Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 7.6.26 — Burnin’ today: Ericks, Renner, Pierce, Collins, Donalds, Jolly & Shockoe

An espresso shot of Florida politics ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Monday morning. ___ Rest in peace — Some sad news to share the day after a glorious weekend celebration of America's 250th birthday: Longtime lobbyist and former owner of the legendary Clyde's & Costello's, David Linden Ericks, 77, has passed away — in his absolute favorite place in the world, Walloon Lake, Michigan — of heart failure. David Linden Ericks and Candice Ericks share a moment that reflects a lifetime in Florida politics. Ericks came to The Process the long way around: a Broward County police officer who traded the beat for the halls of the Capitol and never looked back. For more than two decades, he was South Florida's man in Tallahassee — Broward County's durable contract lobbyist, with a portfolio that ran from local governments and hospital districts to AT&T and Florida Power & Light. A pioneer member of the Florida Association of Professional Lobbyists, he built Ericks Consultants into a true family firm, working side by side with his daughter, Candice Ericks, for years. But for a generation of lawmakers, staffers, lobbyists and more than a few FSU students, Ericks will forever be the man who owned the bar. For 34 years, Clyde's & Costello's on Adams Street — steps from the Capitol — was where The Process went after hours, where deals were toasted, friendships forged and, by Ericks' own count, countless couples met. "I can't tell you over my 34 years how many people met their wives or their spouses," he said when he handed over the keys in 2020. "My daughter met her husband here." The sign he left on the door that day reads like an epitaph he'd approve of: "We had a great run … Thank you again for all the good times!" Celebrations of Ericks' life will be held in Tallahassee, Fort Lauderdale and Walloon, with details shared at a later date. ___ Every poker player knows the legend: Jack “Treetop” Straus found one forgotten chip at the 1982 World Series of Poker and turned it into a championship. Paul Renner knows that kind of political resurrection. After losing a 2014 House Primary by two votes, Renner moved south, won a Special Election and eventually became Speaker, using the gavel to pass universal school choice, tort reform and major online-safety legislation. Paul Renner still has chips on the table, but the dealer doesn't appear to be on his side. AI illustration. But the comeback metaphor breaks down in the 2026 Governor’s race. U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds is dominating the Republican field in polling, endorsements and fundraising, while Renner remains stuck in the low single digits and burning scarce cash. The better model may be Richard Corcoran, who savaged Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2018, then reconciled after the Primary and was rewarded with major education posts. Renner has said far less damaging things about Donalds. Renner also has more to trade: a conservative policy record, education credibility, a university governance perch and an endorsement that still has value before the Aug. 18 Primary. Afterward, it becomes another late consolation prize for a campaign the party has already priced accordingly. The smart play is not pretending the table has misread the cards. It is recognizing that the last chip is worth more as leverage than as a doomed final shove, especially when the nominee-in-waiting is still building a broader operation for November ahead. ___ Chesapeake Utilities adds Lance Pierce to Florida external affairs team — Chesapeake Utilities is beefing up its Florida footprint, announcing that Lance Pierce has joined the company's external affairs team in the state. Pierce will support Chesapeake Utilities' Florida operations, including Florida Public Utilities, and will help lead external affairs engagement in North Florida, covering Jackson, Liberty, Gadsden, Calhoun, Holmes, Washington, Bay and Escambia counties. His addition rounds out the company's statewide external affairs team, led by External Affairs Director Victoria Price Langan. Lance Pierce expands Chesapeake Utilities' North Florida presence. "Lance's addition reflects Chesapeake Utilities' continued commitment to Florida as we grow our presence, invest in the state's energy future and build out a strong external affairs team to support our customers and communities," Langan said. "His experience in public affairs, legislative advocacy, and association leadership will be a tremendous asset as we continue strengthening relationships across North Florida and throughout the state." Pierce most recently served as executive director of the Association of Florida Community Developers, where he oversaw membership and recruitment efforts, legislative and political operations, and worked directly with the association's Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Before leading AFCD, he served as assistant director of state legislative affairs for the Florida Farm Bureau Federation, where he led lobbying and communications efforts on agricultural legislative and political issues. "I am grateful for the opportunity to join Chesapeake Utilities and be part of a team that delivers safe, reliable energy that makes life better for the people and communities we serve," Pierce said. "I look forward to working with local leaders, stakeholders and communities across North Florida to support the company's continued commitment to the state." The company's Florida external affairs team also includes Larry Fortino, who covers Central Florida; Steve Baccino, who represents Northeast Florida; and Arian Monzon, who represents South Florida. ___ A few other items for your radar: 🏆 — Who won the week, and who lost it? In a week that gave us a Supreme Court ruling on mail ballots, historic test scores, a debate-stage face-plant and a 250th birthday party that was equal parts inspiring and embarrassing, we found room on the podium for Florida's schools, the Supervisors of Elections and Lt. Gov. Jay Collins — though not on the side of the ledger he'd prefer. And for the first time in this feature's history, one name claims both the top and bottom spots. Read our choices for Winner and Loser of the Week in Florida politics. ☀️ — Sunshine required reading — My friend Ben Kirby — who loves St. Pete like Jasper Johns loved a flag — is writing one of the more enjoyable reads on Substack, Sun Shine Republic, billed as "news, politics, life + more, from Florida's best city." His latest, an Independence Day hodgepodge, hops from the Jasper Johns "Flag" print over his desk to a fact-check of Congresswoman-elect Darializa Avila Chevalier's climate revisionism to a Walter Isaacson recommendation for the long weekend — all before he heads to New Orleans with the kids. Do yourself a favor and subscribe.

Situational awareness   —@BarackObama: America is a constant work in progress. Every generation must take up the unfinished work of the last and carry it further — protecting what’s right, fixing what’s wrong, and making our union a little more perfect. 250 years later, that’s more important than ever. Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: —@realJennaEllis: It’s been FOUR DAYS since Burnergate began and absolutely nothing from the Collins campaign. Even BEST CASE for Jay and somehow the burner accounts aren’t Layla’s (which is highly unlikely), how on earth would he deal with a real crisis?? A Governor can’t take 96 hours to hide and panic and wonder how to respond. Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet:

Days until   Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 3; 2026 Florida Python Challenge — 4; MLB All-Star Game — 8; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 10; “The Odyssey,” directed by Christopher Nolan, premieres — 11; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 14; “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” premieres — 25; “Ted Lasso” season 4 premieres — 30; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 31; Early voting period begins — 33; “Lanterns” premieres on HBO — 41; Primary Election Day — 43; “The Dog Stars,” directed by Ridley Scott, premieres — 53; 2026 Republican National Midterm Convention — 65; NFL regular season kicks off — 65; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in the first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 66; Yankees host the Mets for the 9/11 anniversary — 67; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 71; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 75; Tampa Bay Buccaneers opener against Cleveland Browns — 76; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 80; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 87; “Digger,” starring Tom Cruise and directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, premieres — 88; General Election voter registration deadline — 91; “The Social Network” sequel starring Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison premieres — 95; Early Voting General Election begins — 110; General Election — 120; “Godzilla Minus Zero” premieres — 123; “Wild Horse Nine” premieres — 123; 2026 Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 128; “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping” premieres — 137; “The Adventures of Cliff Booth,” starring Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 142; “Madden” premieres — 143; “Avengers: Doomsday” premieres — 165; “Dune: Part 3,” directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 165; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 165; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 203; 69th annual Grammy Awards — 216; Super Bowl LXI — 223; Tampa Mayoral Election — 239; 2027 Oscars — 251; Jacksonville First Election — 260; Jacksonville General Election — 316; “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse” premieres — 334; “Bluey the Movie” premieres — 396; “Miami Vice” reboot premieres — 396; “The Batman 2” premieres — 452; “Avengers: Secret Wars” premieres — 529; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 567; 2028 Oscars — 608; “Lilo & Stitch 2” premieres — 690; “Incredibles 3” premieres — 711; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 739; U.S. Presidential Election — 855; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 931; “Avatar 4” premieres — 1,255; College Football Playoff national title game in Miami — 1,295; “Avatar 5” premieres — 1,986.

Top story   "Ron DeSantis allies say Jay Collins' wife is running burner accounts critical of the Governor" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Multiple X accounts were suddenly deactivated after allegations they were tied to Layla Collins, wife of Lt. Gov. Jay Collins. As an added layer of intrigue, many of the accusations came from prominent veterans of DeSantis' communications team. Christina Pushaw, a Communications Specialist in the Governor's Office, and Jeremy Redfern, Deputy Chief of Staff to Attorney General James Uthmeier, both pointed to online sleuthing tying the accounts to the Second Lady. Pushaw shared information posted by Promota CEO Robert Salvador indicating that the account @FSUdude01670 appeared to be linked to a phone number and email similar to those known to be used by Layla Collins. Florida Politics obtained screenshots verifying this through two-factor authentication. Jay Collins and Layla Collins face growing scrutiny over alleged burner accounts. "One would think that a member of a very important state Board (she was appointed by the same Governor she's now calling a coward) would be too busy to maintain and post on these burner accounts so much. But one might be surprised," Pushaw posted. Pushaw also identified a second account, @bobnamy1, which she said appeared tied to Layla Collins as well. She said it was not just the contact information, but the content that suggested the account existed entirely to advance Jay Collins' political ambitions as he runs for Governor. "Account content is entirely comprised of two types of posts: Promoting Jay Collins, and attacking people who didn't endorse Jay, including the Governor," Pushaw posted. Redfern joined the criticism. "The thing here is that it's not BS. The FSUDude account was tied directly to her personal cellphone number," he posted. Perhaps most telling, after Pushaw and Redfern leveled their criticisms publicly, both accounts were deactivated. Florida Politics has requested comment from Jay and Layla Collins. Notably, Pushaw and Redfern have both previously served as Press Secretary for DeSantis. Redfern now works for Uthmeier, who has endorsed Donalds for Governor. DeSantis appointed Jay Collins as Lieutenant Governor last year, seemingly helping the former state Senator develop a statewide profile to run for Governor. But DeSantis has declined to endorse a preferred successor in the race. He cannot seek a third term because of term limits.

2026   "A David Jolly campaign in Florida amid an angry Democratic Summer" via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Democrats are having a hot, insurgent Summer. And then there's Jolly in Florida. The front-runner for the Democratic nomination for Governor is an even-tempered attorney, former lobbyist and political commentator who was once a Republican House member. Jolly has pledged not to engage in negative campaigning and is easily leading, almost by default. But the question remains whether Jolly's civil style can invigorate an electorate that seems to crave disruption. "People want to believe in something better right now," Jolly said. "I think it's a 1974 post-Watergate moment." Republicans have noticed. "The boring part is not a bug, it is a feature," GOP front-runner Donalds said of Jolly. "What they campaign on is being nice and trying to seem normal." David Jolly enters the General Election spotlight with Republicans already taking aim. "Byron Donalds widens fundraising lead in Governor’s race" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds continues to dominate the Republican race for Governor, with campaign finance reports showing nearly $90 million raised between his campaign and political committee through June 26. Nearly $2 million came in during the latest reporting period, fueling a $20 million statewide advertising campaign and reinforcing a growing list of endorsements from top Florida Republicans. Meanwhile, Collins, James Fishback and Renner remain well behind financially. Collins raised little new money during the week, Fishback continued to rely heavily on a single major donor, and Renner posted modest fundraising totals. The latest reports underscore Donalds’ commanding financial advantage heading into the Aug. 18 Republican Primary. "Tina Polsky backs Alex Vindman in U.S. Senate bid" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Another member of the Florida Senate has lined up behind the Democrat's U.S. Senate campaign. Sen. Polsky, a Boca Raton Democrat, said she wants retired Army Lt. Col. Vindman to take on Republican U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody in November, pointing to his history as a whistleblower against President Donald Trump. "I am proud to endorse Alex because I know he will be a fighter for everyday Floridians, unlike Ashley Moody, who is only fighting for herself and her billionaire donors," Polsky said. The endorsement came shortly after Senate Minority Leader Lori Berman announced her support. While Vindman has focused his rhetoric on Moody, the support from sitting lawmakers could prove most valuable as he faces state Rep. Angie Nixon, a Jacksonville Democrat, in an Aug. 18 Primary.

More elections   "Voter registration deadline approaches for Primary Election" via Joshua Ceballos of WLRN — Election season is around the corner — and not just for the Midterms in November. Primary Elections begin in August for cities and counties around the Sunshine State. That means party-based races for registered Democrats and Republicans, as well as important ballot referendums and smaller local races for all voters. In Miami-Dade County, which includes School Board seats, County Commission races, and city ballot items affecting election dates and infrastructure projects. People who are not registered to vote have until July 20 to sign up in time for the Aug. 18 Primary. To sign up online, visit RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov. Residents can register in person at their local Supervisor of Elections branch office or by mail. Voter registration deadlines are approaching faster than many campaigns would prefer. “‘Who should I vote for?’ Voters turn to AI before casting their ballots” via Jennifer Medina of The New York Times — Voters are turning to new AI tools to serve as nonpartisan researchers, viewing them as a viable alternative to traditional news coverage, voter guides or social media. They provide an appealing and seemingly efficient way to learn about campaigns and ballot measures, allowing users to bypass the sometimes-dizzying array of political literature, advertising and commentary coming their way. But some experts warn that the tools are far from foolproof: The results they produce can be marred by factual errors or shaped by flawed assumptions. Anthropic, the parent company of Claude, has said users asking about political topics “should get comprehensive, accurate, and balanced responses — responses that help them reach their own conclusions rather than steer them toward a particular viewpoint.” “'Shev has never backed down': LGBTQ+ Victory Fund endorses Shevrin Jones for Congress” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — The LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, a national organization dedicated to electing LGBTQ+ people to public office, is endorsing the Miami Gardens Democrat in the race for Florida’s 24th Congressional District. “Shev Jones has spent his career proving that authentic representation changes lives. From becoming Florida’s first openly gay state Senator to standing on the front lines against attacks on our community, Shev has never backed down from the toughest fights,” said Victory Fund President & CEO Evan Low. “His election would make him the only openly gay member of Congress representing the South, ensuring LGBTQ+ people across the region have a voice in Washington at a time when our rights are under relentless attack.”

Even more elections   First on #FlaPol — “Ruth's List Florida endorses 16 more 'pro-choice' women candidates across Florida” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Ruth's List Florida has announced endorsements for 16 Democratic women who support abortion rights in Florida races ranging from CFO to City Council. The statewide slate includes Annette Taddeo for CFO; Lauren Book, Ashley Gantt and Rosalind Osgood for Senate; Emily Gregory, Lisa Klein and Lindsay Polega-Quigley for House; Danielle Cohen Higgins and Katherine Waldron for County Commission; and Maura McCarthy Bulman, Megan Tennimon and Nancy Velardi for School Board. Municipal candidates include Tallahassee Mayor Loranne Ausley, North Miami Vice Mayor Kassandra Timothe and Palm Coast Council candidate Dee Galery. “Every one of these women,” Ruth’s List CEO Christina Diamond said, “will have our team beside them — raising money, building coalitions, and executing the kind of hands-on campaign support that turns great candidates into elected officials.” Ruth's List Florida rolls out another slate of Democratic endorsements statewide. "Cord Byrd wants to keep Paula Stark off the ballot after her last-minute filing disaster" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Five state employees dispute the St. Cloud Republican's account of a paperwork mix-up. In the state's response to Stark's Leon Circuit Court lawsuit, Secretary of State Cord Byrd asks the court to keep her off the ballot, submitting sworn declarations that Stark's Treasurer and partner, Joel Davis, never filed the crucial Form 6 — and that it was not accidentally handed back. "Had Candidate Stark or Treasurer Davis 'exercised the slightest degree of care or prudence in the matter' by questioning why the Form 6 was allegedly handed back, 'the mistake would have been discovered,'" Byrd said in his filing. Byrd also noted overseas military ballots were required to be mailed by July 4, with vote-by-mail ballots going out July 9-16: "The Universal Primary Contest for House District 47 is already underway and reversing course would be costly and likely risk confusion and uncertainty in the results of this and other races on the ballot." Save the date: "Stephanie Murphy dominates fundraising in Orange County Mayor’s race" via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Former U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy has built a commanding fundraising advantage in the Orange County Mayor’s race, collecting nearly $1.5 million between her campaign and political committee as the four-candidate field approaches the Aug. 18 Primary. Major contributions include $100,000 from Michael Bloomberg and $100,000 from Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, alongside six other six-figure donations. County Commissioner Mayra Uribe has raised about $808,000, while Clerk Tiffany Moore Russell has collected roughly $325,000 and businessman Chris Messina about $134,000. The contest has already surpassed fundraising totals from the last open-seat race, reflecting intense interest in overseeing Orange County’s $8 billion-plus budget and regional influence.

Statewide   A must-read — "After being haunted by decades, Groveland Four families receive $4 million from Florida" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Seventy-seven years after Ernest Thomas was shot more than 400 times by an angry mob in Lake County after being falsely accused of raping a White teenager, the state is giving Groveland Four descendants $4 million as compensation. The money was included in the 2026-27 state budget that DeSantis recently signed. "While no amount of money can erase the pain of the injustice they endured, this $4 million represents a long-overdue acknowledgment of the harm that was done and our responsibility to make it right," said Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis, who shepherded the efforts through the Legislature. Aaron Newson, Thomas' nephew, will split $1 million with nine family members. "We're elated. Everybody is. It's been a long fight. It finally happened." Ernest Thomas' family finally sees long-delayed justice acknowledged. Image via Florida Memory. "DeSantis blocks sovereign immunity overhaul" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — DeSantis has vetoed legislation that would have modestly increased Florida’s sovereign immunity caps for the first time since 2010, rejecting a bipartisan proposal that lawmakers scaled back to broaden support. The measure, sponsored by Fiona McFarland and Jason Brodeur, would have raised compensation limits for victims of government negligence to $350,000 per person and $500,000 per incident while allowing local governments to settle larger claims without legislative approval. DeSantis argued higher caps would encourage frivolous lawsuits and said the current claims bill process already provides relief in deserving cases. Supporters countered that the bill would have modernized outdated limits and provided fairer compensation, while local governments warned it would expose taxpayers to higher costs and insurance premiums. “After ‘Alcatraz,’ environmentalists have a new target: the runway in the Everglades” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — With the one-time immigration detention camp known as “Alligator Alcatraz” closed down, environmental groups say the time has come to turn the remote airport into an environmental preserve. That could include ripping up the jumbo runway that sparked a huge environmental fight decades ago. Miami-Dade County owns the 17,000-acre expanse of wetlands that surrounds what’s officially known as the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport, a sleepy airfield 45 miles west of Miami International Airport. DeSantis seized the airport in the Summer of 2025 for use as a temporary detention facility for immigration offenders awaiting deportation. “Now that the detention center is closed to detainees, it is paramount that transparency and public input guide the next steps for this culturally and ecologically significant part of the Everglades,” Friends of the Everglades wrote in a letter Thursday to Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. "AI policing expansion steers millions toward connected contractor" via Jeffrey Schweers of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida is expanding its use of artificial intelligence in law enforcement through a growing partnership with Peregrine Technologies, a California company with ties to influential Republican political figures. The company has secured agreements with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and dozens of local agencies to integrate records ranging from arrest reports and body camera footage to license plate data into a single investigative platform. More than $16 million in state immigration enforcement grants has been awarded to agencies purchasing Peregrine’s software, while budget language directs another $6 million toward a similar statewide system. Civil liberty advocates question the procurement process and warn about privacy risks, while law enforcement agencies say the technology improves investigative efficiency without replacing detectives.

D.C. matters   Good! — "Mining giant Mosaic among sponsors for Donald Trump's Freedom 250 bash" via Max Chesnes and Katelyn Ferral of the Tampa Bay Times — As celebrations ramp up for America's 250th birthday this week, Tampa-based mining giant Mosaic is providing a sponsorship boost to the Trump administration's party. The fertilizer producer is listed as a "patriotic partner" of Freedom 250, a limited liability corporation created by the National Parks Foundation to plan and execute events at national parks and monuments for the country's 250th anniversary. Mosaic is one of 20 corporations that are sponsoring Freedom 250, alongside Palantir, ExxonMobil and Chevron. Mosaic's sponsorship comes as it seeks federal approval to expand its phosphate mining waste pile in Hillsborough County, a project that could extend the lifespan of the company's Riverview plant by more than 15 years. Freedom 250 blends patriotism, politics and plenty of corporate sponsorship. "America used to be exceptionally patriotic. Now we're below average." via Eli McKown-Dawson and Nate Silver of Silver Bulletin — Compared to most countries, we're now a little below average in patriotism. In 2004, Gallup found that 69% of U.S. adults were "extremely proud" to be an American. Fast forward to 2026, and just 33% of adults are extremely proud to be American. Throughout the late 20th century, the U.S. was a patriotic outlier compared to other large developed nations and our peers in Western Europe. We're 34th out of 45 qualifying countries. Americans are no prouder of their country than the Brits are. That decline in pride has happened across the board, but it's been most pronounced among Democrats, particularly since Trump entered the political scene. Still, Trump seems to be the bigger story here, and perhaps even caused a permanent shift in attitudes. "Supreme Court's dramatic moves will reshape elections — and give the GOP a Midterm boost" via Justin Jouvenal and Patrick Marley of The Washington Post — The Supreme Court dramatically reshaped elections in recent months, sharply limiting a law that has been a cornerstone of minority voter empowerment, allowing states to gerrymander maps and loosening campaign finance regulations. Most of the rulings, which have rolled out as the country heads toward pivotal Midterm Elections, benefit Republicans. Legal experts said the justices' intervention amid an election cycle and the pace at which the court is moving to implement changes that largely benefit one party is all but unprecedented in recent years. Liberal Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson issued a sharp rebuke. "The Court unshackles itself from both constraints today and dives into the fray," Jackson wrote in a dissent. "And just like that, those principles give way to power." "Carlos Giménez urges TPS protection for Haitians" via Ashleigh Fields of The Hill — U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez is urging the Trump administration to preserve Temporary Protected Status for Haitians despite a recent Supreme Court ruling allowing the administration to rescind the designation. Giménez called deporting Haitians to their homeland “a huge mistake,” citing Haiti’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, political instability and widespread gang violence. He also argued Venezuelans affected by recent earthquakes should retain similar protections. While emphasizing that TPS should remain temporary and recipients should pursue permanent legal status when eligible, Giménez said the program exists to protect people fleeing failed states or countries unable to safely receive them. Roughly 350,000 Haitians could lose work authorization and face deportation if TPS protections are not restored. "Bill Pulte begins firing dozens of intelligence officials" via Vaughn Hillyard and David Rohde of MS NOW — Dozens of intelligence officials began receiving notice of their terminations on Thursday under Bill Pulte, the new acting director of national intelligence. An intelligence official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to potential reprisal, said the individuals being removed by the Trump administration are officials "who they believe are deep state." Intelligence leadership alleges that the fired workers have not provided complete intelligence, the official said. The moves come after Pulte's elimination last month of six political appointees who served under Tulsi Gabbard, the previous director of national intelligence. Four former senior intelligence officials said they had never heard of intelligence officials withholding information from their superiors. Both former officials noted that Pulte's office itself does not collect intelligence. Bill Pulte begins reshaping the intelligence community. “Trump pardons violators of the Clean Air Act and a major donor” via Kenneth P. Vogel and Karen Zraick of The New York Times — The White House announced Trump had issued pardons to 11 men, most of whom had been convicted of crimes related to the Clean Air Act, a bedrock environmental law. Trump also pardoned Adam Kidan, a major donor to Republicans, including Trump. He had served about two and a half years in prison for his role in a fraud scheme involving the disgraced former lobbyist Jack Abramoff. The Clean Air Act pardons benefited people who had sold or installed devices for diesel trucks that defeated their emissions controls, making them far more polluting. It was the latest move by the Trump administration to undermine laws intended to fight climate change and curb air pollutants that harm human health. Republicans and their allies in the business community have cast enforcement of the Clean Air Act as a hindrance to commerce and an undue burden on those who rely on diesel engines.

Local: S. FL   "DeSantis appointees seek removal of longtime Keys college president" via Jim McCarthy of Keys Weekly — A newly reshaped College of the Florida Keys Board of Trustees is exploring whether to terminate President Jonathan Gueverra, who has led the institution for 13 years. Six of the Board’s seven members have been appointed by DeSantis within the past six months, continuing the administration’s broader effort to reshape leadership at Florida colleges. Trustees voted to consult legal counsel on whether grounds exist to end Gueverra’s contract, citing concerns over leadership, relations with the Board and the college’s inability to secure key state appropriations. Some members praised Gueverra’s record of expanding academic programs and guiding the college through major milestones, while local leaders defended his tenure and urged the Board to retain him. Jonathan Gueverra faces uncertainty after a reshaped Board questions his future. "'This is the American dream': In Sunrise, immigrant families line the streets to celebrate America's 250th birthday" via Shira Moolten of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Rosa Castro stood outside of her new home in Sunrise on Saturday in a cowboy hat with her husband and her two children. Her family joined dozens of other Sunrise residents celebrating America's 250th birthday at the "Stars and Stripes: 250 Years of Smiles" parade Saturday morning, many of them immigrants. In Sunrise, nearly all the parade participants who spoke to the Sun-Sentinel had originally emigrated to the U.S. from other countries, including Peru, Cuba, Jamaica, Trinidad, and India. Toward the beginning of the parade, Martha Rampersad stood with her 15-year-old goddaughter in the shade of a bus stop. "I have a daughter who's a nurse and a son who's a schoolteacher," Rampersad said. "This is the American dream." “West Palm Beach Mayor blames $38M problem on ‘predecessors.’ Ex-Mayor pushes back” via Andrew Marra of The Palm Beach Post — As the cost of repairing West Palm Beach’s mold-infested police headquarters spikes, a former Mayor is pushing back against Mayor Keith James’ attempts to blame her for the growing financial quagmire. James has been Mayor for more than seven years, but he and his administration have assigned fault for the building’s extensive water and mold damage to previous administrations that they say failed to maintain the facility properly. “Unlike predecessors, I didn’t just paint over the mold and pretend it didn’t exist,” James said. Last month, the estimated cost of repairs to the downtown headquarters jumped to $38 million, up from $6 million in August.

Local: C. FL   “Fort Meade residents launch campaign to remove three Commissioners” Gary White of the Lakeland Ledger — Despite passionate statements of opposition at public meetings, Fort Meade residents could not persuade City Commissioners to halt plans for a massive data center. Now, some residents have launched a campaign to remove three Commissioners who approved the project. Citizens are gathering signatures in hopes of calling elections to remove Mayor Jared Landon Williams, Vice Mayor Petrina McCutchen and Commissioner Matthew Taylor. It is thought to be the first recall effort ever undertaken in Fort Meade. Though the petitions cite alleged violations of duty unrelated to the data center votes, that issue clearly motivates those pushing for the Commissioners' removal. The effort is led by an informal group called Watchdogs of Fort Meade. Jared Landon Williams faces a growing recall effort in Fort Meade. Latino leaders to rally Orange County voters ahead of 2026 Primary — U.S. Rep. Maxwell Alejandro Frost will join Colombian, Puerto Rican, Venezuelan and other Latino community leaders Monday to launch a nonpartisan effort to boost voter registration and turnout ahead of the 2026 Midterms. One in every three Orange County residents is Latino, and this year's ballot reflects the community's growing political power, with 23 Latino candidates appearing on the November ballot. Joining Frost are Jimmy Torres, president of Boricua Vota; William Diaz of Casa de Venezuela and Casa Colombiana in the USA; and Carlos Acuña of Casa Colombiana. The event begins at 11 a.m. at Taino Bakery, 5806 Lake Underhill Rd., in Orlando. Media RSVP: Press@FrostforCongress.com.

Local: TB   "Property tax reform could cost Tampa Bay hundreds of millions while deepening homeowner divide" via Breanne Williams of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Hillsborough County estimates it could lose as much as $367 million in annual revenue — roughly 88% of which funds public safety. Pinellas County estimates it will lose $109 million in fiscal year 2028 and $161 million in fiscal year 2029. The City of Tampa estimates the amendment would cut at least $35 million in property tax revenue in 2028 and at least $60 million in 2029 and beyond. "What will happen is we will have to implement, as every other city and county will have to do, a fee-based cost for police, for fire, for parks and recreation, for all of those things that our community gets to enjoy now through the property tax," Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said. Jane Castor warns property tax changes could reshape local government budgets. “Rays launch contractor search for proposed $2.3 billion Tampa ballpark” via Emma Behrmann of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — The search for who could build the Tampa Bay Rays proposed $2.3 billion ballpark at Hillsborough College is on. The Rays launched a request for qualifications for a construction manager-at-risk, seeking more information as the team eyes a new ballpark by opening day 2029. The selected firm would provide preconstruction services, negotiate a guaranteed maximum price, and, if the stadium deal receives final approval from Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa, build the stadium and associated sitework. The RFQ was issued by the Rays — not the county or city — and comes as officials negotiate definitive agreements needed to finalize the stadium deal.

Local: N. FL   "Florida Theatre launches military membership program" via Malina Cureton of Action News Jax — The Florida Theatre has introduced a new Stars & Stripes Membership honoring America’s 250th birthday and recognizing active-duty service members, veterans and retired military personnel. The $200 annual membership includes unlimited access to the PNC Lounge during most performances, member presales, discounted ticket pricing, a dedicated entrance on Newnan Street and a personalized membership card. Participants also will be recognized in Ovation magazine and the Florida Theatre’s annual report. Theatre officials said the program celebrates the service and sacrifice of the nation’s military community while expanding benefits for eligible patrons. Those interested in joining can contact the theater’s membership department directly for enrollment information and additional details about the new program. The Florida Theatre salutes military members with its new Stars & Stripes Membership.

Local: SW. FL   "Hurricane Ian recovery grants target four Florida communities" via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Four Florida communities are receiving a combined $7.2 million in additional federal recovery funding through the Hurricane Ian Hazard Mitigation Grant Match Program to strengthen infrastructure and improve storm preparedness. Charlotte County will receive more than $5.9 million for a public works hurricane-safe room generator and a leachate waste plant generator. The Port of the Islands Community Improvement District is receiving $750,840 for water storage and infrastructure upgrades, while Seminole County will receive $319,437 for a mitigation reconstruction project and Palatka $283,996 for a lift station generator. The grants, administered by FloridaCommerce with FEMA support, require matching local funds and build on more than $12 million previously awarded after Hurricane Ian. Hurricane Ian recovery projects continue years after the storm.

Top opinion   "America used to be exceptionally patriotic. Now we're below average." via Eli McKown-Dawson and Nate Silver of Silver Bulletin — The vibes aren't anywhere near where they were for the bicentennial. In 2004, Gallup found that 69% of U.S. adults were "extremely proud" to be an American. The fourth wave of the World Values Survey (WVS) also ended that year and showed that a similar share of Americans, 71%, were "very proud" to be American. Fast forward to 2026, and just 33% of adults are extremely proud to be American, according to Gallup. Historically, American pride was somewhat exceptional when compared to other countries, so much so that the American tourist who slaps an American flag on everything is a common trope. In the first WVS wave, concluded in 1984, 95% of Americans were very or quite proud of their nationality. That figure was higher than the average share in Latin America (83%) and much higher than the European average of 77%. Fast forward to 2022, and "just" 78% of Americans were very proud or quite proud of their nationality; that's a 17-point drop since the 1980s and lower than the 2022 European average of 81%. Among countries with populations of at least 100 million or OECD membership, the U.S. ranks 34th out of 45. Americans are no prouder of their country than the Brits are. That decline in pride has happened across the board, but it's been most pronounced among Democrats, particularly since Trump entered the political scene. During George W. Bush's second term, an average of 58% of Democrats were extremely proud to be American, according to Gallup. That share fell to an average of 30% during Trump's first term and was just 14% in the most recent Gallup poll. Although Republicans are generally more patriotic, their opinions can shift based on who occupies 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, too. The share of Republicans extremely proud to be American fell from 79% on average during Bush's second term to 60% during Joe Biden's term. What happened after Trump retook office? It jumped right back up to 74%.

More opinions   "DeSantis veto leaves naturopathic doctors locked out" via Dr. Marney Johnson of Natural Path to Wellness — DeSantis’ veto of CS/SB 688 rests on a flawed reading of what the bill actually did. The measure was not about regulating supplements, replacing medical doctors or limiting patient choice. It would have reopened a licensing pathway for naturopathic doctors trained at accredited schools and tested by national Boards. Florida already makes unlicensed naturopathic medicine a felony, yet has issued no license since 1959. That leaves qualified professionals unable to practice and patients without a clear way to verify credentials. Licensure would have expanded access, created accountability, protected professional titles and established oversight. Instead, a broadly supported bill was rejected, leaving an outdated barrier in place for Florida patients. "World Cup spotlights Europe’s economic trade-offs" via René Rabeder of Florida Politics — Europe’s generous vacation policies and social benefits come with a growing economic burden that becomes harder to ignore beneath the spectacle of the World Cup. Higher labor taxes help finance pensions, healthcare and paid leave, but aging populations and shrinking workforces are placing increasing strain on those systems. Belgium, Germany, France, Austria and Italy all rank well above the OECD average in labor tax burdens, while governments debate raising retirement ages and reforming pension programs. Against that backdrop, the tournament offers a brief escape before economic realities return. If the United States defeats Belgium, it will send home another European team, while confronting long-term fiscal pressures as America advances to the quarterfinals.

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WORLD CUP   Breaking late Sunday — "Norway shocks Brazil to reach World Cup quarterfinals" via Hannah Keyser of CNN — Erling Haaland scored twice in the final 11 minutes to lift Norway past five-time World Cup champion Brazil 2-1 and into the quarterfinals for the first time. Haaland broke a scoreless deadlock in the 79th minute before adding a second goal just before the end of regulation. Neymar converted a late penalty after coming off the bench, but Brazil ran out of time to complete a comeback. Brazil missed an earlier penalty when Bruno Guimarães failed to convert after a VAR review awarded the spot kick. Goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland made several key saves as Norway completed one of the tournament’s biggest upsets and eliminated one of international soccer’s traditional powers. Erling Haaland sends Brazil home and Norway into uncharted World Cup territory. “Folarin Balogun’s 1-game ban suspended by FIFA, allowing U.S. forward to play vs. Belgium” via The Associated Press — Balogun’s one-game ban was suspended by FIFA on Sunday, allowing the forward to play in the United States’ World Cup round of 16 game against Belgium on Monday. Balogun, who leads the Americans with three goals, received a red card for stepping on the foot of Tarik Muharemović of Bosnia and Herzegovina in a 2-0 round of 32 win on Wednesday. “The implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” FIFA announced. “If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement.” "Trump call precedes rare FIFA reversal on Balogun suspension" via Tyler Pager and Tariq Panja of The New York Times — Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino after Balogun received a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, asking him to review the striker’s automatic World Cup suspension, according to people familiar with the conversation. Days later, FIFA announced Balogun would be eligible to face Belgium, marking the first time since 1962 that a player sent off during a World Cup was allowed to play the next match. FIFA cited a one-year probationary suspension without explaining the unusual decision. Belgium’s soccer federation protested the ruling, while critics questioned whether Trump’s close relationship with Infantino influenced an unprecedented disciplinary reversal benefiting the United States. "Lost dog spotted in the crowd at a World Cup celebration" via Maggie Penman and Maia Nehme of The Washington Post — The night Mexico won a World Cup match against the Czech Republic, Ale García was at home. García had been searching for her runaway dog, La Gorda, for a month and was heartbroken and worried about the pup. Sure enough, a Mexico fan had lifted the dog in a moment of joy and was dancing with her in Ciudad Victoria, near the local stadium where fans were celebrating in northeast Mexico. The two drove to the celebration location and started calling La Gorda's name. Within moments, the dog ran to them, thin and limping but happy to see García. "I was so surprised because she went to so many places this month," García said. "She was walking all over the city." "Meet the barista who keeps the U.S. World Cup team grounded" via Rick Maese of The Washington Post — She's not the team's goalkeeper. She'd certainly look out of place roaming the middle of the field, but Becky Reeves is still a grinder and occupies a key position for the U.S. men's national team. Her official title: team barista. Every day of this tournament, Reeves estimated, she has made between 150 and 200 drinks, a caffeine load that would require a full staff at a chain cafe. "It means a lot to have a barista with us," said defender Joe Scally, the team's top bean head. "I think Becky's an unbelievable woman who gets us fueled in the mornings and in the afternoons to kind of get us mentally feeling good, to give us that energy, that extra kick, to get us over the edge."

Aloe   "New Richmond museum confronts slavery through America’s story" via Gregory S. Schneider of The Washington Post — A new museum in Richmond is using the history of slavery to frame America’s ongoing pursuit of freedom rather than diminish the nation’s founding ideals. The Shockoe Institute, built near one of the South’s busiest slave markets, combines historical records, personal stories and immersive exhibits to examine how slavery shaped the United States while emphasizing the country’s struggle to expand liberty. Leaders say the project complements, rather than contradicts, celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary by presenting a fuller account of the nation’s past. The institute is the first phase of a planned national memorial to the domestic slave trade and is intended to foster research, education and civic dialogue about one of America’s defining chapters. Shockoe Institute explores America's unfinished conversation about race and history.

Happy birthday   Celebrating today are Sen. Joe Gruters, former Rep. MaryLynn Magar, and Susanne Dudley. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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