff, has crisscrossed the state to publicize the unveilings, though he hasn’t spent time detailing who made the statues, where they came from and how much they cost.

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“James Uthmeier sues pharmacy benefit managers over alleged price fixing” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida — Attorney General Uthmeier is suing two major pharmacy benefit managers, alleging a 2019 agreement between Prime Therapeutics and Express Scripts illegally suppressed reimbursement rates for Florida pharmacies. The lawsuit says Prime matched Express Scripts’ lower rates, cutting pharmacy reimbursements by 15% to 20% while boosting profits for the companies. Prime, which the lawsuit says controls roughly 40% of Florida’s PBM market, and Express Scripts have denied similar price-fixing allegations in litigation elsewhere, arguing their arrangement helps lower prescription costs. Uthmeier’s 26-page complaint alleges violations of state antitrust and deceptive trade practices laws, as well as unjust enrichment, and contends that reduced reimbursements can force pharmacies to dispense certain drugs at a loss.

“Alligator Alcatraz contractors eye new FHP detention facilities” via Michelle DeMarco of the Florida Trident — Two companies involved with Alligator Alcatraz are among seven vendors positioning themselves for a potentially significant expansion of Florida Highway Patrol detention operations. Critical Response Strategies and REDTAG-19 responded to a state request for information involving at least five 24-hour adult detention facilities — an unusual role for FHP, which normally transfers detainees to local jails. CRS proposed five modular sites, including separate facilities for women and men, and identified eight counties for possible locations. REDTAG-19, which provided medical services at Alligator Alcatraz, proposed using a similar staffing model despite criticism of medical care at the now-closed facility. The state says the inquiry is for planning purposes and isn’t yet a solicitation for contracts.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Iran scrambles to sustain trade as U.S. threatens to sanction countries that refuse to break ties” via Kareem Chehayeb and Sam McNeil of The Associated Press — Iran’s economy, already strained by high inflation, years of Western sanctions and a war that has sharply reduced oil revenue, is poised for more instability as the Trump administration tries to coerce other countries into ending all financial dealings with the Islamic Republic. A decision by the United Arab Emirates to suspend trade relations with Iran last week kick-started the White House’s latest attempt to isolate Tehran into submission. Iran entered the war with its foreign commerce concentrated among a relatively small group of countries, leaving it with fewer places to turn now. The success of the U.S. strategy will largely hinge on China, the main buyer of Iranian oil and its top trading partner. Russia, a fellow target of sweeping U.S.-led sanctions, has a military conflict and economic crisis of its own and probably can’t offer longtime ally Iran much hard financial support.

“Donald Trump signs order renaming Lake Ontario as ‘Lake America’ in the United States” via Michelle L. Price and Will Weissert of The Associated Press — Trump said he is renaming Lake Ontario to be known as “Lake America” in the United States as he escalates his trade war with Canada. Trump signed an executive order directing the Interior Department to update the lake’s name in the U.S. geographic naming service. Trump cannot force Canada to follow along, however. Trump has been floating the idea of the name change in recent days as the U.S. announced it was imposing 50% tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian goods over the weekend after talks between the countries broke down. Trump has been needling America’s northern neighbor since he returned to the White House last year, suggesting the ally with whom the U.S. once had warm relations should instead be absorbed as the 51st state.

“Investigators say White House construction was a factor in Marine One incident” via Natalie Andrews, Marcus Weisgerber and Andrew Tangel of The Wall Street Journal — Federal investigators said the temporary relocation of Marine One’s landing zone due to White House construction was a factor in a safety incident earlier this month involving the military helicopter carrying Trump. On Aug. 4, Marine One took off from the White House, bound for Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. Air traffic controllers didn’t halt commercial flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport as required under safety protocols. A preliminary report released by the National Transportation Safety Board on Thursday said the temporary relocation of Marine One’s landing zone from the south lawn of the White House to the Ellipse, slightly further south, prevented an adequate “line-of-sight to ensure communications.”

“FEMA staff broke federal law by skipping Trump-supporting homes” via Curt Anderson of USA Today Network — FEMA workers responding to Hurricane Milton illegally skipped 11 Florida homes displaying Trump signs or flags, violating the Hatch Act and agency policy, a Homeland Security watchdog found. The crew was part of FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance program, which canvassed storm-stricken communities after the 2024 hurricanes. Investigators said weaknesses in training, documentation and oversight allowed the discrimination and damaged public trust in impartial disaster relief. The employees involved were fired after colleagues complained. FEMA has since ended door-to-door canvassing, shifted outreach to fixed locations selected in coordination with state and local officials, and added legal and ethics training. The inspector general found no other cases of homes being skipped over Trump-related displays.

“Senator calls for criminal investigation of Robert F Kennedy Jr. after Guardian report” via Michelle R. Smith of The Guardian — A senior Democratic Senator is calling for a criminal investigation into the U.S. health secretary, Kennedy Jr., following reporting by The Guardian that indicated he lied during Senate confirmation hearings last year. Ron Wyden of Oregon said: “RFK’s platform is built on lies and grifts that leave a trail of dead children in their wake. There are consequences for lying to Congress.” Wyden said in a statement to the Guardian that he would be pressing Republican colleagues, who currently control the Senate, to refer Kennedy to the Department of Justice for a criminal investigation.

“Secret Service spokesperson is put on leave amid investigation” via Isaac Arnsdorf of The Washington Post — The Secret Service put its chief spokesperson and two other non-law enforcement employees on administrative leave in a misconduct investigation. The incident is being investigated by the agency’s Office of Professional Responsibility. “Our critical work demands that our workforce maintain an unwavering commitment to duty, honesty, and courage in all aspects of their jobs,” the agency said. The spokesperson, Anthony Guglielmi, joined the Secret Service in 2022. He previously served as the lead spokesperson for three large police departments in Chicago, Baltimore and Fairfax County, Virginia.

“Diagnostic codes prevent mechanics from fixing many car problems. Will the REPAIR Act let them back under the hood?” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The broader use of manufacturer codes in automobiles has forced an increasing number of car owners to the dealership. The National Federation of Independent Business says the situation now threatens to put thousands of mom-and-pop mechanic shops out of business, which is part of why the group has come out forcefully in support of legislation crafted by U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn that would require manufacturers to provide digital codes to consumers and allow repairs at the garage of their choice. NFIB Florida Executive Director Bill Herrle hopes Congress will act on the issue this year.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Trump immigration crackdown puts Doral Republican in political bind” via Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — Doral Council member Rafael Pineyro, a Republican and Trump supporter, is increasingly criticizing the administration’s immigration crackdown as arrests rise in the Venezuelan-American stronghold. Pineyro called some enforcement actions “inhumane,” arguing authorities should distinguish criminals from families and immigrants with pending cases. Doral recorded 17 immigration arrests in July, up from three in December, while residents report increasingly visible ICE and Border Patrol activity. Pineyro disputes claims that Doral police are collaborating directly in arrests, saying officers haven’t received required training under the city’s 287(g) agreement. With roughly 40% of Doral residents of Venezuelan origin, Pineyro is calling for comprehensive immigration reform while urging residents to vote in November.

“Mike Caruso remains on November ballot despite felony charges” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Suspended Palm Beach County Clerk Caruso will remain the Republican nominee on November ballots despite facing five felony counts related to alleged sexual abuse of a young child. DeSantis, who appointed Caruso in August 2025, suspended him exactly one year later when charges were filed. Elections officials say Caruso has not withdrawn, and ballot preparation is underway. He could still quit the race and allow Republican leaders to select a replacement, but his name would remain on the ballot, with votes for Caruso counting toward the substitute candidate. Democrat Yvette Drucker, a Boca Raton City Council member, is challenging him. Military and overseas ballots begin going out Sept. 18.

“Palm Beach County warns property tax cuts could sink cities” via Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Palm Beach County officials are sounding alarms over the property tax amendment headed to voters in November, warning the revenue losses could threaten basic services and even the survival of some municipalities. County Administrator Joseph Abruzzo told a recent community meeting that “multiple municipalities will fold” if the measure passes. Officials say the county could lose hundreds of millions of dollars, potentially forcing employee layoffs and service cuts and putting upward pressure on rents. They also fear local governments across Florida could become increasingly dependent on Tallahassee for financial support. The warnings underscore the potentially sweeping local consequences as voters weigh the option of reducing property taxes in the General Election.

“Fort Lauderdale voters face 10 charter questions in November. Here’s what each would do” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Beyond picking candidates in the General Election, Fort Lauderdale voters will also decide whether to rewrite large portions of the document that dictates how their government operates. Ten questions are on the Nov. 3 ballot, with the potential to rewrite 21 sections of the city charter, ranging from the cosmetic — deleting stray hyphens — to substantive shifts in who hires the city’s top public safety officials and how easily City Hall can transfer parkland. Amendment 1 would tighten residency requirements for Commission candidates, requiring a full year as a permanent resident of the District itself. Amendment 9 would create a new charter position of Police Chief appointed by the City Commission.

“Coral Gables taps insider Joe Gómez for $305K City Manager post” via Michelle Marchante of the Miami Herald — Coral Gables is promoting Deputy City Manager José “Joe” Gómez to its top administrative job, bypassing a national search after Commissioners voted 3-1 for the longtime civil engineer. Gómez will succeed Peter Iglesias in January with a $305,324 starting salary, a 25% raise from his current post. Mayor Vince Lago, Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson and Commissioner Richard Lara argued Gómez’s experience overseeing infrastructure and city departments made an outside search unnecessary. Commissioner Melissa Castro dissented, citing inconsistency with earlier calls for a national search. Gómez, 70, fled Cuba with his family in 1961 and previously worked for Miami Beach and the Florida Department of Transportation.

“North Miami Council trio broke city charter, judge rules” via Raisa Habersham of the Miami Herald — Three North Miami Council members violated the city charter by using third parties to pressure the City Manager over the firing of the public works director, a Miami-Dade County judge ruled. Resident Eileen Bicaba sued Council members Pierre Frantz Charles, Mary Estime-Irvin and Kassandra Timothe, arguing their actions improperly interfered with city administration. The judge agreed that a charter violation occurred but found insufficient evidence that the three violated Florida’s Sunshine Law. The decision comes after a years-long legal fight and is being hailed by critics of municipal government as a victory for residents seeking to hold elected officials accountable to their own governing rules. The ruling could also raise questions about the Council members’ continued service.

“Grand Theft Miami-Dade: County pitches ‘Vice City’ marketing deal for video game” via Douglas Hanks of Miami Herald — Grand Theft Auto’s fictional Miami backdrop may make the jump from video game to real life under a marketing deal floated by Miami-Dade County. The administration of Mayor Daniella Levine Cava has held several meetings with executives from the company behind “GTA” about briefly transforming county buildings and facilities into homages to the drug-dealing video game’s hometown, Vice City. A proposal that Levine Cava’s Office confirmed Miami-Dade had submitted to Rockstar Games lays out how the county could temporarily serve as a real-life Vice City, including having parts of Miami International Airport serve as the Vice City airport.

“Florida immigration arrests surge as enforcement reaches deeper into Keys” via Ted Lund of Above the Fold — Florida has become a center of the nation’s expanding immigration crackdown, with ICE averaging more than 230 arrests a day — up by more than 100 since Spring and second only to Texas. The surge is increasingly reaching immigrants without criminal records; fewer than 4% of those arrested nationally in July had previous violent-crime convictions. Key West and Monroe County law enforcement participate in ICE’s 287(g) program, which now accounts for roughly 14% of ICE arrests nationwide. Florida has recorded at least 15,000 arrests through those partnerships since Trump returned to office, more than any other state. Recent Keys cases include longtime Key West resident Luis Manuel Aviles Roa, whose immigration case was dismissed after his detention drew national attention.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“LaVon Bracy Davis will host Groveland Four event to bring Thurgood Marshall Jr., Gilbert King to Orlando” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Marshall Jr. and author King are expected to attend an event to honor the Groveland Four’s legacy hosted by Sen. Bracy Davis Friday in Orlando. “For decades, the families of the Groveland Four endured the consequences of a grave injustice while continuing to fight for the truth,” Bracy Davis said. “This luncheon is an opportunity to honor their resilience, recognize those who helped secure justice, and ensure that the legacy of Charles Greenlee, Ernest Thomas, Samuel Shepherd, and Walter Irvin continues to educate and inspire future generations. Their story reminds us that justice delayed must never become justice denied.”

“Minneola Council members censured after lashing out at Council, county residents during annexation hearing” via James Wilkins of GrowthSpotter/Orlando Sentinel — Minneola City Council member David Yeager’s efforts to annex his new home into the city sparked a nasty debate on the Council that led to two members being censured for incivility. Yeager, who previously served as Mayor of Minneola, purchased the 4.8-acre estate in unincorporated Lake County for $1.1 million and applied for annexation. Several residents came out to oppose the annexation, arguing that it sets a bad precedent for annexing agricultural land and that Yeager was using it to keep his City Council seat. Council member Joseph Saunders shouted down a county resident during the meeting, and both men were later censured by a 4-1 vote.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Hillsborough’s foster agency celebrates keeping families intact. It separated hundreds off the books” via Lauren Peace and Teghan Simonton of the Tampa Bay Times — The agency says temporary arrangements spare children from foster care. But families are swept into a labyrinth they struggle to escape. Hundreds of times, Hillsborough County’s lead child welfare agency and its partners pursued temporary custody transfers from parents on the margins, the Tampa Bay Times has found. In the last four years alone, these cases dictated where more than 370 children would live. A Times review of court records found that reunion rarely happens; only 26 of more than 300 cases ended with either a judge directing the return of a child or attorneys filing to drop the case.

“Lynn Hurtak begins breast cancer treatment, says Mayor bid continues” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Tampa City Council member Hurtak says a recent breast cancer diagnosis will not derail her 2027 campaign for Mayor. Hurtak will begin a 12-week treatment Monday after a doctor discovered a lump July 31, with treatment expected to conclude by Thanksgiving. She said she plans to continue serving on the City Council throughout treatment and remains committed to the mayoral race. Hurtak filed in February and faces fellow Council member Bill Carlson and former Mayor Bob Buckhorn. Hurtak, who represents citywide District 3, has already demonstrated electoral strength across Tampa, winning her Council seat in 2023 with more than 60% of the vote despite being significantly outspent.

“Ken Welch misses another campaign finance filing deadline” via Staff Reports of Florida Politics — A one-day report highlighting pre-election campaign finance activity was due Aug. 21, but has yet to be filed. The political committee supporting St. Petersburg Mayor Welch’s re-election campaign has missed another campaign finance deadline. St. Petersburg Progress has not yet filed its report covering campaign finance activity on Aug. 14, the last weekday of early voting ahead of the Aug. 18 Primary. Former Gov. Charlie Crist, Welch’s opponent in the Nov. 3 General Election runoff, filed the report for his affiliated political committee, which showed nothing raised that day but more than $49,000 in expenditures.

“Local watchdog claims St. Pete City Hall spent $15K on Hungry Howie’s, Jimmy John’s over 6 months” via Staff Reports of Florida Politics — A new watchdog organization called Burg’s Eye View is accusing the Ken Welch administration of spending nearly $15,000 over a six-month period on food orders from Jimmy John’s and Hungry Howie’s. A graphic the outlet posted on Facebook claims there were 111 charges from Oct. 1, 2025, through May 31, 2026, on orders from both fast-food chains, occurring nearly every other day throughout the period, including weekends and holidays. The graphic does not specify who the orders were fed to or which city department issued them. The claims are based on a public records request Burg’s Eye View submitted to the city for spending activity.

“Dump Duke on the ballot? Organizers launch petition push in St. Petersburg” via Emily L. Mahoney of the Tampa Bay Times — After lots of back-and-forth at City Hall, voters in St. Petersburg may be the ones who get the final say on whether the city ditches Duke Energy in favor of a municipal-run electric grid. Organizers with the grassroots campaign Dump Duke filed early paperwork with the city as a first step to gather petitions, aiming to put a question directly on the ballot, likely in 2028. “It’s a big decision,” said Marley Price, a city resident who’s helping lead the Dump Duke campaign. “We believe the people should have input.”

“Bill Edwards, leading St. Petersburg business figure, dies at 81” via Colleen Wright of Tampa Bay Times — Prominent St. Petersburg businessman Edwards, whose reach spanned real estate, sports and the arts, died Thursday morning at 81. Joanne Edwards, his wife of 23 years, told the Tampa Bay Times he had multiple organ failures and died in the hospital with pneumonia. “He did a lot for the community. He did a lot for everybody,” she said. “He was just an extraordinary soul.” Edwards was president of Mortgage Investors Corp., the nation’s largest VA mortgage lender, and built condo towers on Treasure Island.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Party labels take center stage in Tallahassee Commission runoff” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — PJ Perez and Tom Derzypolski are turning an officially nonpartisan Tallahassee City Commission runoff into a fight over political identity. Perez, backed by the Leon County Democratic Party, is highlighting Derzypolski’s long Republican registration before he switched to no party affiliation in 2025. Derzypolski counters that Perez also changed registration shortly before entering the race, returning to the Democratic Party one day before filing. Perez says the switch was meant to signal his values to voters in heavily Democratic Tallahassee. Derzypolski calls the attacks tired partisan politics. Perez led the six-way Primary with 29.06%, while Derzypolski secured the runoff by just 15 votes after a recount.

“Leon County court system meltdown creates ‘ghost’ cases, jail errors” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — A botched Leon County technology upgrade has thrown the criminal justice system into turmoil, producing inaccurate records, nonexistent “ghost” cases and keeping some defendants jailed longer than required. State Attorney Jack Campbell called the failure “catastrophic” and warned inaccurate data could potentially free someone who should remain jailed or wrongly tell police someone belongs behind bars. Chief Circuit Judge Frank Allman ordered that first appearances be moved from virtual proceedings to the courthouse, warning that constitutional rights may have been affected. The problems began after an Aug. 18 jail-management software upgrade. County Administrator Vince Long says officials will revert to the previous system this weekend while teams identify and repair affected records.

“FSU shooting survivor sues OpenAI over ChatGPT conversations” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Reese Gourley, who was shot in the back during the 2025 Florida State University mass shooting, is suing OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT helped accused gunman Phoenix Ikner plan for maximum harm and publicity. The complaint says Ikner discussed mass shootings, weapons, lethality, busy times at the FSU Student Union and what would happen if an attack occurred on campus. It also alleges the chatbot responded in flattering, affirming ways as Ikner shared loneliness, rejection, political views and violent ideation. Gourley’s lawsuit includes claims of gross negligence, product liability and aiding and abetting. It is the second federal suit against OpenAI tied to the shooting, which killed two people and injured five.

“Walton County pulls Flock surveillance cameras, citing privacy fears” via Nathan Cobb of Panama City News Herald — Walton County Commissioners unanimously voted to remove all Flock Safety license plate reader cameras along roads in unincorporated areas of the county. The decision comes in the wake of ongoing discussions nationwide about the balance between public safety and personal privacy. “Personally, I don’t agree with it,” said Commission Chair Brad Drake, who made the motion to remove the cameras. “I think we should get rid of them.” There are approximately 106 active Flock cameras in Walton County, though the ruling applies only to cameras within the county’s jurisdiction and does not affect cameras on state or city roadways.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Protesters gather at Fort Myers hotel amid reports ICE officers were staying there after battery arrest” via Kennedy Owens of Florida’s Voice — Protesters gathered outside a downtown Fort Myers hotel after social media users circulated reports that federal immigration officers were staying there, the latest demonstration amid increased social media efforts to track and publicize U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in Southwest Florida. Among those participating was Cindy Banyai, the Democratic nominee for House District 78, who posted images and video from the demonstration to her campaign’s social media accounts. The protest came roughly a week after an incident in which state officials say a Mexican national physically attacked federal immigration officers during an enforcement operation.

“Lee Health, UnitedHealthcare split puts 50,000 patients on notice” via Liz Freeman of the Fort Myers News-Press and the Naples Daily News — Lee Health says it will leave UnitedHealthcare’s network Jan. 1 after years of disputes over denials, prior authorizations and unpaid claims. The health system says roughly one-third of its care denials come from UnitedHealthcare and that most are later overturned on appeal. It also says the insurer owes about $100 million for services already provided. About 50,000 patients have been notified that affected employer, individual and Medicare Advantage plans will become out-of-network next year. UnitedHealthcare says Lee Health ended the relationship without advance discussion and argues negotiations should continue. Lee Health says the decision is not a bargaining tactic, though it remains open to talks if the tenor changes.

— TOP OPINION —

“Hope Florida scandal delivered promotions, but no accountability” via the Miami Herald editorial board — Florida taxpayers deserved accountability from the Hope Florida investigation. Instead, officials connected to the $10 million Medicaid settlement moved into powerful jobs, while the public was left with a grand jury finding that taxpayer money had been misappropriated for political purposes.

The report says the money was diverted through the Hope Florida Foundation and used to help defeat the 2024 recreational marijuana amendment. Yet prosecutors found insufficient evidence to bring charges, largely because witnesses could not identify who made the crucial decisions.

Uthmeier, then DeSantis’ Chief of Staff, was identified in testimony as involved in directing the money after it reached Hope Florida. His political committee, Keep Florida Clean, received most of the funds. DeSantis later appointed Uthmeier Attorney General.

Moody, Attorney General when the settlement was approved, authorized chief deputy John Guard to sign the agreement. The report says Guard had reservations and signed without sufficient due diligence. DeSantis later appointed Moody to the U.S. Senate and Guard to the Second District Court of Appeal.

Those promotions matter because they highlight the failure: serious findings produced no public consequences. The absence of criminal charges does not erase the grand jury’s conclusion that taxpayer dollars were improperly routed to political activity.

Floridians are left with an uncomfortable result. Ten million dollars meant for public purposes became political money, participants advanced to higher office, and the investigation ended without anyone accepting responsibility. That is not accountability. It warns what happens when government power, ambition and public money become intertwined.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Anti-woke movement became what it claimed to oppose” via David French of The New York Times — The backlash against cancel culture could have produced a renewed commitment to free speech. Instead, the anti-woke movement adopted the intolerance it condemned and weaponized it from the right. Defending unpopular speech gradually became embracing extremists, cranks and conspiracy theorists simply because the left rejected them. Tucker Carlson, Nick Fuentes, Marjorie Taylor Greene and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. illustrate how cancellation became less a warning about intolerance than a credential within conservative politics. The movement increasingly defined itself not by conservative principles but by hostility toward the left, making the enemy of an enemy an ally regardless of his views. Fighting censorship with censorship doesn’t protect liberty. It merely changes who gets silenced.

“Hope Florida grand jury secrecy leaves troubling questions unanswered” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — The leaked Hope Florida grand jury report exposes another problem beyond the $10 million itself: why the findings were kept from Floridians for seven months. The report had been suppressed since Jan. 28, preventing lawmakers from seeing recommendations that settlements be deposited into the General Revenue Fund and that charities face clearer rules for handling taxpayer money. Jim DeFede’s disclosure finally brought those recommendations to light. Florida law allows people criticized but not charged by a grand jury 15 days to seek suppression, yet sets no deadline for judges to decide. That loophole needs fixing. The Judicial Qualifications Commission should also examine the prolonged secrecy and the conduct described involving appellate Judge John Guard, who approved the settlement despite earlier reservations.

“Hope Florida players landed promotions, judgeships after $10M controversy” via Justin Garcia and Romy Ellenbogen of the Tampa Bay Times — Five officials tied to the Hope Florida transaction later received promotions or appointments from DeSantis. Uthmeier, whose political committee received much of the settlement money, became Attorney General. Moody, who authorized her deputy to sign the agreement, was appointed to the U.S. Senate. Former AHCA Secretary Jason Weida, who called the $10 million a “bonus” in testimony the grand jury deemed “not credible,” became DeSantis’ Chief of Staff. John Guard, who expressed concerns before signing the settlement, landed on the Second District Court of Appeal. And Andrew Sheeran, identified as the settlement’s chief legal architect, became a circuit judge after the grand jury finished its work.

— WEEKEND TV —

Full Circle Florida with Paul LaGrone on Tampa Bay 28/WFTS: This week’s lineup features USF supply chain expert Seçkin Özkul, who breaks down Canada tariffs and their economic impact; political analyst Susan MacManus, who examines the politics surrounding Trump’s wealth, the economy and Hope Florida ahead of the Midterms; and University of Tampa economist Abigail Hall, who assesses the health of the U.S. economy, including recession concerns, the bond market, federal debt and the warning signs worth watching.

Florida This Week on WEDU PBS: Moderator Lissette Campos is joined by criminal defense attorney and voting rights advocate Rochelle “Shelley” Reback, Florida Young Republicans National Committeeman Jake Hoffman, Tampa Bay Times education reporter Divya Kumar and USF Health virologist Michael Teng. The panel discusses the newly public Hope Florida grand jury report, which found $10 million in taxpayer funds was misappropriated for political purposes but insufficient evidence to bring criminal charges; Donalds’ selection of former state Sen. Ávila as his running mate; the shift on the Sarasota County School Board after the Primary; the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent action involving mail-in voting restrictions and what it could mean for Florida; and rising kindergarten vaccine exemptions as Florida considers changes to school-entry vaccine requirements. The program airs Friday at 8:30 p.m., with a replay Sunday at 12:30 p.m. Episodes are also available online through Florida This Week, YouTube and Facebook.

In Focus with Allison Walker on Spectrum Bay News 9/Spectrum News 13: A discussion of Florida’s film industry and its benefits for filmmakers and the Sunshine State. Joining Walker are Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey, District 3; Christa Boarini, co-creator and producer of “A Land Remembered”; and Cathlee Tomkow, co-executive producer of “A Land Remembered.”

The Usual Suspects on WCTV-Tallahassee/Thomasville (CBS) and WJHG: Gary Yordon speaks with longtime Tallahassee higher-education and public policy leader Edwin H. “Ed” Moore, president emeritus of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida.

This Week in Jacksonville with Kent Justice on Channel 4 WJXT: Incoming Jacksonville City Council member Moné Holder, City Council Vice President Joe Carlucci and Jacksonville Chief Administrative Officer Mike Weinstein.

This Week in South Florida with Glenna Milberg on Local 10 WPLG: Milberg’s guests include Donalds; José Javier Rodríguez, the Democratic nominee for Attorney General challenging Uthmeier in November; and Pia Dandiya, the Democratic nominee in Florida’s 22nd Congressional District. The program airs Sunday at 11 a.m.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“DeSantis says his kids are cooling on FSU football” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis says two rough seasons have taken some of the shine off Florida State football for his children, who grew up in Tallahassee as Seminoles fans. DeSantis said they are “not as optimistic as they had been” after FSU followed its controversial 2023 College Football Playoff exclusion with a 60-point Orange Bowl loss and just seven wins over the next two seasons. His son Mason DeSantis had already been “really struggling” with the team during its 1-6 start in 2024. DeSantis also took a swipe at Florida, saying both the Seminoles and Gators “need to up their games from recent years.”

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are Alan Levine and Sandy Safley. We remember our old friend David Zachem, whose birthday would have been today.

___

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

The post Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 8.28.26 appeared first on Florida Politics – Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government..

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