Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 9.30.26

Good Wednesday morning.

Former U.S. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor is PhRMA’s pick for its next president and CEO.

The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America announced Tuesday that Cantor, who represented the Richmond, Va., area during his time in Congress, will take the helm on Nov. 9.

Cantor succeeds longtime leader Stephen Ubl, who will stay on as a strategic adviser through Jan. 15 as part of the transition.

Cantor, a Republican, served in the U.S. House until 2014 and was Majority Leader from 2011 to 2014. On the healthcare front, PhRMA touted his work on the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act, Medicare Part D and legislation that eventually became the 21st Century Cures Act.

“Eric is well respected among policy leaders in Washington and around the world, with a long track record of working effectively across the political spectrum to achieve important outcomes that have a lasting impact,” said Merck Chair and CEO Rob Davis, who also chairs the PhRMA Board of Directors.

“Eric’s unique combination of global business acumen coupled with policy and political experience at the highest levels of government makes him an ideal person to lead PhRMA during this critical next chapter.”

Cantor added, “I’m honored to join in the industry’s efforts to expand patient access, leverage the promise of AI to speed discovery, and be a champion for the hundreds of thousands of Americans working in the biopharmaceutical industry whose science improves, extends, and saves lives.”

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“Kelly Kirschner would like someone to buy him a competitive campaign” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — For most candidates, asking Washington for a political bailout is a closed-door conversation. Not for Kirschner; he’s taken an entirely different approach by publishing an instruction manual. Kirschner’s campaign website supporting his bid for Florida’s 16th Congressional District remarkably details the type of advertising he wants someone else to pay for, including what to say, where to say it, whom to reach, and when to start. Apparently, the only part of this master plan left to the professionals is finding the money. There are any number of problems with this strategy. It smacks of desperation, ignores political reality and advertises the quiet part — that Kirschner is a long shot — way too loudly.

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Bringing top pediatric cancer care closer to home — Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is highlighting Florida’s effort to ensure families can access advanced pediatric cancer care without leaving the state. Last year, Florida invested $30 million through the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator to strengthen cancer programs at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, Nemours Children’s Hospital, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and Wolfson Children’s Hospital. The four specialty children’s hospitals are using that momentum to recruit specialists, expand clinical trials and advanced treatments, strengthen research and develop facilities designed specifically for children. Through the Pediatric Cancer Alliance, their teams are collaborating to build nationally recognized programs and bring world-class care closer to home.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

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— DAYS UNTIL —

General Election domestic ballot send deadline — 1; ‘Digger,’ with Tom Cruise, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, premieres — 2; General Election voter registration deadline — 5; ‘The Social Reckoning,’ with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres — 9; Associated Industries of Florida one-on-one conversations with five top-of-ticket Republicans — 12; ‘VisionQuest’ premieres — 14; ‘The Diplomat’ season 4 premieres — 15; Optional General early voting begins — 19; ‘Six Kings Slam’ on Netflix — 21; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins — 21; General Election ballot request deadline — 22; Mandatory General early voting begins — 24; General Election — 34; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 37; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 37; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 42; ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’ starring Johnny Depp premieres — 44; ‘Paper Tiger’ starring Adam Driver premieres — 44; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me, America’ is released — 48; New legislator training sessions — 48; Senate convenes for general organization and selection of officers — 48; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 51; ‘The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 56; ‘Madden’ premieres — 57; Committee Week #1 — 61; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 79; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 79; Committee Week #2 — 96; Committee Week #3 — 103; ‘Ahsoka’ season 2 premieres — 112; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas — 117; Committee Week #4 — 124; Grammys — 130; Committee Week #5 — 131; ‘Remain,’ directed by M. Night Shyamalan, premieres — 137; Super Bowl LXI — 137; Committee Week #6 — 138; Opening day of the 2027 Regular Legislative Session — 153; Tampa Mayoral Election — 153; ‘The Thomas Crown Affair,’ directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan premieres — 156; Oscars — 165; Jacksonville First Election — 174; Miami Marlins Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. New York Mets — 176; Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. Baltimore Orioles — 176; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins — 196; Jacksonville General Election — 230; ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ premieres — 240; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 248; Citrus Series — Tampa Bay Rays at Miami Marlins — 289; ‘The Bluey Movie’ premieres — 310; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 310; Citrus Series — Miami Marlins at Tampa Bay Rays — 345; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 443; 2028 South Carolina Presidential Primary — 479; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans — 481; 2028 Nevada Presidential Primary — 489; 2028 New Hampshire Presidential Primary — 496; 2028 New Mexico Presidential Primary — 503; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 506; 2028 Michigan Presidential Primary — 510; 2028 Virginia Presidential Primary — 517; Oscars — 522; ‘X-Men’ premieres — 583; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 604; ‘Days of Thunder’ sequel with Cruise and Anne Hathaway premieres — 611; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 625; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 653; ‘Ghost Rider’ premieres — 667; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 769; ‘Black Panther 3’ directed by Ryan Coogler premieres — 807; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa — 845; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,169; College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami — 1,209; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,900.

— TOP STORY —

“Bob Chapek unloads on Ron DeSantis, Bob Iger over Disney fight” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Former Disney CEO Chapek offers his account of the company’s political fight with Gov. DeSantis, portraying himself as caught between pressure from the Governor and his predecessor, Iger. In “Behind the Castle Walls,” Chapek recalls a relationship with DeSantis that began before collapsing over Florida’s Parental Rights in Education Act.

Chapek says he initially resisted taking a position on the 2022 legislation, believing Disney could support inclusion without entering a fight. He writes that the bill divided families and the LGBTQ community while becoming another flashpoint in the culture wars.

Iger complicated that strategy, Chapek writes. Although no longer CEO, Iger criticized the legislation while Disney’s leadership debated its response. Chapek says Iger’s intervention made negotiations with lawmakers harder and intensified pressure from Disney employees.

Chapek eventually apologized for Disney’s response and pledged support for equal rights. DeSantis and allies escalated their criticism, with the Governor labeling Disney a “woke corporation” as the dispute shifted from rhetoric to the company’s governmental arrangement in Central Florida.

DeSantis then moved against the Reedy Creek Improvement District, which had governed Disney World’s property since 1967. Chapek characterizes the move as punishment and opportunism, writing that he believed DeSantis’ ambitions helped drive a dispute about culture and power.

Chapek also reserves criticism for Iger, accusing his predecessor of undermining him before retreating from the fight. Disney ultimately spent tens of millions of dollars on litigation, Chapek writes, while suffering damage. By late 2022, Chapek was out, and Iger was back as Disney’s CEO.

— 2026 —

“Byron Donalds, David Jolly offer Florida two very different road maps” via Michael Van Sickler of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida voters face different choices for Governor, with Republican U.S. Rep. Donalds and Democrat Jolly offering competing approaches across education, healthcare, growth and state power. Donalds wants to expand school choice, continue state DOGE audits, increase healthcare price transparency and maintain Florida’s immigration enforcement partnerships with federal authorities. Jolly favors greater oversight of private schools receiving public money, expanded public education and healthcare investment, and the restoration of more authority to local governments. Their differences extend to data centers and the State Guard: Donalds supports both with restrictions and oversight, while Jolly proposes pausing large data center construction and eliminating the Guard. On property insurance, Jolly proposes a state catastrophe fund; Donalds favors transparency, tort reforms and an insurer scorecard.

“Donalds turns Jolly’s old words against him” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds is sharpening his General Election argument against Jolly with “Convenience,” a 60-second ad portraying the former Republican Congressman as repeatedly shifting positions. The spot stitches together Jolly’s comments across different political eras on President Donald Trump, guns, immigration, abortion and LGBTQ+ rights, arguing his evolution reflects political expediency. Jolly counters that his views changed gradually, pointing to experiences involving reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ issues while maintaining support for the Second Amendment alongside tighter gun restrictions. With no debate between the gubernatorial nominees, advertising will carry added weight. Donalds’ substantial fundraising advantage gives his campaign more resources to define Jolly through his own words, while Jolly plans to remain on television through Election Day.

“Donalds takes the heat at contentious FAMU town hall” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds faced a skeptical and frequently disruptive crowd during a town hall at Florida A&M University, where the Republican gubernatorial candidate once attended college. Donalds abandoned pre-selected questions and invited students to challenge him directly on race, education, criminal justice and his relationship with Trump. He defended the Stop WOKE Act while opposing critical race theory for minors and backed Florida’s decision to remove Flock cameras. Students also questioned Donalds about his past criminal charges and support for tougher crime legislation. Donalds said Florida law should continue to give people opportunities to rebuild their lives after fulfilling their legal obligations. The contentious event ended abruptly when a fire alarm forced everyone out of the room.

Happening today — Donalds and Attorney General James Uthmeier bring the Defending the Florida Dream Tour to Ralphie’s Fish Camp, 470 Marina Drive in Port St. Joe. The event begins at 2 p.m. Eastern.

“Ashley Moody says ‘way-too-close’ polls show Republicans can’t take Florida for granted” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Prognosticators still see U.S. Sen. Moody on a glide path toward Election Day. But the Republican doesn’t want anyone taking the Florida race for granted. In an interview with Fox News Radio, the Plant City Republican told host Guy Benson that the Senate is clearly in play. “Right now, we are seeing way-too-close-for-comfort polls in many Republican Senate races around the country,” she said. “But in Florida, you have a race with two people who could not be more different — not only in the positions they take, but in their backgrounds and what they bring to this office — than myself and my opponent, Angie Nixon.”

“Amendment 3 calculator puts a price tag on property tax cuts” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — A new Florida Policy Institute calculator estimates how much local governments could lose if voters approve Amendment 3, which would expand homestead exemptions beginning in 2027. The group, which opposes the measure, estimates that Orange County governments and special districts would lose $825 million over two years, including funding for the Sheriff’s Office, fire rescue, and EMS. Seminole County losses are projected at $283 million. The calculator doesn’t estimate homeowners’ savings. A separate tool estimates an Orange County home assessed at $400,000 could save $1,096 in 2027 and $2,192 in 2028 on non-school taxes. Amendment 3 requires 60% voter approval.

“Blaise Ingoglia puts millions behind statewide public service campaign,” via Jason Garcia of Seeking Rents — Florida Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia’s agency has spent more than $3.7 million in taxpayer money on public service advertising while he is campaigning for a full term. Department of Financial Services spots focus on hurricane preparedness, unclaimed property, and senior fraud, with some hurricane ads naming Ingoglia. A spokesperson for Ingoglia said the hurricane campaign coincides with peak storm season, when most Atlantic activity occurs. Records show three Tallahassee firms received the DFS work, with more than $2.3 million spent during the past three weeks. Ingoglia faces Democrat Annette Taddeo in November. The spending and timing are drawing attention as the General Election approaches.

— MORE ELECTIONS —

“Darren Soto showcases bipartisan support in 6-figure ad buy” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A new ad from Soto makes a direct play for Republican voters considering supporting the Kissimmee Democrat. A 30-second spot features Kim K., a Vero Beach voter and self-described conservative, explaining why she’s crossing the aisle to support Soto. Then she turns her frustrations toward Dan Green, the Republican nominee endorsed by Trump. “Listen, I’m a conservative and a Republican, but we need a different approach,” Kim K. says in the ad. “Darren Soto gets practical things done. I’m voting for him for Congress.” A new congressional map forced Soto to run this cycle in a District where more than 58% of voters supported Trump for President in 2024.

To watch the ad, please click the image below:

“Matthew Montavon takes his campaign for Congress on the road” via Daniel Finton of The Daily Sun — Democrat Montavon is literally walking Florida’s 17th Congressional District, covering more than 80 miles from Fort Myers to North Sarasota as he campaigns against Republican U.S. Rep. Greg Steube. Montavon says the nine-day trek lets him meet voters directly and demonstrate the accessibility he would bring to Congress. The former United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization employee criticized ICE’s treatment of detainees, opposed Amendment 3’s property tax changes and raised environmental concerns about data centers. Montavon also criticized Steube’s representation, saying that political divisions obscure issues shared across party lines. No-party candidate Michael Quirk is also running. Montavon says his campaign emphasizes effective government, environmental protection and greater constituent engagement.

“‘Just plain wrong’: Pia Dandiya blasts congressional stock trading in new CD 22 ad” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Dandiya is highlighting the much-maligned issue of congressional stock trading in a new ad now hitting Florida airwaves. In her second television spot of the General Election, titled “Wrong,” Dandiya blasts members of Congress for profiting off of their positions while their constituents struggle with higher costs. “Congress is getting rich off their office while we get hit with rising costs. That’s why I’ll fight to ban Congress from stock trading. And I’ll work to lower the cost of healthcare, protect Social Security and Medicare, and pass a middle-class tax cut that puts more money in your pocket. Congress needs to work for you, not for themselves.”

“Jennifer Jenkins’ campaign finances complicate her hardship narrative” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — Jenkins collected more than $107,000 in consulting fees and candidate salary from political committees associated with her campaigns while publicly discussing financial hardship and grocery-delivery work. Federal records show that her Educated We Stand PAC paid her $5,000 per month for political strategy from July 2024 through August 2025, totaling $70,000. Her congressional campaign later began paying her a candidate salary, bringing the combined payments to $107,315.62. Jenkins entered the U.S. Senate race in September 2025, later ended that campaign, and then pursued congressional seats against Randy Fine and Mike Haridopolos. Campaign finance reports don’t list Instacart wages because they track committee finances rather than personal paychecks, leaving political payments documented separately.

— EVEN MORE ELECTIONS —

“Vanessa Oliver, Phil Carter draw sharp contrasts in HD 76” via John Hackworth of The Daily Sun — Republican state Rep. Oliver and Democrat Carter are offering contrasting priorities in the race for Florida House District 76. Oliver emphasizes her legislative experience, educational priorities, and the state funding she helped secure, including $5 million for a welding program. She also defended her handling of a dispute involving Punta Gorda’s water system, saying negotiations ultimately resolved the issue. Carter criticizes Oliver’s record on home rule and argues growth, affordability and corruption in state politics are pressing concerns. He opposes Amendment 3, warning its property tax cuts could shift costs to other fees, and wants stronger artificial intelligence regulation. Carter also argues elected officials need to be more visible and accessible to constituents throughout the District.

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— STATEWIDE —

“Larry Keefe tapped to lead Florida Department of Law Enforcement” via Jim Rosica of the USA TODAY Network-Florida — Keefe, formerly north Florida’s top federal prosecutor in Trump’s first term and DeSantis’ immigration enforcement director, will now head the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). Keefe’s nomination as Commissioner and Executive Director, which came without any prior notice, was OK’d at a meeting of the Governor and Florida Cabinet in the Capitol. He is perhaps best known for being heavily involved in arranging flights of migrants from the U.S.-Mexico border to blue states in 2022. Keefe was also instrumental in the ouster from office of Hillsborough State Attorney Andrew Warren, a Democrat, in 2023. His new salary as FDLE Commissioner was not immediately available. He was last paid $102,000 a year, state records show.

“DeSantis talks new Florida Turnpike plaza food vendors, says he wants to end tolls” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The state is spending about $8.5 million to add new restaurants and make upgrades at Florida Turnpike Service Plazas, DeSantis said. He also teased that he would like to eliminate Turnpike tolls for state residents someday. “We want to give families, residents, and visitors more options to stop, recharge, and enjoy their journeys,” DeSantis said as Jimmy John’s, Zaxby’s and other vendors will be coming. “We’re paying down all this debt, we’re cutting taxes, we’re doing all this. I’d love to be able to extinguish the tolls on the Turnpike,” DeSantis said. “I know a lot of people would appreciate that. I would still want to charge the tourists, but just not the Florida residents.”

“Cabinet names CAIR, Antifa, Muslim Brotherhood, IRGC, cartels as terror groups” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — The Florida Cabinet has approved DeSantis’ push to designate the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the Muslim Brotherhood and Antifa as terror groups under a new state law. More than 90 federally designated foreign terrorist organizations will also be on that state list, including the Sinaloa, Noreste,and Golfo cartels, Tren de Aragua and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). While the Cabinet did not discuss the action before approving it, Uthmeier contextualized it after the fact. “Supporting these groups is a felony. Your tax dollars will not fund them. No contracts, no foothold on our campuses. Students who promote them are expelled,” he said on social media Tuesday.

“ICE wasted taxpayer money on Alligator Alcatraz with no contract, report finds” via Churchill Ndonwie of the Miami Herald — A new report by a congressional accountability watchdog found the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) squandered taxpayer dollars on “unsuccessful detention initiatives,” including the Everglades detention center known as Alligator Alcatraz. The report revealed that the DeSantis administration operated the facility without proper authorization from federal immigration officials, resulting in per-detainee costs nearly three times higher than standard ICE facilities. The U.S. Government Accountability Office report said that ICE officials neither instructed Florida to open the facility in the middle of the Everglades nor entered into an “agreement or contract authorizing its operation as a federal immigration detention facility.”

“Florida closes juvenile program, but won’t say where the boys went” via Shreya Vuttaluru of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida juvenile justice officials closed a 24-bed boys program in St. Petersburg but haven’t explained why or where its residents were moved. Britt Technical Youth Academy shuttered June 30, making room for Les Peters Academy, a girls program displaced from Tampa amid the Rays stadium project. Darryl Rouson said he was surprised the state didn’t alert him about a closure in his District, while former Sen. Jeff Brandes questioned whether relocated youths retained comparable education and services. The Department of Juvenile Justice also recently closed Hillsborough’s detention center. Together, the moves raise fresh concerns about transparency and Florida’s existing shortage of juvenile residential beds.

“Florida rolls out redesigned driver’s licenses and ID cards” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Florida’s driver’s licenses and other ID cards are getting a new look, starting this week. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) announced it will begin issuing redesigned cards at service centers statewide. On the front of the new card, Castillo de San Marcos, the centuries-old St. Augustine fort, appears behind the cardholder’s information. “Florida continues to set the standard for secure credentialing. Our last major redesign introduced high-security features that nearly doubled the fraud protection measures, significantly strengthening the integrity of Florida’s credentials,” FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner said.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Jack Smith tells Senate he stands by Donald Trump prosecutions” via Jeremy Roebuck of The Washington Post — Former special counsel Smith defended his investigations of Donald Trump during a contentious Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, rejecting Republican accusations that the probes were politically motivated. Smith said he still stands behind charging Trump over his handling of classified documents and efforts to overturn the 2020 Election, adding he would make the same decision regardless of party. Republican Senators, including Ted Cruz, sharply criticized Smith, who challenged subpoenas used to obtain lawmakers’ phone records. Smith said those records were necessary to trace White House communications surrounding Jan. 6 and contained timing information, not conversation content. Democrats defended Smith, while he warned that threats of prosecution wouldn’t silence him.

“Eric Schmitt’s Smith ‘gotcha’ crashes over basketball mix-up” via Jeremy Roebuck of The Washington Post — Sen. Schmitt’s attempt to accuse former special counsel Jack Smith of perjury unraveled after the Missouri Republican apparently confused the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks with the University of Iowa Hawkeyes. Schmitt said texts showed Smith attended an Atlanta Hawks game in February 2024 and suggested, without evidence, that Smith secretly traveled to Atlanta to meet prosecutor Fani Willis. Smith said he attended a women’s college basketball game featuring Iowa instead. Sen. Amy Klobuchar quickly highlighted the apparent mix-up; the game was in College Park, Maryland. Clips went viral, while conservative commentators Benny Johnson and Sean Hannity posted claims that Smith had lied under oath before deleting their posts. Schmitt later brushed aside the mistake.

“Trump, AI leaders embrace ‘morally binding’ safety controls” via Joe Walsh of CBS News — Trump and executives from major artificial intelligence companies signed voluntary safety standards to strengthen oversight of increasingly powerful AI systems. The accord commits companies to four layers of controls and audits, including internal evaluations, external audits, and Board reviews, and calls for regular meetings on safety practices. Trump described the agreement as “morally binding” and praised the industry’s ability to police itself. The President also discussed creating a 10-member oversight committee and said he plans to name an “AI czar.” Trump separately ordered the federal government to use “Super Intelligence” instead of artificial intelligence. Critics, including Democratic Sen. Mark Warner, argue voluntary standards should be replaced by mandatory federal testing and reporting requirements.

“Trump personally picks taxpayer-funded ads as Midterms near” via Alex Isenstadt of Axios — Trump is personally choosing government-funded television ads featuring himself as the administration prepares to expand the campaign ahead of the Midterms. The White House-produced spots tout Trump’s record and echo themes from his political campaigns, while carrying a “Paid for by the U.S. Government” disclaimer. The Department of Homeland Security is funding placements from its existing budget, with at least $2.5 million spent on more than 2,000 broadcast airings, according to AdImpact. The ads have drawn bipartisan criticism: Senate Majority Leader John Thune said their message is appropriate, but taxpayers shouldn’t pay for them, while Democrats allege an illegal use of federal funds. The White House rejects those criticisms.

“Supreme Court clears Trump’s third-country deportations, for now” via Abbie VanSickle of The New York Times — The Supreme Court temporarily cleared the Trump administration to resume rapidly deporting immigrants to countries other than their own while agreeing to hear arguments over the policy in December. The unsigned emergency order provided no vote count, though the three liberal justices said they would have rejected the administration’s request. The case centers on whether immigrants must receive an opportunity to contest removal to countries where they could face persecution or torture. The administration calls third-country deportations essential for removing certain immigrants and says restrictions disrupt operations. Lawyers challenging the policy argue people are being sent to unfamiliar countries without legally required notice or hearings. A final ruling is expected next year.

“Trump bets on AI self-policing as safety fears grow” via Ian Duncan and Cat Zakrzewski of The Washington Post — Trump is betting that artificial intelligence companies can largely police themselves, unveiling a voluntary safety accord with leading technology executives as concerns mount over increasingly powerful systems. Companies including Google, Anthropic, Meta, Nvidia, xAI and OpenAI committed to internal controls, risk assessments and external audits, though many already use similar safeguards. Trump called the agreement “morally binding” and emphasized AI’s economic promise while resisting stronger government guardrails. The approach comes after rogue AI agents reportedly probed federal websites and amid warnings from industry leaders about potential risks. Trump also launched America.gov, a government chatbot intended to eventually help Americans navigate services, including Medicare and passport renewals.

“Moody votes ‘yes’ on college sports bill after amendment, Rick Scott remains 1 of 2 GOP ‘no’ votes” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — Florida’s Republican Senators split on the Protect College Sports Act, with U.S. Sen. Moody switching to a “yes” vote after she secured an amendment to its conference realignment provision. U.S. Sen. Scott remained opposed, joining U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky as the only two Republican “no” votes as the measure passed 77-22. “In classic Washington fashion, Congress has crafted a bill that misses the mark by creating massive federal intervention and buying votes with nearly $200 MILLION in new spending for some schools,” Scott wrote. Scott’s “no” vote came in defiance of Trump, who had urged the Senate to pass the measure and had previously predicted both Moody and Scott would ultimately “come along.”

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Miami-Dade sues Doral incinerator operator for $750M, alleging gross mismanagement” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami-Dade County wants more than $750 million from the company that ran its burnt-down Doral trash incinerator. In a new lawsuit, the county alleges that Reworld Dade let fire protection equipment fall into disrepair, ignored repeated warnings and left sprinkler water valves closed before a dayslong blaze that destroyed the facility in February 2023. The fire burned for 18 days and ruined much of a facility that handled an average of 3,150 tons of county waste daily. “Reworld was responsible for operating and maintaining it, and the allegations in this lawsuit point to serious failures to meet those responsibilities,” Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said. “We are taking this action to recover the damages our County has suffered and protect our taxpayers.”

“Broward weighs 911 takeover as tensions with Gregory Tony deepen” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Broward County Commissioners are considering taking control of regional 911 services from Sheriff Tony as tensions over spending and accountability intensify. The idea surfaced after Tony and senior Broward Sheriff’s Office officials skipped a county budget workshop focused on public safety despite assurances they would attend. Commissioners blasted the absence and renewed complaints about limited oversight of the Sheriff’s spending. Commissioner Lamar Fisher proposed returning 911 operations to county control, noting Broward already owns the system’s equipment and infrastructure. The county recently voted to reclaim fire-rescue services from BSO in 2028 and is also studying separate law enforcement operations at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Orlando signs off on $1.88 billion budget as Amendment 3 looms” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Orlando officials signed off on a spending plan about $82 million higher than last year as the city braces for a potential reckoning on local budget revenues at the ballot box this Fall. Like the vast majority of Central Florida cities and counties, Orlando also kept its property tax rate flat at $6.65 per $1,000 of taxable value. “Our proposed investments continue to focus on maintaining and delivering core city services our residents depend on,” Mayor Buddy Dyer said. “We encourage residents to use the coming weeks to learn about property tax revenues and how they fund essential services and what a reduction in revenue could mean.”

“Nick Nesta ousts Radley Williams, Blanche Sherman” via Brian Bell of the Orlando Sentinel — In a shake-up of the upper echelons of city leadership, Apopka Mayor Nesta ousted the finance director and interim city administrator as he restructures the administration. Williams, interim city administrator, and Finance Director Sherman were “separated from employment” and placed on administrative leave Friday. “There was obviously some changes to the organization last week; I’m not going to address it more than that,” he told the dozens in attendance. “Feel free to say what you need to say, but I won’t be answering any questions specific to the changes that happened last Friday.”

“Florida Chamber report: Child care crunch holding back Indian River County” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — Indian River County’s child care crunch isn’t just holding back parents; it’s stunting the local economy. According to the Chamber, 65% of the child care providers it surveyed maintain a waitlist, with a combined 466 children on the waitlists for a spot. “For employers, these challenges in the childcare system can translate into absenteeism, turnover, scheduling difficulties, and a smaller available workforce,” said Katy Healy, senior vice president at Northern Trust Wealth Management and a member of the Florida Business Alliance for Early Learning.

“Legoland and Orlando attractions are giving free tickets to military, first responders” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Military members, veterans, and first responders can get free tickets to Legoland Florida and two popular Orlando attractions. Merlin Entertainments announced a special offer running from Oct. 1 to Nov. 30. The free admission also covers Madame Tussauds Orlando and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, both located at Icon Park off International Drive in Orlando. “In addition to free admission, eligible guests can receive 50% off one-day tickets for up to six accompanying guests to share the experience with family and friends,” Merlin Entertainments said.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Terri Balliet, Darryl Rouson endorse Trevor Mallory for St. Pete City Council” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Mallory has consolidated support from all three candidates eliminated in the St. Petersburg City Council District 6 Primary, while some prominent backers of his former rivals are also lining up behind him ahead of the Nov. 3 General Election. His latest endorsements include former Primary opponent Balliet, Sen. Rouson, former City Council Members Charlie Gerdes and Ed Montanari, businessman Pete Boland and former St. Petersburg NAACP President Maria Scruggs. “Trevor Mallory has served St. Petersburg by creating affordable homes, by helping our neighbors achieve home ownership, through civic service, and by mentoring our youth,” Rouson said.

“Pinellas County approves $5.14B budget with job cuts” via Breanne Williams of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Pinellas County’s upcoming $5.14 billion budget includes significant cuts, including jobs, as the county continues to reduce property taxes. The Board of County Commissioners approved the fiscal year 2027 budget on Sept. 24, reducing the general fund property tax rate from 4.5423 mills to 4.4989 mills. This is the lowest the millage rate has been since 1989. “This budget on its own has been challenging, and just the air of budget Amendment 3 that’s on the ballot this Fall is clearly in front of us. I think the message has been, whether it passes or not, we’ve got a strong message to us to make sure we’re doing things effectively, efficiently,” BOCC Chair Dave Eggers said.

“Shumaker Advisors helps Eckerd rescuers land $365K lifeline” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Shumaker Advisors helped secure nearly $365,000 in Florida’s 2026-27 budget for Eckerd College Search and Rescue, strengthening the student-run program that responds to maritime emergencies across Tampa Bay. The money will fund engine replacements, hull repairs, and waterfront dock improvements, including infrastructure that is more than 30 years old. Founded in 1971, EC-SAR is the nation’s only student-staffed maritime search-and-rescue program at an undergraduate college. Students train in medical response, navigation, firefighting and technical rescue while working alongside the Coast Guard and local emergency agencies. Shumaker’s Alan Suskey said the investment supports public safety, education and workforce development while ensuring students can continue answering emergency calls on Tampa Bay waters.

“Tampa General Hospital takes lifesaving blood delivery to the skies” via Bay News 9 — Tampa General Hospital is partnering with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and Archer First Response Systems to launch what organizers call the nation’s first blood drone delivery program. The initiative will test whether drones can rapidly transport blood products to first responders treating patients in emergencies, potentially cutting critical delivery times when minutes matter. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue will participate in the testing alongside Tampa General, bringing hospital resources closer to patients before they reach an emergency room. The program puts Tampa General at the center of another healthcare innovation effort while exploring how unmanned aircraft can strengthen emergency medical response. The pilot could provide a model for expanding drone-assisted blood delivery elsewhere.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“James Uthmeier subpoenas Jacksonville Transportation Authority amid layoffs, budget crisis” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Uthmeier has opened an investigation into the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA). Uthmeier’s prosecutors issued a subpoena to interim CEO Cleveland Ferguson for records related to tuition reimbursements and internal management communications. The probe comes after JTA laid off 194 employees to address a $39 million budget shortfall. Jacksonville City Council Member Rory Diamond raised concerns about the probe on social media Tuesday. “Now JTA (is) hit with criminal subpoenas,” Diamond wrote. “The taxpayers, riders, and the decent people fired by JTA last week deserve answers and accountability. We’ve got to do better than this.”

“City business or personal benefit? Vince Lago, Melissa Castro clash over Tallahassee trip” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Coral Gables Mayor Lago and Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson are calling for an investigation into a Tallahassee trip City Commissioner Castro made in January, citing newly published records they say show she misused public funds for personal benefit. Castro says it’s just the latest attempt by the Mayor and Vice Mayor, with whom she’s sparred publicly for years, to discredit her. “If these records are accurate, I am outraged,” he said. “Commissioner Castro owes our residents a complete explanation of why she traveled to Tallahassee days before the official city business she cited, what expenses taxpayers ultimately paid, and whether any of those expenses were connected to her personal appearance before the Commission on Ethics.”

“Gun-rights groups take Jacksonville venue rules to court” via Chris Will of News4JAX — Jacksonville is facing a lawsuit alleging legally armed visitors were denied entry or threatened with trespass at city-owned venues. Gun-rights organizations and several individuals sued the city, Mayor Donna Deegan and Sheriff T.K. Waters, arguing Florida law reserves firearm regulation to the state. The complaint cites incidents at EverBank Stadium during a non-athletic event, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, and at the Florida Theatre Building, alleging that restrictions were repeatedly enforced with law enforcement involvement. The city and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office declined to provide substantive comment because litigation is pending. The dispute follows controversy over firearm logbooks at city buildings and a separate lawsuit from AG Uthmeier seeking a $5 million fine.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Teresa Heitmann gets early end to DUI probation” via Maddie Herron of WINK News — Naples Mayor Heitmann is off probation earlier than scheduled after a Collier County judge granted her request to end it early. The court found Heitmann had paid required fees and completed community service stemming from a probation violation. Prosecutors opposed ending supervision early, arguing it could diminish the significance of probation violations. Judge Rob Crown disagreed, noting that Heitmann had already been punished for the violation and had otherwise been a “model probationer” who completed every requirement without further problems. Crown said denying her motion would effectively penalize her again. Heitmann’s probation had been scheduled to continue through May.

“FEMA sends $116 million to Florida for storm recovery” via Thad Randazzo of WWSB — FEMA approved more than $116 million for 88 Florida projects, directing federal money toward hurricane cleanup, public facility repairs and protections against future storms. Manatee County will receive nearly $44 million for emergency operations and removal of more than 1.2 million cubic yards of debris from Hurricanes Milton and Debby. Sarasota will receive more than $751,000 for Hurricane Milton damage at Indian Beach Park, while North Port will receive more than $660,000 for Hurricane Ian police costs. Pinellas County secured more than $2.6 million for inspections, emergency measures and storm shelter planning, while Lee County received millions for parks and debris cleanup. Statewide, more than $46 million will support flood-prone residences.

“The great wealth migration: Why high-net-worth individuals are choosing Florida’s Gulf Coast” via Hood Craddock and James McArthur of Florida Weekly — For many years, the influx of new residents to Southwest Florida and Tampa Bay took place due to the sunshine, sandy beaches, great golf courses, year-round warm weather and exclusive luxury communities. Florida’s absence of a state personal income tax continues to be a significant driver of relocation decisions, particularly among individuals whose income is derived from asset growth, liquidation events and investment returns. Florida has welcomed more than 2 million new residents in the past decade, leading to significant job growth and a powerful influx of capital, entrepreneurship, and wealth migration.

— TOP OPINION —

“Trump’s ‘viruses’ leave America dangerously exposed” via Thomas L. Friedman of The New York Times — Trump is leaving America dangerously exposed to three kinds of threats — digital, biological and diplomatic — while concentrating power and dismissing risks that demand sustained presidential attention. The consequences could extend far beyond politics.

Artificial intelligence is the first danger. Recent incidents involving major AI companies demonstrate how quickly advanced systems can escape controls and probe outside computer networks. Cyberattacks involving AI-enabled adversaries are also accelerating, making safeguards increasingly urgent.

Trump, however, has mocked warnings that AI could become dangerous. Bill Gates argues the opposite, warning that development needs stronger safeguards, monitoring, and government involvement before increasingly powerful systems lead to potentially catastrophic consequences.

The biological threat is already visible. The CDC has lost roughly 30% of its staff under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., weakening its ability to respond to outbreaks and provide timely vaccination guidance as measles spreads domestically and Ebola threatens abroad.

Then there is diplomacy. Trump’s Gaza peace initiative has stalled, promised reconstruction money largely hasn’t materialized, and an international stabilization force remains unrealized. The administration lacks the relentless diplomatic follow-through required to convert announcements into durable agreements.

Trump remains intensely focused on battling the press. But confronting AI risks, weakened public-health defenses and diplomatic failures requires the same sustained attention. Without it, America’s national immune system grows weaker — and the eventual price could be enormous.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Jeff Brandes: If Amendment 3 passes, Florida will need city hospice” via Florida Politics — I’m not writing to argue for or against Amendment 3. I’m writing about what comes after. Some cities will adapt. But others, particularly small towns with limited tax bases and high fixed costs, may discover they no longer make financial sense as independent governments. If the state rewrites the economics, it has an obligation to build the machinery for what comes next. That starts with a new concept in Florida law: the Minimum Viable City. Florida has standards for creating a city. It should also have standards for whether an existing one can still govern itself. In 2027, the Legislature should modernize Florida’s laws governing municipal merger and dissolution and establish an objective Minimum Viable City standard.

“Required audits remain missing as Florida’s immigration spending continues” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida law requires annual audits of emergency spending once a declared emergency lasts longer than a year. Yet DeSantis’ immigration emergency, first declared in 2023 and repeatedly extended, has continued for nearly four years without an audit being released. More than $1 billion in taxpayer money has flowed through emergency spending, including no-bid contracts and expenditures connected to Alligator Alcatraz. The Auditor General says an audit is finally under management review. CFO Ingoglia’s office maintains that reviewing emergency expenditures is the Auditor General’s responsibility. Democratic CFO candidate Taddeo disagrees, arguing the CFO also has authority to examine how state dollars are spent.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— AI —

“OpenAI ignored employees who warned it wasn’t doing enough about security” via Sheera Frenkel, Dustin Volz and Dylan Freedman of The New York Times — Months before OpenAI’s artificial intelligence went rogue, two employees raised an alarm with top executives. They were ignored. In emails, employees said they were worried that OpenAI’s newest artificial intelligence models were not being properly monitored during testing to gauge the technology’s sophistication and secure the models, according to messages viewed by The New York Times. In response, OpenAI executives told employees that the tests needed to proceed as quickly as possible to ensure the A.I. models were released on time. No additional security protocols were instituted, said the workers, who were not authorized to speak publicly on sensitive matters. Sam Altman, the chief executive, is not closely involved in security, they said.

“OpenAI takes aim at the app store with ChatGPT expansion” via Sarah Perez of TechCrunch — OpenAI is positioning ChatGPT as a potential alternative to traditional app stores, allowing users to discover, connect and operate third-party software without leaving the chatbot. ChatGPT will suggest apps during conversations when they could help complete a task, while an expanded plugin architecture lets developers build interactive interfaces directly inside the platform. “Sign in with ChatGPT” will carry users’ AI allowances into participating apps, and a new enterprise marketplace launches with more than 30 partners. OpenAI’s autonomous Dots agents further reshape the model by selecting and using connected software to complete tasks. The company says its ecosystem now includes more than 4,000 apps, though it announced no comparable billing or revenue-sharing system.

— ALOE —

“Netflix reopens the Stanford Prison Experiment with a modern twist” via Joe Otterson of Variety — Netflix is revisiting one of psychology’s most infamous studies with “The New Stanford Prison Experiment,” an unscripted series premiering Oct. 21. Thirty volunteers are placed inside a real prison and randomly assigned roles as guards or prisoners, testing how quickly power, hierarchy and control reshape their behavior. The newly released trailer shows tensions and power dynamics shifting as participants settle into their roles. The six-episode series asks whether ordinary people inevitably conform to assigned identities or whether empathy and morality can withstand institutional pressure. Its inspiration, Philip Zimbardo’s 1971 Stanford Prison Experiment, was designed to last two weeks but ended in less than one after guards began abusing prisoners, prompting lasting concerns about research ethics.

To watch the trailer, please click the image below:

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are Curt Anderson of The Associated Press, Michael Cantens, Tracy Duda Chapman, Harrison Fields, Jason Gonzalez of Lawson Huck Gonzalez PLLC, Jason Holloway, Steve Lapinski, Chris Schoonover of Capital City Consulting, and Vito Sheeley.

___

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

The post Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 9.30.26 appeared first on Florida Politics – Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government..

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