Good Friday morning.

Chloe Conboy has joined The Mosaic Company as its External Communications Manager, based at the company’s Tampa executive office.

“I’m proud to join Mosaic as External Communications Manager and support a company that plays a vital role in global food security by providing essential crop nutrients to farmers worldwide,” Conboy said.

“As a native Floridian, I’m especially passionate about Mosaic’s efforts to combat food insecurity in our local communities. I look forward to partnering with the media to share these important stories and highlight the impact Mosaic is making both in Florida and around the world.”

Conboy, a USF Sarasota-Manatee alum, brings a diverse background in media relations and public affairs. She began her career in local news as a digital content producer at ABC 7 WWSB-TV in Sarasota before moving into political communications. She spent five years working under U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, including as his Press Secretary in Washington and later Deputy District Director in his Bradenton office.

“Chloe is one of the sharpest communications professionals in the business. Mosaic hit a home run with this hire,” said Max Goodman, a Republican political consultant and longtime adviser to Buchanan.

Conboy later became Public Affairs Manager and spokesperson for Manatee County, where she helped shape public messaging during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In her new role, Conboy will serve as Mosaic’s primary U.S. spokesperson and work closely with global media relations teams across North America, South America and Asia.

___

The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association has tapped Destiny Neves as its new Regional Director for Volusia County.

Neves has spent more than a decade in the hospitality industry, most recently serving as sales manager at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort. There, she worked across government, education, social and corporate markets, regularly exceeding multimillion-dollar revenue goals.

Neves has also held roles at some of Daytona’s landmark properties, including The Plaza Resort and Spa, Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort and the Daytona Beach Resort & Conference Center.

Her work has extended beyond hotels. Neves has been active with the Lodging & Hospitality Association of Volusia County, supporting the Board and helping organize member events that connect hoteliers, restaurateurs and suppliers.

“Destiny’s track record of leadership, relationship building, and results in Volusia County makes her an outstanding addition to our team,” said Carol Dover, president and CEO of FRLA. “Her insight into the needs of hoteliers, restaurateurs, and hospitality suppliers will be a tremendous benefit to our members and the local hospitality industry.”

In her new post, Neves will serve as an advocate and resource for FRLA members in the county, focusing on growth, workforce development and strengthening the local hospitality sector.

___

“Jeff Houck to lead Tampa Downtown Partnership Board for 2025-26 year” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Houck, vice president of Marketing for the 1905 Family of Restaurants, has been selected to be the next Chair of the Tampa Downtown Partnership Board for the 2025-26 term. Houck takes the lead as the Partnership enters its newly launched five-year strategic plan and advances new planning initiatives, including the North End Vision Framework and the Franklin Street revitalization. “Our new strategic plan is a declaration of purpose, built around service, impact, growth and resilience,” Partnership President and CEO Kenyetta Hairston-Bridges said. “With the leadership of Jeff Houck and our dedicated Board of Directors, the Partnership will continue to champion a downtown that is energetic, inclusive and welcoming — ensuring the heart of our city remains a place where people and businesses thrive.”

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@KaitlainCollins: (Donald) Trump says because he won the election and networks give him “wholly bad publicity” that “I would think maybe their license should be taken away.” He tells reporters: “It will be up to Brendan Carr. I think Brendan Carr is outstanding. He’s a patriot. He loves our country and he’s a tough guy.”

—@KFILE: This is a random side, but I assume that ABC has a very aggressive standards department? Like, how did that even make it into his monologue?

—@RonDeSantis: Rare example of accountability in legacy media. (Jimmy) Kimmel lied about the assassin of Charlie Kirk by claiming he was on the right. Such lies are usually part and parcel of the operations of the drive-by media. That ABC actually did something about Kimmel’s lies is surprising.

—@Jason_Garcia: A Republican megadonor and homebuilder in southwest Florida (Pat Neal) has joined one of several lawsuits that have been filed around the state in which developers are trying to use a new hurricane-recovery law (Senate Bill 180) to kill all kinds of local land-development rules

Tweet, tweet:

—@Cliu00: Bummed to once again see players making negative comments about China’s food and culture during the Asia swing

— DAYS UNTIL —

’Tulsa King’ season three premieres — 2; Paul Thomas Anderson’s ’One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 7; Special Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 11; Taylor Swift’s new album ’The Life of a Showgirl’ drops — 14; Regular Session Committee Weeks begin — 17; Florida TaxWatch Annual Board Meeting — 17; ’Tron: Ares’ premieres — 21; ‘Six Kings Slam,’ featuring six of men’s tennis’ best players in the world, premieres on Netflix — 26; Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 31; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 32; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 37; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 38; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 46; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 58; ’Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 63; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 68; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 70; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 75; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 75; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 81; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 84; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 89; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 91; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 97; Legislative Session begins — 116; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 116; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 140; last day of the Regular Session — 175; MLB Opening Night matchup between the Giants and Yankees — 187; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 188; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 199; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 208; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 213; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 217; F1 Miami begins — 224; Untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 245; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 256; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 262; State Qualifying Period ends — 266; FIFA World Cup begins — 265; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 288; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 293; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 298; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 300; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 304; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 321; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 323; Primary Election Day 2026 — 333; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 357; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 361; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 365; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 370; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 377; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 381; Early Votion General Election Mandatory period begins — 400; 2026 General Election — 410; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 455; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 455; Tampa Mayoral Election — 529; Jacksonville First Election — 550; Jacksonville General Election — 606; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 624; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 686; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 742; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 819; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1029; U.S. Presidential Election — 1145; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1545; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2276.

— TOP STORY —

“Donald Trump-endorsed Byron Donalds may soon have a new ‘26 rival: Florida’s LG” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — As potential gubernatorial candidate Lt. Gov. Jay Collins weighs entering the race, he is openly floating First Lady Casey DeSantis as a possible running mate.

While Casey DeSantis has been mulling her own run for her husband’s job, she has taken no firm steps toward a campaign.

Collins, however, lauded her as “brilliant,” “hard working,” and a “capable warrior,” emphasizing that he would not exclude such a “gifted” person from his team. His comments position her as a formidable figure being considered for the ticket by her husband’s potential successors, highlighting her political value even as her own gubernatorial ambitions remain unconfirmed in the developing contest.

— STATEWIDE —

“Hope Florida’s omission in budget requests raises questions from key lawmaker” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The embattled Hope Florida program is missing in legislative budget requests from both the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and the Department of Children and Families (DCF), raising questions about the charity’s future and current status. It’s unclear what is happening with charity navigators at Hope Florida, which has been in the hot seat this year over a Medicaid spending scandal. Since Hope Florida is omitted from the LBRs, does that mean it’s dead, or is it being shifted elsewhere? “It’s possible they’re trying to simply ‘rebrand’ them or something. Until we have a longer, more in-depth discussion with the agencies, I’m not sure which is the case,” said Republican Rep. Alex Andrade, a leading critic of Hope Florida, when Florida Politics reached out for comment.

“James Uthmeier says Florida gun laws may need ‘some cleanup’ after open-carry ruling” via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Uthmeier said Thursday the Legislature may have to do “some cleanup” on gun laws after an appeals court struck down the state’s ban on open-carry. Uthmeier, who released guidance this week saying state residents could openly carry firearms following the ruling by the 1st District Court of Appeal, didn’t specify what tweaks the laws may need. And Republican leaders in the supermajority Legislature haven’t said whether they plan on revisiting firearms regulations during the Session that begins in January, even as some state Democrats have raised concerns about the change. But with open-carry being so new, questions remain over the legal handling of firearms, leading a reporter to ask Uthmeier during a news conference in Jacksonville how long guns should be handled appropriately. “Do you have to have it on a strap? Are you allowed to hold it in your hand?” the reporter asked.

—“Florida open-carry gun ruling sparks questions, celebration and alarm” via Jeffrey Schweers of the Orlando Sentinel

“Blaise Ingoglia says ‘housing affordability’ will be top issue in 2026 Election” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — Jacksonville could easily slash its millage rate for property taxes by 10% without residents noticing any difference in city services, Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia said during a stop in Jacksonville where the City Council is headed toward a vote on next year’s budget. Ingoglia said based on his office’s “high-level” review of Jacksonville’s budgets, the city’s spending grew by 50% over five years. Ingoglia, who has been traveling around the state calling for tax cuts by local governments, said housing affordability is a huge issue in Florida. “I’m telling you right now it is going to be the No. 1 issue for people running for office in 2026,” he said.

“Cities, counties brace for fight with state over law giving developers more muscle” via John Kennedy of the USA Today Network-Florida — More than 20 Florida cities and counties have signed up to battle DeSantis and the Republican-controlled Legislature over a new law that has frozen local planning decisions, disrupting the state. Manatee and Orange counties and a collection of cities, including Deltona, Margate, Alachua, Delray Beach, Weston, Stuart and others, plan to join a lawsuit expected to be filed soon in Leon County Circuit Civil Court. Under the law, they argue, local officials now cannot make key land-use decisions for the communities they serve. “They cannot enact any law that burdens or restricts development from August 2024 until October 2027 — and it could go even longer,” said Jamie Cole, a Fort Lauderdale attorney representing the cities and counties.

“Florida pushed back on AP classes. Its first alternative option? Algebra” via Jeffrey Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — Two years after DeSantis criticized AP courses and secured nearly $5 million to create state-level alternatives, Florida has rolled out its first offering: an entry-level college algebra class, not a replacement for the controversial African American studies or psychology courses. The new FACT College Algebra debuted this Fall in over 30 schools as a yearlong option for students to earn college credit without the rigor of AP. Teachers describe it as a “gateway course” similar to Algebra 2 Honors but more in-depth, filling a niche for students not pursuing AP-level math. Despite the initial controversy, the state has spent less than $150,000 of its allocated funds on developing these courses.

“Poll: One in three Florida voters don’t think state officials should have to obey court rulings” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — The old legal maxim that “no one is above the law” isn’t resonating for a sizable share of Florida voters. New polling shows that 34% of Florida voters believe that both DeSantis and the Legislature shouldn’t have to follow state court decisions they disagree with. That includes 48% of voters who say they sided with Trump last year, but just 17% of Kamala Harris voters. Hispanic and Latino voters account for an overshare of the sentiment, with 46% agreeing that the Governor and Legislature should be able to ignore a Florida Judge’s ruling, compared to 32% of White voters, 24% of Black voters and 42% of voters who said they had “other” racial or ethnic heritage.

“Clean energy popular among everyone, even Republicans” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — A new poll shows that Floridians overwhelmingly support clean energy, with about 78% of respondents indicating they prefer a clean alternative. That includes more than 60% of Republicans. The poll, taken by Cygnal Aug. 26-27 for the group Conservatives for Clean Energy, found the vast majority of Floridians (82%) are frustrated by rising utility costs, a sentiment likely driving support for alternative energy sources, including solar and nuclear. Two-thirds of voters (67%) say they are more likely to support a candidate who backs solar energy expansion, while 68% say they are more likely to support candidates who back rooftop solar-friendly policy. Meanwhile, 62% of respondents say they support expanded production of nuclear energy, including restarting decommissioned plants.

Happening today — Florida TaxWatch will host the 2025 Government Productivity Awards Ceremony to honor the top 10 teams of state employees for improving government efficiency: 3:30 p.m., Florida Historic Capitol Museum, 400 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee.

“Florida spares some bears, drops ‘harvest’ quota for upcoming hunt” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Amid a surge of applications for Florida’s first bear hunt in a decade, the state is reducing the number of black bears that can be taken in the controversial December event. State wildlife authorities this week cut the number of available bear tags by 15, to 172. Each tag, distributed through an application process that opened last Friday, entitles a hunter to kill one bear. “That’s going in the right direction,” said Chuck O’Neal, president and founder of Speak Up Wekiva, a Central Florida-based environmental group that opposes hunting the iconic and often reclusive bear, the state’s largest land mammal. “Better … but still too many.” George Warthen, chief conservation officer for the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, said the agency had received 82,787 applications to enter the bear-permit lottery through the end of the day Wednesday.

“Florida clinical trials generate billions” via Florida Politics — PhRMA has released new research with TEConomy Partners highlighting the economic impact of industry-sponsored clinical trials in Florida. In 2023, the state hosted 2,198 active trials involving 102,016 participants. Biopharmaceutical companies invested $3.7 billion directly in Florida trial sites, supporting thousands of jobs and driving a total economic impact of $8.3 billion through vendor spending and community growth. Florida ranks first in the nation for economic impact from industry-funded clinical trials — and that figure doesn’t even capture the additional work happening beyond trial sites, such as trial design, coordination, data analysis, and annual investments in basic and preclinical research.

“Analysis says Florida is most expensive state for homeowners insurance” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida has made some gains in reducing homeowners insurance costs in recent years. But the state still has the most expensive premiums for coverage in the U.S. The real estate market monitoring company conducted a study on homeowners’ insurance costs across the country, and the Sunshine State is pretty costly compared to other states. “Florida tops the charts in more ways than one: In addition to carrying the highest median premiums, it also has the dubious honor of having the most homeowners paying over $4,000 per year,” the Realtor.com analysis concluded. Colorado, Nebraska and Texas followed Florida in the ranking. The report linked the most expensive places for premiums with a simple connection: extreme weather conditions. Kansas, Oklahoma and Louisiana were also ranked in the top 10.

—“Florida’s insurance market grows with two new providers: Stand, Praxis approved to offer coverage” via Anita Padilla of Florida’s Voice

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Tensions rise in Caribbean as U.S., Venezuela conduct parallel military exercises” via Antonio María Delgado of the Miami Herald — Tensions continued to grow in the Caribbean this week as Venezuela and the United States publicly flexed their military muscles, fueling concerns that both nations are edging closer to an armed confrontation. On Tuesday, Trump announced that U.S. forces had sunk three boats he said were smuggling drugs out of Venezuela, killing at least 14 people. Shortly afterward, U.S. Southern Command released a short video on its X account showing amphibious landing drills off Puerto Rico. The footage appeared just hours after Venezuela announced it had launched its own military maneuvers in the Caribbean on La Orchila Island, an unmistakable attempt to send a message to Washington that it will be ready for a U.S. invasion.

“Trump administration reinstates more difficult citizenship test” via Jenny Gross of The New York Times — The U.S. government will reinstate a harder citizenship test that contains more complex questions than the current version, the Trump administration said Wednesday, part of the President’s tightening of the legal pathways to settle in the United States. The test is one of the final hurdles for the hundreds of thousands of people who become American citizens each year. The new test will be administered to those who file their applications on or after Oct. 20, according to a notice from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Matthew Tragesser, a USCIS spokesperson, said in a statement that the revised test would ensure that new citizens are “fully assimilated and will contribute to America’s greatness. These critical changes are the first of many,” he said.

—”Eleven New York officials arrested trying to access ICE detention cells” via Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Wesley Parnell and Samantha Latson of The New York Times

“Trump asks Supreme Court to allow removal of Fed Governor” via Ann E. Marimow of The New York Times — The Trump administration on Thursday asked the Supreme Court to immediately allow the President to remove Lisa Cook as a Federal Reserve Governor, setting up a key test of presidential power with potentially huge economic consequences. Trump has moved aggressively to fire leaders of independent agencies as he seeks to expand executive power and seize control of the federal bureaucracy. His administration has targeted the central bank for months, pressing policymakers to lower interest rates. The court’s conservative majority has repeatedly allowed Trump to at least provisionally fire leaders of other agencies without stating a reason, despite statutes passed by Congress intended to ensure political independence. The justices, however, have suggested that the Fed may be uniquely insulated from presidential meddling under the law.

“Senate confirms 48 of Trump’s nominees at once after changing the chamber’s rules” via Mary Clare Jalonick of The Associated Press — The Senate has confirmed 48 of Trump’s nominees at once, voting for the first time under new rules to begin clearing a backlog of executive branch positions that Democrats had delayed. Frustrated by the stalling tactics, Senate Republicans moved last week to make it easier to confirm large groups of lower-level, non-judicial nominations. Democrats had forced multiple votes on almost every one of Trump’s picks, infuriating the President and tying up the Senate floor. The new rules allow Senate Republicans to move multiple nominees with a simple majority vote — a process that would have previously been blocked with just one objection. The rules don’t apply to judicial nominations or high-level Cabinet posts. “Republicans have fixed a broken process,” Thune said ahead of the vote.

“Trump turns on Fox News mid-interview when pressed on slowing economy” Josh Fiallo of the Daily Beast — During a Fox News interview Thursday, Trump attacked the network’s own polling after being confronted with unfavorable economic data. When host Martha MacCallum cited a Fox poll showing 52% of Americans believe the economy is worse under his administration, Trump deflected by attacking the survey’s credibility. “Go get yourself a new pollster, because he stinks,” Trump said he told Rupert Murdoch. He dismissed concerns about rising unemployment, inflation and grocery prices, which have seen double-digit percent increases on items like beef and coffee. Trump promised his economic policies would “kick in probably in a year or so,” despite recent reports showing manufacturing job losses and the highest inflation rate since he took office.

“Inside the room where CEOs say what they really think of Trump’s policies” via Chip Cutter of The Wall Street Journal — Corporate leaders regularly praise the Trump administration and its policies in public. Behind closed doors, their mood is darker. At a meeting of CEOs and other executives on Wednesday, convened by the Yale School of Management, dozens of America’s business leaders sounded off on their concerns about tariffs, immigration, foreign policy matters and what many described as an increasingly chaotic, hard-to-navigate business environment. “They’re being extorted and bullied individually, but in private discourse, they’re really upset,” said Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, a Yale management professor who organized the event, referring to recent deals that give the U.S. government a cut of certain Nvidia chip sales and a “golden share” in U.S. Steel.

“GOP lawmaker makes blockbuster claim: FBI has at least 20 names of suspected Jeffrey Epstein clients” via Julie K. Brown, Emily Goodin and Claire Healy of the Miami Herald — A Republican lawmaker revealed for the first time that there is a quasi-list of suspected clients of Epstein that can be compiled from a series of witness statements and other evidence gathered by the FBI. Rep. Thomas Massie told the House Judiciary Committee that the FBI has the names of at least 20 people tied to Epstein, including prominent figures in the music industry, finance, politics and banking. The revelation that there are names of suspects in the FBI files comes as FBI Director Kash Patel continued to insist there is no evidence of anyone else involved in Epstein’s crimes, that there is no Epstein client list and that he has taken no steps to investigate some of the men named in the FBI files. But Massie cited files used by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, which summarize interviews with witnesses and suspects.

“Democrats won’t pursue Cory Mills censure after he helps Ilhan Omar keep her Committee seats” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — After U.S. Rep. Mills helped defeat a censure resolution against Democrat Omar, Democrats have decided not to force a retaliatory vote against him. Rep. Greg Cesar, a Texas Democrat, had filed a privileged resolution to censure the New Smyrna Beach Republican over various personal and professional scandals, mirroring a previous filing. This move could have forced a floor vote within two days. However, after Mills voted with three other Republicans to table Omar’s censure, citing First Amendment free speech concerns, Cesar opted not to bring his resolution against Mills to the floor. Mills distinguished his vote, arguing Omar’s case was about speech, unlike another case involving alleged assault, where he supported censure.

“HHS to decertify University of Miami organ agency, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announces” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — For the first time, federal officials are moving to fire an organization that coordinates organ donations in the United States. Kennedy, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), just announced plans to decertify the Life Alliance Organ Recovery Agency, a University of Miami-based organ procurement organization. The move comes, he said, after investigators found years of unsafe practices, poor training, understaffing and paperwork errors that endangered patients and undermined public trust. “We are taking bold action and historic action to restore trust in the organ procurement process,” Kennedy said about the decision by the Trump administration. “We are acting because of years of undocumented patient safety data failures and repeated violations of federal requirements, and we intend this decision to serve as a clear warning.”

“Starbucks clarifies policy after barista faces backlash for not writing Charlie Kirk on cup” via Ashley Ferrer of USA Today — Supporters of slain conservative activist Kirk are honoring him by ordering his favorite Starbucks drink — a “Mint Majesty tea with two honey” — and asking baristas to write his name on the cup. The tribute has sparked online controversy, with some videos showing baristas declining the request and others claiming critical messages were written on their cups. Starbucks responded by clarifying its policy, stating that customers can use any name they wish for their order. The company also investigated claims of negative messages and, after reviewing in-store video, found the comments were added after the drinks were served and not by employees, debunking the viral accusations circulating on social media.

— ELECTIONS —

“L.J. Holloway mulls new campaign, targets Michael Kirwan in CD 4 Democratic Primary” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — A recurrent Democratic candidate for Congress is looking at running again, and a big reason why is her opposition to someone who just filed this week. Holloway says she’s “strongly considering” becoming the fourth candidate in a crowded Primary race in Florida’s 4th Congressional District, which includes Clay County, Nassau County and part of Duval. A big reason for her political comeback would be aversion to Michael Kirwan, a retired Jacksonville lawyer who was a partner at Foley and Lardner and who once chaired the Jacksonville Ethics Commission. A lawyer herself, Holloway predicates her argument on his work in real estate transactions, mergers and acquisitions.

“Daryl Parks files to run for Tallahassee Mayor in 2026” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Parks, a prominent local attorney known for his work in civil-rights cases who mounted a bid last year for state Senate, filed campaign paperwork Sept. 18 to run for Tallahassee Mayor. Parks filed a day after he told the Tallahassee Democrat he was giving the race “super-serious consideration” and intended to follow in the footsteps of Mayor John Dailey, who is not seeking a third term. After filing, he spoke briefly with the Democrat again.

“Tallahassee Mayor race: Leon County Commissioner Christian Caban rules out 2026 campaign” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — After sending political smoke signals that he was seriously considering a run for Tallahassee Mayor, Leon County Commissioner Caban has decided against it. The move is a big one on the 2026 mayoral race chessboard, which was upended in August after City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow announced he would run for Mayor rather than a third term for Seat 3.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Miami-Dade Commissioner works for a nonprofit, pushes for wider charity funding” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — Local charities have a champion this year in Miami-Dade Commissioner Kionne McGhee, who recently proposed creating a new stream of government revenue to support nonprofits that use county money to help provide social services. That’s a category that includes his employer, Children of Inmates, a well-known charity that tries to keep imprisoned adults connected with the children they’ve left behind across Florida. Children of Inmates is expected to receive $250,000 in the 2026 county budget set for a final Commission vote after a 5 p.m. public hearing on Thursday at the Stephen P. Clark Center in downtown Miami.

“Palm Beach County isn’t lowering tax rate despite a push by some Commissioners” via Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Palm Beach County will keep its tax rate the same for the upcoming 2026 fiscal year — despite some Commissioners’ efforts to reduce it and give taxpayers some relief. During a public hearing on Sept. 9, county Commissioners voted 5-2 to keep the rate at 4.5000, with most of the Commissioners saying that lowering it could threaten and reduce the quality of essential services. On Tuesday, the County Commissioners finalized budgetary approvals during the last public hearing before it goes into effect on Oct. 1. According to the county property appraiser’s 2025 estimates, taxable property values increased by nearly 8% since 2024. Property taxes are determined using property values and the tax rate.

“After deadlock and clashes, Hialeah Council passes budget with rebate still unsettled” via Veronica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — It took three tense meetings for the Hialeah City Council to finally settle on a flat-rate millage budget, approved under the condition that struggling homeowners will receive a one-time rebate to help ease their financial burden. How much lower the millage rate should be, what kind of rebate would truly help working families, and where to find funds to offset rising utility costs were the key questions that deadlocked the Council. After more than 12 hours of debate across three tense meetings, the Council approved the city’s budget on first hearing Tuesday night, just one day before the deadline to pass a new spending plan. Interim Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves initially proposed a 1% reduction in the millage rate. This modest change would save each homeowner about $11 per year but cost the city roughly $1.3 million in annual revenue.

“More than 30 students, faculty taken to hospitals after fight at South Florida high school” via Angie DiMichell of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A school police officer used pepper spray to break up a fight during a crowded lunch period at Lake Worth Community High School, leading to a massive emergency response. On Thursday, 44 ambulances were dispatched to the school after the incident, which sent 32 students and faculty to local hospitals with minor injuries, primarily from pepper spray exposure. Videos of the chaos showed two girls fighting in the cafeteria surrounded by a large crowd before an officer deployed the spray, causing students to scramble. Parents later complained on social media about the school’s single, hourlong lunch period for all 2,500-plus students. The students involved in the fight will face disciplinary action.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Protester says they were attacked at Pulse by man shouting slurs, removing flags” via Silas Morgan of the Orlando Sentinel — A protester says they were attacked outside the Pulse memorial after trying to stop a man from removing rainbow and transgender flags and throwing them into traffic. Cait Aparicio was at Pulse that afternoon to protest the state’s controversial removal of the rainbow crosswalk outside the memorial last month. Aparicio, who is nonbinary, had protested outside Pulse before and was arrested there on a charge of defacing a traffic device after drawing on the crosswalk with chalk, court records show. “It’s erasure in the middle of the night without notifying anybody or anything like that … is a clear sign of the future, and I’ve decided to draw my line here at this crosswalk,” Aparicio said.

“The new Daytona government budget has raises for most employees, millions for projects” via Eileen Zaffiro-Kean of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — City Commissioners have adopted a nearly $380 million budget that includes a 4.1% city property tax increase, across-the-board raises for most employees and 13 capital improvement projects that together tally $10.2 million. At their Sept. 17 meeting, five City Commissioners voted to approve the property tax rate and budget that will go into effect Oct. 1, while two Commissioners voted no. Those no votes came from City Commissioners Stacy Cantu and Monica Paris. The city’s annual budget has steadily climbed for years, up $37 million from the $343 million budget used in the 2023-24 fiscal year. Property taxes also rose close to 10% in the budget year that’s about to close.

“Will $2.5 billion Poinciana road project actually help solve Osceola traffic?” via Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel — Poinciana residents and environmentalists remain conflicted over a proposed $2.5 billion expressway that promises to revolutionize Osceola County travel at the price of slicing through a wildlife corridor. Tuesday’s public hearing at Liberty High School marked one of the final steps before the Central Florida Expressway Authority’s Governing Board decides the fate of the Southport Connector project, which, if approved, would extend from the Poinciana Parkway to Pleasant Hill Road and continue east to Florida’s Turnpike. Residents who spoke at the hearing, the first of three, remained skeptical that the 15-mile tolled expressway will actually be the solution to some of the worst commute times in the nation.

“Tragedy at Epic Universe: Man dies after riding roller coaster, reports say” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — A person became unresponsive on a roller coaster at the new Epic Universe theme park and then died at the hospital. The incident occurred on Stardust Racers, the space-themed dual launch coaster that goes up to 62 mph and up to 133 feet in the air, per a description on Universal’s website. “Universal is cooperating with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office following a tragic event involving a guest at Epic Universe on Wednesday night,” Universal said in a statement. “We are devastated by this event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones. We are fully committed to cooperating with this ongoing investigation. The attraction remains closed.”

“Morgan & Morgan sues Disney over Steamboat Willie Mickey Mouse ad” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Morgan & Morgan filed a federal lawsuit against Disney related to the law firm’s commercial parodying the famous Steamboat Willie 1928 cartoon from Mickey Mouse’s early days. The commercial, which says it wasn’t endorsed or authorized by Disney, shows Mickey Mouse crashing his steamboat into Minnie Mouse’s car. Minnie pulls out her cell and calls an attorney. The law firm reached out to The Walt Disney Co. in advance and shared the commercial, alerting the entertainment giant that Morgan & Morgan planned to air the ad nationwide. “Disney’s policy is typically not to provide legal advice to third parties. Without waiver of any of its rights, Disney will not provide such advice in response to your letter,” Disney’s Chief Assistant Counsel Gloria Shaw wrote.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Pasco schools reject two complaints about teachers’ Kirk posts” via Jeffrey Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — The Pasco County School District will not punish two teachers accused of making inappropriate social media comments about Kirk’s death, determining the posts did not celebrate the assassination or create a hostile environment. Citing state guidelines, a District spokesperson said the posts — one an ambiguous Snapchat of a cat and the other a video discussing Kirk’s past comments — did not meet the threshold for “vile, sanctionable behavior.” While investigations are ongoing in several Tampa Bay districts, officials are emphasizing due process. Pasco officials used the incident to remind employees to be mindful of their online activity and maintain professional standards, emphasizing that their focus is on ensuring a safe and distraction-free classroom for all students.

“St. Petersburg considers flood gates to protect Shore Acres” via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — St. Petersburg wants to hire consultants to assess whether installing two flood gates would keep high tides and storm surge out of Shore Acres, ground zero for neighborhood flooding. City Council members will vote on Thursday on whether to spend $147,450 on a feasibility study done by Jacobs Engineering Group. The firm would determine where the two sets of flood gates should go, including the benefits and risks, as well as possible permitting challenges and associated costs. The city is already scheduled to replace the Overlook Bridge on Smacks Bayou around 2028. One of the flood gates could likely be included in that construction on the south side of Shore Acres, with the others installed to the north near Fire Station 12 and Shore Acres Mini Park.

“St. Pete Science Center’s fate in limbo as City Council prepares for discussion” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — The future of the St. Petersburg Science Center is in jeopardy as Mayor Ken Welch considers using its city-owned property for a water reclamation facility instead of selling it to the nonprofit St. Pete STEAM. The group has raised over $9 million and offered $1.6 million to purchase and revitalize the shuttered center. The conflict centers on a feasibility report comparing the site to an existing brush site for the water project. While the city claims acquiring a new brush site would be more expensive, project advocates argue the city’s cost estimates are flawed, making their purchase offer the more financially sound option. The City Council is set to review the project, and a resolution supporting the sale could prove critical.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Where’s the ‘beef’? Donna Deegan blasts Ingoglia’s DOGE probe” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Mayor Deegan blasted state CFO Ingoglia for his vague criticisms of her proposed $2 billion budget, saying his attacks lacked specifics and failed to acknowledge the city’s consolidated government structure. Speaking at a town hall, Deegan dismissed Ingoglia’s claims that the “reckless, bloated budget” could be cut by 10% without impacting services, stating, “I was looking for the beef today and I did not find any.” Ingoglia, a Republican, had called the Democratic Mayor’s spending “on steroids” and advocated for a significant property tax cut far exceeding what the Republican-majority City Council has proposed. The Council is scheduled to vote on the budget on Tuesday.

“Feds to take lead in controversial Duval jail death investigation” via Nate Monroe and Nichole Manna of the Tributary — The FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office will take the lead in investigating the controversial death of a 31-year-old father in the Duval County Jail in April, according to State Attorney Melissa Nelson’s office. The scope of the federal investigation into the death of Charles Faggart is unclear and Nelson did not say what conclusions her own office has drawn about the case. This latest development happened “after consultation” with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, she said. Faggart arrived at UF Health from the Duval County Jail on April 7 in a badly, and perhaps fatally, injured condition. Originally booked days earlier on two misdemeanor charges, it remains unclear why Faggart was in such a poor state. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has said sparingly little about the case, though in its immediate aftermath, Sheriff T.K. Waters stripped nine jail staffers of their corrections authority. Those officers have since been reassigned.

“Tallahassee Commission gets earful before vote on possible Capital City Country Club sale” via TaMaryn Waters of the Tallahassee Democrat — After years of discussion and planning, several speakers pressed City Commissioners for answers on why the unmarked graves of those believed to be Black slaves have yet to be memorialized at the Capital City Country Club. The issue comes as the country club, strapped for cash, petitions the city to break its lease and sell the land to the organization based on the club’s $1.15 million appraisal of the land.

“‘We go our separate ways’: Tallahassee to terminate fire services contract with Leon County” via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — The city is moving to sever its fire service agreement with the county. In a 3-2 vote, Mayor Dailey and City Commissioners Dianne Williams-Cox and Curtis Richardson decided to send a notice to the county that it needs to start searching for other fire service options. “In three years, when the interlocal agreement between the city and the county in regard to fire services comes up, we are looking forward to terminating the relationship, and we go our separate ways,” Dailey said. The city Fire Department currently responds to fires throughout the county, with residents and businesses in incorporated and unincorporated areas paying a fire service fee that funds stations, equipment and firefighter salaries.

“Leonardo Helicopters facility opens in the Panhandle with aim to boost aerospace industry” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — State and business leaders are celebrating the opening of a Leonardo Helicopters facility in Santa Rosa County that will give the region an economic boost with 150 high-paying jobs, they said. DeSantis, Leonardo Helicopters CEO Clyde Woltman and others spoke during a news conference at the ribbon-cutting for the company’s new Florida Support Center. The 113,000-square-foot center in Milton is adjacent to the Naval Air Station Whiting Field and will support the Navy’s TH-73A training fleet. The project is an example of “what can be achieved when private industry and national defense come together with purpose and precision,” Woltman said. “From military readiness to civil and emergency response missions, we are both meeting the operational requirements of our partners and shaping the future of vertical flight.”

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Sarasota County opens $30M for developers to build affordable housing with hurricane funds” via Christian Casale of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Sarasota County will allow housing developers to bid for $30 million to build multifamily affordable housing as part of its Resilient SRQ hurricane-recovery program. The housing would be targeted toward low- and moderate-income households, making less than 80% of Sarasota County’s area median income. Eligible applicants include for-profit and nonprofit housing developers, public housing authorities, nonprofit organizations and municipalities. The county received $210 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for storm recovery after damage from Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton in 2024. Officials opened up $87 million for infrastructure and waterway projects with the federal funds earlier this month.

“MAGA grower Alfie Oakes loses appeal over school produce contract dispute” via Stephany Matat of the Naples Daily News — Florida agribusiness mogul Oakes lost his free speech appeal against the Lee County School District, which terminated a multimillion-dollar food supply contract with his farm in 2020. Oakes claimed the District retaliated against his right-wing political statements, including calling COVID-19 a “hoax” and denouncing Black Lives Matter. However, a federal appeals court unanimously ruled that legitimate food safety concerns justified the District’s decision. The court found that the District’s interest in ensuring student safety outweighed Oakes’ right to free expression, upholding a lower court’s decision that cited Oakes’ failure to provide requested information on his COVID-19 protocols as a key factor in the contract’s termination.

— TOP OPINION —

“The era of dark passions” via David Brooks of The New York Times — When I have nothing better to do, I think about why politics feels so different from the before times. It’s not just polarization; something awful has been unleashed. In his book, William A. Galston calls these the “dark passions” — anger, fear, resentment, and the urge to dominate — which now pervade the American psyche and our political speech.

While good leaders motivate through bright passions like hope, leaders across the spectrum have found that dark passions are much easier to arouse. Trump is a master of this art, but progressives also perfected the politics of anger, and we in the media use it to generate clicks. The problem is that these dark passions are imperial; once unleashed, they drive out the good ones and become a permanent condition.

How did we get so ignorant about this internal struggle? Religion, which is all about it, plays a smaller public role. We replaced the concept of sin with psychology and privatized morality, telling generations to “find their own truth.” This mass ignorance produced a dangerous naïveté about human nature and a blindness to the everyday contest between what elevates us and what degrades us.

There is one force above all others that arouses these dark passions: humiliation. People feel humiliated when they are deprived of equal standing or something they believe is their right. This feeling has driven world events from post-World War I Germany to modern China and at home, our meritocracy has created a cultural atmosphere that leaves many feeling excluded, resentful and humiliated.

To reverse this downward spiral, we must resist the urge to fight fire with fire. Thinking we need a monster on our side to beat their monster is a trap that throws us into the same cesspool of dark passions. Fighting is for fascists; democracy is about persuasion. We must trust that most Americans are exhausted by this moral race to the bottom and want an alternative.

History shows the way forward is to interrupt the cycle. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela refused to be swallowed by bitterness, meeting hatred with soul force and a vision for a better future. The antidote to fear is not courage; it’s hope. To repress dark passions, our leaders must create a moral ecology with their words and build a society where people have real opportunities for progress.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“I’m an evangelical Christian. There’s danger in casting Kirk as a martyr.” via Rachel Roth Aldhizer of The Washington Post — Evangelical churches across the country resounded with sermons making a case for remembering deeply religious conservative activist Kirk as a Christian martyr. That is a dangerous path. It risks inflaming more political violence, drives a deeply polarized country further apart and threatens Kirk’s formidable yet complicated legacy. The danger is that the public conversation could become less about preserving the best parts of Kirk’s legacy — the push for open dialogue on tough political topics — and more about spreading fear and sowing division. It ties Christian beliefs tightly to the MAGA movement in ways that might prove difficult to undo. Erika Kirk’s powerful statement referenced both Jesus Christ and Trump. Each has his place — just not in the same speech.

“Why people fell for an outlandish Kirk theory” via Graeme Wood of The Atlantic — A Utah court filing refutes the theory that Kirk’s suspected killer was a right-winger, revealing texts where Tyler Robinson declared, “Some hate can’t be negotiated out.” Evidence suggests a drift to the left and a zeal for trans rights. The initial narrative absolving the left was enticing because lethal left-wing political violence has been a rarity in modern America. Data shows that while all political killings are infrequent, leftist incidents are particularly few. This contrasts with the 1960s and 70s, when leftist violence was more common. This 40-year lull has created a perception gap, making a modern instance seem almost mythical and fueling a dangerous feedback loop where both sides overestimate the other’s capacity for violence.

“An escalation in every way” via David Sims of The Atlantic — After Kimmel’s monologue criticized the “MAGA gang” for their reaction to the Kirk shooting, his show was pulled indefinitely by ABC. This decision followed direct pressure from Trump-appointed FCC Chair Carr, who publicly warned that networks must “change conduct” or face consequences. After a major affiliate group dropped the show, ABC followed suit. This unprecedented move represents a direct assault on free speech and a chilling escalation in the Trump administration’s efforts to punish media critics. While debates over Kimmel’s comments are a distraction, the core issue is a government official successfully pressuring a network to silence a prominent entertainer for mocking the President, setting a dangerous precedent for all media.

“As mosquito-borne viruses spread, here’s how Florida stays safe” via Keira Lucas for USA Today — This Summer’s massive salt marsh mosquito outbreak is more than an itchy nuisance; it’s a vivid reminder that mosquitoes are the world’s deadliest animal. While we swat away local pests, mosquito-borne viruses like chikungunya pose a global threat and the same disease-carrying species live in our backyards. Fortunately, Florida’s 67 mosquito control programs are a model of effective response, using science, surveillance, and community partnerships to contain outbreaks and protect public health. To continue this vital work and safeguard our economy, we must maintain crucial state funding and advocate for federal support. With continued investment, we can stand ready to “fight the bite” and protect Florida’s health and future from these persistent threats.

— WEEKEND TV —

ABC Action News Full Circle with Paul LaGrone on Channel 10 WFTS: Former Gov. Bob Martinez talks about political civility, legal expert Janae Thomas on free speech and Dr. Susan MacManus on recent political fallout, followed by former Buccaneers Ian Beckles celebrating 50 seasons and WDAE’s Rock Riley previewing the first home game.

Facing South Florida with Jim DeFede on CBS 4 in Miami: The Sunday show offers viewers an in-depth look at politics in South Florida and other regional issues.

In Focus with Allison Walker on Bay News 9/CF 13: Florida Secretary of Commerce Alex Kelly will discuss Florida’s economic standing and outlook statewide, nationally and internally.

Political Connections on Bay News 9 in Tampa/St. Pete and Political Connections on CF 13 in Orlando: The weekly Sunday show is now a joint weeknight show airing Monday through Friday at 7 p.m.

The Usual Suspects on WCTV-Tallahassee/Thomasville (CBS) and WJHG-Panama City (NBC): Gary Yordon and Bobby Buccatalo discuss the new “Carter Country” documentary.

This Week in Jacksonville with Kent Justice on Channel 4 WJXT: Deegan and Dawn Lockhart, CEO of the Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida.

This Week in South Florida with Glenna Milberg on Local 10 WPLG: Florida CFO Ingoglia speaks exclusively about Florida’s DOGE efforts. Plus, Milberg talks to U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez about free speech and consequences after Kirk’s assassination. Reps. Michael Gottlieb of House District 102 and Dan Daley of House District 96 discuss being part of the largest-ever bipartisan delegation of American lawmakers to visit Israel. The big news of the week and the newsmakers on Sunday at 11 a.m.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Economy not scaring Americans from record spending on Halloween” via Uma Bhat of Bloomberg — Halloween spending in the U.S. is expected to climb to a record $13.1 billion this year despite consumer wariness about tariffs and higher costs of living. The report released Thursday said that 79% of Halloween shoppers are expecting higher prices “specifically because of tariffs.” Per-person spending has increased to $114.45, nearly $11 more than last year. The biggest category for spending is candy, which is expected to total $3.9 billion. The top destination for shoppers is discount stores, with 42% of expenditures, the NRF said — 5 percentage points higher than last year. Specialty stores and online retailers are each garnering almost a third of consumer spending on the holiday.

“SeaWorld planning underseas-themed dark ride for 2026” via DeWayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel — SeaWorld Orlando has plans to open a new suspended dark ride in 2026. It will be called SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep, a “submersible adventure through dazzling undersea ecosystems.” A specific opening date and location within the park are not indicated. Earlier this year, SeaWorld debuted Expedition Odyssey, an Arctic-themed flying theater attraction. The new attraction will feature a submersible element and be an opportunity to “discover dazzling ecosystems, legendary sea life and breathtaking stories of resilience and wonder,” according to the website. It says SeaWorld’s annual passholders will have early access to the attraction next year.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are Kate Bascom‘s dad, Mike, as well as Eden Giagnorio, Ali Glisson, Andy Marlette, Josh Wolf, and ace photographer Chelsea Workman.

___

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

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