Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 9.22.25

Good Monday morning. It’s Fall, y’all.

Bascom Communications, led by Sarah Bascom, is rebranding the firm to Bascom Communications Group (BCG), a reflection of the firm’s growing roster of talented consultants.

Launched 16 years ago, Bascom opened BCG with just two employees. Now, the firm is one of the most highly sought-after, with five senior consultants and a growing suite of service areas.

BCG has also now expanded into five additional states, in addition to Florida.

“I could not be prouder of this exceptional team and the growth that has brought us to this moment,” said Bascom, BCG president. “Each member brings unique talents, perspectives and expertise, working seamlessly together to deliver results that consistently exceed expectations.”

Top consultants at the firm include Lyndsey Brzozowski, Kelsey Deasy, Kristen Grissom and Alyssa Rudd, who Bascom said “embody the highest levels of professionalism, integrity and commitment, not only to one another as a cohesive team, but to our clients and the industries we serve.” Rounding out the firm are Rebekah Stamps and Mike Bascom, who oversee the firm’s business operations.

Bascom said the rebrand “reflects both the evolution of our firm and the future we will build together as seasoned operators with a shared vision.”

Senior consultants with the firm bring extensive experience, including former communications directors and press secretaries who served in both chambers of the Legislature; communications leaders on local and statewide referendums; congressional campaign staffers and senior leadership; and those with education in political science and business administration and with advanced training in communications, policy, economics, environmental studies and business.

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Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia is kicking off his campaign for a full term this week, with an event scheduled tonight at 5:30 p.m. at the Tampa Firefighters Museum in Tampa (if you’re wondering about the location, keep in mind that the CFO is also the state’s Fire Marshall).

Ingoglia, appointed to the position by Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this year, is now seeking a full term in office.

The kickoff, according to a campaign announcement, will gather in opposition to big government, a cornerstone of Ingoglia’s political career, and the sentiment behind his recognizable X handle, @GovGoneWild.

The event will also spotlight campaign priorities, including holding insurers accountable, reducing property taxes and eliminating waste, fraud and abuse in public offices.

The Tampa Firefighters Museum is located at 720 E. Zack St. in Tampa.

Reporters planning to cover the event should email [email protected] with their name and outlet for credentials.

Tweet, tweet:

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First on #FlaPol — “Kevin Steele moves closer to 2026 bid for CFO” via Florida Politics — Rep. Steele has launched a new political committee, signaling a potential Primary challenge against Ingoglia. The move comes after reports that (President Donald) Trump’s team encouraged Steele to enter the race. “My meetings at the White House made clear that Florida needs a CFO who won’t gamble with our future,” Steele told Florida Politics, taking a clear shot at Ingoglia. This development suggests a growing rift, as the White House is also reportedly courting House Speaker Daniel Perez to challenge another DeSantis appointee, Attorney General James Uthmeier, setting the stage for major GOP clashes in the 2026 Cabinet races.

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Must-read op-ed — “Your dislike of Charlie Kirk is not interesting right now” via Josh Barrow of Very Serious — In the wake of Kirk’s murder, I’m struck by how many liberals seem unable to pause their political outrage. A recent survey showed 40% of Kamala Harris voters believe opposing political views are reason enough to cut off family, revealing a constituency that increasingly views politics as a barometer of morality. This fixation explains the bifurcated response to Kirk’s death: while political professionals expressed horror, many liberal spectators couldn’t stop harping on his “wrong” ideology. This suggests his bad politics were an extenuating circumstance, making his murder less morally wrong. This is a callous, politically damaging message — especially when the killer appears to have been a liberal who took the moral importance of having the “right” ideas to an appalling extreme.

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Rosh Hashana begins today — The Jewish High Holidays, a period of reflection and renewal, start at sundown today with Rosh Hashana and culminate with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashana, literally “head of the year,” marks the start of the Jewish calendar year and is celebrated with prayers and the blowing of the shofar (a ram’s horn). Observers also eat symbolic foods such as apples dipped in honey to represent hopes for a sweet year. The 10 days following Rosh Hashana are devoted to introspection, repentance and seeking forgiveness. The period concludes with Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

Tweet, tweet:

—@MirandaDevine: Susie Wiles: “Charlie’s army” of young people “made the winning difference” in the 2024 Election. “Let us honor him by … continuing his work and making sure this generation knows this movement is their home.”

—@RealDonaldTrump: Pam (Bondi): I have reviewed over 30 statements and posts saying that, essentially, “same old story as last time, all talk, no action. Nothing is being done. What about (James) Comey, Adam “Shifty” Schiff, Leticia (James)??? They’re all guilty as Hell, but nothing is going to be done.” Then we almost put in a Democrat supported U.S. Attorney, in Virginia, with a really bad Republican past. A Woke RINO, who was never going to do his job. That’s why two of the worst Dem Senators PUSHED him so hard. He even lied to the media and said he quit and that we had no case. No, I fired him and there is a GREAT CASE, and many lawyers, and legal pundits, say so. Lindsey Halligan is a really good lawyer and likes you a lot. We can’t delay any longer; it’s killing our reputation and credibility. They impeached me twice and indicted me (5 times!), OVER NOTHING. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!! President DJT

—@RapidResponse47: Q: “Should the Pentagon be part of deciding what reporters can report on?” @POTUS: “No, I don’t think so. Nothing stops reporters. You know that.”

—@RepDonBacon: This is so dumb that I have a hard time believing it is true. We don’t want a bunch of Pravda newspapers only touting the Government’s official position. A free press makes our country better. This sounds like more amateur hour.

—@ComChrisLatvala: For years @RaysBaseball were the joke of MLB. Maddon, Friedman & a group of amazing players in 2008 changed that. That team will always be my favorite team ever. Stu Sternberg’s ownership created a lot of memories for fans like me that I remember for a lifetime. #ThankYouStu

—@HardRockBet: There are people who prefer CFB over the NFL

—@FieldYates: Vikings CB Isaiah Rodgers Sr. is the first player in NFL history with a pick-6, a fumble returned for a touchdown and two forced fumbles in a single game. He did it in one half.

—@MDixon55: Perhaps the grossest week of collective football for the state of Wisconsin in recent memory

—@AdamSchefter: Even though Buccaneers WR Chris Godwin (ankle) and OT Tristan Wirfs (knee) both were ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Jets, both players have a “strong chance” to make their season debuts next Sunday at home vs. the Eagles, per sources. Both Godwin and Wirfs are expected to start practice reps this week with the starters and, if all goes well and there are no setbacks, they are expected to play next Sunday.

—@sherman4949: Netflix should use its event strategy and buy the rights to Jimmy Kimmel’s return show from Disney. Netflix gets a big audience, the FCC doesn’t have jurisdiction, Disney/the affiliates don’t have to take the heat …. Everyone wins!

— DAYS UNTIL —

Paul Thomas Anderson’s ’One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 4; Special Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 8; Taylor Swift’s new album ’The Life of a Showgirl’ drops — 11; Regular Session Committee Weeks begin — 14; Florida TaxWatch Annual Board Meeting — 14; ’Tron: Ares’ premieres — 18; ‘Six Kings Slam,’ featuring six of men’s tennis’ best players in the world, premieres on Netflix — 23; Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 28; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 29; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 34; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 35; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 43; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 55; ’Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 60; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 65; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 67; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 72; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 72; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 78; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 81; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 86; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 88; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 94; Legislative Session begins — 113; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 113; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 137; last day of the Regular Session — 172; MLB Opening Night matchup between the Giants and Yankees — 184; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 185; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 196; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 205; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 210; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 214; F1 Miami begins — 221; Untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 242; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 253; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 259; State Qualifying Period ends — 263; FIFA World Cup begins — 262; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 285; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 290; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 295; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 297; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 301; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 318; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 320; Primary Election Day 2026 — 330; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 354; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 358; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 362; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 367; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 374; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 378; Early Votion General Election Mandatory period begins — 397; 2026 General Election — 407; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 452; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 452; Tampa Mayoral Election — 526; Jacksonville First Election — 547; Jacksonville General Election — 603; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 621; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 683; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 739; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 816; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1026; U.S. Presidential Election — 1142; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1542; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2273.

— TOP STORY —

“Florida’s fix for its struggling insurance market hurt homeowners, data shows” via Brianna Sacks of The Washington Post — In March 2023, a new Florida law was enacted with the stated goal of curbing “frivolous lawsuits” against insurance companies, which lawmakers claimed were driving up premiums for consumers. However, a new analysis suggests that this tort reform, now a model for other states, has primarily benefited insurance companies while failing to protect homeowners adequately.

Despite the law, Floridians continue to pay some of the nation’s highest insurance premiums, and the number of lawsuits filed by policyholders whose claims were denied remains the highest in the country. Data for 2024 shows that nearly 13% of homeowners with denied claims sued their insurer, a slight increase from before the law was passed.

Experts believe this continuous flow of litigation is not frivolous but a necessary pushback against increasingly aggressive tactics by insurers. In 2024, a year marked by three major storms, insurance companies denied a record number of claims, closing a staggering 47% of damage claims without any payment. Consumer advocates argue the law emboldened insurers, who believed homeowners would be less likely to take them to court.

Industry representatives, however, paint a different picture, asserting the market is the “healthiest it has been in nearly a decade.” They claim the legislative changes curbed “legal system abuse,” allowing them to operate profitably despite hurricane risks, and that new carriers are now entering the state as a result of the reforms.

However, critics point out that the new carriers entering Florida are often the same small, thinly financed companies that have historically plagued the market, prone to folding after major disasters. They argue the systemic issue is not lawsuits but a lack of regulation that allows under-reserved insurers to operate, passing the costs of their failures onto consumers.

Ultimately, consumer advocates see this as part of a familiar pattern. When the market struggles, insurers blame litigation, lobby for reforms that make it harder for homeowners to sue and then pocket the savings, leaving desperate homeowners with little recourse after a disaster.

Appointed — Erin Knight to the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation Board of Governors.

— STATEWIDE —

“Byron Donalds gets specific on education, property taxes in Tampa campaign stop” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — While Donalds hasn’t received the backing of DeSantis in his quest to succeed him as Governor of Florida next year, the U.S. House member from Naples has no problem showering the love on the state’s chief executive. “We have the best Governor in America right now,” Donalds said Saturday during a campaign appearance in Tampa. “I don’t play political games. He’s the best. We have to build on what he has done and take our state to a whole ‘nother level.” Donalds … got deep into policy prescriptions while addressing a crowd of at least 150 people who gathered at La Teresita, a Cuban eatery in the city’s Hispanic district. The candidate spent nearly half his hourlong visit answering questions submitted in advance by members of the audience.

—“Donalds says free markets, not government censorship, led to Jimmy Kimmel suspension” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics

“Ron DeSantis is helping real estate developers exploit a hurricane relief law” via Jason Garcia of Seeking Rents — On July 18, developers, including major Republican donors Pat Neal and Carlos Beruff, sued Manatee County to block an increase in impact fees, which fund infrastructure for new development. They cited Senate Bill 180, a hurricane relief law with a provision that forbids local governments from making land-use rules “more restrictive.” After the county argued impact fees weren’t land-use rules, a top DeSantis aide sent a letter threatening retaliation if they proceeded. Five days later, the developers used that letter as evidence in their lawsuit. This abuse of power, following large campaign donations from the developers to DeSantis, highlights a broader assault on local governance, potentially marking the “last stand for home rule in Florida.”

“Florida Tax Watch offers five options to cut property taxes ahead of House Committee meeting” via Anita Padilla of Florida Voice News — The nonpartisan watchdog group Florida Tax Watch released a report that lays out five options lawmakers should consider as they begin discussing ways to eliminate or reduce property taxes. The report comes just ahead of the first special meeting of the Florida House Select Committee on Property Taxes, scheduled for Monday. DeSantis has been pushing for property tax reform for Floridians and the state’s Chief Financial Officer, Ingoglia, is conducting a statewide “Accountability Tour” to show taxpayers the alleged bloat in local government budgets.

“Barbara Sharief files bill, tied to Scientology, to require drug tests for mass shooters” via Ana Goñi-Lessan of the USA Today Network-Florida — A Florida Democrat has filed a bill backed by the Church of Scientology in response to a spate of mass shootings in Florida and across the country. The measure, filed by Davie Democratic Sen. Sharief, would require medical examiners to conduct a toxicology report and test for psychotropic drugs on anyone suspected of committing a mass shooting. The bill also requires medical examiners to consult with a suspect’s primary care physician or mental health professional. Law enforcement, first responders and teachers would also be required to train “on the adverse effects of psychotropic drugs, illicit drugs and controlled substances, including irrational, violent, or suicidal behavior that may be demonstrated by persons under the influence of such drugs or substances.”

“2026 Session is go time for dental therapist advocates” via Christine Sexton of Florida Phoenix — Amid a dental care crisis that saw nearly $1 billion in emergency room charges in 2024, a coalition is urging Florida lawmakers to authorize dental therapists. These mid-level providers, similar to physician assistants, could perform routine care, such as fillings and extractions, under a dentist’s supervision, thereby improving access in underserved areas. Proponents, including House Speaker Perez, argue this is a “now or never” moment to address the state’s severe shortage of dental providers, especially in rural counties. However, the proposal faces strong opposition from the Florida Dental Association, which has successfully blocked past efforts in the Senate, raising concerns about the qualifications of these new practitioners.

“‘Destroying vital evidence’: Blaise Ingoglia accuses social media companies of shielding child predators” via Livia Caputo of Florida Phoenix — Ingoglia demanded that social media companies be held accountable for creating disappearing messages that handicap child sex trafficking investigations. Ingoglia accused social media platforms of “destroying evidence” of messages between groomers and minors by installing instant vanishing features across platforms. “A lot of these tech companies are in this state of de facto protecting these predators,” Ingoglia said, speaking alongside Attorney General Uthmeier, adding that a case that should be a “slam dunk” for law enforcement is stopped by vanishing messages. “These social media companies need to be held accountable for destroying vital evidence that law enforcement needs to put these predators in prison,” he said. “It’s severely hindering and handicapping their efforts.”

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Donald Trump publicly pushes Attorney General Pam Bondi to prosecute his political foes” via Dennis Romero of NBC News — Trump exerted public pressure Saturday night on Attorney General Bondi, saying it was time for the Justice Department to take action against a number of his political foes. Alongside the extraordinary demand to prosecute his adversaries, the President also named his former defense attorney, now a senior White House aide, to replace the head of a key prosecutor’s office he had forced out a day earlier. “We can’t delay any longer; it’s killing our reputation and credibility. They impeached me twice and indicted me (5 times!), OVER NOTHING. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!” Trump said in a Truth Social post. He said people were complaining that “nothing is being done” and name-checked some public officials with whom he’s tussled: former FBI Director Comey, Democratic Sen. Schiff of California, and New York Attorney General James.

“Trump Justice Dept. closed investigation into Tom Homan for accepting bag of cash” via Devlin Barrett, Glenn Thrush, Alan Feuer, Maggie Haberman and Hamed Aleaziz of The New York Times — Homan, Trump’s border czar, was recorded in September accepting a bag with $50,000 in cash during an undercover FBI investigation that was later shut down by the Trump administration, according to sources familiar with the case. The audio recording reportedly captured Homan agreeing to help undercover agents posing as businessmen secure future government contracts. After Trump took office, the Justice Department closed the investigation, citing doubts about proving bribery since Homan was not an official at the time. A White House spokesperson called the case a “blatantly political investigation,” while top DOJ and FBI officials stated a full review found “no credible evidence of any criminal wrongdoing.”

“Senate confirms Mike Waltz as U.N. ambassador” via Eric Bazail-Eimil of POLITICO — The Senate voted to confirm former national security adviser Waltz to be the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations on Friday, on the eve of a week of high-level meetings and debates at the U.N. General Assembly. The Senate voted 47 to 43 to confirm Waltz for his role as U.S. permanent representative to the U.N. Security Council. Three Democrats — Mark Kelly of Arizona, Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire and John Fetterman of Pennsylvania — joined all but one Republican to confirm Waltz. The lone Republican to vote against Waltz was Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, who had stalled Waltz’s nomination in Committee.

—“The Taliban reject Trump’s bid to retake Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan” via The Associated Press

“Cory Mills defends nixing Ilhan Omar censure, cites Kirk’s stance on free speech” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Amid criticism from both sides, U.S. Rep. Mills issued a four-minute video defending his vote to nix a censure of U.S. Rep. Omar. “This isn’t about just vengeance,” the New Smyrna Beach Republican said. “This is about upholding our Constitution.” Mills was one of four Republicans who voted to table a resolution censuring Omar and stripping her Committee assignments over comments she made about slain conservative activist Kirk. That helped Democrats kill the measure on a 214-213 vote. Omar, after Kirk’s death, infuriated many on the right. “There are a lot of people who are out there talking about him (Kirk) just wanting to have a civil debate,” Omar, a Minnesota Democrat, told Zeteo after Kirk’s death.

“Pressure mounts on Disney over Kimmel suspension as some boycott calls spread” via Rebecca Cohen and Jason Abbruzzese of NBC News — Disney is under siege from all sides. Within 48 hours of its decision to pull late-night host Kimmel off the air indefinitely, the parent company of ABC has once again found itself at the center of a bitter political battle. The company now faces protests outside its studios, with celebrities threatening to sever ties and political pressure from both Republicans and Democrats. Kimmel’s removal came on Wednesday after he commented on Kirk’s killing. ABC’s decision has further amplified a free speech debate that began in the immediate aftermath of Kirk’s assassination, with some on the left claiming that people on the right were engaging in the “cancel culture” they once said they loathed. Others on the right sought to dub Kimmel’s removal as “consequence culture.”

“Jeffrey Epstein’s ‘sweetheart deal’ in Florida sex trafficking defended during congressional hearing” via Julie K. Brown and Emily Goodin of the Orlando Sentinel — Alexander Acosta, the former U.S. attorney in Miami who gave Epstein and an untold number of his co-conspirators immunity for sex trafficking dozens of underage girls, defended his decision not to prosecute Epstein during a closed-door congressional hearing Friday. The hearing, held by the House Oversight Committee, is the latest in a series of efforts by Congress to scrutinize how the late financier managed to get away with abusing hundreds of girls and young women over more than two decades, despite Epstein being on the FBI’s radar since 2006. The scandal continues to consume the Trump administration, which has been unable to satisfy public outrage over the Justice Department’s decision in July not to release all of its Epstein files. Most of the material the DOJ has released thus far has already been in the public domain.

— ELECTIONS —

—“Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings eyes bid for Governor” via Skyler Swisher and Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel

AIF endorses Rob Long for HD 90 — The Associated Industries of Florida is endorsing Democrat Long in the House District 90 Special Election. “Rob Long is the kind of leader Florida needs — someone who has shown he will work with anyone, whether they are a Democrat, Republican or Independent, in order to find common sense solutions that help Florida families,” said AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis. “From lowering costs to creating innovative, high-paying jobs, Rob understands what it takes to build a strong, pro-business economy that works for everyone. That’s why AIF is proud to stand with him in this race.” HD 90 is a Democratic-leaning district that spans a coastal portion of Palm Beach County. It was represented for years by Democratic Rep. Joe Casello, whose death in July triggered the Sept. 30 Special Election.

“Meg Weinberger endorses Yoni Anijar in House District 100 race” via Anita Padilla of Florida’s Voice — U.S. Army Reserve officer and Republican candidate Anijar has picked up another high-profile endorsement in his bid for House District 100, this time State Rep. Weinberger, who called him a “conservative choice.” Weinberger said that Anijar, an attorney who was elected as vice president of the Broward Young Republicans in January, would champion Trump’s America First agenda. “I’m thrilled to throw my support behind Yoni Anijar in the race for House District 100,” Weinberger said. “Yoni is the conservative choice voters can trust to fight for President Trump’s America First priorities and never back down from the utter insanity of the radical left.”

Save the date:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Miami-Dade Commission approves $12.9B budget after all-night debate” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami-Dade Commissioners approved a $12.9 billion budget for the coming fiscal year … after a grueling meeting that stretched into the pre-dawn hours, ending months of negotiations over how to close a massive shortfall while keeping core services intact. The marathon session, which began Thursday evening and lasted until nearly 4 a.m., came after almost 200 residents and nonprofit leaders signed up to speak, voicing concerns about service cuts, higher fees and funding for community programs. The adopted budget leaves property tax rates unchanged but raises water rates by 3.5% and increases the county’s annual trash fee by about $5.

“After months of speculation, Joe Carollo formally enters Miami Mayor’s race” via Tess Riski of the Miami Herald — Commissioner Carollo has filed to run for Miami Mayor, formally launching a campaign that could further extend the veteran politician’s decadeslong reign in City Hall. On Saturday afternoon, the termed-out Commissioner submitted candidate paperwork and ended months of will-he-or-won’t-he speculation. Carollo did so as the eleventh hour approached, with candidate qualifying ending at 6 p.m. Carollo, 70, said he agonized over the decision to enter the crowded Mayor’s race, calling it one of the most difficult he’s made in his life. On Friday, he said he was still undecided. But by 1:30 p.m. Saturday, dozens of people began packing into the City Commission chambers to show their support for Carollo’s campaign.

“‘She’s wrong.’ Son of Miami-Dade Mayor joins fight against county Israel bonds” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — Ted Cava, the son of Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, publicly broke with his mother by joining a protest calling for the county to divest its $151 million in Israeli bonds. Wearing a “Divest from Genocide” T-shirt, he described the disagreement over the Israel-Hamas war as the most significant he has had with the Mayor, who is the county’s first Jewish leader. While the Mayor has expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, she maintains she no longer controls the county’s investment portfolio. Ted Cava acknowledged the family strain and generational divide on the issue but said his relationship with his mother remains close, even as he insists, “she’s wrong on this.”

“No rush to scene after 911 calls. Lax BSO response detailed in Tamarac triple murders” via Grethel Aguila and Milena Malaver of the Miami Herald — As Mary Catherine Gingles was hunted down by her estranged husband brandishing a semiautomatic handgun equipped with a silencer, authorities say, several Broward Sheriff’s deputies were milling about just outside the Tamarac neighborhood where she and two others would be shot to death – waiting on orders to move. Had the deputies rushed to the scene in the minutes after the first 911 call came in about gunshots in the neighborhood — which they are drilled to do in an active-shooter situation — Mary and the neighbor whose home she sought refuge in may be alive today, according to policing experts — and Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony.

“$100K bribe for vote? Prosecutors to look into former Gables Commissioner’s claims” via Michelle Marchante of the Miami Herald — Mayor Vince Lago has asked the Miami-Dade County State Attorney’s Office and the Florida Commission on Ethics to look into the allegations recently made by former Gables Commissioner Kirk Menendez. Menendez last week said during a City Commission meeting that, while he was serving as a City Commissioner in 2023, he turned down a coffee invitation after he was told the person might offer him a bribe of $100,000 to buy his vote on changing election dates. “A member of the community reached out to me, wanting to have coffee with me the next day,” Menendez said. “I said, ‘Sure, why not?’ … About five minutes later, another community member, a resident,” contacted him and warned him that “they’re going to offer you $100,000 to move your vote, move the election from April to November.”

“State removes $180,000 art crosswalks by Venezuelan artist in Coral Gables” via Jimena Romero of WLRN — While two South Florida cities take part in hearings this week seeking to preserve their rainbow crossings, the state removal of two art crosswalks in Coral Gables happened without a fight — and went almost unnoticed. “It’s in a location that not a lot of pedestrians see. So, a lot of people have not noticed and if they have noticed, it’s because of the news,” City of Coral Gables Commissioner Melissa Castro said. In fact, the artwork, which initially cost the city $180,000, had many residents upset when it was originally installed in 2017 during Art Basel.

Judicial Qualifications Commission ends Gary Farmer inquiry — The Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission is ending an investigation into former Broward County Judge Farmer. The voluntary dismissal was filed after Farmer resigned his seat on the bench effective Aug. 15 and agreed to not hold further judicial office or senior judge status. Before resigning, Farmer had spent two-and-a-half months suspended from office over allegations of misconduct; the panel investigating the complaints discovered several examples where it said Farmer “willfully ignored” statutes, rules of procedure “or was unaware of the most basic elements of the law which govern his actions as a judge in the felony division.”

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Kissimmee’s Deputy Chief under investigation in excessive force affair, chief says” via Cristóbal Reyes of the Orlando Sentinel — Kissimmee’s deputy police chief is under investigation for his actions in an excessive force case that became a department scandal last year. A grand jury in October revealed the agency’s highest-ranking officials had downplayed and covered up the 2023 beating of a man who was not resisting arrest. Deputy Chief Wilson Muñoz remained on the job as a top-ranking leader, seemingly safe from discipline until Thursday, when the department announced he was on paid administrative leave. He’d been under investigation since June 20. The internal probe into Muñoz’s actions is “the last step in that investigation” of the excessive force case, said Chief Charles Broadway, who was hired following the ousting of his disgraced predecessor. Muñoz served as Deputy Chief under former Chief Betty Holland and kept that job when Broadway was sworn in on April 1.

“Social media kerfuffle derails Apopka’s effort to name a City Administrator” via Brian Bell of the Orlando Sentinel — Seemingly on its way to naming a long-sought permanent City Administrator, the Apopka City Council ran into a virtual brick wall, in the form of an eleventh-hour, social media kerfuffle over the interim Administrator’s qualifications. Radley Williams, the city’s recreation director at the time, took the interim role after Mayor Bryan Nelson fired Jacob Smith. Nelson said Smith was terminated after just nine months in the job over his poor communication and failure to inform city officials of an emailed inquiry from the state’s Department of Government Efficiency. A city investigation found that Smith instead deleted the email.

“Winter Park may cut impact fees to spur more development on West Fairbanks” via Tyler Williams of GrowthSpotter — Winter Park, in a bid to transform the West Fairbanks Avenue corridor, is exploring incentives that could ignite more development in the area. Winter Park held a City Commission work session to discuss the future of the corridor, specifically the South of Fairbanks Avenue (SOFA) District. The district, which stretches from Orlando Avenue to I-4, is part of a community redevelopment area with land under the jurisdiction of Winter Park, Orlando and Orange County. “As other areas in the city become less vacant, that’s pushing investment farther out in the city. We have certainly seen over the last 10 years that 17-92 has started to attract more investment,” said Peter Moore, Director of the city’s Office of Management and Budget.

“FWC says man shot bear found in his Central Florida home” via Richard Tribou of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A Central Florida man shot and killed a bear he said became trapped in his home Friday, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “The FWC was notified of a bear entering a home in DeLand,” the agency said. “The bear was shot and killed by the home’s occupants and no injuries to the occupants have been reported.” The home was in a rural part of Lake County off County Road 44 near the Volusia County border west of DeLand. The area is in a heavily forested part of the state, south of Ocala National Forest, home to much of Florida’s black bear population. “FWC Law Enforcement documented evidence of damage to the exterior doors consistent with entry by a bear,” the statement said. “FWC Bear Management staff will canvass the community for awareness and education, as well as monitor the area for additional bear activity of concern.” WESH interviewed the man, Zeke Clark, who said he found the bear in his home off Ponderosa Avenue.

— LOCAL: TB —

Appointed — Bennett Barrow, Vincent Cassidy, Lakshmikanth “LK” Nandam and Cody Powell to the Tampa-Hillsborough County Expressway Authority.

“Hurricanes walloped Tampa Bay. A year later, how the area is recovering” via Michaela Mulligan, Max Chesnes, Teghan Simonton and Jack Prator of the Tampa Bay Times — Devastating floods. Devastating rains. Devastating winds. Nearly a year has passed since Hurricane Helene made landfall, one of three storms that drilled Florida’s west coast in the worst hurricane season Tampa Bay has seen in more than a century. In the season’s wake: crumpled garages, shredded docks, more than a dozen dead. While Tampa Bay has largely healed, recovery is still a slog in the areas hit hardest. It has been hindered not only by cost but also by slow permitting, battles over substantial damage reports and contracting woes. “The hurt is still there,” said Tampa City Council member Luis Viera, who represents North Tampa, parts of which flooded during Milton.

“In Hillsborough County, sparks fly when discussing property tax proposal” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Local government officials should be among the most interested viewers tuning into the Florida Channel next week when the House Select Committee on Property Taxes convenes for the first time in months in Tallahassee. Some of those concerns about the still-unwritten plan to reduce or eliminate property taxes for Florida homeowners were substantially discussed at the Tampa Tiger Bay meeting. The challenge for local public officials debating a likely constitutional amendment to that effect on next year’s ballot in Florida is that no one knows exactly what the proposal will call for.

“Pinellas Commissioners approve county’s fiscal year budget” via Michael Connor of St. Pete Catalyst — Pinellas County Commissioners approved a $4.8 billion budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, a significant increase from previous years despite lowering the general fund property tax rate to its lowest level since 1990. The budget allocates $3.6 billion for key services like public safety and storm recovery and $1.2 billion for capital improvements, including new airport parking and stormwater infrastructure. Aiming to ease taxpayer burdens after hurricane-related revenue losses, the Commission cut the millage rate but also controversially defunded the local arts agency, Creative Pinellas. The move drew criticism from residents who condemned the overall budget increase and called for more fiscally conservative spending and a leaner government.

“Is there more to come for Creative Pinellas?” via Bill DeYoung of St. Pete Catalyst — Pinellas County Commissioners finalized a budget Thursday that completely defunds Creative Pinellas, the county’s primary arts support agency, reallocating $656,000 to its tourism marketing arm. The 5-2 vote came despite objections from over 50 citizens. In anticipation of the cut, Creative Pinellas CEO Margaret Murray had already terminated half her staff and canceled all Fall programming. While disheartened, administrators insist the organization is not dead. Board member Doreen Moore told Commissioners they are “actively pursuing fundraising efforts,” vowing that “Creative Pinellas will continue” and plan for its “next chapter,” even as it loses all its county funding after 13 years of partnership.

“Treasure Island sacks Anthony Sabatini over absenteeism, bad legal advice” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — The city of Treasure Island has fired former Rep. Sabatini as City Attorney just four months after selecting him and his firm, Sabatini Law. Sabatini and his firm assumed the roles after a vote on May 14 at a Special City Commission meeting. Citing tardiness, absenteeism, unprofessional behavior and poor legal advice, City Commissioner Tammy Vasquez made the motion to immediately end the contract Thursday evening at the end of the Special meeting. Notably, Vasquez was the member who initially pushed the city to hire Sabatini. “Specifically, at the onset of his tenure, Mr. Sabatini arrived 20 minutes late to a scheduled planning and zoning meeting, leaving the city without any legal representation,” Vasquez said.

“Church accused of ‘slave labor’ in Florida still operating 24-hour miracle prayer line” via Christopher Spata of the Tampa Bay Times — Kingdom of God Global Church founder David E. Taylor seemed to know exactly who’d be coming for him. “They gonna be in here with their FBI jackets on,” the man who calls himself God’s best friend allegedly told his workers in an undated meeting described in federal court records. “You don’t scare me. God’s gonna get you. … I’m going to be looking at you in Hell and you are going to be having your little FBI jacket on. Who gonna save you then?” A federal grand jury in Michigan quietly indicted Taylor and his alleged co-conspirator, Michelle Brannon, in July. On Aug. 27, flashbang grenades woke residents of an upscale gated community in Ocala as FBI agents stormed a 10,000-square-foot home on a wooded cul-de-sac.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“‘The optics are terrible’: Stakeholders lean on Jacksonville City Council to leave millage rate flat. Will lawmakers cave?” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Despite warnings from influential city figures, Jacksonville City Council Republicans are pushing to cut property taxes. Text messages reveal that former Mayor John Peyton and business leaders cautioned Council members that the move is “bad fiscal policy and bad politics,” warning it would be viewed as self-serving and damage their future political careers with the city’s donor class. Proponents defend the “modest tax reduction,” arguing that city spending is still increasing. However, critics point to Jacksonville’s profound fiscal challenges, including a per capita debt of nearly $10,000, massive pension shortfalls and a $775 million commitment for stadium renovations, arguing the tax cut is indefensible and jeopardizes the city’s financial health.

—“Donna Deegan defends much-criticized hologram, says every Mayor offers airport greetings” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics

“Triathlon accident won’t stop Loranne Ausley from becoming Tallahassee Mayor” via Rosanne Dunkelberger of Florida Politics — Just 10 months after a near-fatal IRONMAN triathlon accident left her in a three-week coma with a traumatic brain injury, former state lawmaker Ausley has announced her candidacy for Tallahassee Mayor. Declaring her recovery “miraculous” and feeling “back to normal,” Ausley is jumping into a competitive 2026 race to replace retiring Mayor John Dailey. Despite lingering effects she’s addressing with speech therapy, she has been cleared by her medical team to campaign. The longtime public servant, who previously served 16 years in the House and two in the Senate, plans to focus on unifying the city and will use her story to raise awareness about brain injuries, refusing to hide from the physical struggles she has overcome.

“Former UF law professor has emeritus status revoked after comments about Kirk, Trump” via Alan Festo of The Gainesville Sun — The University of Florida has rescinded the emeritus professor designation of a former professor at the university’s Levin College of Law because of a social media post that references both conservative activist Kirk and Trump. “The University of Florida has been made aware of a retired faculty member who issued a post on social media that is raising concerns. In accordance with the university’s policies and regulations, UF has rescinded this individual’s emeritus status.” That individual is Jeffrey Harrison, who issued a scathing rebuke of Kirk following his shooting death … “There is a lot of commentary about Charlie Kirk. It’s not that complicated. He was an evil person spounting [sic] all kinds of hateful messages. I did not want him to die. I reserve that wish for Trump. But let’s face it, even members of the Gestapo and guards at the concentration camps had children. That does not make them heros [sic], nor does it make Charlie Kirk someone to be admired.”

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

Appointed — Taylor Collins, Michael Fuller and Mark Goodson to the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota District Board of Trustees.

“Fort Myers Beach rises from rubble with reimagined future” via Phil Fernandez of the Naples Daily News — Three years after Hurricane Ian’s historic devastation, Fort Myers Beach is re-emerging, driven by a determination to rebuild not just structures, but its identity. While scars remain and legal battles over new high-rises persist, a quieter trend of resilience is taking hold. Residents are embracing innovative, hurricane-proof modular homes that retain the island’s “Old Florida” charm. Iconic businesses are reopening and tourism is returning, fueled by a chamber campaign urging visitors to witness the progress firsthand. Officials acknowledge the emotional toll and challenges ahead, but stress that the community is moving forward, balancing preservation with the sustainable, resilient reality of life on a barrier island.

“Turning Point USA sees surge in new chapters in Sarasota County after Kirk’s death” via Gabriela Szymanowska of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — In a surge of local activism following the shooting death of conservative figure Kirk, at least eight new Turning Point USA chapters are launching in Sarasota County. The expansion includes new student-led groups at Sarasota High, Venice High, North Port High and Pine View School, as well as new hubs for homeschooling communities. A Turning Point representative confirmed a massive influx of interest statewide, with students wanting to honor Kirk’s legacy by getting involved. The new high school chapters are reportedly focusing less on politics and more on patriotism and community service, with a North Port community group holding its first meeting Friday to an expected crowd of over 50 people.

“Sarasota’s School Board let down LGBTQ students. Here’s who should feel ashamed.” via Roger Brown of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Let’s be real: the Sarasota County School Board’s vote to remove specific protections for students based on race, disability, and gender identity is a pathetic attempt to pander to DeSantis’ culture-war obsessions. The 3-2 decision to replace clear safeguards with a vague reference to “all” students is a cowardly act that opens the door to more bullying of our most vulnerable kids. It’s shameful that Board members Bridget Ziegler, Karen Rose, and Robyn Marinelli — three adults who have received plenty of grace from this community — refuse to extend that same empathy to children. This isn’t just a policy change; it’s a display of utter spinelessness that fails to protect the students who need it most.

— TOP OPINION —

“American democracy might be stronger than Trump” via Jonathan Schlefer of POLITICO — For the last 10 years, we have been warned that American democracy is on the verge of collapse. This assertion, fueled by examples from other nations’ democratic declines, is often accepted as fact. A whole genre of political writing focuses almost exclusively on detailing how democracies die, treating it as our inevitable fate.

But these accounts often fail to ask the most critical question: Will our democracy actually survive? While Trump certainly displays authoritarian tendencies, so have many other dangerous populists who ultimately failed to kill democracy. The real inquiry should be what separates the countries that survived from those that did not.

A careful comparison reveals that American democracy has crucial advantages. First, rich, long-lived democracies are incredibly resilient and almost never fail. Our nation’s wealth sustains a vast, independent civil society, and its longevity has fortified institutions and a deep-rooted commitment to the rule of law.

Furthermore, our presidential system, with its checks and balances, is harder for a would-be autocrat to capture than the parliamentary systems that leaders like Viktor Orbán have exploited. Successful autocrats who dismantled democracies also commanded overwhelming public approval, often above 80% — a level of support Trump has never come close to achieving.

Even if other checks fail, the judiciary remains a powerful bulwark. Federal judges hold life tenure and even the conservative-dominated Supreme Court has repeatedly demonstrated its institutional independence by ruling against Trump. Its justices are writing for history, not for one administration.

Understanding these points is not an argument for complacency. Rather, having faith in our resilience can reduce the political venom, empower institutions to resist unconstitutional demands, and allow us to focus on repairing the very real problems our democracy faces. Our system is wounded, but it is a long way from dead.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Outrage is the business model — and America is the customer” via Chuck Todd of Beyond The Pod — Our country desperately needs healing, but our leaders are trapped in the very partisan warfare that makes it impossible. We’ve built an outrage machine, supercharged by Big Tech’s engagement-at-all-costs business model, which profits from anxiety and anger. This has created an “outrage economy” where extremes scream and moderation is silenced. The core problem is a political incentive structure that rewards division and conflict. Both parties are addicted to it. The only way to break this toxic cycle is for voters to reject both parties simultaneously. A “timeout” moment, led by a third party or a unifying figure, could shock the system and finally make it politically profitable for our leaders to do the right thing.

“Kamala Harris is out of time” via Carlos Lozada of The New York Times — The title of Harris’ memoir, “107 Days,” is more than a reference to her campaign’s duration; it’s her central excuse for losing. She repeatedly argues that with more time, she could have better connected with voters and sold her vision as a superior alternative to Trump. The book places blame on Joe Biden’s ego and ambition for delaying his exit from the race, truncating her opportunity. While her own critiques of Biden are diplomatic, she quotes others, like her husband, who fiercely detail the disrespect and sidelining she endured. Yet, her complaint about insufficient time feels unpersuasive, as her own swift, process-free seizure of the nomination was justified by her readiness. Ultimately, if you’re not sure what you stand for, more time doesn’t help — it only exposes you.

“Massive tax cut may look good, but Floridians should be wary” via Krys Fluker of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida property owners, prepare for ballot bait promising to eliminate your property taxes. This feel-good campaign masks a hidden agenda: a massive power shift from local governments to Tallahassee bureaucrats. The multistep plan is already underway, starting with a propaganda blitz to paint local officials as wasteful spenders. The goal is to justify seizing control over property tax rates, gutting local autonomy. Different proposals are on the table, from capping revenue to replacing property taxes with new “fees” on sales and real estate transactions — funneling all revenue through state hands. This isn’t tax relief; it’s a power grab that will silence local voices and let state leaders punish communities that don’t bow to their political whims.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Florida-bound Disney Destiny cruise ship leaves shipyard on way to sea trials” via Richard Tribou of the Orlando Sentinel — The Disney Destiny, Disney Cruise Line’s newest vessel, departed its German shipyard on Friday for a 20-mile river journey to the North Sea, where it will undergo sea trials. A sister ship to the Disney Wish and Treasure, the 144,000-gross-ton Destiny is the third of five Wish-class ships and will be the first DCL ship to debut from a port other than Port Canaveral. After its trans-Atlantic crossing, the ship is set for a first voyage from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 20, offering four- and five-night Caribbean cruises. The Destiny will feature several Marvel-themed spaces, including a “Doctor Strange” parlor and a new “Hercules” stage show.

“Miami jumps to No. 2 in AP Top 25; FSU drops a spot to No. 8” via The Associated Press — Florida’s college football teams are making waves in the latest AP Top 25 rankings. The Miami Hurricanes surged to No. 2, their highest ranking since 2017, after a dominant 19-point victory over Florida and a 4-0 start. The Hurricanes even picked up seven first-place votes. Meanwhile, the Florida State Seminoles (3-0) dropped one spot to No. 8 despite a blowout 66-10 win over Kent State. In other state news, the USF Bulls (3-1) received 77 votes, placing them just outside the top 25 at an equivalent No. 28 ranking after a decisive victory over South Carolina State. UCF also received three votes in the poll.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best wishes to Sen. Jennifer Bradley, former Rep. Joe Gibbons, Mario Bailey, Chris Clark, Brian Melton, and PR ace William Stander (shhh!).

___

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

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