Governor signs local bills affecting Duval Schools and Aviation Board, removing Nassau County panel

HEADLINES The bills all make subtle tweaks to governance structures.


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Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 6.9.26 — Burnin’ today: Crist, Bardos, earthquake, Jolly, Graham, Jones & Summer fun

Sunburn: Where Florida politics wakes up ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Tuesday morning. St. Petersburg mayoral candidate Charlie Crist raised more than $330,000 from the beginning of March through the end of May, bringing his total haul to more than $1.6 million. The fundraising activity includes nearly $273,000 raised for Crist’s affiliated political committee, St. Pete Shines, and more than $54,000 raised for his official campaign. More than 150 donors have contributed to Crist’s campaign since he officially entered the race in late April, according to officials with the political committee and campaign, respectively. Charlie Crist reports a new fundraising surge in the St. Petersburg mayoral race. "I don't take a single contribution for granted, especially in this economy,” Crist said of his latest fundraising haul. “That's why I am more grateful than ever for the generous support of my friends and neighbors." With the Mayoral Primary drawing closer — early voting begins Aug. 8, and the deadline to request a mail ballot is Aug. 6 — St. Pete Shines and the Crist campaign are making a six-figure investment into vote-by-mail. A copy of a flier obtained by Florida Politics includes a QR code recipients can scan to be taken directly to the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections vote-by-mail request page and a phone number to call to request a mail ballot for those who prefer not to make the request online. The flier notes that mail ballot requests expire after every General Election, meaning voters must request them each election. It also assures voters that “voting by mail is secure and convenient,” noting that the ballot “can be tracked and securely returned.” The flier also includes the vote-by-mail request deadline, the early voting dates (Aug. 8-15) and Election Day (Aug. 18). "Throughout my political career, I've made it my top priority to ensure everyone has the opportunity to vote, which is our most sacred right,” Crist said, pointing to one of his most defining acts during his tenure as the state’s chief executive, restoring voting rights to some 155,000 Floridians with prior felony convictions. It was the largest voting-rights restoration by a Governor in Florida's history. Incumbent Mayor Ken Welch has been significantly trailing Crist in fundraising activity. Neither Welch’s campaign nor its affiliated political committee, St. Pete Progress, filed campaign reports covering activity beyond March, but Welch raised just under $220,000 in the first quarter of 2026 between the two funding sources. He had less than $193,000 on hand at the time. During the same period, Crist more than doubled Welch’s fundraising and had $1.1 million left on hand. —”St. Pete faith leaders endorse Ken Welch for re-election” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics ___ Veteran appellate attorney Andy Bardos has joined Shutts & Bowen’s Tallahassee office as a partner in the firm’s Appellate Practice Group. Bardos brings more than two decades of experience handling complex litigation and appeals for public and private-sector clients, with a practice that has included constitutional, election, redistricting and administrative law matters. “We are thrilled to welcome an attorney as widely respected as Andy to the firm,” said Jack McElroy, firmwide managing partner of Shutts & Bowen. “His experience and reputation, especially in complex constitutional and government-related matters, make him an outstanding addition to the firm and further strengthen our deep bench of appellate talent statewide.” Andy Bardos joins Shutts & Bowen’s Tallahassee office. Over the course of his career, Bardos has represented state agencies and government entities in several high-profile legal disputes. His work has included defending the Florida Department of State and county Supervisors of Elections in challenges to state election laws, representing the Florida House in redistricting litigation and defending the Legislature in constitutional challenges involving appropriations. He also served on the legal team representing then-Gov. Rick Scott and the National Republican Senatorial Committee during the closely watched 2018 U.S. Senate recount litigation. “Andy has handled some of the most closely watched legal matters in Florida over the last two decades,” said Daniel Nordby, Chair of Shutts & Bowen’s Appellate Practice Group. “His depth of experience in appellate litigation, constitutional law and government matters enhances our ability to guide clients in high-stakes disputes at both the trial and appellate levels.” ___ Breaking late Monday — “Largest-ever earthquake in Gulf shakes up Florida” via Roger Simmons, Silas Morgan and Steven Lemongello of the Orlando Sentinel — A historic earthquake west of Havana was felt across Florida Monday afternoon, rattling residents from Miami and Fort Lauderdale to Orlando, Tampa and Tallahassee. The quake, initially measured at 6.4 magnitude before being revised to 6.1, struck at 2 p.m. about 73 miles northwest of western Cuba. The U.S. Geological Survey said it was the largest earthquake ever observed in the Gulf, an unusual event far from the active boundary between the North American and Caribbean plates. The National Weather Service said there was no tsunami threat for Florida or Cuba. Buildings shook in Havana, but no injuries or damage were immediately reported.

Situational awareness   —@mattyglesias: The whole Spencer Pratt thing is like liberals being confused that Wendy Davis didn’t do well — he’s a Republican running in a big liberal city in an off-year election in the context of an incredibly unpopular Republican President, what was supposed to happen here? —@AnnCoulter: Of all the selfish, narcissistic things (Donald) Trump has done, attending MSG to see the Knicks play in person Monday night is the absolute worst. 20,000 attendees will be MASSIVELY inconvenienced for all the extra security, the Knicks Watch Party at Garden is canceled, thousands of extra law enforcement officers will be required (paid for by taxpayers), traffic will be a disaster — all so he can sit in the Garden rather than watch the game on TV. Presidents ought to be willing to sacrifice once in a while. —@MichelleSalzmann: Former Republican, turned independent, turned liberal domocrat @davidjollyfl picking Gwen Graham is a radical partnership Florida can’t afford. The idea that she’ll bring Panhandle conservatives over to his side is a pipe dream. There can only be one Queen of the North, and I’m not going to let her destroy everything we’ve built! @byrondonalds is the only choice to keep Florida on the right track! Tweet, tweet:

Days until   Gov. Ron DeSantis joins Dave Rubin, Ben Shapiro, Jillian Michaels and Adam Carolla for ‘Florida Man’ at The Fillmore Miami Beach — 2; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 2; Steven Spielberg's 'Disclosure Day' premieres — 3; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices — 3; Flag Day — 5; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 — 5; Trump's 80th birthday — 5; 'Toy Story 5' premieres — 10; House of the Dragon season 3 premiere — 12; The final season of ‘The Bear’ premieres — 16; 'Supergirl' premieres — 17; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 17; live-action 'Moana' premieres — 22; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 25; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 30; 2026 Florida Python Challenge — 31; MLB All-Star Game — 35; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 37; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 41; 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' premieres — 52; 'Ted Lasso' season 4 premieres — 57; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 58; Early voting period begins — 60; 'Lanterns' premieres on HBO — 68; Primary Election Day — 70; NFL regular season kicks off — 92; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 93; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 94; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 98; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 102; Tampa Bay Buccaneers opener against Cleveland Browns — 103; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 107; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 114; General Election voter registration deadline — 118; Early Voting General Election begins — 137; General Election — 147; 'Godzilla Minus Zero' premieres — 150; 2026 Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 155; 'The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping' premieres — 164; Brad Pitt returns as Cliff Booth, his Academy-award winning role, in a film directed by David Fincher, written by Quentin Tarantino — 169; 'Avengers: Doomsday' premieres — 192; 'Dune: Part 3' premieres — 192; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 192; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 230; 69th annual Grammy Awards — 243; Super Bowl LXI — 250; Tampa Mayoral Election — 266; 2027 Oscars — 278; Jacksonville First Election — 287; Jacksonville General Election — 343; 'Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse' premieres — 361; 'Bluey the Movie' premieres — 423; 'MIAMI VICE' reboot premieres — 423; 'The Batman 2' premieres — 479; 'Avengers: Secret Wars' premieres — 556; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 594; 2028 Oscars — 635; 'Lilo & Stitch 2' premieres — 717; 'Incredibles 3' premieres — 738; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 766; U.S. Presidential Election — 882; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 958; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,282; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,322; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,013.

Top story   "Gwen Graham named as David Jolly's running mate by Tallahassee pastor" via Jim Rosica of the Tallahassee Democrat — A surprise mention of Graham as Democrat Jolly's would-be running mate surfaced at a Tallahassee church during the June 7 service, even as Jolly's campaign stays silent on any decision. The Rev. RB Holmes, pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, introduced Graham — daughter of the late Gov. and U.S. Sen. Bob Graham and a former Tallahassee Congresswoman — who attended with husband Steve Hurm and sat beside Jolly senior adviser Gayle Andrews. Gwen Graham and David Jolly fuel running mate speculation in Tallahassee. "Gwen Graham will be selected by David Jolly this week as his running mate and Lieutenant Governor," Holmes said in a video of the service posted online. Graham pressed her hands together and turned to acknowledge applause from the pews. "Well, congratulations. I wouldn't have done it, but you did it," added Holmes, the campaign's faith leadership Chair, praising her courage to run again. Graham ran for Governor in 2018 but lost the Democratic Primary to then-Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum, who went on to lose to current GOP Gov. DeSantis. The campaign isn't confirming it. Contacted for comment, it replied with a statement from senior adviser Mark Riddle: "We don't have anything to announce at this time."

Property tax battle   “Florida property tax cuts may put bonds at risk” via Robert Slavin of The Bond Buyer — Officials and municipal finance experts are warning that a proposed property tax cut headed to the November ballot could strain local budgets and threaten bond repayment. The measure would raise the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, cutting revenues for counties, cities and special districts, while exempting schools. Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano said he is “quite concerned about those bonds,” noting the plan does not mention debt payments. House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell warned services could face cuts, while Cumberland Advisors’ John Mousseau said rating agencies may “look askance” at the proposal. “Florida property tax referendum could face up to 5 constitutional challenges before vote” via Matt Sczesny of WPTV — Florida’s proposed property tax referendum may face legal challenges before voters see it in November. Former state Sen. Jeff Brandes said the measure, which would raise the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, raises “a variety of questions,” including ballot language, equal protection, uniformity, home rule and unfunded mandates. State Rep. Toby Overdorf said the proposal is not a normal bill but a joint resolution changing the Florida Constitution, making litigation likely. No lawsuits have been filed yet, but Brandes said courts may need to consolidate challenges quickly because Election Day is approaching. “Mack Bernard says voters deserve say on tax plan” via Meleah Lyden of WUSF — Democratic state Sen. Bernard is defending his vote for Florida’s proposed property tax overhaul, arguing that while the measure is not perfect, voters should have the final say on whether to expand homestead exemptions. Bernard said the proposal, which would raise exemptions to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028 if approved by 60% of voters this Fall, offers needed relief for homeowners struggling with affordability. While acknowledging concerns that local governments could face budget cuts or reduced services, Bernard said lawmakers improved the proposal by protecting public schools and softening provisions he believed would have harmed counties and municipalities. “We have to provide Floridians the opportunity to have relief,” Bernard said. Mack Bernard backs sending Florida’s property tax plan to voters. “‘This is absolutely alarming’: Orange County Commissioners worry about property tax plan’s impact” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Orange County officials are warning voters that DeSantis’ property tax plan could blow a $430 million hole in county revenues over two years, cutting fire services, law enforcement and the countywide general fund. The proposed constitutional amendment, heading to the November ballot after Special Session, would raise homestead exemptions to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, while exempting schools. Commissioner Nicole Wilson called the numbers “absolutely alarming,” while Budget Director Kurt Peterson warned bond ratings could suffer if agencies get spooked. Commissioners also questioned whether the county would have to absorb services from smaller cities that were being pushed toward insolvency. Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad said leaders face “a heavy lift” educating voters: “We have a fight ahead of us.” “South Florida cities warn of consequences if voters say yes to tax break” via Susannah Bryan and Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — South Florida cities are sounding the alarm over a proposed constitutional amendment that would raise the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028. While homeowners could save thousands of dollars, local officials warn that the measure would strip hundreds of millions of dollars from municipal and county budgets, threatening everything from public safety and infrastructure to parks and neighborhood services. Broward Property Appraiser Marty Kiar estimates Broward County alone could lose nearly $195 million in the first year and $334 million in the second. Palm Beach Property Appraiser Dorothy Jacks warned some smaller cities could face existential challenges, while local officials say voters should weigh the promise of tax relief against potential reductions in services they rely on every day.

2026   “Michael Owen endorses Byron Donalds for Governor” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — State Rep. Owen is backing U.S. Rep. Donalds for Governor, adding another legislative endorsement to the Naples Republican’s campaign. Owen, an Apollo Beach Republican first elected in 2024, said Donalds would bring a “Florida First mindset” to the Governor’s Office and focus on making government leaner and more efficient for taxpayers. Donalds has continued to consolidate GOP support, with endorsements from Trump, U.S. Sen. Scott and numerous members of Congress and the Florida Legislature. DeSantis has not endorsed a successor. Donalds also holds a major fundraising advantage, with his campaign and political committee raising $81 million by May, while polls show him leading the Republican Primary field. Michael Owen backs Byron Donalds for Governor. “Donalds ‘not concerned’ about Ron DeSantis’ cold shoulder” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds says he is unfazed by DeSantis’ continued criticism and lack of support for his gubernatorial campaign, noting that Florida’s term limits mean the state will soon have a new Governor regardless. Speaking Monday, Donalds suggested lingering tensions stem from his endorsement of Trump over DeSantis during the 2024 presidential race but praised the Governor’s record while downplaying any personal disagreement. “I’m not concerned about it,” Donalds said. Donalds also expressed confidence in his own campaign, citing polling he says shows him with nearly 50% support ahead of the Republican Primary. He said the race should not be taken for granted, but he feels strongly positioned heading into the final months before voting begins. “Jolly taps Sean Pittman as Transition Chair, assuming he wins in November” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Pittman will serve as Transition Chair for Jolly, if the leading Democrat is elected Governor in November, the Jolly campaign announced Tuesday. Pittman, a senior partner of the Pittman Law Group in Tallahassee, served as a top-level campaign adviser to Andrew Gillum’s 2018 gubernatorial election and was an integral part of the team that helped propel Gillum to a near-miss victory that saw the progressive Democrat just 34,000 votes from victory. That 0.4% margin places Gillum’s race among the closest in modern American history. Pittman’s ability to rally voters who often sit on the sidelines, as he did in the 2018 Governor’s race, could give Jolly’s campaign the push it needs to continue growing its coalition, especially after Jolly’s top opposition in the Democratic Primary, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, announced last week he was suspending his campaign. Sean Pittman joins David Jolly’s campaign transition team. “Annette Taddeo jumps into CFO race” via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Taddeo is making another run for statewide office, entering the Democratic Primary for Chief Financial Officer and immediately putting affordability and property insurance at the center of her campaign. Taddeo, a former state Senator and Miami-Dade Democratic Party Chair, said she is “fed up” with rising costs and accused Republican incumbent Blaise Ingoglia of being “a lapdog for our Governor.” Ingoglia, appointed by DeSantis after Jimmy Patronis won a congressional seat, is running on property tax cuts and crackdowns on local government spending. Taddeo joins Earle Ford in the Democratic field, setting up a Primary fight for an office Democrats hope to make about insurance, taxes and accountability. "Belinda Keiser rolls out four congressional endorsements in CD 22 as qualifying week begins" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Four Republican members of Florida's Congressional Delegation are endorsing Keiser in her race for Florida's 22nd Congressional District, where she's running to replace U.S. Rep. Donalds. U.S. Reps Aaron Bean, Neal Dunn, Randy Fine and Patronis are all offering support to the Keiser University Vice Chancellor as she wages battle in what has become an increasingly crowded Republican Primary. Keiser has committed to investing $1 million of her own money into her campaign, a move that will give her a financial edge in a crowded GOP Primary and, if she's the Republican nominee, in the General Election. Keiser called the latest endorsements an honor. "These great Republican leaders in Congress and outstanding Floridians have demonstrated their commitment to America First principles and policies, and they have always put our nation first." “Sara Baxter enters CD 22 race, dropping Palm Beach County Commission re-election bid” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Palm Beach County Mayor Baxter is leaving her County Commission re-election campaign to run for the newly redrawn 22nd Congressional District. Baxter filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission and joins a crowded Republican Primary that already includes Deborah Adeimy, Casey Askar, David Burck, Michael Carbonara, Terri Hasdorff, Belinda Keiser, Anna Medvedeva and Herbert Wertheim. Baxter won her County Commission seat in 2022 and led fundraising for her re-election, raising nearly $146,000. She said the new Congressional District gives her a chance to work with Trump on immigration, taxes, agriculture, veterans and Second Amendment issues. The General Election is Nov. 3. “Shevrin Jones launches CD 24 bid, calls for ‘a new generation of leadership’” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Four days after filing paperwork to run, Miami Gardens Democratic Sen. Jones is launching a campaign for Florida’s 24th Congressional District. Jones made it official Monday evening at Koinonia Worship Center in Pembroke Pines, the church his parents founded, kicking off a race to succeed retiring Rep. Frederica Wilson. “While out-of-touch politicians in Washington put themselves and their wealthy donors first, people here at home are working harder than ever and still just barely getting by,” Jones said in a statement. “This moment calls for a new generation of leadership focused on lowering costs, taking on corruption, and fighting for South Florida.” Shevrin Jones launches a campaign for Florida’s 24th Congressional District. "Bryan Leib won't run this year in CD 25" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Republican Leib will sit out a race against U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, a Parkland Democrat. The Hollywood Republican, a media consultant who previously challenged U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, considered running against the Democratic incumbent, who was made more vulnerable under a new congressional map. Leib announced he plans to help Donalds' gubernatorial campaign. Running in CD 25 would have meant entering an already crowded GOP field. Republicans, including former banking professional Dan Franzese, former state Rep. George Moraitis and former Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer, have already qualified to run in a Primary, and several other Republicans have been raising money for a potential campaign in the District. "Instead of running, I will be dedicating my time and energy to helping keep Florida the greatest state in America." “Hector Mujica close to dropping out of CD 28 race, looks to Robin Peguero to replace him there” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Less than two weeks after Florida Politics reported that a brief 2025 party switch likely bars him from running as a Democrat in CD 28, Mujica is on the precipice of withdrawing from the race. He wants former federal prosecutor Peguero, a candidate in CD 27, to switch races and replace him, multiple sources confirmed. Voter registration records in Broward County, where Mujica lives, show he changed his party affiliation from Democrat to no party affiliation on June 4, 2025, before switching back to Democrat on July 26, 2025. To run for a party’s nomination, candidates in Florida must be registered members of that party for 365 consecutive days.

More elections   "'I can't stand by': Martin Hyde jumps into open SD 22 race" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Former congressional candidate Hyde will run to succeed state Sen. Joe Gruters in the Florida Senate. The Sarasota activist, who made a failed run against U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan in a Republican Primary in 2022, is running as an independent. His congressional campaign was largely derailed after a video went viral of Hyde chastising a female police officer during a traffic stop, then calling her commanding officer and threatening her career. He is now one of five candidates running in Senate District 22, which is currently held by term-limited Gruters. State Rep. James Buchanan, the son of the sitting Congressman, and Vic Rohe are competing for the Republican nomination in the District. "What am I doing standing here today? The answer is I can't stand by and continue to watch what's going on in our statehouse," he said. Martin Hyde jumps into the open Senate District 22 race. Image via Facebook. Neal Dunn endorses Tricia Berry in HD 6 — U.S. Rep. Dunn, who announced in January he won't seek re-election, is backing Berry to succeed retiring Rep. Griff Griffitts in the Bay County-based HD 6. Dunn, a Panama City surgeon, called Berry "a tried-and-true conservative leader that Bay County can trust to represent their values in the halls of our state Capitol." The nod adds a Washington name to a field where Berry has already lined up Sen. Jay Trumbull, Sheriff Tommy Ford, and Tax Collector Chuck Perdue. "Samuel Vilchez Santiago so far raises $32K in Q2, picks up Darren Soto endorsement" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Democrat Vilchez Santiago has picked up an endorsement from U.S. Rep. Soto in his HD 43 race to replace Rep. Johanna López, who is not seeking re-election. Soto said Vilchez Santiago's "commitment to public service, and deep roots in our community are exactly what we need in the Florida House." In his November race against Republican Robert Prater, Vilchez Santiago has raised more than $160,000 — including about $32,000 so far in the second quarter. The 28-year-old led the Orange County Democrats for three years before jumping into the race to replace López, his former teacher, who has also endorsed him. “Daisy Morales files to run for HD 43, setting stage for contested Democratic Primary” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Former Rep. Morales is seeking a return to Tallahassee, filing Monday to run for the open House District 43 seat being vacated by Rep. López. Morales, who lost House District 44 races in both 2022 and 2024, now faces Democratic candidate Vilchez Santiago in what is shaping up to be a competitive Primary. The winner will advance to face Republican Prater in November. Vilchez Santiago enters the race with backing from several prominent Central Florida Democrats, including López, Demings and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and announced he has raised more than $160,000 for his campaign. House District 43 covers eastern Orange County, north of Lake Nona and south of Colonial Drive. "‘Gee willikers’: Political unknowns could force Primaries in HD 55 battle to replace Kevin Steele" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — New Port Richey Republican Matthew Skeeter Abbott and Land O'Lakes Democrat Wesley Hufford have filed to run for House District 55, potentially forcing Primary races for the open seat — although Hufford said he may drop out before week's end. The seat is open after Republican Steele filed to challenge Democratic U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor for Florida's 14th Congressional District rather than seek re-election, a decision he made after recent redistricting carved out much of the District's Democratic base. Abbott, a Realtor, faces Walter Price in the GOP Primary. In contrast, Hufford faces Zachary Ryan Funkhouser in the Democratic contest — barring any additional entries into the race before qualifying closes Friday. He told Florida Politics that "there's no sense in having two Democrats going to a Primary, because gee willikers, who knows." "Lindsay Polega-Quigley's newly launched HD 60 bid heats up with powerful women's backing" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Days after filing to run for House District 60, Polega-Quigley is rolling out endorsements from a trio of Pinellas County Democrats, Rep. Michele Rayner, Gulfport City Council Member Jennifer Webb and former congressional candidate Whitney Fox. The early show of support gives Polega-Quigley a head start in the race to replace outgoing Democratic Rep. Lindsay Cross, who is not seeking another term. Polega-Quigley's campaign is leaning into her background as an attorney and reproductive rights advocate, while also emphasizing affordability, insurance costs and resistance to Republican policies in Tallahassee. "I've seen Lindsay's pro bono work in the courtroom for some of the most vulnerable members of our community. She'll take that passion from the courtroom to the State House and stand up for the residents of Pinellas who aren't being heard by Tallahassee," Rayner said. Lindsay Polega-Quigley earns early support from Pinellas County Democrats. "Nick Pachota flexes fundraising, first responder support in HD 74 bid" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Venice Mayor Pachota continues to build up his campaign coffers, and has earned additional support from first responders in the competitive Republican Primary for House District 74. Combined, that puts his fundraising haul at about $379,000 as the race to succeed term-limited Rep. James Buchanan creeps closer toward the GOP Primary. Meanwhile, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson has endorsed Kelly Ann Walker, giving her a high-profile statewide Republican ally. Pachota is heavily funded and well endorsed and entered the race with early support from the seat's incumbent. "Our message of cutting taxes, lowering property insurance premiums, supporting first responders, and defending our Second Amendment rights and all constitutional freedoms is resonating across the District, and I'm excited for the 70 days between now and the Primary Election." "Toby Overdorf endorses Anthony Bonna to succeed him in HD 85" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — When Rep. Overdorf leaves his seat representing House District 85 this year due to term limits, he wants fellow Republican Bonna to have it next. Overdorf this week endorsed Bonna, a Port St. Lucie Council member, in the race for HD 85, which straddles Martin and St. Lucie counties from Palm City to Port St. Lucie. Bonna, who was the first candidate to file for the race back in February 2025, welcomed the nod. Bonna is the only Republican candidate in the HD 85, after his only Republican Primary opponent, Thomas Colter, dropped out of the contest. "Through his private and public service, he has demonstrated a consistent willingness to serve. Today, I am proud to fully endorse and support him to succeed me in District 85," Overdorf said. Happening tonight:

Statewide   “Florida House argues Fair Districts amendment should be tossed in full” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Attorneys for the House argue against attempts by voting-rights groups to put a new congressional map on hold for the Midterms. But in making the case against an injunction, attorneys go further and suggest to state justices that an amendment to Florida’s Constitution approved by voters in 2010 no longer aligns with a federal ruling raising the threshold for lines drawn with race as a motivating factor. Should justices toss the amendment, which would likely have ramifications beyond the congressional map and open the state to mid-decade redistricting of state House and Senate political boundaries. A brief filed by Democratic attorney Marc Elias’ firm on behalf of plaintiffs said that the argument isn’t sensible, and that if justices have any questions, those should be determined after the Midterms. Marc Elias challenges Florida’s redrawn congressional map in court. “Florida TaxWatch flags $830M in budget turkeys” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Florida TaxWatch is urging DeSantis to take a hard look at the 2026-27 state budget after identifying 621 “Budget Turkey” projects totaling $830 million. The annual report targets spending that bypassed established review processes or appeared late in budget negotiations without sufficient public scrutiny. Among the largest concerns are 344 water projects worth $380 million, along with funding for local parks, arts initiatives and transportation projects that sidestep competitive grant programs. Former Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp warned that the number of member projects has “proliferated,” while researcher Kurt Wenner noted, “Not all member projects are turkeys, but most turkeys are member projects.” The group said lawmakers should exercise greater fiscal discipline as future budget pressures loom. “Debra Tendrich named ‘Elected Official of the Year’ by state social workers association” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Freshman Rep. Tendrich is adding another accolade to a breakout first term in Tallahassee, earning the Florida Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers’ 2026 “Florida Elected Official of the Year” award. The honor recognizes public officials whose work demonstrates leadership in human services and community advocacy. Tendrich’s legislative agenda has been shaped by her experience as a domestic violence survivor, highlighted by HB 277, a measure signed into law last month that strengthens protections for survivors, increases penalties for repeat offenders and expands victim assistance programs. “Social workers are often on the front lines helping individuals and families through their most difficult moments,” Tendrich said. The Palm Beach County Democrat is running for re-election unopposed. "International students are graduating. Travel bans put them in limbo" via Nakylah Carter, Lucy Marques and Juan Carlos Chavez of the Tampa Bay Times — After a string of unprecedented White House orders banning travel to and from countries the U.S. deems a threat, students like Arshia Esmaeilian are stuck in limbo. In Florida, hundreds of international college students are finishing school this Spring and facing this murky path. A federal immigration judge on Friday ruled that the agency had exceeded its authority and lifted the freeze on all immigration applications, citing in his 135-page ruling a lack of reasonable explanation for the agency's policies and its use of national security as a pretext to "mask anti-immigrant sentiments." Still, the Trump administration can appeal the decision, leaving immigrants like Esmaeilian waiting. "My situation isn't like a lot of other students' situations. People usually figure these things out months prior. And for me, I might not ever figure it out," Esmaeilian said.

D.C. matters   “A judge voided a Donald Trump administration skilled-worker visa policy 'in its entirety.'“ via Zach Montague of The New York Times — A Trump administration initiative to impose $100,000 fees on employers seeking visas for skilled foreign workers amounts to an unlawful tax on those companies and must be voided “in its entirety,” a federal judge ruled. The decision by Judge Leo T. Sorokin of the Federal District Court for the District of Massachusetts nullified one of a series of tactics the Trump administration has used to restrict legal immigration, even in fields where foreign skilled labor has helped address severe shortages. In a 42-page opinion, Sorokin acknowledged that the policy, imposed in September, appeared to step on Congress’s “exclusive power” to levy taxes under the Constitution. He dismissed claims by the Trump administration that the fee was a “regulatory payment” that the executive branch could set, rather than a tax. Leo Sorokin voids a Trump administration skilled-worker visa fee. “Marco Rubio faces defining test on Cuba policy” via Steve Contorno, Adam Cancryn and Jennifer Hansler of CNN — Secretary of State Rubio is trying to convince Trump that a free Cuba fits an America First agenda, even as the administration’s pressure campaign runs into political and diplomatic limits. Rubio has helped push sanctions, a fuel squeeze and rare direct warnings to Havana, but Trump has shown less certainty about forcing regime change. The stakes are deeply personal for Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants, and politically enormous in South Florida. He told lawmakers the U.S. is open to “a negotiated situation” toward democracy and freedom, but acknowledged, “Obviously, it will be challenging.” “Back-channel bid to soften Nicolás Maduro policy fizzled” via Eric Bazail-Eimil and Adam Wren of POLITICO — A sprawling influence campaign tried to steer the Trump administration toward a softer posture on Venezuela, linking oil interests, investors, former U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock, Richard Grenell allies and conservative influencers. POLITICO reports that Harry Sargeant III, a Florida oil investor with ties to Venezuela, hired Schock for “strategic consulting” as Rubio pushed a harder line against Maduro. The effort sought to elevate Grenell, protect U.S. energy interests and blunt Rubio-aligned sanctions pressure, but it unraveled as Rubio gained Trump’s confidence and helped reframe Venezuela policy around narcotics. Sargeant’s lawyer denied wrongdoing, saying he acted lawfully and “transparently.” Business consultant Benjamin Papermaster, an ally of Schock, later called the operation “not America First.” “Jimmy Patronis joins Tobacco Harm Reduction Caucus” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Patronis is the latest member of the Florida delegation to join the House Tobacco Harm Reduction Caucus, a bipartisan coalition aimed at adopting harm reduction methods and innovation as part of a comprehensive approach to tobacco control. Patronis’ inclusion follows Republican U.S. Reps. Laurel Lee and Dunn, who joined in October, Donalds and Bean, who joined in August and most recently, Mike Haridopolos. Rather than solely pushing for a quit-only approach — the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that only about 10% of adult smokers successfully quit each year — the caucus pushes for policy that emphasizes harm reduction, such as vapor, nicotine pouches or heat-not-burn products. Happening today — U.S. Rep. Patronis and Attorney General James Uthmeier will host a telephone town hall focused on artificial intelligence, Big Tech regulation, online child safety and efforts to repeal Section 230. The discussion comes as Patronis pushes legislation in Congress to remove liability protections for technology platforms, while Uthmeier pursues action against OpenAI in Florida. Organizers say the event will allow constituents to ask questions, share experiences and discuss proposals intended to increase accountability for technology companies and strengthen parental oversight of children’s online activity. 6 p.m. CT. Dial-in: 833-305-1733.

Local: S. FL   "Ariel Fernandez leaves dais for a 'new Cuba'" via Ladra of Political Cortadito — Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago is getting an early Christmas present this week. Commissioner Fernandez — a former ally who has turned into one of Lago's biggest critics and targets — announced Monday that he will not seek re-election, ending one of the most contentious and entertaining chapters in recent Coral Gables political history and leaving voters with just days to decide whether somebody else wants to jump into the race. Fernandez said he intends to devote himself to helping educate and train people for what he believes could become a post-Castro Cuba, as international interest in reopening and engaging with the island once again grows. "My grandfather and my father never saw Cuba be free. This is my way of making sure that freedom doesn't go away in four or five years," Fernandez told Ladra. Ariel Fernandez leaves the Miami-Dade GOP amid new Cuba-focused work. James Suarez qualifies for Pinecrest Village Council election — Suarez has officially qualified as a candidate for Pinecrest Village Council Seat 3. A lifelong Pinecrest resident, Suarez’s campaign said it is focused on preserving the Village's family-centered character, protecting quality of life, enhancing public safety, supporting local businesses, and ensuring responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources. "One of the most rewarding parts of this campaign has been meeting residents face-to-face at their front doors," said Suarez. "I've had the opportunity to hear firsthand what matters most to our community. Those conversations have reinforced my belief that Pinecrest's greatest strength is its people." “Deerfield Beach prepares for legal battle in split with Broward Sheriff’s Office” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Deerfield Beach’s divorce from the Broward Sheriff’s Office is already looking messy. After BSO mailed residents a transition plan for gradually reallocating services before the city relaunches independent police and fire rescue departments in 2027, city officials moved to hire outside legal counsel. Mayor Todd Drosky said Sheriff Gregory Tony’s plan violates the contract requiring BSO to keep providing full law enforcement services through Sept. 30, 2027. “He cannot unilaterally withdraw coverage without our consent,” Drosky said, “and he does not have our consent.” The split follows a consultant’s estimate that Deerfield Beach could save $250 million to $900 million over 20 years by restarting its own agencies. “Broward hotel faces sex-trafficking lawsuit allegations” via Shirsho Dasgupta and Brittany Wallman of the Miami Herald — A federal lawsuit is accusing a Dania Beach Rodeway Inn and its operators of knowingly profiting from sex trafficking after a woman alleged she was held as a “sex slave” at the property from 2019 through 2020. The woman claims a trafficker beat, raped and exploited her at the hotel while staff ignored warning signs and allowed illegal activity to continue. The lawsuit targets the hotel’s owner, operator and franchisor, alleging they failed to prevent trafficking despite repeated indicators. Former manager Israel Fintz called the case “a bull⁠---t lawsuit” and denied wrongdoing, while hotel representatives said they “vehemently deny” the allegations and remain committed to guest safety. “Near-800% fee hike hits Palm Beach County's lowest-priced cemetery” via Chris Persaud of The Palm Beach Post — An adult-sized grave for Boynton Beach residents now costs $2,500 in either of its two municipal cemeteries after City Commissioners on May 5 approved their first price increases in more than 20 years amid skyrocketing maintenance costs and expansion plans for the final resting places. Before May 5, 4-foot-by-9-foot graves cost $525 at Boynton Beach Memorial Park and $325 at Sara Sims Memorial Park. Infant lots, which were priced at $75 to $100, now cost $500. Crypt prices at the Memorial Park mausoleum remain unchanged, with the cheapest price at $2,750. The cheapest final resting place in Boynton Beach now costs the same as an adult-sized grave in Boca Raton's municipal cemetery. Boynton Beach raises burial costs at Memorial Park. “Palm Beach County woman placed on new FBI ‘Most Wanted Fraudster’ list in COVID funds case” via David Lyons of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Elaine A. Escoe, 41, who is one of the first eight fugitives to make the list and reportedly on the run for a year, was allegedly involved in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering in connection with a scheme to fraudulently obtain over $34 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds, the bureau said Monday. The Most Wanted Fraudster list is the bureau’s third official list, highlighting searches for fugitives at large. It joins the existing Ten Most Wanted Fugitives and Most Wanted Terrorists lists, the bureau said. The creation of the fraudster list was announced last week by FBI Director Kash Patel.

Local: C. FL   “CFHLA endorses 4 incumbents in Orange, Osceola and Seminoles races” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association’s Political Action Committee (PAC) and Political Committee (PC) is endorsing incumbent Orange County Commissioner Mike Scott in District 6, and incumbent Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer in District 2. For Seminole County, the group is endorsing incumbent Commissioner Jay Zembower in District 2 and incumbent Commissioner Amy Lockhart in District 4. “These candidates understand how critical the tourism and hospitality industry is to our local economy and the important role it plays in supporting local residents and visitors, small businesses, and the long-term prosperity of our region,” said Jay Leonard, General Manager of the Wyndham and Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs Resort Area and Chairman of the CFHLA PAC and PC, in a statement. Mike Scott earns support from the hospitality industry in Central Florida. “Orlando advances plan to roll back Downtown historic protections” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Orlando leaders took a significant step toward loosening historic preservation rules Downtown, approving the first reading of a measure that would allow development proposals within the historic district to bypass the Historic Preservation Board for three years. Supporters argue the change could jump-start redevelopment in an area that has seen little major investment despite growth elsewhere in the urban core. Commissioner Roger Chapin said the city can “honor our history without standing in the way of our future,” while Mayor Dyer called the proposal a potential catalyst for reviving Church Street. Preservation advocates strongly opposed the move, warning landmarks such as the Kress Building, Church Street Station and other historic properties could face greater redevelopment pressure if the ordinance is ultimately adopted. “Trump energy department orders OUC to keep running coal plant” via Martin E. Comas of the Orlando Sentinel — The Orlando Utilities Commission’s plan to place a coal-fired unit at Stanton Energy Center into an “extended cold shutdown” has been halted by the Trump administration. Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued an emergency order requiring OUC to keep Unit 1 available through Sept. 1, citing concerns about electric reliability and Florida’s long-term demand from data centers. OUC said it will comply, delaying part of its broader shift toward natural gas and solar power. State Rep. Anna Eskamani criticized the move, saying local governments and municipal utilities should decide their own power mix. Commissioner Roger Chapin said OUC had been moving away from coal in a “methodical, responsible manner.” “SpaceX knocks out sunrise Space Coast launch with record-setting booster” via Richard Tribou of the Orlando Sentinel — SpaceX added another milestone to its growing list of launch achievements Monday morning, sending 29 Starlink satellites into orbit aboard a Falcon 9 whose first-stage booster flew for a record-setting 35th time. The rocket lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at sunrise and successfully landed on the droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas in the Atlantic. The booster first launched in June 2021 and has supported multiple crewed missions and cargo flights to the International Space Station. The mission marked the Space Coast’s 39th launch of 2026 and underscored SpaceX’s continued focus on reusability as the company works toward a goal of flying individual boosters as many as 40 times. SpaceX launches a Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral with a record-setting booster. “Earthquake felt at Disney World as rides suddenly shut down” via Christopher Edwards of People — Several major Walt Disney World attractions closed on Monday after an earthquake was felt throughout Florida. The National Weather Service in Miami confirmed that a 6.1-magnitude earthquake just west of Cuba caused much of Florida to feel tremors on Monday afternoon. The earthquake was reported shortly after 2 p.m. EST, according to the USGS. Disney World guests took to social media to react to the quake and share updates from inside the parks. A screenshot of the My Disney Experience app, shared by a guest, showed several rides at the parks marked as “temporarily closed.” Hours after the tremors, the app showed that the attractions had reopened.

Local: TB   "Susan Valdés files for Hillsborough County Commission District 5 race" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Rep. Valdés is looking to keep her political career in Hillsborough after saying farewell to the Legislature, filing to run for Hillsborough County Commission District 5. Valdés, a Tampa Republican who originally ran as a Democrat, faces incumbent Republican Donna Cameron Cepeda and Hillsborough County School Board Member Stacy Hahn, as well as Democrat Neil Manimala in the race. She was first elected in 2018 and won subsequent re-election campaigns as a Democrat before switching parties after the 2024 Election. The move made Valdés a closely watched Tampa Bay lawmaker of the 2026 Session, when she served as a Republican under House Speaker Daniel Perez. Valdés is now entering the Hillsborough County race as a Republican, which will test whether GOP voters buy into her recent party switch. Susan Valdés files for Hillsborough County Commission after switching parties. “Jane Castor highlights Land Development Code update, encourages public input” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Mayor Castor is urging Tampa residents to weigh in on Tampa Forward, the city’s ongoing effort to modernize its decades-old Land Development Code. The proposed overhaul would simplify zoning categories, create new mixed-use districts and expand opportunities for “missing middle” housing, including duplexes, triplexes, townhomes and cottage homes. Other changes would reduce minimum parking requirements and establish new standards for pedestrian access, building placement and neighborhood compatibility. City officials say the update is intended to address growth, housing demand and redevelopment pressures while creating a more walkable city. With the final public input meeting scheduled for Monday evening, Castor encouraged residents to participate. “I want to make sure what we’re building next is something we’re all proud of,” she said. “Pasco purchases nearly 1,900 acres of land for conservation” via Mike Camunas of the Tampa Bay Times — Despite continued massive growth and development, Pasco County has now preserved nearly 8,700 acres of land since 2004. That includes the 1,893 acres it purchased for $68 million, known as 4G Ranch, which will connect to the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Conner Preserve, creating corridors in north-central Pasco County. The county, through its Environmental Lands Acquisition and Management Program, announced the acquisition during a June 1 event at the property. It marks the county’s largest land acquisition to date. Since its inception in July 2004, the Environmental Lands Acquisition and Management Program has secured about 8,688 acres of land.

Local: SW. FL   “Naples Airport, city still disputing control, lease, FAA” via J. Kyle Foster of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Naples and its airport authority remain locked in a legal and political fight over who controls the airport, how development is approved and whether the airport stays federally obligated. Naples is challenging a new state law that makes Airport Board members elected, while also seeking to cancel the city’s 99-year lease with the Naples Airport Authority and to unwind the authority itself. The authority, meanwhile, says the city’s proposed ordinance requiring Council approval of airport projects may violate federal law. Executive Director Chris Rozansky said litigation is not the goal, but the authority “may be forced to” sue if no resolution is reached. “'From clerk to CEO': Ben Spence to lead Lee Health starting Oct. 1” via Liz Freeman of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Spence, a 31-year veteran of Lee Health, will become the President and CEO of the hospital system Oct. 1. The announcement was made by outgoing President and CEO Dr. Larry Antonucci on June 8 with Spence and the system’s chief people officer, Mike Wukitsch. The 17,000 employees of the nonprofit Lee Health, the largest employer in Lee County, were informed earlier in the day. Spence, 57, began at Lee Health in 1995 as a reimbursement clerk. He later served as CFO for 12 years and is currently COO. He will stay in the role as COO until Antonucci officially steps down at the end of September. Ben Spence is named Lee Health’s next chief executive officer. “Big Green Eggfest raises $33,600 for SW Florida children” via the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — The annual Big Green Eggfest recently raised $33,600 for children's charities in Southwest Florida. Sunshine Ace Hardware President Michael Wynn presented the proceeds to four local organizations: Northside Naples Kiwanis Club, United Way of Collier and the Keys, Rotary Club of Bonita Beach Sunset and Leadership Collier Foundation, said a news release. Since its inception in 2019, the event has raised $196,600 for youth-focused programs and services, according to the announcement. The event, held at Riverside Park in Bonita Springs, attracted more than 1,000 guests and featured all-you-can-eat food samplings, grilling demonstrations, live music and a variety of beverages. Attendees functioned as judges, voting for their favorite chef-prepared dishes.

Local: N. FL   “Blaise Ingoglia again blasts Jacksonville budget, alleges $275M in wasteful spending this fiscal year” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia returned to Jacksonville Monday to continue his critique of the city’s budget, saying the current spending plan includes $275 million in unnecessary expenditures. Ingoglia said the figure is higher than the $199 million he previously identified and argued that the city’s budget has grown faster than inflation, population and other reasonable benchmarks since FY 2019-20. He tied the critique to the proposed homestead property tax amendment headed to voters this Fall, saying taxpayers need to “rein in local government.” Mayor Donna Deegan’s office rejected the claims, saying Jacksonville has a lean budget focused on parks, libraries, roads and other services residents expect. Blaise Ingoglia renews his criticism of Jacksonville’s city budget. “Lawsuit over $7K may put Escambia's full $250K discretionary fund into question” via Mollye Barrows of the Pensacola News Journal — Two Warrington-area nonprofits suing Escambia County Clerk of Court and Comptroller Pam Childers for withholding $7,000 in county discretionary funds are firing back at the clerk’s motion to dismiss their complaint. The Greater Pensacola Junior Golf Association (First Tee) and Warrington Emergency Aid Center (WEAC) are asking a judge to order the clerk to release the money Commissioners approved giving them, and to reject her attempt to throw out their lawsuit. In the lawsuit, attorney Alex Andrade claims that Childers unlawfully withheld $4,500 earmarked for youth golf programs run by First Tee and $2,500 approved to reimburse WEAC's food pantry expenses. “The plot to smear Bradley Vinson” via Rick Outzen of Rick’s Blog — Escambia County officials did not just pass over Vinson for the library director’s job; they tried to wreck her reputation. Texts and emails show Commissioner Ashlee Hofberger and allies inside county government spread false claims that Vinson “bombed” her interview, took off her shoes and had no management experience. The record says otherwise. Vinson answered 14 questions in detail, laid out decades of library work and documented district-level leadership over media services for more than 50 schools. Hofberger later doubled down, saying she was “thankful” Vinson did not get the job and “appalled” she still worked for the School District. The episode raises serious questions about fairness, honesty and accountability in Escambia County’s hiring process. “Feds: Tallahassee postal workers plead guilty to mail theft” via Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — Taija Avion Smith, 25, and Jaheed Anthony Williams, 24, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail theft, theft of a mail key, bank fraud conspiracy, and multiple counts of aggravated identity theft. Williams also pleaded guilty to 14 counts of bank fraud. Jack Heekin, U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Florida, said: “Postal service employees occupy positions of public trust through which they are expected to responsibly process and deliver our nation’s mail. This defendant repeatedly violated that public trust while seeking to enrich herself and her co-defendant at the expense of others, but thanks to this multi-agency investigation and successful prosecution, their scheme has been dismantled, and federal prison awaits both defendants.” “Tom Petty Park revamp adds pickleball courts, paths and other amenities” via Cleveland Tinker of The Gainesville Sun — Renovations to Tom Petty Park in northeast Gainesville have been completed, including the addition of eight pickleball courts and new restrooms. Mayor Harvey Ward welcomed attendees, noting the park has been known by different names across generations — from City Park to Northeast Park, “and my kids call it Tom Petty Park.” The park at 400 NE 16th Ave. represents a shared community asset, he said. “People from all over Gainesville and the county come here regularly to be part of what takes place at Tom Petty Park,” Ward said. Originally established as Northeast Park in 1963, the site sits near where Petty and his brother Bruce grew up and spent time as children on Northeast Seventh Street just off Northeast 16th Avenue. The park is also near where Eagles co-founder Don Henley grew up, Ward said.

Top opinion   “Israel fights while Trump talks” via The Wall Street Journal editorial board — Iran’s latest missile attack on Israel has tested both the ceasefire and Trump’s push for a nuclear deal with Tehran. After Iran fired nearly 30 ballistic missiles, Israel responded with strikes on Iranian air defenses, missile sites and a petrochemical complex tied to the Revolutionary Guard. The exchange followed renewed Hezbollah fire from Lebanon, despite ceasefire efforts. Israel’s response in Beirut prompted Iran to threaten retaliation, creating another front in the broader conflict. Trump urged Israel to limit its response while continuing to argue that a deal with Iran remains close. But the ongoing attacks have raised doubts about whether Tehran is using negotiations to buy time. The editorial argues Iran could rein in Hezbollah if it wanted a durable ceasefire but has instead allowed the conflict to continue while rebuilding its military position. With the war past 100 days and the Strait of Hormuz still closed, the piece says Trump faces a choice: set a hard deadline for Iran or keep restraining Israel while waiting for a deal that may not come.

More opinions   “There’s an argument for candidates who’ve served in the military” via Frank Bruni of The New York Times — More veterans in public office might not cure American politics, but they could improve the odds of getting leaders with humility, discipline and a sense of service larger than themselves. Rye Barcott, a former Marine and co-founder of With Honor, argues in a new book that military experience can produce less partisan, more civic-minded officeholders. Veterans are not automatically virtuous, and some carry the wrong lessons from service. But the decline of veterans in Congress, from about 75% in the mid-1970s to just under 20% today, has coincided with a collapse in public respect for the institution. A common mission still matters. “There’s no free lunch: Property tax question threatens every city” via Joshua Simmons for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Florida’s proposed homestead tax expansion is being pitched as affordability relief, but the real impact could be deep cuts to local services. Raising the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028 would shrink the revenue cities rely on for police, fire protection, parks, infrastructure and other core services. Schools would be shielded, but municipalities would be left to choose between cutting services, raising fees or draining reserves. The proposal does nothing to address soaring insurance premiums, utility costs or inflation. Instead, it is “a cost shift dressed up as a tax cut” that could ultimately weaken the quality of life and property values across Florida. “State ‘tax calculator’ is a slick sales pitch” via Miami Herald editorial board — Florida’s new online property tax savings calculator is drawing criticism from opponents who argue it highlights potential homeowner savings while downplaying the broader consequences of the proposed homestead tax expansion. The editorial contends the tool serves as a persuasive campaign device for Amendment 3, which would raise the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028 if approved by voters. While the calculator estimates what homeowners could save, critics argue it provides little context about the potential impact on city and county budgets, local services and future governance decisions. The piece also questions efforts to promote the amendment with public resources, arguing that voters should weigh both the promised savings and the potential costs before casting ballots in November.

Instagram of the day

Aloe   “Why isn’t the U.S. better at soccer?” via Nate Silver of Silver Bulletin — As the World Cup opens on North American soil, the U.S. men’s national team once again finds itself chasing a breakthrough that always seems just out of reach. The United States has the wealth, population and athletic talent to compete with the world’s best, yet it has largely failed to translate those advantages into elite men’s soccer success. Silver argues that factors ranging from the dominance of football and other American sports to youth development challenges and Major League Soccer’s structure have limited progress. Still, home-field advantage gives the Americans a better chance than usual. The U.S. remains a long shot to contend, but stranger things have happened in soccer. “FAU economists: Summer vacations will be expensive this year” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida Atlantic University economists say elevated inflation will make Summer travel more expensive, with lodging, dining and recreation costs likely to remain high through the season. FAU’s analysis found the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index showed annual inflation growth of 4.9% in April, still well above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Eric Van Tassel said that it is “not good news” for households planning vacations, noting some of the fastest-growing categories include food services, accommodations, housing, utilities and recreation. William J. Luther pointed to tariffs and the war with Iran as contributors but said faster nominal spending growth signals a broader demand-side problem. Economists say inflation may have peaked, but relief will take time. Summer travel costs are expected to stay high for Florida vacationers. “Florida first-time jobless claims see sharp drop for final week of May” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — New unemployment claims in Florida fell sharply during the final week of May, with 5,167 first-time filings recorded for the week ending May 30, down 803 from the previous week. The decline marks the third consecutive weekly drop and follows a spike earlier in the month tied to Spirit Airlines’ shutdown, which pushed claims above 8,000 after thousands of Florida employees were laid off. The latest figures mirror a broader national trend, though the decline nationwide was far smaller. Despite the improvement in weekly claims, Florida’s overall unemployment rate has continued to rise, reaching 4.8% in April, above the national rate of 4.3%. FloridaCommerce is expected to release updated May unemployment figures later this month.

Happy birthday   Happy birthday to journalist Karl Etters and Mr. Tallahassee, Jay Revell. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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