House Democrats just added U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee’s seat to its list of “Districts in Play” in 2026.

That makes the Thonotosassa Republican one of four GOP incumbents in Florida being targeted by Democrats in the Midterms.

“Laurel Lee represents the worst of what voters hate about Congress — an out of touch politician who cares more about prioritizing the wealthy and well connected over helping Florida’s working families,” said U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene, Chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC).

“As Republicans continue to push their failing agenda that leaves everyday Americans behind in favor of Laurel Lee’s wealthy donors, Democrats will fight to ensure that next November, Florida’s 15th Congressional District will elect a representative that cares about them and their issues.”

The addition of Florida’s 15th Congressional District to its target list comes as Democrats feel increasingly confident about the Midterms. Following off-year victories in Virginia, New Jersey and elsewhere, the DCCC added several seats to an existing list of 35 GOP-held seats. Democrats were already targeting U.S. Reps. Anna Paulina Luna, a St. Petersburg Republican, Cory Mills, a New Smyrna Beach Republican, and María Elvira Salazar, a Coral Gables Republican.

For comparison, the DCCC in 2024 targeted only Luna and Salazar.

But Lee’s seat has earned national interest in the past. It was drawn following 2022 redistricting, and was widely considered Florida’s “new” district that year when the state picked up a House seat in the decennial reapportionment process.

At that point, the district was the most evenly divided congressional district in the state based on the 2020 Presidential Election. But Lee in 2022 won the seat after defeating Democrat Alan Cohn with 58.5% of the vote. In 2024, she won re-election over Democratic challenger Pat Kemp with 56.5% of the vote, while Republican Donald Trump won 54.7% of the vote in the district in the Presidential Election.

As of the closing of voter rolls before the 2024 election, more than 171,000 registered Republicans outnumbered 146,000 Democrats, with independents and members of other parties representing another nearly 138,000 voters there. Of course, Gov. Ron DeSantis and lawmakers in the GOP-controlled Legislature also signaled plans to redraw districts ahead of the Midterms.

But DCCC officials said overperformance in several elections since 2024, including two congressional Special Elections in Florida in April, provide “further proof” that a path to victory in CD 15 exists.

Four Democrats have already filed to challenge Lee in 2026. Most notably, Darren McAuley through September raised almost $208,000 to run in CD 15. At that point, Lee had more than $1 million in cash on hand.

Good Wednesday morning.

First in Sunburn — Gov. Ron DeSantis is throwing his support behind Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia’s bid for a full term.

DeSantis dropped the endorsement in a video message, calling Ingoglia “a bulldog in favor of the taxpayers” and pointing to his record taking on what he described as “extravagant spending” by local officials.

“He has earned your support with his performance. All these guys talk, very few of them deliver. Blaise has said what he’s going to do. He’s met those promises and he’s over-delivering. Blaise Ingoglia, this is one of the easiest choices conservatives will ever have for Chief Financial Officer,” DeSantis said.

To watch DeSantis’ endorsement video, please click the image below:

DeSantis’ endorsement was expected as he hand-picked Ingoglia, previously a state Senator, for the job after now-U.S. Rep. Jimmy Patronis exited to run in a Special Election for Florida’s 1st Congressional District.

Still, the official nod was welcomed by Ingoglia’s campaign, which has been announcing endorsements at a steady clip — last week saw a cohort of State Attorneys line up behind the Spring Hill Republican; two weeks prior, he landed support from the Florida Professional Firefighters.

“Gov. DeSantis has transformed Florida into the nation’s leader for economic freedom, and I’m grateful for his trust and support. As CFO, I will keep Florida’s economy strong, stop wasteful spending in its tracks, hold insurance companies accountable, and defend every hard-earned taxpayer dollar. Florida’s future is worth fighting for,” Ingoglia said in a press release.

Ingoglia faces a crowded field in the 2026 contest, including Republican challengers Frank William Collige, Benjamin Horbowy and Rep. Kevin Steele, as well as no-party candidate John Daniel Smith. There are currently no Democrats running for the seat.

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Today is the deadline to reserve space in the Opening Day edition of IN SESSION, our newspaper covering the 2026 Legislative Session.

If you are interested in advertising, please email me at [email protected].

___

Here are three more thoughts this morning:

🫏 — Not a Democrat: Mark Davis is offering a lesson in unforced errors. He’s currently running as a Democrat — not the only one — to unseat U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, a Republican who holds powerful leadership posts in Congress. There are many problems, one being that, try though they might, Democrats have been unsuccessful over and over at ousting Buchanan. But the most hilarious problem is just plain silly: Davis is not even a Democrat. Read my roast here.

🤖 — AI week in FL signals more use, lower trust and call for regs: AI has been around for a bit, but it’s becoming more and more prevalent with applications ranging from therapy to personal assistant. But with increased use comes skepticism, as deepfakes permeate the internet. And with skepticism comes the call for regulation. Enter the Legislature’s AI Week, a series of meetings exclusively scheduled to examine all things AI and possible policy solutions. Read more here.

🚔 — Carmine Marceno’s safety record is enviable: Under Sheriff Marceno’s leadership, the county’s homicide rates are at historic lows, major narcotics operations have been dismantled, cutting-edge technology has been deployed, and schools have been fortified with advanced security measures. It bodes well for a potential Congressional bid. More here.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@TedLieu: Dear @WhiteHouse: Please send (Donald) Trump to EVERY SINGLE HOUSE SWING DISTRICT. He is so out of touch and in the fantasy bubble you created that he will help Dems flip the House even more.

—@JoeyGarrison: President Trump in an Air Force One gaggle just now told me he “likes the concept” of the Cassidy-Crapo health savings account bill to replace Obamacare subsidies. “I love the idea of money going directly people, not to the insurance companies, it can be in the health savings accounts, it can be in a couple of different ways,” Trump says.

—@RahmEmanuel: When it comes to our adolescents, it’s either going to be adults or the algorithms that raise our kids. No child under the age of 16 should have access to social media. TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and others are too powerful, too addictive, too alluring and too often target our young kids. Parents cannot fight Big Tech alone. Sensible regulations cut teen smoking and banned phones in classrooms to boost academic and social development. We’ve proven that smart steps are effective. The time for debate and discussion is over. It’s time to protect our kids and strengthen our families.

—@MarcACaputo: A major question that needs to be answered by any health insurance proposal to replace or reform Obamacare: what does it do to pre-existing conditions? PreX mandates increase costs. But they’re popular

—@JimBoydFL: The Florida Senate is extra merry and bright! We’re hard at work putting bows on our (legislative) packages before our members depart to spend the holidays at home with their families

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres on Netflix — 2; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 2; Gov. DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 7; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 9; ‘ELWAY’ documentary premieres on Netflix — 12; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 15; ‘Industry’ season four premieres — 32; Special Election for HD 87; HD 51 Special Primary and two Boca Raton referendums — 34; 2026 Legislative Session begins — 34; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 34; The James Madison Institute’s 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 35; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 39; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 51; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 57; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 58; ‘Paradise’ season two premieres on Hulu — 75; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Y: Marshals’ premieres — 81; Boca Raton Mayoral and City Council Elections — 90; last day of the Regular Session — 93; Special Election for HD 51 (if necessary) — 104; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 105; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 106; new season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 114; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 117; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 126; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 126; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 131; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 135; F1 Miami begins — 142; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 163; A new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ ride premieres at Disney World — 163; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 174; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 180; South Africa in the FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in Mexico City — 183; State Qualifying Period ends — 184; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 191; Mexico will face live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 203; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 206; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 211; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 216; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 218; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 222; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 239; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 241; Primary Election Day 2026 — 251; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 275; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 279; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 283; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 288; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 295; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 299; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 318; 2026 General Election — 328; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 373; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 373; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 373; Tampa Mayoral Election — 447; Jacksonville First Election — 468; Jacksonville General Election — 524; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 542; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 604; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 660; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 737; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 947; U.S. Presidential Election — 1063; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1463; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2194.

—TOP STORY—

“Daniel Perez charts Donald Trump-aligned ‘New Frontier’ for Florida health care” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — House Speaker Perez has rolled out a two-bill health care package he says will align Florida with President Trump’s federal health policy overhaul, tighten safety-net programs and lower prescription drug costs while easing regulations on providers.

Branded “Florida’s New Frontier in Healthcare,” the plan centers on the Big Beautiful Healthcare Frontier Act, sponsored by Rep. Mike Redondo, and the Prescription Reduction Incentives and Competition Enhancement Act, sponsored by Rep. Jennifer Kincart Jonsson.

Redondo’s bill focuses on Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program and SNAP, narrowing eligibility for certain undocumented immigrants, reducing retroactive coverage, strengthening work requirements and increasing efforts to remove ineligible recipients. Supporters say the changes protect taxpayers and mirror new federal standards.

On the regulatory side, the bill would eliminate certificate-of-need requirements for several providers, expand scope-of-practice rules for nurses, physician assistants and dental hygienists, and join interstate licensure compacts to grow Florida’s health care workforce.

The PRICE Act targets prescription drug costs and Pharmacy Benefit Managers, banning “spread pricing,” limiting steering to affiliated pharmacies, equalizing reimbursement rates and freezing formularies during plan years to prevent surprise cost increases.

It also adopts a “most favored nation” pricing model, tying drug prices to the lowest rates paid in comparable countries and requiring insurers to pass savings to consumers. GOP leaders say the package expands access and choice; critics are expected to raise concerns about reductions in the safety net.

— STATEWIDE —

“Poll: Most voters want property taxes cut or eliminated — and they know it’ll hurt services” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Most Florida voters want lawmakers to eliminate or reduce property taxes despite widespread acknowledgment that doing so would harm local services, according to a Sachs Media poll of 1,230 voters. Sixty-five percent favor cutting or ending property taxes, led by Republicans, while 28% prefer leaving decisions to local governments. At the same time, 87% recognize reduced revenue would negatively affect services such as libraries, parks and garbage pickup, and only 37% are willing to offset losses through other fees or taxes. Notably, 78% believe landlords should pass along savings to renters if property taxes fall. The findings come as House leaders advance property tax proposals, even as voters rank property insurance costs as a higher priority.

“Muslim group announces lawsuit after Ron DeSantis labels it a ‘terrorist organization’” via Lauren Costantino of the Miami Herald — DeSantis issued an executive order Monday evening designating two Muslim groups as “foreign terrorist organizations.” The executive order, which was posted on DeSantis’ social media accounts, states that the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Society of Muslim Brothers (Muslim Brotherhood) would be classified under Florida law as terrorist organizations, pointing to alleged connections to foreign extremist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Agencies, including the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Florida Highway Patrol, are directed to “undertake all lawful measures to prevent unlawful activities by these organizations, including denying privileges or resources to anyone providing material support,” DeSantis wrote.

“DeSantis announces $30M grants to protect Biscayne Bay, coral reef” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — DeSantis announced $20 million in state grants will help clean Biscayne Bay, and another $9.5 million will help protect the state’s coral reefs. “These projects include septic to sewer conversion, wastewater storage projects that will lead to improved water quality of Biscayne Bay. What we’ve already done has made a difference,” DeSantis said. “People are very pleased with that, but we’re not done.” DeSantis also disclosed $9.5 million will go toward Florida’s coral reef restoration. The state’s goal is to restore 25% of Florida’s coral reefs by 2050. “As the home of the continental U.S.’s only living barrier reef, we have worked very hard to protect this natural treasure,” DeSantis said.

“James Uthmeier files suit against three organizations to block ‘gender-affirming care’” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Attorney General Uthmeier says his Office has filed a lawsuit against three organizations to stop “gender-affirming care” for minors. Uthmeier filed the 75-page lawsuit in the 19th Judicial Circuit Court in St. Lucie County against the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, Endocrine Society and the American Academy of Pediatrics. The lawsuit was not filed to stop treatment for any specific individual, but rather due to the three organizations’ general practices. The suit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, along with civil penalties in violation of Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act and the Florida RICO Act. The lawsuit targets explicitly the organizations for addressing “gender dysphoria,” which is a condition that causes anxiety about “one’s sexed body and/or associated social expectations.”

“Florida used expired execution drugs, lower doses, lawsuit claims” via Dan Sullivan of the Tampa Bay Times — A federal lawsuit filed on behalf of a man scheduled to be put to death next week alleges that Florida prison officials used expired drugs in at least four recent executions. Prison drug supply logs indicate that executioners in two other recent cases may have used lower doses than is required by the state’s lethal injection protocol, the lawsuit claims. Those and other allegations form the basis of a request to stay the execution of Frank Walls, who is scheduled to be put to death Dec. 18. The lawsuit accuses the prison system of negligence in how it administers lethal injection, asserting that Walls will likely suffer severe pain akin to torture.

Tiffany Carr asks court to push back plea hearing — Former Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence CEO Carr is asking for a Dec. 19 plea hearing to be rescheduled for early January. A filing submitted in Leon County Circuit Court states Carr’s attorney, Christopher Kise, has a “significant client issue” that requires him to be in New York on Dec. 19 and that he, Carr and all counsel could attend a rescheduled hearing on Jan. 5, 6 or 7, 2026. The filing also notes that Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Guillermo Vallejo has been informed of the request and that he “takes no position.” Carr entered into a plea agreement with the state two months ago in a case alleging she and former FCADV Chief Financial Officer Patricia Duarte submitted false quarterly reports, billed the state for vacant positions and charged for services that were never provided. The state says the money was then used for excessive bonuses and leave payouts, including $3.4 million to Carr.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“Ben Albritton says ‘old school vaccines’ are safe, but jury still out on mRNA jabs” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Days before the Department of Health is to hold a public meeting about changing Florida’s rules on school vaccine requirements, Senate President Albritton said the issue is among those about which he and his team are trying to “build consensus.” He said that while there’s ample evidence to show the efficacy and safety of long-used vaccines like those used for measles, mumps, polio, rubella, tetanus and others mandated in state statutes, he’s also swayed by the importance of parental rights. “The one opinion I can have is the opinion of a dad and how (my wife) Missy and I would (act for our children). I’m a believer (in) the vaccines of old,” he said.

“House panel backs insurance restriction: People, not AI, would have ultimate say on claims” via Jim Saunders of the News Service of Florida — In an issue stemming from the use of artificial intelligence in the insurance industry, a House panel Tuesday approved a proposal that would require humans to make ultimate decisions about denying claims or reducing claim payments. The House Insurance & Banking Subcommittee unanimously approved the bill (HB 527) amid opposition from insurance-industry groups but with support from groups representing hospitals and doctors. “No Floridian should ever have a claim denied based solely on an automated output,” bill sponsor Hillary Cassel said. “HB 527 establishes a clear and reasonable safeguard.” The bill makes clear that insurers may use artificial intelligence and algorithms to process claims and make recommendations on approvals and denials. But it says a “carrier’s decision to deny a claim or any portion of a claim or a payment claim reduction must be made by a qualified human professional.”

“Senate amends bill to require PSC to set ‘affordable’ utility rates” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — A state Senate Committee on Tuesday advanced legislation requiring the Public Service Commission to consider affordability, along with “fair, just and reasonable,” when setting utility rates, after debate over how the term would be applied. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Don Gaetz, cleared the Senate Committee on Regulated Industries amid concerns from some lawmakers that an undefined affordability could complicate rate-setting. However, Gaetz argued it is a common legal concept already reflected in Florida’s energy policy. Public Counsel Walt Trierweiler said adding affordability would align with updated state policy and address gaps highlighted in recent Tampa Electric and Florida Power & Light rate cases. The bill also expands the PSC and limits utility return requests.

“Senators renew K-12 ‘deregulation’ efforts” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO —State Senators on Tuesday advanced a new package of K-12 “deregulation” policies aimed at giving Florida’s public schools greater flexibility as school-choice options expand, after shelving earlier efforts to loosen graduation and testing requirements. The bill, SB 320, cleared the Senate Education Pre-K-12 Committee unanimously and includes allowing districts to use local education surtaxes for operating expenses and restoring multi-year teacher contracts under specific performance standards. Sponsor Sen. Corey Simon said the narrower approach is designed to avoid House opposition that stalled prior efforts. Sen. Gaetz cautioned that the funding changes could strain capital budgets. The Florida Education Association backed the measure, which now faces scrutiny in the House, where past testing rollbacks drew resistance.

“Florida considers day of remembrance for Charlie Kirk” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — GOP lawmakers on Tuesday advanced legislation that would establish an annual, nonbinding day of remembrance in Florida for Kirk, drawing sharp criticism from Democrats who questioned the merit and symbolism of the proposal. The bill, SB 194, cleared its first Senate Committee on a 5-2 party-line vote and would authorize the Governor to proclaim Oct. 14 as “Charlie Kirk Day of Remembrance,” honoring the conservative activist’s stated support for free speech and civic engagement after his fatal shooting at a Utah college event. Sponsor Sen. Jonathan Martin said the measure condemns political violence, while Democrats argued Kirk lacks strong Florida ties and cited his controversial remarks. Supporters countered that the criticism misrepresents Kirk’s views. The bill faces additional hearings.

“House Committee OKs Linda Chaney bill to create dental therapist role” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — A House panel has advanced a bill that would add a mid-level dental provider in Florida, setting off a debate over whether the new role would expand access to care or allow irreversible procedures by non-dentists. HB 363, sponsored by Rep. Chaney of St. Pete Beach, would create a dental therapist position to work between hygienists and dentists on the dental care team. Chaney told the House Health Professions and Programs Subcommittee that the therapists would provide preventive and routine restorative care such as filling cavities, placing temporary crowns and extracting “badly diseased or loose teeth” under collaborative agreements with supervising dentists.

“Florida’s swim-lesson voucher system might get revised to allow older kids in the program” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — A Subcommittee gave a thumbs-up to a proposal that would open up state vouchers to pay for swim lessons for kids in a broader age range The state currently offers free vouchers for parents who want to get swim lessons for their children, but only for ages 0-4. The program was implemented after DeSantis signed legislation in 2024. However, many parents say the stipulations are too restrictive, and most children in their first year of life are too young to understand and participate effectively in swimming lessons. The House Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee held a hearing to consider the measure (HB 85), which would instead make the vouchers available for children 1 to 7 years old.

— LEG. SKED. —

8:30 a.m.

House Ways & Means Committee, Room 404, House Office Building.

— HB 39, Assessments Levied on Recreational Vehicle Parks (Nix Jr.).

— HB 103, Local Business Taxes (Botana).

— HB 209, Property Insurance Relief; Homestead Exemption of Non-school Property (Busatta).

— HB 227, Eligibility of Leasehold Interests for Homestead Exemptions (Maney).

9 a.m.

Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting, Room 17, House Office Building.

— Presentation only; no bills.

11:30 a.m.

Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee, Room 110, Senate Office Building.

— SB 216, Verification of Reemployment Assistance Benefit Eligibility (McClain).

— SB 410, Public Records; Private Investigators (Truenow).

— SB 7014, OGSR; Department of Legal Affairs (Commerce and Tourism).

— SB 7016, OGSR; Administration of Small Business Loan Programs (Commerce and Tourism).

1 p.m.

House Education Administration Subcommittee, Room 102, House Office Building.

— Workshop; no bills.

3:30 p.m.

House Government Operations Subcommittee, Room 404, House Office Building.

— HB 91, Candidate Qualification (Tant).

— HB 4003, City of Marco Island, Collier County (Benarroch).

— GOS 6, OGSR; Aquaculture Records (Government Operations Subcommittee).

— GOS 7, OGSR; Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (Government Operations Subcommittee).

— GOS 8, OGSR; Social Media Platform and Antitrust Investigations (Government Operations Subcommittee).

— D.C. MATTERS —

“In defiant flyover, U.S. F-18 fighter jets enter Venezuelan airspace for 40 minutes” via Antonio María Delgado of the Miami Herald — Two U.S. F-18 fighter jets flying in tandem entered Venezuelan airspace around noon Tuesday, circling over the Gulf of Venezuela in the latest show of force against the regime of Nicolás Maduro. The flyover — carried out despite the Venezuelan regime’s possession of a number of Russian-made anti-aircraft batteries — took place less than 100 miles northeast of Maracaibo, Venezuela’s second-largest city. Thousands of Venezuelans tracked the aircraft online through specialized tracking websites, watching as the jets traced a bow-tie-shaped pattern over the gulf.

“Elon Musk says DOGE was only ‘somewhat successful,’ wouldn’t do it again” via Rebecca Falconer of Axios — Musk offered a rare assessment of his time leading DOGE, the Trump administration’s cost-cutting initiative, calling the effort “somewhat successful” while signaling lingering frustration with Washington. In an interview on Tuesday on Katie Miller’s podcast, Musk said the initiative achieved limited results and would not be undertaken again. Miller, a former Trump administration official who later worked with Musk as a DOGE spokesperson, pressed him on whether he viewed the project as a success amid sweeping federal spending cuts and workforce reductions earlier this year. Musk left the administration in May after clashing with Trump, though the two later reconciled. Miller also exited government service in May and launched her podcast after departing Musk’s orbit in August.

“Byron Donalds supports ban on stock trading for Congress — except through a broker” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Donalds will support a stock trading ban for members of Congress, but still wants to keep his broker. The topic came up as U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna presses for a floor vote on a stock-trading ban via a discharge petition. “Luna and I talked about this, actually, yesterday on the (House) floor. But when it comes up for a vote, I’m voting for it,” Donalds said. “I have always been opposed to members trading positions.” But notably, he put conditions that aren’t included in the legislation Luna favors right now. Donalds, a former private wealth manager before his election to Congress, said members should still be allowed to own stocks, but not to execute trades directly.

— ELECTIONS —

“Voters send Ralph Massullo to Senate” via Mike Wright of Florida Politics — Massullo won a Special Election in Senate District 11 on Tuesday, returning to Tallahassee with 59% of the vote in a low-turnout race dominated by Republican voters. The Lecanto Republican, a former House member term-limited in 2024, defeated Democrat Ash Marwah and ran strongest in Citrus and Sumter counties, while pulling ahead on Election Day in Hernando County. The contest saw just 18% turnout and limited opportunities for direct debate. Massullo benefited from major GOP endorsements and a wide fundraising advantage, while Democrats highlighted modest gains in a heavily Republican District. Senate District 11, spanning Citrus, Hernando, Sumter and part of Pasco counties, remains solidly Republican territory.

“Rob Long wins Special Election to succeed late Joe Casello in HD 90” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Delray Beach Commissioner Long won a Special Election for House District 90 on Tuesday, capturing 63% of the vote to succeed late state Rep. Casello and setting up a re-election bid next November. Long defeated Republican lobbyist Maria Zack, who took 35%, and independent candidate Karen Yeh. Running on his local government and environmental record, Long emphasized affordability, infrastructure, public safety and water quality in the Democratic-leaning Palm Beach County District. He significantly outraised his opponents and drew broad support from labor, environmental, business and Democratic leaders, who framed the win as momentum heading into 2026. Zack ran a hard-right campaign backed by national Republicans but faced scrutiny over conspiracy claims and campaign finance issues.

“Eileen Higgins shatters glass ceiling with runoff victory in Miami Mayor’s race” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Higgins made history Tuesday by becoming the first woman elected Mayor of Miami, winning a closely watched runoff with 59% of the vote over former City Manager Emilio González. The race drew national attention and heavy partisan interest despite party labels not appearing on the ballot, with Democrats celebrating the city’s first Democratic Mayor in 28 years. Higgins framed her victory as a break from corruption and dysfunction, pledging ethical leadership, affordable housing initiatives, infrastructure improvements and full-time service. National and state Democratic leaders praised the outcome as a bellwether ahead of the 2026 Elections. González, backed by prominent Republicans, emphasized administrative experience and regulatory reform. The runoff followed a crowded first round in November.

“Rolando Escalona wins runoff for Miami Commission, denying Frank Carollo a trip back to City Hall” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Political newcomer Escalona defeated former City Commissioner Carollo in a closely watched Miami runoff, winning 53% of the vote and ending the Carollo family’s long hold on the District 3 seat. Escalona will replace outgoing Commissioner Joe Carollo, Frank’s brother, in a race marked by legal turbulence, including dueling eligibility challenges against both candidates. Voters chose Escalona after a crowded first round narrowed the field, signaling fatigue with years of controversy surrounding Joe Carollo’s tenure. Escalona, a former hospitality executive and real estate broker, campaigned on transparency, improved services, permitting reform and public safety. Carollo emphasized experience and outspent Escalona but fell short in the runoff.

“Monica Matteo-Salinas wins runoff for Miami Beach Commission” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Matteo-Salinas won a four-year term on the Miami Beach Commission on Tuesday, defeating Republican attorney Monique Pardo Pope 71% to 29% in a runoff for the Group 1 seat. Matteo-Salinas, a City Hall aide, will succeed Kristen Rosen Gonzalez and framed her victory as a mandate for responsive, community-centered governance amid turbulence over city finances, homelessness policy and development disputes. She consolidated broad establishment and labor support and focused her campaign on transit expansion, affordable housing and infrastructure oversight. Pardo Pope, who outspent Matteo-Salinas, ran on public safety and cost-of-living issues but faced late-cycle scrutiny over her professional record and personal background. Voters chose stability and local ties in a decisive result.

“Gelien Perez, Willy Marrero win runoffs for Hialeah City Council” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Hialeah voters on Tuesday elected two new City Council members in runoff races, awarding four-year terms to Perez and Marrero. Perez won the Group 3 seat with nearly 80% of the vote over Jessica Castillo, while Marrero captured 71% in the Group 4 race against Javier Morejon. The outcomes marked an early test of incoming Mayor Bryan Calvo’s political influence, as he endorsed both winners in an effort to forge a governing coalition from rival factions. Perez, a former city human resources director, and Marrero, a former Council aide, campaigned on affordability, infrastructure and support for first responders. Both races were citywide contests, with all Hialeah voters eligible to participate.

“Roger Chapin beats Mira Tanna in Orlando City Council Runoff” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Chapin won the Orlando City Council runoff for District 3 on Tuesday, capturing 51% of the vote to defeat Tanna, according to unofficial results. Chapin advanced after a razor-thin first round earlier this month and prevailed with a significant fundraising and name-recognition advantage as the son of former Orange County Mayor Linda Chapin. The victory makes him the first new Council member to represent District 3 in 20 years, succeeding longtime Commissioner Robert Stuart. Chapin emphasized his decades of civic involvement and pledged a pragmatic, bipartisan approach. Tanna ran a grassroots campaign backed by progressive Democrats but fell short in the closely watched contest. The nonpartisan seat carries a four-year term.

“AIF backs House hopefuls Hillary Holley, Jon Maples in upcoming Special Elections” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — The Associated Industries of Florida is lining up behind two Republicans running in a pair of Special Elections set for early next year. In House District 51, the business lobby is throwing its support behind Hilary Holley, who went unopposed for the GOP nomination and will go head-to-head with Democratic nominee Edwin Pérez on March 24. In House District 87, the group is backing Jon Maples, who will appear on a Jan. 13 Special Primary ballot and, if successful, on a March 24 Special General ballot. In both districts, the Republican nominee will have a heavy advantage in the General Election. HD 51 re-elected Republican Rep. Josie Tomkow, now a Senate candidate, last year with 57% of the vote; HD 87 re-elected former Rep. Mike Caruso, now Palm Beach County Clerk, with nearly 60% of the vote.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Miami Beach to face audit from state after lawmaker alleges ‘mismanagement’” via Aaron Leibowitz of the Miami Herald — Miami Beach will face an audit from the state of Florida after a Committee approved a lawmaker’s request to dig into the city’s operations. The idea came from Rep. Fabián Basabe, a Miami Beach Republican, who accused the city of “financial mismanagement” and “a lack of transparency” in a letter to the Joint Legislative Auditing Committee. The Committee met in Tallahassee and voted to approve Basabe’s request, directing the Florida auditor general to conduct an operational audit. “With a budget (Miami Beach’s) size and the responsibilities that we carry as a coastal community, transparency and partnership matter,” said Basabe, a Miami Beach resident. “An audit would help strengthen systems, reinforce public trust and support the residents we all serve.”

“Stuart might not have its new City Manager in place before April,” via Keith Burbank of Treasure Coast Newspapers — A new City Manager here may be in place in April, according to a timeline put together by the city’s Human Resources Department. “It’s a pretty tight schedule,” conceded Interim City Manager Louis Boglioli, addressing City Commissioners at the last Commission meeting of the year. The timeline includes advertising the position starting Jan. 5, but that will likely be delayed more than a week until the Commission reconvenes in January. At their first meeting of 2026, Commissioners are expected to decide a salary range for the job. The advertisement would go out the next morning. Job requirements may not require government experience in Florida.

“Fatal shooting at Havana internet cafe in 2024 results in record jury award and calls for tougher laws” via Tom Flanigan of WFSU — A grieving family is calling for a stricter crackdown on so-called “Internet cafes,” which are often a front for illegal gambling businesses. In November 2023, Lewis Butler was working as a security guard at an internet cafe in Havana, Florida, when he was shot to death during a robbery. Tallahassee Attorney Ben Crump said the cafe’s owners didn’t even notify the police. “They didn’t report the robbery because they didn’t want the state attorney scrutinizing the illegal gambling activities that were taking place.”

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Orange prosecutor under ‘review’ after plea deal in College Park attack leads to no conviction” via Cristóbal Reyes of the Orlando Sentinel — The Orlando man accused of attempting to rape a jogger in College Park in April is out of jail after he was offered a plea deal that allowed him to escape a formal conviction, a prosecutorial decision the Orange-Osceola State Attorney’s Office said Tuesday is now under review. The Nov. 20 plea deal for 26-year-old Tyler Feight, accused of felony battery and attempted sexual battery, requires that he serve three years’ probation while undergoing “psychosexual evaluation and treatment,” and have no contact with the victim. Feight avoided additional jail time, receiving a 255-day credit for time served following his April 10 arrest.

“Orange School District may close seven campuses as enrollment declines” via Steven Walker of the Orlando Sentinel — Seven public schools in Orange County could be shuttered at the end of this academic year as the School District grapples with a sharp drop in student enrollment. The schools are: Union Park Middle School and Bonneville, Chickasaw, Eccleston, Meadow Woods, McCoy and Orlo Vista elementary schools. Each school currently enrolls only about half of its capacity, with Union Park, the emptiest on the list, enrolling about 560 students on a campus designed for more than 1,400. If the schools are closed, they would shut at the end of the current school year, with their students assigned to new schools for the 2026-27 school year.

“State to audit Daytona for ‘troubling financial management practices‘” via Eileen Zaffiro-Kean of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — A month ago, the city of Daytona Beach was warned by the state government’s Joint Legislative Auditing Committee to come into compliance with state law on spending down an $11 million excess of permits and licensing fees accumulated over the past several years. At its Monday, Dec. 8, hearing, the same Committee issued a much stronger warning. The group of state Representatives and Senator voted 12-0 to conduct a sweeping operational audit of Daytona Beach.

“After $637K spent in a losing legal cause, Windermere appeals boathouse decision” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — The Town of Windermere, which at last count had spent $637,000 asserting its disputed claim to five century-old wooden boathouses, will add to its hefty legal bill by asking an appellate panel to review an emphatic lower-court decision siding with the structures’ private owners. Daniel Langley, co-counsel for the owners of the boathouses, which perch in a lagoon adjacent to popular Lake Butler, said the move will only cost taxpayers more. His clients plan to seek reimbursement for attorneys’ fees and costs. He did not specify how much they have spent to retain the private properties, but he said it was much more than the town has paid.

Appointed — Carol Craig to the Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners.

— LOCAL: TB —

“’Half-baked’: Tampa City Council questions plans for police HQ” via Breanne Williams of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Mayor Jane Castor’s decision to solicit bids for the Tampa Police Department’s downtown headquarters has raised questions about the property’s future and where police personnel might move. The Castor administration issued a request for proposals on Monday for the police headquarters — a whole city block at 411 N. Franklin St. — with a minimum bid of $36 million. Developers must close on the property no later than Jan. 31, 2027. The city said it intends to relocate the department to a new headquarters, though where it’s going, when it will move and how the city will pay for it are unknown. “There are core, critical questions that we need to have answered,” Council member Luis Viera said. “If you’re moving out of a house, you need to know where you’re moving. And if they’re telling us that TPD needs to move out of that, what are they going to move TPD into? How much is it going to cost? What do Tampa Police Department members and the civilian workers there think about it and the leadership?”

“Hillsborough County School Board to push back against newly expanded Schools of Hope rules” via Larissa Scott — Schools of Hope is a statewide program created in 2017 as a way to draw more privately run charter schools to areas where public schools were underperforming, designed to help struggling public schools and give families an alternative if their school wasn’t doing well. Recently, lawmakers expanded the program, allowing charter schools to co-locate inside a traditional public school even if it’s performing well, if the campus has vacancies or is under-enrolled, as deemed by the state.

“St. Petersburg gives Science Center revival the green light” via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — The Science Center in west St. Petersburg is on its way to making a comeback. The City Council unanimously voted Thursday to sell a 4-acre lot at 7701 22nd Ave. N. to the St. Petersburg Group. That cleared a significant hurdle for an overhaul of the Science Center, where generations of Pinellas County schoolchildren spent their Summers and visited on field trips. The $1.6 million sale is expected to close Jan. 5. The Sinclair Group construction company is expected to break ground on the $25 million project days later.

“TGH’s John Couris puts Florida on the map in Modern Healthcare’s 100 most influential” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Tampa General Hospital (TGH) CEO Couris has made Modern Healthcare’s list of the 100 most innovative and prominent health care leaders in the nation. The annual Modern Healthcare Power 100 is one of the industry’s most highly regarded accolades. It recognizes executives, health care leaders and policymakers for their impact in breaking down barriers, advancing innovations and elevating the quality of care. Couris is widely known as a transformative leader in health care.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Dan Markel murder: Donna Adelson moved to prison closer to home” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Adelson has new prison digs not far from her one-time home in Miami. Adelson was moved from the Florida Women’s Reception Center in Ocala to Homestead Correctional Institute in Miami-Dade County. Adelson, 75, was found guilty on Sept. 4 of first-degree murder, conspiracy and solicitation in the notorious murder-for-hire of Markel, a Florida State University law professor and his former mother-in-law. Leon Circuit Judge Stephen Everett sentenced her to life in prison on Oct. 13. During that hearing, after both she and her husband, Harvey Adelson, railed against the entire criminal justice system, her attorneys asked for Adelson to be imprisoned as close to Miami as possible so her husband can easily visit.

“White nationalist’s reinstatement to UF law school now on pause” via Stephany Matat of USA Today Network — Federal appeals court has paused a self-described white nationalist law student’s return to the University of Florida, a week after a lower-court judge ordered the law school to reinstate Preston Damsky by Dec. 1. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued an administrative stay Dec. 3 – a temporary hold on the judge’s ruling – until a three-judge appellate panel weighs in. That same day, UF’s police department reissued a trespass warning to Damsky, who had been issued the warning in April and expelled in August. This order comes a day after UF filed an emergency motion to stay the lower court’s order, with UF arguing the university community has “fears of the extralegal violence that Damsky has advocated,” referring to his views to make the United States a “White nation-state.”

“Jacksonville City Council gives thumbs up to Jumbo Shrimp sale” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Jacksonville’s City Council signed off on the sale of the Jumbo Shrimp, backing a deal that will transfer the MiLB AAA franchise to Prospector Baseball Group as current owner Ken Babby moves into his new role as CEO of the Tampa Bay Rays. Prospector, led by Ben Boyer and John Abbamondi, will acquire all equity in the club while keeping existing lease terms for VyStar Ballpark intact since the transaction is structured as an equity sale. Council members raised no objections, with Nick Howland saying the city had no reason to interfere. Babby called the move bittersweet, while the new owners said they aim to build on the team’s success and support Downtown Jacksonville’s continued growth.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Sarasota County Planning Commission approves 8,999-home development” via Christian Casale of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — The Sarasota County Planning Commission voted 7-1 to recommend approval of the Winchester Ranch development, a proposal that would allow construction of up to 8,999 homes and enable North Port to annex nearly five square miles of county land. The project covers more than 3,100 acres and includes commercial and industrial space, returning to the county after procedural issues despite prior approval in 2021. Commissioner Jon Thaxton cast the lone dissent, warning of environmental harm, traffic congestion and long-term public infrastructure costs, particularly given the project’s proximity to Myakka State Forest. Other Commissioners voiced similar concerns but said the proposal met existing rules. The Sarasota County Commission is expected to make the final decision in early 2026.

“How much personal wealth do Sarasota County’s elected officials have?” via Christian Casale of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Sarasota County’s constitutional officers, who oversee key government functions, reported widely varying finances in their latest required disclosures to the Florida Commission on Ethics. Salaries for the elected officials range from about $185,000 to more than $251,000 and are set by the state, but net worth figures show stark contrasts. Clerk of Court Karen Rushing reported a net worth of $10.87 million, while Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner reported $162,582. Sheriff Kurt Hoffman and Public Defender Larry Eger each reported net worth exceeding $5 million, while Property Appraiser Bill Furst listed nearly $5 million. Several officers, including Eger and Tax Collector Mike Moran, have also faced public scrutiny in their roles.

— TOP OPINION —

“Florida’s new reporting system is shining a light on human trafficking” via Shelly M. Wagers and Joan A. Reid for the Tampa Bay Times — Human trafficking is widely misunderstood as violent abduction by strangers, but research shows it far more often involves manipulation, trust-building and coercion by someone the victim knows. Traffickers commonly exploit emotional dependence, financial control and abuse, profiting from unpaid labor and sexual exploitation in a global industry estimated at $172 billion.

Criminologists at the University of South Florida argue these misconceptions have made trafficking harder to detect and measure. Victims often continue working or attending school while being exploited, frequently unaware of their situation due to prolonged manipulation.

Florida moved to address this gap in 2023 by passing legislation requiring agencies and nonprofits receiving public funds to submit trafficking data to the USF Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience Lab. The effort produced TIPSTR, the nation’s most comprehensive statewide, anonymous human trafficking data system.

Using data from more than 30 agencies and a 2024 YouGov survey of Florida residents, researchers estimated 500,000 Floridians experienced labor trafficking, and 200,000 were trafficked for sex, with minors comprising significant shares. Only about 9% to 12% of crimes are reported to law enforcement.

Florida’s economy and tourism-heavy geography increase risk, while county-level analysis revealed wide disparities in response capacity and victim services. Some regions showed strong coordination, others severe gaps.

Researchers say TIPSTR data is already guiding prosecutions, funding decisions and policy discussions, offering Florida a long-term model for confronting a largely hidden crime.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Rage Bait is a brilliant word of the year” via Amogh Dimri of The Atlantic — Oxford University Press’ decision to name “rage bait” its latest word of the year reflects both irritation and accuracy in the modern attention economy. Defined as online content deliberately crafted to provoke anger and boost engagement, the term has surged in usage as algorithms reward outrage over nuance. Critics who once lamented Oxford’s embrace of internet slang have been quieter this time, perhaps conceding that digital culture now drives linguistic innovation. While some argue the phenomenon is too corrosive to celebrate, “rage bait” neatly fills a semantic gap, capturing an old manipulation tactic supercharged by social media. In two blunt syllables, it describes how politics, culture and discourse increasingly thrive on provocation, making the term both unsettling and enduring.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Universal Orlando swapping Marvel for DC in new park update” via Lauren Wellbank of Travel Host — While there used to be a time when you couldn’t go anywhere without seeing the familiar faces of Captain America, Iron Man, and the Incredible Hulk, the Marvel reign may finally be coming to an end. At least, that’s what it looks like is set to happen at Universal Orlando, where rumor has it that the company plans to acquire DC Comics in an effort to use the beloved characters for future park expansions. This all became possible thanks to a recent Netflix merger, which looks poised to upend licensing deals for several franchises, including iconic comic books. And that may be good news or bad news, depending on which fandom holds your loyalty.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today is Rep. Alex Rizo; Dean Cannon‘s better half, Ellen; former Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jeff Greene, Justin Hollis, Nicole Krassner; former Reps. Daisy Morales and Jennifer Webb, and Marilyn Young.

___

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

The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) is lining up behind two Republicans running in a pair of Special Elections set for early next year.

In House District 51, the business lobby is throwing its support behind Hilary Holley, who went unopposed for GOP nomination and will go head-to-head with Democratic nominee Edwin Pérez on March 24. In House District 87, the group is backing Jon Maples, who will be on a Jan. 13 Special Primary ballot, with a March 24 Special General Election scheduled.

AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis said Holley’s “dedication to fiscal responsibility, small-business growth, smart development, and protecting Florida’s agriculture and quality of life makes her an ideal candidate for the Florida House. Her Florida-first, conservative approach will help ensure Florida remains competitive and prosperous. We are proud to support her campaign.”

Holley is the favorite for HD 51, the northern Polk County district ceded by Rep. Josie Tomkow when she entered the race for the Senate seat previously held by Lt. Gov. Jay Collins.

According to the most recent L2 voter data, the northern Polk County seat has an advantage for Republicans, with nearly 34% of the electorate registered to the GOP, compared to just 31% who are Democrats. Tomkow won her most recent re-election last year with 57% of the vote over Democrat Octavio Hernandez. The same cycle saw President Donald Trump carry the district with 56% of the vote.

Bevis said Maples earned AIF’s nod because he “understands the real pressures facing Florida’s families — from affordability challenges to infrastructure strain — and is committed to finding practical solutions. His background in small business, his dedication to community, and his focus on strengthening Florida’s families make him the voice we need for the business community in the Florida House. AIF is proud to endorse his campaign.”

Maples is running to replace former Rep. Mike Caruso, whom Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed in August to serve as Palm Beach County Clerk, setting up the Special Election. Maples entered the race in April, before Caruso left the Legislature, expecting to run in the 2026 cycle.

Maples, who is also being backed by the Florida House Republican Campaign Committee, will face Gretchen Feng in the Primary. The winner of the Jan. 13 contest will be the overwhelming favorite in March — Republicans account for more than 39% of the electorate, compared to less than 29% who are Democrats, according to the most recent L2 voter data.