Politics
Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 9.16.26
Good Wednesday morning.
Welcome to the world — Congratulations to Maria Rodriguez, digital strategist at MDW Communications and Pembroke Pines City Commissioner, and her husband, Jeremy Batista, on the arrival of their son, Luca Alejandro Batista. Luca made his debut Saturday at Memorial Hospital East in Pembroke Pines. Mom, dad and their beautiful new addition have plenty to celebrate. Welcome to the world, Luca — and congratulations to the entire Rodriguez-Batista family!
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The fight over Amendment 3 is turning into sheriffs versus Realtors — and some of Florida’s best-known badges are stepping in front of the camera.
One week after Florida Realtors launched a $10 million campaign to pass the November property tax amendment, the Florida Sheriffs Association released a 30-second ad warning the measure would drain local budgets and put public safety at risk.
Titled “Wrong Way,” the spot features Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook and other sheriffs delivering a relay-style case against the amendment.
“Everybody wants a tax cut. Heck, we want a tax cut, too,” the ad begins. “But Amendment 3 is the wrong way to do it.”
The Revenue Estimating Conference projects Amendment 3 would reduce local non-school property tax revenue by $4.95 billion in fiscal year 2027-28 and $8.78 billion the following year, before reaching an estimated $11.86 billion in recurring annual losses. The amendment includes no funding to replace that revenue.
FSA turns those figures into a blunt warning: “Fewer deputies. Slower 911. More crime. … That’s not tax relief. That’s a train wreck.”
The ad is aimed directly at the amendment’s soft spot. A University of North Florida poll found support fell from 61% to 45% after voters were told about the projected local budget loss. A James Madison Institute survey found that support fell from 74% to 55% after voters learned about the trade-offs. The amendment needs 60% approval to pass.
“Amendment 3 sounded too good to be true,” the sheriffs say as the ad closes. “Now, you know it is.”
To watch the ad, please click the image below:
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GrayRobinson has added Matthew Jennings as a senior government affairs adviser on the firm’s Federal Lobbying Team in Washington, D.C.
Jennings brings more than two decades of federal advocacy experience focused on aerospace, transportation and global business, according to the firm. He previously led international and government affairs for Etihad Airways and held senior legislative roles with the International Air Transport Association.
Earlier in his career, Jennings worked on Capitol Hill, including with the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
“Matthew’s immersion in the aviation, transportation, and global commerce sectors makes him exactly the kind of advocate our clients need in Washington,” said John Ariale, managing director of GrayRobinson’s Washington office. “He has spent his career transforming complex international and regulatory challenges into solutions and opportunities for airlines, federal agencies, and businesses of every size. Our clients will benefit from that experience from day one.”
The firm said Jennings’ portfolio will include aviation and advanced air mobility, airspace integration, transit, infrastructure, defense, travel and tourism, and technology. His work will involve federal policy and appropriations, regulatory strategy, procurement and funding opportunities, and engagement with Congress and federal agencies.
Jennings will also work with nonprofit and educational organizations on initiatives involving public- and private-sector stakeholders and issues with both domestic and international reach.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@RealDonaldTrump: Republicans just got another bad decision from the United States Supreme Court, one that the Court System took forever to give, and then blamed it, in part, on no time left to implement a solution to our totally CORRUPT and out of control Mail-In voting “disaster,” which is a laughing stock all over the World, and where we are the only country that has to endure such a Nation Destroying SCAM. Justices (Samuel) Alito and (Clarence) Thomas, legends both, strongly disagreed with this horrible, highly political, ruling. It is a big loss for Republicans, and America itself, and makes cheating by the Radical Left “Dumocrats,” on Mail-In Ballots, a much easier thing to do — And now they have an open field to do so! The Supreme Court has really let our Country down! Certain Justices are petrified of these crazed and depraved Democrats, and are totally unable to show the courage necessary to save our America. Their horrible decision on Tariffs will be costing the U.S.A., for many years to come, Trillions and Trillions of Dollars. They didn’t even state, “money paid does not have to be paid back,” much to the benefit of entities that truly hate our Country, and have been RIPPING IT OFF FOR YEARS, unnecessarily costing us, immediately, Billions of Dollars. Likewise, the Supreme Court’s Decision on Birthright Citizenship is a complete and total disaster for America, and has already led to massive corruption with respect to “citizenship” in our Country. The damage done to America is incalculable, and they know this, just as everyone else does — It is an irreparable and unrecoverable harm! The Court’s inability and unwillingness to do the right thing for our Country will go down, in a very negative way, in the annals of History. This Supreme Court is bullied and cajoled by the Radical Left into making decisions that have set America back at least a hundred years. These are not the people I interviewed to serve on the United States Supreme Court, they are merely a shell of their original selves, a Court that is costing the United States Trillions of Dollars with shockingly bad rulings that are of such magnitude that it won’t be easily possible for our Country to recover or heal. It is a Court that will go down as having rendered some of the most destructive, hurtful, and damaging decisions in our Country’s history. It is not easy for me to write this criticism of the United States Supreme Court — it will likely cost me dearly for years to come — but I feel it my obligation and duty, as President, to do so for the America we love!
—@MarcACaputo: Tangential reminder: Decades of congressional inaction (often rooted in the filibuster) has crippled the legislative branch. With the most-powerful branch of the government nearly impotent, citizens lose faith as the executive gains power. Enjoy your quasi-autocracy, America
Tweet, tweet:
Tweet, tweet:
—@RonDeSantis: Tesla and Waymo need to expand across the bay to service the fans going to the Rays playoff games!
Tweet, tweet:
—@DaveWeigel: Hi! Just following up on the pitch I sent you that spelled your last name wrong and dealt with a topic you never cover. Can I send you a Zoom invite to talk about it some more?
— DAYS UNTIL —
Tampa Tiger Bay hosts the ‘Candidate Forum: Florida Governor Series’ with Bryan Avila — 2; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 3; Tampa Bay Buccaneers home opener against the Cleveland Browns — 4; General Election domestic ballot send window begins — 8; Tampa Tiger Bay hosts its ‘Candidate Forum: Florida Governor Series’ with David Jolly — 9; General Election domestic ballot send deadline — 15; ‘Digger,’ with Tom Cruise, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, premieres — 16; General Election voter registration deadline — 19; ‘The Social Reckoning,’ with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres — 23; Associated Industries of Florida one-on-one conversations with five top-of-ticket Republicans — 26; ‘VisionQuest’ premieres — 28; ‘The Diplomat’ season 4 premieres — 29; Optional General early voting begins — 33; ‘Six Kings Slam’ on Netflix — 35; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins — 35; General Election ballot request deadline — 36; Mandatory General early voting begins — 38; General Election — 48; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 51; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 51; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 56; ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’ starring Johnny Depp premieres — 58; ‘Paper Tiger’ starring Adam Driver premieres — 58; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me, America’ is released — 62; New legislator training sessions — 62; Senate convenes for general organization and selection of officers — 62; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 65; ‘The Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 70; ‘Madden’ premieres — 71; Committee Week #1 — 75; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 93; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 93; Committee Week #2 — 110; Committee Week #3 — 117; ‘Ahsoka’ season 2 premieres — 126; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas — 131; Committee Week #4 — 138; Grammys — 144; Committee Week #5 — 145; ‘Remain,’ directed by M. Night Shyamalan, premieres — 151; Super Bowl LXI — 151; Committee Week #6 — 152; Opening day of the 2027 Regular Legislative Session — 167; Tampa Mayoral Election — 167; ‘The Thomas Crown Affair,’ directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan premieres — 170; Oscars — 179; Jacksonville First Election — 188; Miami Marlins Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. New York Mets — 190; Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. Baltimore Orioles — 190; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins — 210; Jacksonville General Election — 244; ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ premieres — 254; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 262; Citrus Series — Tampa Bay Rays at Miami Marlins — 303; ‘The Bluey Movie’ premieres — 324; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 324; Citrus Series — Miami Marlins at Tampa Bay Rays — 359; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 457; 2028 South Carolina Presidential Primary — 493; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans — 495; 2028 Nevada Presidential Primary — 503; 2028 New Hampshire Presidential Primary — 510; 2028 New Mexico Presidential Primary — 517; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 520; 2028 Michigan Presidential Primary — 524; 2028 Virginia Presidential Primary — 531; Oscars — 536; ‘X-Men’ premieres — 597; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 618; ‘Days of Thunder’ sequel with Cruise and Anne Hathaway premieres — 625; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 639; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 667; ‘Ghost Rider’ premieres — 681; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 783; ‘Black Panther 3’ directed by Ryan Coogler premieres — 821; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa — 859; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,183; College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami — 1,223; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,914.
— TOP STORY —
“Florida Sheriffs, firefighters slam property tax amendment as a ‘train wreck’” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Two of Florida’s best-known conservative sheriffs blasted the proposed Amendment 3, calling the property tax rollback a “train wreck,” “draconian” and an “emergency” as campaigns on both sides of the contentious issue ramp up ahead of the Nov. 3 election.
Alongside about two dozen Sheriffs and representatives from several police and fire unions, Republican Polk County Sheriff Judd said voters should reject the increased homestead exemptions and instead urge Florida lawmakers to develop a better plan to provide property tax relief.
“So vote ‘No on 3’ now, and tell your legislators: ‘Get to work. I want tax relief, and I want my public safety protected. And by the way, I want my stormwater ditches clean, I want my mosquito control, I want my parks, I want my libraries,’” he said, standing in front of a sign reading ‘Amendment 3 is an Emergency.’ “You can have it all with responsible work by your legislators, but not with Amendment 3.”
Republican Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma also told County Commissioners that the potential cuts if Amendment 3 passes would be “devastating.”
He said his agency would see a $41 million decrease in operating revenues and the loss of 300 jobs.
“Calls to 911 will likely be delayed if they are not life-threatening situations,” Lemma said. “It would definitely, without question, have an effect on the quality of life.”
“Grady Judd warns Amendment 3 could squeeze public safety,” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Polk County Sheriff Judd and Florida first responders are warning that Amendment 3’s property tax cuts could reduce the money available for police, firefighters, and emergency services. The proposal would increase homestead exemptions to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, with estimates projecting nearly $11.9 billion in lost local revenue over five years. Florida Professional Firefighters President Wayne “Bernie” Bernoska says voters deserve a sustainable plan for funding emergency services before changing the Constitution. Supporters, including Gov. Ron DeSantis and Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds, maintain local governments can absorb reductions without cutting services. The measure needs 60% voter approval in November.
— 2026 —
“Byron Donalds says he isn’t interested in investigating Alligator Alcatraz, since it’s closed” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A federal report on cruel and substandard conditions at the now-shuttered Alligator Alcatraz is making national headlines. But don’t expect a Gov. Donalds to seek answers or block the companies that built and operated the immigrant-detention facility in the Everglades from future state contracts. Donalds said that while he hasn’t read the report, which the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) made public, he believes the issue is moot, since the facility is closed. “Now that that facility has been closed, calling for an investigation on something that no longer is in operation honestly sounds more like busy work than anything else,” he said.
“Donalds vows Florida will ‘never apologize’ in new ad” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds is using a new campaign ad to contrast his vision for Florida with that of Democratic opponent Jolly, declaring that the state should “never apologize” for its policies. The 30-second “Never Apologize” spot highlights keeping taxes low, protecting parental rights and Donalds’ pledge to reduce insurance costs and improve affordability. It also features an image of Donalds with DeSantis, who has endorsed him. The campaign continues to focus on previous remarks from Jolly that Donalds characterizes as expressing regret about Florida’s direction. Donalds currently holds a substantial financial advantage in paid media, reporting more than $41 million available after significant recent advertising expenditures, while Jolly has said he plans to conserve resources for October.
To watch the ad, please click the image below:
“Donalds says David Jolly’s insurance fix sends the bill to taxpayers” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds is sharpening his attack on Jolly’s property insurance proposal, warning that shifting hurricane risk to the state would ultimately leave Floridians responsible for the bill. Jolly wants a state catastrophe fund to absorb storm-related risk while private insurers continue covering other losses, a structure his campaign says could substantially reduce premiums. Donalds says the numbers don’t work, arguing the plan would create unfunded obligations and expose every policyholder to potential assessments after major storms. The Republican nominee instead favors greater competition, insurer transparency and lower reinsurance costs while keeping risk in the private market. The competing approaches are creating a clear divide over how Florida should tackle its insurance affordability crisis.
“Ron DeSantis wants next Governor to keep police bonuses” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — DeSantis is urging his successor to preserve Florida’s $5,000 law enforcement recruitment bonuses, a program launched in 2022 to attract officers to the state. DeSantis distributed checks to 38 Pasco County Sheriff’s Office recruits as Florida announced more than $10 million in bonuses for 1,506 newly hired officers statewide. Nearly 12,500 officers have received more than $83 million through the program since its inception. The current state budget includes $20 million to continue the bonuses and $19.8 million in pay increases for sworn state law enforcement officers. DeSantis said continuing those investments after he leaves office would help Florida maintain its emphasis on recruiting and retaining law enforcement personnel.
“DeSantis splits with Florida GOP on reserve fund amendment” via Gray Rohrer of the News Service of Florida — DeSantis eventually got the Legislature to put his property tax cut measure on the ballot, but he’s not on board with a different amendment backed by GOP leaders in his party. DeSantis came out against Amendment 1, which would increase the amount of money lawmakers can put into a key reserve fund. It increases the cap on the balance of the budget stabilization fund from 10% of the previous year’s general fund revenue to 25%. “This is a foolish constitutional amendment proposal. We already have a maxed-out rainy-day fund and have run the largest surpluses in state history,” DeSantis posted on X. “Any additional revenue should be used for lower taxes, including assisting local governments with grants so that homestead properties can be exempt from local property tax.” Surplus revenue could also be used to remove tolls once the property tax issue is settled. I recommend a NO vote.” DeSantis was responding to a post by the Republican Party of Florida supporting the measure.
— MORE ELECTIONS —
Leela Gray’s first General Election ad targets Anna Paulina Luna — Retired Army Brig. Gen. Gray is out with “Mission,” a 30-second spot backed by a six-figure broadcast and digital buy across CD 13 that sets her three decades in the Army against U.S. Rep. Luna’s record in Washington. The Democrat’s campaign casts Luna as a politician “working for herself and her wealthy friends,” and points to the Anti-Corruption Agenda Gray rolled out last month. “While serving on combat deployment, the mission is what mattered,” Gray says in the ad. “I’m retired Brig. Gen. Leela Gray. I served our country for 30 years, and now I’m running for Congress, focused on one mission: making life more affordable. Anna Paulina Luna is part of the problem in D.C., including the culture of corruption. She’s giving insider information to her donors while our costs are out of control. I’m Leela Gray. I will always focus on the mission, serving you, and that’s why I approve this message.”
To watch the ad, please click the image below:
— EVEN MORE ELECTIONS —
“Republican who lost HD 102 Primary in Broward backs Democrat Mike Friend over GOP nominee,” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Cooper City Commissioner Jason Smith isn’t letting political affiliation get in the way of endorsing the person he believes will best serve the residents of House District 102. Smith, a Republican EMT who ran for the open Broward County-based HD 102 seat, is now backing Democratic dentist Friend in the General Election over lawyer and entrepreneur Mery Lopez-Palma, who defeated Smith in the Republican Primary. “Mike and I may not agree on every issue, but we share the same concerns, the same communities and the same hopes for our families,” Smith said. “Mike is the most equipped to lead us.”
Happening tonight:
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— STATEWIDE —
“Judge puts James Uthmeier’s gun waiting-period strategy on the spot” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida — A federal judge is questioning Attorney General Uthmeier’s unusual decision to join gun-rights plaintiffs seeking to invalidate Florida’s three-day waiting period for firearm purchases. U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday noted the requirement is embedded in the Florida Constitution and state law and questioned whether a genuine legal dispute exists when both sides seek the same outcome. Uthmeier maintains the waiting period violates the Second Amendment because the government cannot demonstrate a historical tradition supporting it. The Attorney General has taken similar positions against other Florida gun restrictions, including limits on firearm purchases by people under 21 and possession by certain felons. Merryday ordered the parties to explain why the waiting-period case shouldn’t be dismissed.
“Blaise Ingoglia rebrands unclaimed property program website” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia is rebranding Florida’s unclaimed property website, one of the state’s most popular public services. The website Floridatreasurehunt.gov is being recast to ClaimyourcashFL.gov. The Florida Department of Financial Services Division of Unclaimed Property returns assets to residents of the Sunshine State who may have overlooked or lost track of cash held in utility deposits, dormant bank accounts, outstanding paychecks, or unclaimed refunds. “It’s long past due for a rebranding of the name,” Ingoglia said of the program while on the University of Central Florida campus. “The emphasis is on yours, not ours. … Unbelievably, 1 in 5 Floridians has abandoned property.”
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Donald Trump slams Supreme Court over mail ballot ruling” via Tyler Pager of The New York Times — On Tuesday, President Trump assailed the Supreme Court’s decision to block his administration’s efforts to change mail voting and issued a blistering criticism of the three justices he appointed during his first term. “These are not the people I interviewed to serve on the United States Supreme Court,” he wrote on social media, referring to Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Brett M. Kavanaugh and Neil M. Gorsuch. “They are merely a shell of their original selves, a Court that is costing the United States Trillions of Dollars with shockingly bad rulings that are of such magnitude that it won’t be easily possible for our Country to recover or heal.”
“Trump fights back after Christopher R. Cooper says name must stay off Kennedy Center” via Julia Jacobs and Zach Montague of The New York Times — Federal judge Cooper ruled that the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts could not honor Trump with an inscription on the institution’s exterior, blocking an effort by the center’s Board to restore the President’s name to the building. After the decision, Trump, who has been Chair of the center since early in his second term, posted a stark ultimatum to social media: If an appeals court does not agree to allow his name back on the building, he said, he would block a $257 million renovation of the center that he has been championing for more than a year. “If the ruling is a negative one, which it should not be, and is not overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court,” he said in the post, “the Reconstruction and the Renovation of The Kennedy Center will not take place.”
“FBI chief Kash Patel defends hiring policy changes on prostitution, bestiality at fiery hearing” via Eric Tucker of The Associated Press — FBI Director Patel defended a recent policy change to allow some applicants who have engaged in prostitution and bestiality to be considered for employment, insisting that the move was made to enable victims of those acts to apply for a job without fear of automatic disqualification. The subject arose during a fiery Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in which Patel clashed with Democrats over his firing of agents who participated in investigations of Trump and suggested that agents might be dispatched to the polls on Election Day amid Justice Department and White House concerns about voter fraud. The hours-long hearing featured the name-calling and bitingly personal exchanges that have come to define Patel’s appearances on Capitol Hill, with Democrats characterizing the Trump appointee as unqualified, criticizing him for politically charged investigations into Trump’s enemies.
“Pentagon seeks fit troops for upcoming Pete Hegseth speech” via Lara Seligman of The Wall Street Journal — The Pentagon is asking commanders to nominate troops to attend Defense Secretary Hegseth’s “State of the Force” address, and says the service members must meet waist-to-height requirements and exhibit “impeccable” grooming standards. Candidates, who will also have the opportunity to work out with the secretary, will be selected based on “demonstrated leadership quality and professional character,” according to emails obtained by The Wall Street Journal. The document also requires that candidates be “consistently rated as top performers within their formations,” have a “clear record of integrity, discipline and selfless service,” and “serve as role models for their peers and subordinates.”
“Rick Scott launches ‘Rescuing America’ economic messaging plan” via Jordain Carney of POLITICO — Sen. Scott is launching a plan for how the country should tackle its growing economic headaches as Republicans face rising voter affordability concerns heading into the Midterms. The Florida Republican, who has garnered speculation about 2028 White House prospects, will announce the “Rescuing America” project in a video published Tuesday. Scott’s project will include additional videos aimed at confronting America’s biggest economic challenges, as well as a lengthy speaking tour at economic events across the country, according to a person who was granted anonymity to describe Scott’s plans.
“Ashley Moody launches bid to bring Space Academy to Florida,” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Moody has formally filed legislation to make Florida home to the new U.S. Space Academy. The Space Training and Readiness for Students Act would establish the academy at Cape Canaveral, building on the state’s existing aerospace infrastructure, universities and workforce. Moody says training the next generation of space leaders in Florida would strengthen national security while supporting the state’s growing commercial space industry. The proposal follows Trump’s announcement of an academy designed to prepare astronauts, engineers, operators, entrepreneurs and military personnel. Florida lawmakers have rallied around locating the academy on the Space Coast, arguing the region already serves as a hub for NASA, the Space Force and private spaceflight.
“María Elvira Salazar presses for answers on Venezuela oil deal” via James Bikales, Ben Lefebvre and Pavan Acharya of POLITICO — U.S. Rep. Salazar says Secretary of State Marco Rubio committed to releasing documents detailing the Trump administration’s Venezuela oil agreement after lawmakers raised concerns about the deal. Salazar opposed U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro’s subpoena for the records after Rubio promised to disclose them within days. The subpoena failed 6-6 along party lines. Salazar said lawmakers need “every single detail” of the agreement with North American Blue Energy Partners, which is controlled by Venezuelan businessman Alejandro Betancourt. The deal gives the U.S. a 35% stake in the company and preferential access to some oil production. Castro maintained that a State Department briefing left basic questions unanswered about the agreement and where U.S. money would go.
“FEMA sought 2,700 new hires. DHS said no” via Thomas Frank of POLITICO — The Federal Emergency Management Agency sought permission to fill 2,743 vacancies as its workforce shrank, but the Department of Homeland Security rejected the request, according to an internal memo. FEMA has lost 22% of its staff since January 2025, while a Government Accountability Office report warned shortages could hamper disaster response and recovery. DHS later authorized 1,275 hires, and FEMA subsequently narrowed its request to 995 mission-essential positions. U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, the top Democrat on the House Homeland Security Committee, called the rejection “deeply troubling.” FEMA said it has resumed priority hiring and remains prepared for hurricane season and other emergencies. The disclosure follows a federal judge’s ruling that DHS unlawfully interfered with FEMA staffing decisions.
— LOCAL: S. FL —
Vicki Lopez launches English- and Spanish-language ads in the Miami-Dade Commission runoff — Miami-Dade County Commissioner Lopez is up with new 30-second English- and Spanish-language spots on television and digital platforms, backed by a five-figure buy across District 5, as she heads into a runoff against Rob Piper. The ads, “Family” and “Familia,” pitch her record on housing, waterways, transit, and small business. “Family is everything, and what tomorrow looks like matters to me,” Lopez says in the ad. “As your County Commissioner, I’m focused on what matters most: moving faster on affordable housing, so our families can stay and live in our community. Keeping our waterways clean. Investing in a transit plan that works. Supporting small businesses. And making sure District 5 stays the vibrant, diverse community we love. I’m not waiting to get started. I’m already on the job. I would be honored to earn your vote to continue serving you.”
To watch the English ad, please click on the first image below. For the Spanish version, please click the second.
“How the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office plans to spend $1 billion next year,” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — There’s a fight over how much tax money should go to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office next year, but the county’s Mayor and Sheriff agree on one thing: the law enforcement agency needs to spend at least $1 billion next year. This will be the second year that the county has spent more than $1 billion on law enforcement, making the Sheriff’s Office the largest single expense in Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s $14.3 billion budget proposal. The spending plan faces a final vote before the County Commission on Thursday. Levine Cava and Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz disagree on how much tax funding the Sheriff’s Office needs for the budget year beginning Oct. 1. The Mayor wants to add $55 million in tax funding for the 4,500-person independent Sheriff’s Office — a 6% increase — but Cordero-Stutz wants almost twice that amount.
“This Miami school tax is up for a vote. A broad, unlikely coalition supports it” via Austin Horn of the Miami Herald — In Miami-Dade, it’s rare to find an issue where the teachers union, charter school operators, elected officials, the superintendent of public schools, the police union and the state’s leading parent-teacher association are aligned. But on Tuesday they voiced — in unison — their support for a ballot referendum this November to keep a tax that funds teacher pay and school security. “This amendment transcends politics because it’s about children. At the end of the day, children aren’t looking at politics, and our future is our children,” Miami-Dade Superintendent Rafael Villalobos said at an event hosted by a political committee supporting the referendum held at J.C. Bermudez Doral Senior High School.
“Palm Beach County OK’s new plan to fund Sheriff’s budget. Some residents could pay more.” via Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Palm Beach County residents could see changes in their tax bill after Commissioners approved a new plan to fund the Sheriff’s growing billion-dollar budget. During a meeting on Tuesday, County Commissioners voted 5-2 to adopt a municipal service taxing unit, a mechanism to fund a specific service through taxes. This taxing unit would fund the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office’s services to the unincorporated parts of the county. “I think the Sheriff does a phenomenal job. I think his law enforcement services are top-notch, and I think they will continue to be,” Commissioner Gregg Weiss said at Tuesday’s meeting. “It’s a matter of how it’s funded and whether it’s funded fairly throughout the county.”
“Bryan Calvo once pushed to lower Hialeah’s property tax rate. Now he wants to keep it the same” via Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — Once upon a time, Calvo saw Hialeah’s property tax rate as an opportunity to give residents a break. Now, as Mayor, he is proposing to keep the same rate he once argued effectively raised taxes on homeowners. Calvo’s proposed fiscal 2027 budget, a $514.4 million spending plan, keeps Hialeah’s millage rate at 6.3018, the same rate the city has had for 13 years. But taxable property values have risen 6.1%, and the city expects to collect an additional $8 million in tax revenue from property owners. In property-tax terms, a mill is equivalent to $1 in tax per $1,000 in taxable value. The City Council approved the budget on first reading, 6-1, on Sept. 8, with Council member Gelien Perez casting the sole dissenting vote. She cited the short time she had to review the budget and a “lack of transparency.”
“Donie Lee seeks negotiated exit for Brian Barroso” via Ted Lund of Above the Fold — Key West Vice Mayor Lee wants the city to negotiate an “amicable separation agreement” with City Manager Barroso, potentially ending months of conflict at City Hall. Lee’s resolution, scheduled for consideration on Sept. 22, would authorize the city attorney to negotiate departure terms, including severance, benefits, and a transition period. Mayor Sam Kaufman, who has repeatedly clashed with Barroso, supports pursuing an agreement. The proposal represents a shift for Lee, who recently voted against preserving the Commission’s ability to modify or terminate Barroso’s contract before an automatic renewal deadline. The resolution would not fire Barroso or determine financial terms; instead, it would seek a voluntary agreement designed to avoid a contested termination or litigation.
“Palm Bay Council member again uses social media to attack Indians, immigrants” via Tyler Vazquez of Florida Today — Palm Bay City Council member Chandler Langevin, who made national news last year over his social-media attacks on Indian-Americans and immigrants, has renewed his anti-Indian and anti-immigrant posts in recent days. On Sept. 11, Langevin replied to U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat representing the 8th District of Illinois, writing, “I won, Rajesh. Take your curry and go home.”
“ICE fears arise as two Lake Worth City Manager candidates interviewed” via Chris Persaud of The Palm Beach Post — Days after one of Palm Beach County’s most immigrant-filled cities signed a policing deal over the objections of ICE critics, the issue of how to deal with detentions — and the fear of them — came up again in Lake Worth Beach’s search for a new City Manager. The City Commission voted 3-1 on Sept. 2 to increase payments by $500,000 annually for three years to the police agency it contracts with, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, to hire park rangers. Advocates for immigrants and their U.S.-born families demanded the city reject the deal because PBSO works with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The city will spend more than $15.8 million annually.
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Trump isn’t worried, but Orange County has data center concerns” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Orange County Commissioners are set to tackle the issue of data centers, the giant computing facilities that power AI but have prompted a nationwide backlash and become a key campaign issue in Florida’s race for Governor. The county’s development regulations do not specifically address data centers, which could be permitted under existing industrial zoning, despite concerns that they could strain public resources, including water supplies. Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad asked for the county to schedule a discussion and also recommended a moratorium of “at minimum” a year. Commissioner Nicole Wilson said a local conversation is needed and a moratorium should be an option.
“Fort Meade Commissioner asks judge to dismiss recall campaign” via Gary White of Lakeland Ledger — Fort Meade City Commissioner Matthew Taylor has gone on the offensive in defending himself against a recall campaign, filing a lawsuit in Polk County’s Circuit Court to halt the recall process. Taylor’s lawyer, Richard A. Harrison, wrote that the petition is invalid on multiple grounds, and that nothing in the petition demonstrates malfeasance, misfeasance or neglect of duty. “This recall campaign is a gross abuse of the process and an effort to intimidate not just me, but other Commissioners,” Taylor said. “Such tactics undermine the integrity of the democratic process and of good municipal government.”
“Flagler, Bunnell clash over ‘Butterfly’ landfill approval,” via Brenno Carillo of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — During a workshop on Sept. 14, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously directed legal staff to prepare an administrative appeal of Bunnell’s “Butterfly Landfill” approval. The decision means a conflict-resolution process could be underway. Established under the 2026 Florida Statutes, Title XI, Chapter 164, the Florida Governmental Conflict Resolution Act requires both parties to reach an agreement before litigation may proceed.
— LOCAL: TB —
“Charlie Crist, Ken Welch showdown is headed for primetime” via Florida Politics — St. Petersburg voters will get a televised faceoff between former Gov. Crist and Mayor Welch after Spectrum Bay News 9 agreed to host a mayoral debate. Crist challenged Welch to a televised matchup in late August, contending that limited attendance at traditional forums meant more voters deserved an opportunity to hear directly from both candidates. The station has now established a date and rules for the debate as the General Election campaign intensifies. Crist and Welch advanced from the August Primary, setting up a head-to-head contest for City Hall. The debate gives both candidates a prominent platform to contrast their approaches to affordability, development, infrastructure and other issues shaping Florida’s fifth-largest city ahead of the Nov. 3 election.
“Lina Teixeira’s condo dispute raises questions about respecting the rules” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — St. Petersburg City Council member Teixeira and her husband are escalating a legal battle with their condominium association after installing an electric vehicle charging station without obtaining required approval. The dispute has moved beyond disagreement over EV infrastructure to questions about whether elected officials should follow the same rules that govern their neighbors. Teixeira’s persistence may appeal to those who view condominium restrictions as outdated or unreasonable, but public officials also have an additional responsibility to respect established processes. The issue is not whether electric vehicles deserve access to charging. It is whether someone entrusted with writing and enforcing public policy can simply disregard rules when they become inconvenient, then keep fighting after being told no.
“Gaming officials hit the jackpot in St. Petersburg, seize hundreds of illegal slots in ‘Operation Final Spin’” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) joined law enforcement agencies in a crackdown on two gambling operations in St. Petersburg that ended with the seizure of hundreds of illegal slot machines and other evidence. At Action Arcade, 90 illegal slot machines and about $142,000 in cash were found. At the Zoo, another 73 illegal slot machines and some $105,000 in cash were seized. FGCC Chair Tina Repp and Seminole Republican Rep. Berny Jacques were physically present during the enforcement action as the raids were conducted. “These machines are designed to take advantage of people, and far too often that means senior citizens living on fixed incomes who can least afford to lose what they have,” Jacques said.
“Prosecutors seek new indictment in Tampa against Tim Burke in Fox News case” via the Tampa Bay Times — Federal prosecutors said they will seek a new indictment against Burke, the Tampa media consultant who has been mired for more than two years in a criminal case involving leaked Fox News footage. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Trezevant wrote in a court paper that the government would pursue new charges to cure the defects of the previous indictment. That means it will ask a grand jury to issue slightly different charges that might not carry the same free-speech pitfalls.
“County elects to hang onto Weedon Island and Shell Key” via Peter Wahlberg of St Pete Catalyst — The Pinellas County Commission has abandoned a proposal to cut Weedon Island and Shell Key Preserves, restoring full funding for the parks to the FY2027 budget. Facing a $42 million shortfall next year, among the items previously considered was the defunding of Weedon Island and Shell Key, two County preserves on land leased from the State of Florida. The initiative, the brainchild of Commissioner Chris Scherer, met with unanimous approval. “I was extremely pleased that my fellow County Commissioners approved my recommendation,” said Scherer. “Next year, my focus will be to secure state funding for the continued operations of Weedon Island in perpetuity.”
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“DeSantis appoints two University of Florida grads to appeals court district in Tallahassee” via WCJB — DeSantis announced four new appointments to a body that will shape the appeals court district covering Tallahassee. Two of the appointments to the 1st District Court of Appeals Judicial Nominating Commission are University of Florida grads. Law school grad Jeff Aaron is a founding shareholder of a law firm headquartered in Orlando. UF undergrad alum Jason Hillborn is a deputy state Attorney General. The other appointments are Tallahassee attorneys Lazaro Fields and Benjamin Gibson.
“Leon County Commissioners vote to remove Flock cameras from county property within 30 days” via Brieanna Smith of WTXL ABC 27 — Leon County Commissioners voted unanimously to remove all automated license plate readers, also known as Flock cameras, from county property. Vendors have 30 days to remove the cameras. If cameras remain after the deadline, Commission Chair Christian Caban said the county will take them down itself. “I imagine tomorrow the county attorney will send them a 30-day notice letter that says they have 30 days to remove the cameras from our Leon County right-of-ways,” Caban said.
“Jacksonville City Council Committee advances e-bike safety ordinance limiting sidewalk speeds” via Briana Brownlee of News4JAX — Jacksonville’s Rules Committee voted 5-2 to advance a substitute ordinance aimed at regulating e-bike safety on city sidewalks and shared pathways, capping speeds at 15 mph and calling for retailer-based public education — a move supporters say is long overdue. Council member Michael Boylan, who introduced the legislation, framed the issue in stark terms. “To think it’s OK for a child whose only qualification is that the feet can reach the pedals of an e-bike, can go 28 miles an hour on a sidewalk or a shared pathway — in my mind is flawed thinking,” Boylan said.
— LOCAL: SW. FL —
“Sarasota homeowners could face new fee under county plan” via Earle Kimel of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Sarasota County homeowners could face a new assessment to help fund the purchase of the former Gulf Gate Executive Golf Course after Commissioners directed staff to gauge support for a potential funding plan. The county is seeking to acquire the 48.9-acre property for a stormwater project supporters say could improve water quality and reduce flooding in parts of the Gulf Gate area. That’s the gist of the direction the Sarasota County Commission gave staff on Sept. 8, by a 4-0 vote, with Commissioner Joe Neunder absent.
“Administrator’s tirade raises questions about Manatee County’s leadership” via Lesley Dwyer of the East County Observer — With more contentious behavior in Manatee County Commission meetings by both County Administrator Charlie Bishop and Commissioners, it opens the topic of whether Bishop’s contract will be renewed in early 2027. Commissioner Jason Bearden, a conservative Republican who did not run for re-election and will vacate his seat in November, has become so disenchanted with the county’s direction that, a few days after Bishop’s tirade, he took to social media to urge Manatee voters to vote for Democrats in two Commission races. “Charlie Bishop should be fired,” he said. “The problem is that my fellow Commissioners don’t have the backbone to call it out.”
“Manatee County approves a moratorium on data centers” via WMNF — This month, the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to impose a moratorium on data centers. The moratorium is a 12-month evaluation period that temporarily pauses data center applications. During that time, County Commissioners will study the effects on residents and their environment. Manatee County Commissioners Amanda Ballard, Tal Siddique, and Bob McCann spearheaded the decision. “It’s a moratorium on data centers,” asserted Siddique.
— TOP OPINION —
“DeSantis was right to demand guardrails on artificial intelligence” via the Miami Herald editorial board — DeSantis has spent years warning that artificial intelligence could advance faster than society can safely control it. Now some of the technology’s most influential leaders are voicing similar concerns, strengthening the case for safeguards before AI becomes even more powerful.
Florida has already moved toward greater oversight. DeSantis has advocated for an AI bill of rights, resisted the unchecked expansion of hyperscale data centers, and insisted that states retain authority to protect residents from harms caused by emerging technology. Those positions increasingly contrast with Trump’s push to accelerate American AI development to compete with China.
The warnings coming from the industry itself deserve attention. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, xAI CEO Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman have all raised concerns about the pace of development and the difficulty of fully understanding or controlling increasingly capable systems.
Their sudden agreement also warrants skepticism. Technology companies could be embracing safety standards partly to shape regulations themselves or secure favorable government treatment if enormous AI investments sour. DeSantis is right to question whether industry leaders’ motives are entirely about public safety.
The stakes extend beyond technology companies. Concentrating enormous power in the hands of a handful of corporations could leave Americans vulnerable to privacy violations, manipulation, and other harms. Attorney General Uthmeier’s push for stronger legal accountability for chatbots that facilitate illegal conduct reflects the type of enforcement states should consider.
Florida’s next Governor should preserve that emphasis on oversight. Artificial intelligence offers extraordinary possibilities, but government should establish meaningful protections before technological advances outrun the public’s ability to respond. The emerging caution from AI’s own leaders makes the need for enforceable guardrails increasingly difficult to dismiss.
— MORE OPINIONS —
“Republicans blur their own case against socialism” via Marc Short of The Washington Post — Republicans enter the Midterms warning voters about Democratic socialism, but their own economic agenda makes that contrast increasingly difficult to sustain. The Trump administration has moved away from traditional conservative economics by embracing greater federal intervention in markets, including proposed cash payments, expanded entitlements, credit card fee limits, government stakes in private companies, pharmaceutical price controls and tariffs. That leaves Republicans attacking Democratic socialists while pursuing policies that increasingly resemble “socialism-lite.” With affordability remaining a major voter concern, the party risks weakening its traditional argument for free markets. Republicans need a clearer economic distinction from Democrats, or risk leaving voters unable to distinguish between the competing economic visions on offer this November.
“We’re ignoring the cause of homelessness, and how to solve it” via Michele Steeb for the Miami Herald — Owning a home, or at least having one, has long been considered an essential part of the American dream. But what if Americans judged success not by whether people had housing, but by whether they discovered, or rediscovered, who they were created to become? Housing First made housing placement the primary intervention and measure of success, while removing expectations for treatment, sobriety, employment or progress toward self-sufficiency. In doing so, it too often treated the symptom of homelessness – lack of housing – while leaving the deeper human crises that frequently accompany and perpetuate it unaddressed. To end homelessness, we must focus on restoring lives.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— ALOE —
“Safety Harbor seafood spot lands on America’s best list” via Helen Freund of the Tampa Bay Times — Safety Harbor’s The Tides Market has earned a coveted place on The New York Times’ 2026 list of America’s 50 best restaurants, becoming the only Tampa Bay establishment selected. The national recognition highlights the restaurant’s fried fish sandwiches, blackened yellowtail snapper and commitment to exceptionally fresh ingredients. Jon and Mary Kate Walker opened the hybrid seafood market, grocery and restaurant on Main Street in 2021, later expanding it into a full-service operation. The Tides has also earned Michelin Guide recommendations in 2025 and 2026. Walker called the latest honor “incredible,” saying the recognition shows straightforward, approachable food can command a seat alongside more elaborate dining experiences.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Celebrating today are former U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy, Joyce Baker, Alan Cohn, former journo-turned-spox Chris Heath, Ghada Skaff Lieser, Wayne Mineo, former Rep. David Rivera, Paul Seago, and Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey.
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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 — 9.16.26 appeared first on Florida Politics – Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government..