Jacksonville Bold for 7.29.26: Democratic dollars

Jacksonville politics, campaigns, endorsements and Jaguars dominate Northeast Florida headlines today ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Money isn’t exactly flowing to the four Democrats running in two House Primaries in Jacksonville this cycle. With less than three weeks until the Aug. 18 Primary, the HD 13 race appears likely to be driven by grassroots outreach rather than ad buys, while the HD 14 contest looks one-sided. In 13, former Senate caucus leader Audrey Gibson and attorney Leslie Jean-Bart are roughly equivalent. Audrey Gibson and Leslie Jean-Bart compete for the Democratic nomination in House District 13. Jean-Bart has raised less than $19,000 so far, has lent herself $3,500, and has less than $15,000 on hand. Wayne Hogan and Florida Rising are among her backers. Gibson has raised a little more than $23,000 and has almost $20,000 on hand. Corrine Brown, the Fraternal Order of Police, the REALTORS PAC, bestbet and the First Coast Manufacturers Association are on her side, as is HD 14 incumbent Kimberly Daniels. Speaking of Daniels, Rhian Tutson is not presenting much of a challenge to the political veteran and professional evangelist. The political newcomer has raised a little more than $4,000 and has roughly $300 on hand. Daniels, who is backed by the FOP and the Jacksonville Association of Firefighters, has raised and self-funded nearly $65,000 thus far. She’s spent more than $18,000 of that, including $10,000 in advertising.

NEFBA nod   The Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA) is throwing in behind Republican candidates in every race possible next month, except for a state House race where only Democrats are running. The group backs incumbent Senators Clay Yarborough and Jennifer Bradley for re-election in Districts 4 and 5. Speaker-designate Sam Garrison is the choice in House District 11, with fellow Republican incumbents Kiyan Michael, Dean Black, and Jessica Baker the choices in HD 15, 16, and 17, respectively. Jennifer Bradley and Clay Yarborough secure Northeast Florida Builders Association support for re-election. Jacksonville City Councilman Terrance Freeman is also the group's selection to replace exiting Speaker Pro Tempore Wyman Duggan in HD 12. Freeman has a massive financial advantage against his Democratic opponent Ben Sandlin. NEFBA did not endorse in the HD 13 Democratic battle between former Senate caucus leader Audrey Gibson and attorney Leslie Jean-Bart, but the group is supporting incumbent Kimberly Daniels in HD 14. The group is also backing Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Commander Deborah Wesley in her Jacksonville City Council At-Large Group One Special Election contest against Democrat Moné Holder and Libertarian Addison Patrick. Outside of Duval County, the GOP lean continues. Speaker-designate Sam Garrison of Clay County is the choice in House District 11 Additionally, NEFBA backs the re-election of Kim Kendall in HD 18, Sam Greco in HD 19, and Judson Sapp in HD 20. Kendall hails from St. Johns County, Greco from Flagler, and Sapp from Clay. “The candidates NEFBA endorses support the continued economic growth of Northeast Florida and understand the importance of the construction industry to the ongoing success of our community,” said Scott Brannock, 2026 President of NEFBA and President of Tidewater Homes. NEFBA represents industry interests in Duval, St. Johns, Clay, Nassau, Baker, Putnam, and Bradford Counties.

Endorsers highlighted   Michael Kirwan, a Democrat running in Florida’s 4th Congressional District, is allowing his supporters to explain why he’s the best candidate to take on Republican U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean this Fall. The spots feature incoming Senate Democratic Leader Tracie Davis, Jacksonville firefighters, small-business owner Hila Head, Dawn Curling of Melanin Market, and preachers backing the Jacksonville lawyer and former Chair of the city’s Ethics Commission. Aaron Bean and Michael Kirwan could meet in Florida’s 4th Congressional District race. “These testimonials represent the people and communities this campaign is fighting for,” Kirwan said. “I am honored to have the support of leaders who serve Northeast Florida every day and who believe our District deserves effective representation, stronger leadership, and a real opportunity for change.” Davis lauds Kirwan’s “experience, roots and fight to get things done for us in Washington.” Jacksonville Association of Fire Fighters President Kelly Dobson says Kirwan will “go to D.C., take on the hard fights, and have our backs.” “This digital program reflects the energy building behind Michael Kirwan’s campaign,” campaign consultant Obi Umunna said. “Northeast Florida is ready for new leadership, and Democrats finally have a candidate who can build a broad coalition, compete across the entire District, and win this race. Michael is bringing together firefighters, elected officials, faith leaders, entrepreneurs, and community advocates who believe it is time to turn the page and deliver real change for Florida’s Fourth Congressional District.” To get to a contest against Bean, Kirwan still must win the Primary. His opponents are former nominee L.J. Holloway and Democratic Socialist Brit Robinson.

Debate dodge   Lt. Col. Alex Vindman continues to advance a General Election message even as state Rep. Angie Nixon, his opponent in next month's Senate Primary, says she believes she can win the nomination amid frustrations about his unwillingness to debate her. True to form, Vindman didn't mention his intraparty opposition during remarks to St. Johns County Democrats this week, preferring instead to focus on November over August, until an audience member spoke up during his close and forced him to deviate from scripted questions to address his main Primary opponent. Alex Vindman and Angie Nixon battle for the Democratic U.S. Senate nomination. "I'm laser-focused on the General Election," Vindman said, going on to conflate Nixon's name and Republican U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody's before correcting himself. "We unseat Angie Nixon, we put in another Democrat, we get control of the Senate. That's when, yeah, when we unseat Angie — Ashley Moody, that's when changes really occur." Vindman, like Val Demings and Debbie Mucarsel-Powell before him, seems to be betting on Democrats being willing to give him the nomination without intraparty face-offs, under the premise that a generic electability argument will translate into success for him. That didn't work out well for previous nominees who didn't debate Primary opponents, though. Polling suggests he may need more of an opportunity to introduce himself to voters in his own party. A survey released this week from the University of North Florida’s Public Opinion Research Lab finds that Nixon takes 42% in the hypothetical General Election matchup, with Vindman commanding 40% support. And 90% of Democrats back Nixon against Moody, while Vindman only takes 86% of those in his party. Black voters, a key demographic for the Democratic Party in Florida, are more committed to Nixon than to Vindman in this survey. If Nixon is the nominee, she wins the group 78% to 8%. If the pick is Vindman, he would also take Black voters, but by a smaller margin: 73% to 10%. Women also seem to prefer Nixon to Vindman. Moody carries female voters 47% to 44% against Vindman, a recent arrival to the state after his military career. Nixon splits the group with Moody, with each candidate taking 46% in the poll. Vindman ultimately believes that voters with no party affiliation, or NPAs, will be the key in the election, and they simply aren't looking at the race yet. "NPAs are probably just not paying that much attention. They're busy living their lives. I think Democrats and Republicans tend to be more plugged in. NPAs less so. They're not as ideologically driven, which means that they're not as locked in," Vindman said. "So, the bulk of my efforts, especially as we get into the endgame of this campaign, is going to be figuring out how to connect with NPAs in the I-4 corridor — going out and connecting with communities not on the basis of politics, but on the basis of delivering a brighter future. That's going to be the struggle."

No more games   Former House Speaker Paul Renner is betting on a new ad to drive Republican voters to support him over better-funded and better-polling rivals in the Gubernatorial Primary. The 30-second "Stop the Games" spot, reported by POLITICO Florida as a seven-figure ad campaign funded by the Friends of Paul Renner political committee, finds the former prosecutor from Northeast Florida walking through a commercial kitchen, talking about how people struggle to "make ends meet." To watch the ad, please click the image below: Paul Renner takes his affordability message into a commercial kitchen. He then pivots to addressing the tenor of the campaign thus far. "Insults and TikTok videos are not leadership," he says. Renner says he alone has a plan to eliminate property taxes, lower insurance rates, prosecute public corruption, and stop "foreign workers from taking our jobs." "Stop the political games. I'll make Florida affordable again," he says in his close. While it's unclear what plan Renner has to address root causes of unaffordability that include but aren't limited to monetary supply expansion and untrammeled federal spending, what's clear is this spot is intended to be a silver bullet to redress a profound structural imbalance in the race. Whereas front-runner Byron Donalds has cleared the nine-figure Mark in campaign fundraising after a nearly $11 million haul in the last week of Florida Elections Commission records, Renner raised nearly $40,000 during the week, leaving him roughly $1.5 million to spend as of July 17. Most of that money went into this buy, of course. "As the campaign enters its final push, this ad buy sends a clear message: enough is enough! Floridians have had enough political theater, enough empty stunts and enough excuses while families are stretched thin,” a Renner adviser told POLITICO Florida. Yet with Donalds and Lt. Gov. Jay Collins already on TV with bigger buys, even the clearest message may be drowned out by the din of the home stretch before the GOP Primary in 22 days.

Capitol conversations return   The JAX Chamber will host Capitol Conversations with the NEFL Delegation on Wednesday, Aug. 12, beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the University of North Florida. Lunch will be provided. Attendees will hear directly from Speaker-designate Garrison, Speaker Pro Tempore Duggan, Sen. Yarborough, Reps. Black, Kim Kendall and Kiyan Michael. The lawmakers will recap the 2026 Legislative Session, discuss priorities affecting Northeast Florida and preview the upcoming election season. They also will share their perspectives on key issues facing voters, including the proposed property tax referendum. The event offers business and community leaders an opportunity to engage with the region's legislative delegation. For additional information or to register, visit JAX Chamber Capitol Conversations. Northeast Florida lawmakers return for the JAX Chamber’s Capitol Conversations.

Hope for Holder   Democrats are in a super-minority on the Jacksonville City Council despite holding the registration edge in Duval County. Still, it's clear donors believe a Special Election to replace outgoing Republican Terrance Freeman offers an opportunity to redress that imbalance. Holder, the chief advocacy and political officer at Florida Rising, is getting some help from Jacksonville Together, a political committee advertising on behalf of her campaign. Moné Holder looks to shift the balance on the Jacksonville City Council. The spot, now airing on local television, introduces viewers to Holder's biography, including her role as Chair of the Jacksonville Planning Commission, and says she would work to counteract the "good ol' boys" on the City Council. The committee is well-funded, mostly through a $200,000 loan from lawyer Steve Pajcic. Committee Chair Robyn Sieron said the money was classified as a loan in case it isn't all spent. Between the supportive political committee and nearly $35,000 in campaign account fundraising, Holder leads the three-woman field in the at-large City Council Special Election, which can be won outright on the Aug. 18 Primary ballot if one candidate takes more than half the vote. The stakes are high, especially in terms of the morale boost a win would provide. Democrats control the Mayor's Office and the Property Appraiser's Office, but all five at-large Council seats are held by Republicans, who typically outraise their major-party opponents. The Florida Democratic Party is hoping to change that and has included Holder on its list of Take Back Local candidates. The FDP points to the program's track record, with Take Back Local candidates winning 76% of the time across its last four cohorts. Republicans aren't ceding this race, of course. Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Commander Deborah Wesley is running as a Republican with strong fundraising of her own: nearly $94,000 in hard money and more than $27,000 in the supportive Building a Stronger Jacksonville political committee.

Kitchen kvetchin’   Jacksonville’s Office of Inspector General is raising alarms about years of unpermitted construction in Duval County school kitchens. This pattern not only violates building codes but could endanger students and staff. "Field inspections and witness statements confirmed that DCPS consistently authorized commercial kitchen renovations, heavy mechanical utility upgrades, and electrical installations districtwide without requesting, issuing, or verifying required State Requirements for Educational Facilities, electrical, mechanical, or gas construction permits. Evidentiary findings further show that Code Enforcement personnel acknowledged that contractors were legally required to obtain permits and failed to do so, resulting in potential life-safety defects," the OIG asserted in a report released on Wednesday. Unpermitted Duval County school kitchen renovations raise safety and oversight concerns. Before launching its formal review, the Inspector General’s team visited Westside High School in 2024 and found major kitchen renovations had been completed without the required permits. The formal investigation began a year after that initial visit, uncovering a pattern: several expensive projects across the District lacked the state-mandated permits and documentation, with violations stretching back to 2021. Inspectors found more problems at San Pablo Elementary and Neptune Beach Elementary, where new serving lines were installed without permits, and a commercial range hood was installed without any code inspection. At the Young Men's Leadership Academy at Eugene J. Butler and North Shore Elementary, inspections in January 2026 revealed what the report called severe electrical and structural problems — none of which had been permitted. The District also paid two separate vendors for the same serving lines at North Shore Elementary, raising questions about oversight and accountability. Even after paying twice, the work at North Shore Elementary was riddled with problems. Inspectors found exposed wiring, open electrical junctions, and uninsulated floor connections beneath the new cafeteria serving lines — conditions that could put both staff and students at risk. As of the deadline, Duval County Public Schools had not responded to the Inspector General’s findings, despite having 10 days to reply. The OIG recommends "immediate safety sweeps of all food service facilities modified since 2021, the implementation of financial controls that link procurement to verified permits, contractor performance evaluations related to SREF compliance, and formal disciplinary reviews for administrative personnel who authorized renovations outside statutory requirements."

Local Ford dealer   Former Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry is lavishing praise on exiting JTA exec Nat Ford, who will head to Dallas to run its mass transit agency. “Jacksonville knows what Nat Ford’s leadership can accomplish. Texas has the opportunity to find out,” Curry writes in The Dallas Morning News. Nat Ford leaves Jacksonville after a consequential run leading the Jacksonville Transportation Authority. He says Ford “knows how to build relationships at the local, state and federal levels. He works effectively with Republicans, Democrats and independents.” And he credits those relationships with delivering tangible results. “JTA secured more than $400 million in federal discretionary grants and helped advance a local gas tax extension projected to generate approximately $1 billion for regional infrastructure. JTA expanded its regional presence, developed the First Coast Flyer bus rapid transit network, opened the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center and restored the St. Johns River Ferry.”

Swamp thing   The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) addition of the Okefenokee Swamp to the World Heritage List is thrilling to North Florida environmentalists. The Okefenokee Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a huge 438,000-acre tract of protected wetlands that’s mostly in Georgia. But it also has portions in North Florida in Baker County. North Florida Land Trust (NFLT) officials are thrilled with the designation, which was formally approved by UNESCO during meetings in Seoul, South Korea, on Saturday. The Okefenokee Swamp earns recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. “The economic impact that will be coming in the next few decades will be enormous,” said Allison DeFoor, CEO and President of the NFLT. “It’s going to be a deal, not just for the economy of South Georgia but for North Florida.” The UNESCO designation is intended to draw additional protections for sites and calls for those areas to be honored as treasures. It requires local governments to oversee and care for the property legally. There are 1,273 UNESCO World Heritage List properties across the globe. DeFoor said the Okefenokee Swamp provides the headwaters for the Suwannee River, which is a valued waterway that’s still relatively environmentally sound as it courses through much of North Florida. The swamp is also the beginning of what many environmental groups and Florida government officials refer to as the Ocala To Osceola (O2O) Wildlife Corridor, which covers a massive 100-mile, 1.6 million-acre stretch of protected public and private sensitive lands. “I’m surprised it took this long” for the UNESCO designation, DeFoor said. “It’s that important. It’s a watershed for this whole region. It has the same kind of ecosystemic integrity that the Everglades has.“

Uthmeier’s big bust   Attorney General James Uthmeier says a multi-agency investigation ended with 49 arrests in a suspected drug trafficking ring along Florida’s east coast. The dozens of suspects are charged with running a drug distribution network in Flagler, Volusia, St. Johns, Marion and Orange counties. Uthmeier said they’re accused of selling cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl and marijuana. Elements of the investigation began as early as 2024. James Uthmeier announces 49 arrests in a multi-county drug trafficking investigation. “This joint investigation dismantled a criminal organization that pumped deadly fentanyl and other dangerous drugs into Florida communities,” Uthmeier said. “Through the tireless work of Florida’s law enforcement, state attorneys, and our statewide prosecutors, we have arrested 49 traffickers and disrupted these networks. Florida families deserve safe streets free of dangerous drugs, and we will continue holding every member of this organization fully accountable.” The multi-agency investigation culminated June 30 with search warrants executed in several locations. Three suspects are believed to be the ringleaders: Vetrick Maurice Shavers Jr., Richard Gene Hocker III and Antonio Bejon Lee. They're all facing charges of trafficking in fentanyl and conspiracy to traffic the drug, as well as other charges. Uthmeier said the investigation is not over and there could be additional arrests.

Jags injury watch   As the Jaguars opened training camp this week, several players were still dealing with injuries, including at least four who are anticipated to be starters or key backups. The first is cornerback/wide receiver Travis Hunter. Last season, the Jaguars traded up to the second pick of the draft to select Hunter. The Heisman Trophy winner from Colorado flashed his skill occasionally, catching 28 passes in seven games, including one touchdown. But a knee injury in October ended his rookie season. He is visibly stronger in his upper body and is expected to be a full participant in training camp, although how he will be utilized remains a question. The Jaguars have said that he will focus on cornerback first, unlike his rookie season when he was primarily focused on wide receiver in the preseason. Travis Hunter returns to Jaguars training camp after a knee injury ended his rookie season. Cornerback Jourdan Lewis injured his foot when he was stepped on during the Jaguars' victory in Denver on Dec. 21. The injury ended his season and required surgery. Lewis, who could be the nickel cornerback if healthy, sat out offseason practices and was limited to working on the side as he rehabbed the injury. He is expected to see his participation increase as training camp opens, but where he will fit into the cornerback rotation remains to be seen. Also in the defensive backfield, safety Caleb Ransaw injured his foot during training camp in 2025 and had surgery that sidelined him for his rookie season. Ransaw has been cleared to return to the field for training camp and could compete for the third safety spot behind expected starters Eric Murray and Antonio Johnson. On the offensive side of the ball, tackle Cole Van Lanen will have to wait to work in training camp. After signing a contract extension, Van Lanen injured his knee in the regular season finale. This week, he was placed on the Active/Physically Unable to Perform list, meaning that he will not practice with the team for now. Van Lanen was anticipated to be the starting left tackle, but with the injury, Walker Little has taken over the role. Van Lanen can be transferred to the active roster at any time during training camp once he is medically cleared. How the Jaguars’ offensive line performs will be a major factor in the team’s success this season. With the departure of Travis Etienne, who signed with the New Orleans Saints in the offseason, the Jaguars have added former Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez to the roster. However, Rodriguez has not been able to work on the field after injuring his foot at the start of the offseason conditioning program. The injury required surgery, and Rodriguez is expected to be a full participant in training camp. With returning players Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen ready for their second seasons in the NFL, the Jaguars should see some intense competition at the running back position in the preseason. The Jaguars open the preseason schedule with a game at New Orleans on Aug. 15.

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Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 7.30.26 — Burnin’ today: Kindergarten, O’Neal, Donalds, Renner, DeSantis, Fauci & Boeing

Sunburn gives you your first taste of Florida power and politics. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Thursday morning. More than half of Florida children are entering kindergarten already behind, according to a new report from the Florida Chamber Foundation’s Business Alliance for Early Learning. BAEL’s 2025-2026 Kindergarten Readiness Report found that just 44% of children who entered kindergarten last Fall met the state’s readiness benchmark, which for years the Chamber has pitched as an economic issue, citing its connection to third-grade reading proficiency, high school graduation rates and, ultimately, the state’s talent pipeline. Florida children are starting kindergarten behind, and the workforce pipeline is already taking attendance. “The future workforce begins before a child enters a kindergarten classroom. When more than half of Florida's children start school behind, it creates challenges that can follow them throughout their education and careers,” said Florida Chamber President and CEO Mark Wilson. “Improving kindergarten readiness requires business, education, community, and policy leaders working together to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed and Florida has the talent pipeline needed to remain globally competitive." Florida Chamber Foundation VP of Talent Development Corrie Melton added, "Florida's talent pipeline begins years before a student enters the workforce, and if we fix early learning, we fix 1,000 other things. Strengthening kindergarten readiness is one of the smartest long-term investments Florida can make to secure its future workforce and economic competitiveness." According to the report, Pinellas County is leading the state with a 53% readiness rate, while Jefferson County ranked last at 13%. The report also directly ties kindergarten readiness to Florida’s Voluntary Prekindergarten program, with children who attend VPK substantially more likely to enter school ready to learn. Notably, the rate reflects the Florida Department of Education’s heightened kindergarten readiness standards, which the Chamber supports. Under those same standards, Florida’s kindergarten readiness rate was 43% in 2024-25.

Situational awareness   Tweet, tweet: —@AndrewDesiderio: TRUMP, when asked if John Thune is the man for the job of Senate GOP leader: “Well we’re gonna find out. I’ll let you know.” —@burgessev: There's a reason most modern Presidents don't work to defeat sitting Senators from their own party … it can become a big problem! —@AGJamesUthmeier: Confirmed: as of day one of the Florida Bar exam, Summer edition, there are no longer tampons in the men’s restrooms. We're making progress! —@learyreports: Florida AG office opening investigation into (Anthony) Fauci. Gov. (Ron) DeSantis, one of the most prominent opponents of Fauci during the pandemic, says he should be held in contempt of Congress. Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet:

Days until   Tiger Bay Club of Central Florida hosts Orange County Mayor debate — 1; ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 1; Optional Primary early voting begins — 4; ‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 6; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 7; Mandatory Primary early voting begins — 9; ‘Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 17; Primary Election Day — 19; ‘The Dog Stars,’ directed by Ridley Scott, premieres — 29; Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards — 33; NFL regular season kicks off — 41; Republican National Midterm Convention — 41; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in the first-ever NFL regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia — 42; Yankees host the Mets for the 9/11 anniversary — 43; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 47; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 51; Tampa Bay Buccaneers home opener against the Cleveland Browns — 52; General Election domestic ballot send window begins — 56; General Election domestic ballot send deadline — 63; ‘Digger,’ with Tom Cruise, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, premieres — 64; General Election voter registration deadline — 67; ‘The Social Network’ sequel, with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres — 71; Optional General early voting begins — 81; 'Six Kings Slam' on Netflix — 83; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins — 83; General Election ballot request deadline — 84; Mandatory General early voting begins — 86; General Election — 96; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 99; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 99; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 104; 'Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol' starring Johnny Depp premieres — 106; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me,’ releases — 110; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 113; ‘The Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 118; ‘Madden’ premieres — 119; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 141; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 141; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 141; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas — 179; Grammys — 192; Super Bowl LXI — 199; Tampa Mayoral Election — 215; ‘The Thomas Crown Affair,’ directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan premieres — 218; Oscars — 227; Jacksonville First Election — 236; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins — 258; Jacksonville General Election — 292; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 310; ‘Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 372; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 372; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 428; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 505; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans — 543; Oscars — 584; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 666; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 687; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 715; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 831; ‘Black Panther 3’ directed by Ryan Coogler premieres — 869; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa — 907; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,231; College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami — 1,271; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,962.

Top story   “Secretly investigated environmentalists accuse FWC of smear campaign” via Jeffrey Schweers of the Orlando Sentinel — Chuck O’Neal and other environmental advocates say the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is attempting to discredit them after secretly accessing their driving records and later releasing anonymous social media threats to justify the surveillance. Critics argue the agency has never shown the investigated activists authored the inflammatory comments yet published them in a way that suggests a connection. The controversy stems from FWC’s monitoring of activists who opposed recent agency actions, including Florida’s bear hunt. Officials initially described the effort as part of a criminal investigation before later acknowledging it was conducted for public safety purposes. The agency says assessing threats surrounding Commission meetings is a legitimate law enforcement responsibility. Chuck O’Neal says state wildlife officials improperly monitored environmental advocates. Image via the Orlando Sentinel. O’Neal, founder of Speak Up Wekiva, said FWC accessed his driving record 28 times over three years. Documentary filmmaker Brent Fannin contends as many as 21 environmental advocates were investigated after criticizing the agency through lawsuits, public meetings and social media. Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith has asked the state Inspector General to investigate what he called baseless surveillance of activists from across the political spectrum, arguing Floridians deserve transparency and accountability. FWC maintains every resident has the right to criticize the agency and participate in public meetings without fear of retaliation. However, it has not publicly tied any investigated individual to the anonymous online comments. The dispute raises questions about privacy, government transparency and whether law enforcement tools were appropriately used against outspoken critics of state wildlife policies and public officials. The outcome could influence future oversight of agency investigations, public records access and the balance between protecting public safety and safeguarding constitutional rights for citizens challenging state government decisions.

2026   Friends of Byron Donalds PAC drops new ad — The chief political committee supporting Donalds' run for Governor is releasing a new ad, “Game Time,” highlighting the Republican front-runner’s “commitment to making Florida more affordable for families across the state.” The spot features Donalds on the basketball court with his sons as he discusses economic challenges facing Florida families and how he plans to address them. "My boys deserve the same shot I got. But Florida's pricing out our future," Donalds says in the ad, saying he will push policies to cut property taxes, lower insurance rates, and reduce the cost of housing. The ad closes with the Southwest Florida Congressman sinking a half-court shot. Friends of Byron Donalds said the ad will run statewide on TV and digital platforms. To watch the ad, please click the image below: Byron Donalds takes his affordability pitch to the basketball court in his new ‘Game Time’ ad. “Adult in the room: Paul Renner makes ‘vision’ his campaign’s closing argument” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Renner is making his closing pitch to Republican voters with a new television and streaming ad titled “Vision,” highlighting his record as a prosecutor, Navy veteran and former House Speaker while outlining his priorities if elected Governor. The minute-long spot contrasts his résumé with what the campaign characterizes as rivals focused on politics over leadership. In the ad, Renner pledges to eliminate property taxes, combat child trafficking, prosecute public corruption and defend “faith, family and freedom,” while promising to keep Florida “the leader of the nation.” Campaign Chair Brett Doster says the ad emphasizes results, substance and vision as the campaign makes a final push before the Aug. 18 Primary Election. To watch the ad, please click the image below: Paul Renner puts ‘Vision’ on the air as the Governor’s race enters its closing stretch. Happening today — Alex Vindman holds a news conference calling on U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody to urge Attorney General James Uthmeier to release the Hope Florida grand jury report — 10:30 a.m., Tallahassee.

More elections   Jennifer Jenkins within striking distance of Mike Haridopolos in CD 8 — A new Public Policy Polling survey shows Democrat Jenkins within single digits of Republican U.S. Rep. Haridopolos in Florida’s 8th Congressional District, 44%-35%, with the gap closing to 43%-41% once voters hear about Jenkins’ background and priorities. PPP also found Jenkins leading 52% to 23% among independent voters and President Donald Trump underwater 50% to 47% in the District, which he carried by 13 points in 2024. “This poll confirms what I hear every day across our District: people are tired of career politicians in Washington who promise results but deliver more of the same while the cost of housing, insurance, groceries, and healthcare keeps climbing,” Jenkins said. Jennifer Jenkins is within striking distance of Mike Haridopolos in Florida’s 8th Congressional District. "Winning For Women puts six figures behind Sydney Gruters in CD 16 Primary" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Gruters is getting a six-figure boost from a national group dedicated to electing Republican women as the GOP Primary race in Florida's 16th Congressional District enters its closing weeks. Winning For Women Action Fund has launched a new direct-mail campaign supporting Gruters. The mailer highlights Trump's endorsement. One side features images of Trump and Gruters together and identifies her as the "Trump-endorsed" candidate for Congress to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan. "Sydney is exactly the kind of next-generation conservative leader our party needs in Congress," Winning For Women Action Fund President Danielle Barrow said. "She knows her District well, has deep experience in public service, and understands how to fight for hard-working families. We're proud to support Sydney as she takes her message directly to voters across FL-16." “CD 16 candidate Mark Davis records Manatee deputies before arrest” via and Tiffany Tompkins of the Bradenton Herald — Davis, a candidate for Florida’s 16th Congressional District, recorded his interaction with Manatee County deputies before being arrested July 28 on a misdemeanor obstruction charge. Video released by the Bradenton Herald captures the encounter leading to Davis’ arrest, though details surrounding the incident remain limited in the initial report. The case adds an unexpected legal development to the Congressional race as Davis continues his campaign. Authorities charged him with obstruction, a misdemeanor offense, following the exchange with deputies. Additional information about the circumstances of the arrest, Davis’ response to the charge and any potential impact on the campaign is expected as the case moves through the legal process. To watch the video, please click the image below: “New site slams Casey Askar, Michael Carbonara business dealings in Dubai” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A new website targets two Republican congressional candidates with investments in the Middle East. The Dubai Duo slams both Republican Askar and Carbonara for their foreign business dealings. Both are candidates in Florida’s 22nd Congressional District, and GOP Primary opponent Belinda Keiser funded the site. With Carbonara, the site takes issue with business dealings by Ibanera, a fintech firm where Carbonara served as CEO before launching his campaign for Congress last year. The company is currently engaged in a federal lawsuit with Zand Bank, a company incorporated in the United Arab Emirates. Zand claims Ibanera has wrongfully retained $23 million “in derogation of the parties’ agreement and the common law.” The lawsuit was filed in March and continues to play out, with attorneys for Ibanera required to respond to motions this week. “32BJ SEIU backs ‘strong partner’ Oliver Gilbert for CD 24, vows to knock doors for him” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami-Dade’s chapter of the nation’s largest property service workers union is throwing its sizable support behind County Commissioner Gilbert’s bid for Florida’s 24th Congressional District, adding even more labor backing to his campaign. SEIU 32BJ, which represents security officers, janitors and airport workers across the county, has endorsed Gilbert, joining major unions including SEIU Local 1991, the Florida AFL-CIO, South Florida Council of Firefighters and UNITE HERE! Local 335 in doing so. “Gilbert works hard, just like our members, and he has never been afraid to stand up to powerful companies when workers are being treated unfairly,” said Helene O’Brien, vice president of 32BJ SEIU in Florida. “He has been a strong partner in our fight to raise standards for security officers and ensure airport workers receive the fair treatment they deserve.”

Even more elections   Firefighters union backs Ashley Gantt in SD 34 — The Florida Professional Firefighters are endorsing Democratic state Rep. Gantt in her bid for Senate District 34, her campaign announced. "The Florida Professional Firefighters are proud to endorse Ashley Gantt for the Florida Senate. Ashley understands that public safety starts with supporting the professionals who answer the call every day to protect our communities," said FPF President and CEO Wayne Bernoska. "Her commitment to service, safety, and standing up for working families reflects the values of the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting people and property in communities across the state." Gantt is "honored to have the support of the Florida Professional Firefighters and the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities." She added: "Our first responders deserve leaders who will listen, stand with them, and ensure they have the resources and support needed to do their jobs safely and effectively." Ashley Gantt adds the Florida Professional Firefighters to her Senate District 34 endorsement list. "Orange Dem Chair vies with former lawmaker to succeed Johanna López in state House" via Silas Morgan of the Orlando Sentinel — Samuel Vilchez Santiago, the Chair of the Orange County Democratic Party, is hoping to succeed his mentor, Rep. López, in the House. But he must first face an old rival — former Democratic Rep. Daisy Morales. López has represented House District 43, which covers parts of East Orlando, since 2022. She is leaving the Legislature to seek election to the Orange County Commission and has endorsed Vilchez Santiago, her former protégé, to take her place in the House. Vilchez Santiago, 29, will face Morales, 65, in the Aug. 18 Democratic Primary. Both candidates' campaigns center on addressing the state's affordability crisis. The winner will face Republican Jorge Malavet and write-in candidate Areeb Gulzar in November. “Fabián Basabe lawyers up to ask for new trial, or smaller bill, after losing sexual harassment case” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Two weeks after he lost in court, Rep. Basabe is asking the judge who presided over his sexual harassment trial to throw out the six-figure verdict, order a new trial or slash the damages. He contends that a cascade of procedural and evidentiary errors during the trial, in which he forwent legal representation — against advice from the court and conventional wisdom — denied him a fair trial. The request comes through a 25-page motion filed through Florida’s e-filing portal by Deerfield Beach-based lawyer Peter Ticktin, whom Basabe retained after representing himself throughout the trial — a decision the Miami Beach Republican publicly called a “mistake” hours after the verdict. Ticktin attended high school with Trump and previously represented hundreds of Jan. 6 rioters. This year, he’s advocated for Trump to declare a national emergency that would enable the President to, among other things, ban mail-in voting and voting machines ahead of the Midterm.

Statewide   “Anthony Fauci’s diary details clashes with Ron DeSantis” via Churchill Ndonwie of the Miami Herald — Newly released diary entries from Fauci offer a candid look at his deteriorating relationship with DeSantis during the COVID-19 pandemic. The writings, released by Sen. Rand Paul ahead of Fauci’s Senate testimony, show the nation’s former top infectious disease official initially viewed DeSantis favorably before growing sharply critical of the Governor’s pandemic policies. Fauci accused DeSantis of preventing local officials from imposing stricter mitigation measures and later described him in harsh personal terms. During Wednesday’s Senate hearing, U.S. Sen. Moody criticized Fauci’s comments, while Uthmeier announced an investigation into Fauci’s actions during the pandemic. Anthony Fauci’s private writings reveal just how far his relationship with Ron DeSantis deteriorated. “Florida Democratic Chair calls on Ashley Moody to release grand jury report on Hope Florida” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried is calling on Moody to use her power to seek release of a grand jury report into the $10 million in taxpayer funds diverted to the Hope Florida Foundation in 2024. Hope Florida is the community-based, statewide welfare assistance initiative launched by First Lady Casey DeSantis in 2021. That $10 million was part of a legal settlement that the state received, later diverted by Hope Florida to political committees — one controlled by DeSantis’ then-Chief of Staff Uthmeier — and used to help defeat a 2024 ballot initiative that would have legalized recreational marijuana. Revelation of the controversy led to an investigation in the Florida House of Representatives in 2025 and later a grand jury investigation by State Attorney Jack Campbell in Tallahassee. “Judge weighs legal fight over sweeping property-tax amendment” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — A Leon County judge is weighing whether to require changes to the ballot language for Amendment 3, the proposed constitutional amendment that would significantly expand Florida's homestead tax exemption. David Frank heard arguments Wednesday in lawsuits alleging the measure's title and summary use misleading language designed to sway voters, while state attorneys argued the wording fairly explains the proposal. Frank ordered final briefs by Monday as election officials prepare November ballots following the Aug. 18 Primary Election. Even if he rules against the ballot language, the amendment would remain on the ballot, with the Attorney General authorized to rewrite the title and summary if necessary. “Judge won’t order state to implement expanded access to KidCare” via Christine Sexton of Florida Phoenix — A state judge has refused to order Florida healthcare officials to implement a 2023 law that would allow as many as 68,000 uninsured children to access subsidized health insurance coverage through the Florida KidCare program. Circuit Judge Joshua Hawkes in Tallahassee, appointed by DeSantis, wrote in a four-page ruling that those suing the state must first pursue their claim through a state administrative court. This ruling is yet another setback to efforts to expand healthcare coverage to children, initially promoted by Republican legislative leaders, including Republican gubernatorial hopeful and former House Speaker Renner, to make the state more affordable for working families.

D.C. matters   Breaking late Wednesday — “Todd Blanche vote postponed in Senate Judiciary Committee” via POLITICO — The Senate Judiciary Committee has postponed a planned Thursday vote on Blanche’s nomination for U.S. Attorney General as Republican support remains uncertain. Sens. John Cornyn and Thom Tillis are seeking written assurances from the Justice Department regarding a controversial settlement involving Trump and the IRS before backing the nomination. Committee Chair Chuck Grassley delayed the markup, saying the goal is to ensure Blanche has enough support to advance rather than risk defeat. The delay complicates Senate Republican leaders’ plans to confirm Blanche before lawmakers leave Washington for the Summer recess, though the Committee could quickly reschedule the vote if outstanding concerns are resolved. Todd Blanche’s confirmation vote is postponed while Republican Senators seek assurances from the Justice Department. Image via The Associated Press. “Rand Paul threatens to hold Fauci in contempt after he declines to answer questions” via Dan Diamond, Anna Liss-Roy of The Washington Post — Fauci repeatedly invoked the Fifth Amendment during a Senate hearing Wednesday where Republicans pressed the retired government scientist on whether he was sufficiently truthful in past testimony about the coronavirus pandemic. Sen. Paul of Kentucky, a longtime adversary of Fauci, concluded the nearly three-hour hearing by saying the Committee is planning a vote next week on whether to hold Fauci in contempt of Congress. Paul acknowledged to GOP colleagues that there are legal questions about whether Fauci could be held in contempt — citing President Biden’s preemptive pardon of Fauci last year — but contended that Fauci should have just answered questions on Wednesday, even if it meant admitting to a past lie or other wrongdoing. “Trump to end Medicare drug premium subsidies” via Rebecca Robbins and Reed Abelson of The New York Times — The Trump administration will end a Biden-era subsidy program that helped keep Medicare Part D drug premiums low for 2025 and 2026, potentially increasing costs for millions of seniors next year. Administration officials argue insurers no longer need the payments and say most beneficiaries will see premium increases of less than $10 a month, with some paying less. The change does not affect Medicare’s annual cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs, which is expected to rise modestly next year. Democrats blasted the move as making healthcare less affordable, while Republicans have long criticized the subsidies as a temporary, politically motivated bailout for insurers ahead of the 2024 Election. "Inside the White House pitch for pre-election MAGA megabill" via Stef W. Kight of Axios — White House officials will press Senate Republicans behind closed doors to pass a blueprint for another GOP-only megabill before they leave for the August recess, but save any possible debt ceiling increase for later, Axios has learned. Senate Republican leaders have been skeptical that there is the time — or the votes — to get it done. Trump and his team disagree. The White House wants the Senate to pass a similar resolution by the end of next week, similar to the one the House passed earlier this month. The resolution outlines $73 billion in funding for defense, $12 billion in farm aid and a $10 billion fund aimed at incentivizing states to adopt elements of the SAVE America Act. “As Trump squeezes Cuba, he plans to send Cuban deportees to Uruguay” via Edward Wong, Emma Bubola of The New York Times — As part of its anti-immigrant drive, the Trump administration has deported thousands of Cubans, sending some to Mexico and even African countries, and others back to Cuba. Now, U.S. officials are close to securing a new destination: Uruguay, the second-smallest country in South America, which already has a relatively large population of residents who migrated from Cuba. The State Department under Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants, has been discussing the proposal with Uruguay’s foreign ministry for months, according to officials from both countries. Uruguay entered the negotiations partly because it needs immigrant workers, and partly to win favor with the Trump administration, a senior Uruguayan official said. “Senate unanimously agrees to oppose pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell” via Helen Huiskes of The Hill — The Senate unanimously agreed that Maxwell, a convicted sex offender and collaborator of Jeffrey Epstein, should not be allowed a presidential pardon or clemency of any kind. The resolution was brought by Sen. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, who said it was to prevent acting Attorney General Blanche, whom Trump nominated to stay in the role, from giving Maxwell a pardon in exchange for clearing Trump’s name. Trump has denied any wrongdoing connected to Epstein. Ghislaine Maxwell finds rare Senate unanimity: no presidential pardon or clemency. Image via The Associated Press. “ICE’s new detention center contracts declare state laws ‘shall not apply’” via Dell Cameron of WIRED — Immigration and Customs Enforcement is moving to place its private detention network beyond the reach of state inspectors, publishing draft contract terms that declare state and local laws “shall not apply” to the facilities, according to federal documents reviewed by WIRED. The new terms were published earlier this month, a day after a federal judge ruled that a contract cannot override state law and ordered ICE’s largest Pacific Northwest detention center opened to Washington health officials. “Fed leaves rates steady, with internal dissent” via Neil Irwin of Axios — The central bank elected not to surprise markets with an interest rate hike, contrary to rampant speculation on Wall Street in recent days. But three members of the policy-setting Federal Open Market Committee did favor raising the cost of borrowing. Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack, Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari, and Dallas Fed President Lorie Logan preferred a quarter-point rate hike, with the other nine officials, including Chair Kevin Warsh, voting to stand pat. The Committee left its target range for the federal funds rate between 3.5% and 3.75%, where it has stood since December.

Local: S. FL   "Immigrant advocates protest surge in ICE arrests, say South Florida police should end support of feds" via David Lyons of South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Immigrant support groups gathered outside an Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office in Miramar to press a case for local governments to stop cooperating with federal agents as they round up undocumented foreign nationals living in South Florida. Their news conference came just two days after temporary protection status technically expired for 350,000 Haitians nationally; tens of thousands reside in South Florida. It remained unclear what immediate action the Trump administration's Department of Homeland Security intends to take once a federal judge in Washington, D.C., lifts a stay against the deportation of Haitians, a ruling that could come this week. The Palm Beach County School District, for example, terminated 19 employees who lost their work authorizations. "Will there be a new ICE detention center in Miami area? Homeland Security is looking" via Jacqueline Charles of the Miami Herald — The Department of Homeland Security is on the hunt for a new immigration detention facility in the Miami area, according to a procurement request issued earlier this month. The agency is looking for a contractor-operated, or "turnkey," facility with at least 700 detention beds within 50 miles of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Miami Field Office in Plantation. The request is one of several such detention facilities DHS is looking for across the country for people in ICE custody. The request comes on the heels of the closure of Alligator Alcatraz, the state's controversial and hastily erected immigration detention center in the Everglades, and as the Trump administration reportedly prepares to ramp up ICE enforcement. Federal officials are searching for a new immigration detention facility in the Miami area. Image via the Miami Herald. "Miami rolls out the blue carpet for Democratic Mayors summit, with Eileen Higgins as host" via Tess Riski of the Miami Herald — Left-leaning Mayors from around the country will be flocking to South Florida next Spring to attend a summit hosted by Miami Mayor Higgins. In April, Miami will host the annual Democratic Mayors Association summit, where city leaders from around the U.S. plan to "share solutions and strategies that Mayors can utilize in their own communities," according to a press release. Higgins, the summit's host, was elected in December, making her the city's first Democratic Mayor in nearly 30 years. Higgins had backing from the Democratic National Committee, while her lead challenger, former City Manager Emilio González, landed endorsements from Trump, DeSantis and U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz. "Miami-Dade School Board picks longtime MDCPS administrator as new Superintendent" via Austin Horn of the Miami Herald — Miami-Dade has its new Superintendent of public schools. After public interviews were held between two finalists, the Miami-Dade School Board unanimously selected current South Region Superintendent Rafael Villalobos to lead the District. The decision caps a monthslong search process, which drew 21 applications from across the country, including from administrators in some of the nation's biggest districts. Ultimately, the Board went with a familiar face in Villalobos, 54. He's led MDCPS' South Region, covering more than 80,000 students, since 2022. Villalobos began his career in the District in 1994, and has worked there for 27 years. "I am grateful, and I'm ready. I am ready to serve the children of Miami-Dade County," Villalobos said. "Data center, Trump draw attention to Palm Beach County Commission Primary" via Mike Diamond of the Palm Beach Post — When Palm Beach County voters head to the polls Aug. 18, the county's only contested Commission race on the Primary Election ballot will be for the District 6 seat. Two candidates are vying for the GOP nomination, and three are seeking the Democratic nomination. County Mayor Sara Baxter, a Republican incumbent, has amassed a campaign war chest of nearly $400,000 to fend off a challenge in the GOP Primary from Elizabeth Accomando, president of the Indian Trail Improvement District. Baxter had pulled out of the County Commission race to run for Congress but quickly changed her mind after Trump insisted in a social media post that she stay in the race. "West Palm Commissioners want a tax rate cut. Mayor says he won't help." via Andrew Marra of the Palm Beach Post — West Palm Beach's Mayor is pushing back against City Commissioners' efforts to reduce the city's property-tax rate, saying they will have to cut the budget themselves to make way for any tax relief for property owners. Three of the five Commissioners said they support reducing the tax rate by about half a percent, which would decrease the property taxes that the city collects in the new budget year by about $1 million. But Mayor Keith James and his staff discouraged Commissioners from doing so, saying that giving up tax revenue would be foolish just months before Florida voters are set to consider a massive property-tax reform. "St. Lucie County, Port St. Lucie divided on sales tax ballot question" via Timothy O'Hara of Treasure Coast Newspapers — A local sales tax in St. Lucie County that has generated $56 million for local roads and bridge projects could be in jeopardy. The St. Lucie County Commission was split 2-2 on asking voters to extend a half-percent sales tax by 10 years, but the Commission may have to put it before voters, according to Port St. Lucie city officials. The County Commission will vote again Aug. 4, when all five Commissioners can attend the meeting. The tax is set to expire in 2028. Port St. Lucie City Council members discussed their support for the ballot question, which could generate an additional $45 million in the next 10 years. “A South Florida State College professor was fired over a short story. Now she's suing” via Stephany Matat of the Florida Times-Union — For nearly 10 years, Vinita Prabhakar hasn't had any problems assigning students to read a contemporary short story for classroom discussion in her English classes. But this time, it got her fired. Now, she's suing the state college she worked at for violating the First Amendment. Prabhakar taught an introductory reading and writing course at South Florida State College in Avon Park until February, when college President Fred Hawkins weighed in. Hawkins, a former state lawmaker, said he wouldn't even want his own college-aged daughter reading Ottessa Moshfegh's 2013 short story "Bettering Myself," characterizing it as "political," according to a lawsuit filed July 29 in the Southern District of Florida.

Local: C. FL   "Hoteliers endorse judges, Orange County Clerk of Courts in Central Florida races" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association Political Action Committee has released its latest endorsements in Orange County races. The group of influential hoteliers is backing Roberta Walton Johnson for Orange County Clerk of Courts. For 9th Circuit Court judicial races, the Association supports Mikaela Nix in Group 1, Christie Lou Mitchell in Group 2, and Kamilah Perry in Group 31. In Orange County judicial races, the Association is taking a different stance, endorsing both candidates, Asima Azam and Kafi Kennedy, in Group 5. "After carefully evaluating each of the candidates, the CFHLA PAC is proud to endorse this distinguished group for their experience, and we are confident they will uphold the public trust and carry out the duties of their respective offices with integrity," said Jay Leonard, Chair of the CFHLA PAC. Jay Leonard leads the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association’s political committee. "Orange County Convention Center seeks $523M for another expansion" via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Every year in the history of the Orange County Convention Center, it has operated at a multimillion-dollar deficit. But this year, as managers and allies of the Pentagon-sized edifice seek over half a billion in tourist-tax money to pay for another expansion of the massive meeting place on International Drive, Mark Tester, the convention center's executive director, said there won't be an operating shortfall. "This fiscal year, we're having our greatest year," Tester said, speaking to the Tourist Development Tax Task Force convened by Mayor Jerry Demings. "We will absolutely be returning millions back in TDT." He said the convention center, as of May, had a $10 million operating surplus. “Orange County Comptroller’s annual online auction kicks off this week” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — All these items are for sale this week at Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond’s public online auction. Hundreds of items are up for grabs in the auction, which kicked off Wednesday and runs until 3 p.m. Aug. 5. For local officials, the proceeds help save taxpayer money. Since the annual auction began in 2018, the Comptroller’s Office has raised more than $9 million. Last year’s auction generated about $1.5 million, Diamond said. Most of the proceeds are returned to the Orange County general fund, although some funds go to other budgets, such as the Orange County Convention Center, Diamond said. “That money is all going back to the taxpayers,” Diamond said. “It’s a lot of money that we generate, and it’s something I’m very proud of.” “Orlando International Airport remains Florida’s busiest” via McKenna Schueler of Orlando Weekly — MCO remained the busiest airport in Florida last year, and the seventh-busiest in the nation, according to a new national airport rankings report. Orlando International Airport welcomed 57,675,573 passengers in 2025, up just under 1% from the prior year, according to the Airports Council International North America. The Orlando airport ranked just above Miami International Airport in the number of passengers it welcomed in 2025. MCO attributed its slight rise in passengers — 463,945 more than in 2024 — in part to international travel, citing three new nonstop routes opened from Orlando: Paris, Munich and Madrid. Overall, Orlando saw a roughly 8% increase in its international travelers in 2025 and a slight (0.4%) decline in domestic passengers.

Local: TB   “Bill Carlson’s CRA reshuffle pitch tied to Tampa Bay Rays deal draws interest from Ken Hagan” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Hillsborough County Chair Ken Hagan told Florida Politics that he is open to Carlson’s proposal to extend the East Tampa CRA, redraw the Drew Park CRA and shift some revenue away from the Downtown CRA to free up money for road repairs elsewhere in Tampa — changes to three Community Redevelopment Areas the county has so far resisted as part of Tampa Bay Rays stadium negotiations. Hagan said officials would first need to understand their scope and financial impact, and that county buy-in hinges on the city’s agreement to a deal with the Rays for a new ballpark and a mixed-use entertainment district at the Hillsborough College Dale Mabry campus. But Hagan also made clear Wednesday that the county would not act first. “Without fully understanding the degree and impact of any changes, the County would likely be open to consider amending the CRAs,” Hagan said. “However, any potential changes would require City Council support for the ballpark project, and the Council must approve the definitive documents before the County Commission.” A rendering shows the Tampa Bay Rays’ proposed ballpark and surrounding development near Hillsborough College. “Hillsborough sought Rays deal safeguards amid property-tax reform concerns” via Emma Behrmann of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Hillsborough County officials sought to build protections into the proposed Tampa Bay Rays stadium agreement as they weighed the financial impact of a proposed property-tax amendment headed to the November ballot. Emails obtained by the Tampa Bay Business Journal show county officials considered adding a termination clause and delaying bond validation if the referendum passes, citing concerns about potential revenue losses. Negotiators also questioned the Rays’ mixed-use development projections, arguing they fell short of earlier economic impact estimates used to justify the public investment. While discussions have since evolved, county officials continue negotiating definitive agreements ahead of anticipated August votes on the $976 million public subsidy package. "Hillsborough sets ceiling on property-tax rates as $14.1B budget advances" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Hillsborough County Commissioners unanimously set the proposed millage rates for the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, advancing a $14.14 billion spending plan toward final hearings in September. The Truth in Millage (TRIM) action preserves the County Administrator's recommended rates as the maximum the Board may adopt through the current budget process. But Commissioners said there is still room to reduce them before tentative and final adoption later this year. Officials said the budget outlook is complicated by a proposed constitutional amendment on the November ballot that would expand the homestead exemption and significantly reduce local property-tax collections if approved. The Commission approved the rates 7-0. "We're setting a ceiling, but not the floor," County Commissioner Chris Boles said. "We can't go any higher." "Hillsborough may ease student leggings restrictions after parent outcry" via Divya Kumar of Tampa Bay Times — After an outpouring of parent concern, the Hillsborough County School Board voted unanimously to reconsider the dress code for next year — specifically to allow normal-sized T-shirts and leggings. At a Board workshop last week, Board members approved a new dress code policy that forbade spandex or leggings "unless worn as an undergarment or covered by clothing that extends to at least mid-thigh." Board member Jessica Vaughn said she was concerned the move was rushed and called it a misstep. "I do agree with the emails that we got that tend to be discriminatory toward women," she said. Morgan Thomas, a parent of a seventh and 10th grader, said students trying to comply with existing rules on shorts lengths tend to wear leggings. "It impacts the girls in a way that is unnecessary," she said. “Charlie Crist answers critics, says St. Pete should stay in the Rays game” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Crist is sharpening his case for St. Petersburg Mayor, saying the city should be ready to make another run at the Tampa Bay Rays, pushing a property-tax cut and revisiting major economic-development opportunities he says City Hall allowed to slip away. The former Governor laid out that pitch in an interview with Florida Politics on Wednesday, while also responding to criticism raised by opponents at Tuesday night’s Suncoast Tiger Bay Club mayoral forum. He addressed the Suncoast Tiger Bay snub, where Crist skipped the mayoral forum — which was organized by club leadership with close ties to Mayor Ken Welch — over concerns about its admission fees. He instead hosted a free tele-town hall that his campaign said eventually reached more than 7,500 participants. “If I can reach that many people in a town hall phone call, instead of going to a paid-for experience at Tiger Bay, I’m going to do it every day. It’s important to reach out to the voters and talk to them directly,” Crist said. Charlie Crist says St. Petersburg should keep a seat at the table in the Tampa Bay Rays negotiations. “U.S. appeals court revises Black-empowerment group’s discrimination claims against Pinellas” via Michael Moline of Florida Phoenix — The Pinellas County Commission violated the First Amendment rights of a Black-empowerment group by withholding COVID-response grants for political and racial reasons, a federal appeals court ruled Tuesday. A unanimous opinion by a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit rejected a trial judge’s ruling that the grant denials didn’t offend the African People’s Education and Defense Fund’s (APEDF) First Amendment and equal-protection rights. “Giving it the benefit of all reasonable inferences, APEDF has plausibly alleged that the County intentionally discriminated against it on the basis of race when it revoked its previously awarded grant for radio equipment and then denied its second grant request,” Judge Kevin Newsom wrote for a three-judge panel at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

Local: N. FL   “JEA CEO Vickie Cavey takes leave of absence” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Jacksonville’s public utility will see at least a temporary change atop the org chart. CEO Cavey will be on a leave of absence that could last as few as 14 days but as many as 60. Chief Administrative Officer Jody Brooks will serve as interim CEO of JEA in the meantime. “I am grateful for the Board’s confidence and honored to serve JEA in this role,” said Brooks. “Our focus remains unchanged: supporting our employees, serving our customers and continuing to provide the safe and reliable utility services our community depends on every day.” Her leave of absence is not related to performance, a spokesperson told Florida Politics. JEA Board Chair M.G. Orender wrote the Board, saying he is “fully confident” that the JEA Leadership team will continue to deliver as expected. Vickie Cavey is taking a leave of absence as CEO of Jacksonville’s public utility. "Ex-Council members, School Board Chair and Riverkeeper jump in races" via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — Former Jacksonville City Council members Scott Wilson and Reggie Gaffney, Duval County School Board Member Charlotte Joyce, St. Johns Riverkeeper Lisa Rinaman and Jacksonville Beach Mayor Chris Hoffman are among the candidates already in the running for City Council seats. The marquee matchup in the 2027 election will be for Mayor, where incumbent Donna Deegan is seeking re-election. City Council will have its share of contested races as well because term limits will turn over several seats and some incumbents able to seek re-election have already drawn challengers. District 7 City Council Member Jimmy Peluso, a Democrat, could run for re-election to that seat but opted instead to seek the at-large Group 4 Council seat. “Jacksonville property owners get no change in tentative tax rate” via David Bauerlein of the Florida Times-Union — Jacksonville property owners would pay the same millage rate on this year's tax bills based on the tentative rate approved July 28 by City Council in a decision that matches the proposed rate in Mayor Donna Deegan's proposed rate. The Council still can change the property-tax rate and did so last year, when it cut the rate by about 1% on a 10-9 vote. But typically, the tentative rate ends up being what's approved in September when Council wraps up the budget for the next fiscal year and determines what property owners pay on their tax bills. City Council President Nick Howland said voters will "get to decide the property-tax question for themselves" when they decide a statewide referendum in November on greatly expanding the homestead exemption. “'Stop the smears': Matlow fires back at Parks in heated Mayor's race” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Tallahassee City Commissioner Matlow held a news conference to call for “calm” following controversy over a bombshell political attack launched by his former campaign manager and to aim verbal barbs at Daryl Parks, one of his opponents in the Mayor’s race. Matlow made his remarks outside City Hall on July 29, two days after Parks held his own news conference in the same place to criticize him over the release of a video of City Commission candidate Talethia Edwards’ encounter with Orlando police two years ago after she parked illegally in a disabled spot. He denied any involvement in the release of the video the same day it surfaced July 23 on a Facebook page called Tallahassee Conservatives. But the next day, his campaign manager — Kristellys Estanga, a Democratic political consultant — announced she released the video on her own and that she was stepping down from his campaign. “Leon County schools pass budget despite teacher outcry” via Alaijah Cross of the Tallahassee Democrat — Superintendent Rocky Hanna'sproposed 2026-27 tentative budget was passed by the Leon County School Board but not without a mouthful from schoolteachers and Board member Alva Smith. Smith was a lone "no" vote against the adoption of the proposed spending plan set for $615 million − about $32 million less than what it was last year. She said she feels more could be done to save money and pay teachers more. "If we don't plan now for next year, I will be sitting right here at this dais having these exact same feelings I was having last year. Therefore, I will not support this budget," Smith said. "Because it does not put our teachers and support staff first." “Santa Rosa schools balance budget despite enrollment, state funding declines” via Mary Lett of the Pensacola News Journal — Santa Rosa County residents will not see an increase in property-tax millage to support public schools, despite an anticipated reduction in state funding of nearly $3 million. A local effort millage increase was not part of the tentative 2026-27 millage and budget approved by the Santa Rosa County School Board during a public hearing held July 28 at Woodlawn Beach Middle School. A final public hearing is set for 5:30 p.m. Sept. 10 at Central School. The School Board will vote on a final budget for fiscal year 2026-27 following the hearing.

Local: SW. FL   "Manatee County approves return of $2.5M to schools after tax dispute" via Derek Gilliam of Suncoast Searchlight — The School District of Manatee County will receive all of the funds collected from a voter-approved property tax after County Commissioners agreed to reimburse local schools more than $2.5 million that had been withheld. The decision came after a long-simmering controversy over who should pay the cost of collecting the voter-approved tax. Manatee County Commission Chair Tal Siddique took up the issue after Suncoast Searchlight's reporting that highlighted the dispute. "It's a philosophical question at that point," Siddique said during the meeting. "What we do with the money, I think it's better spent providing it back to the schools." Manatee Superintendent Laurie Breslin celebrated the Commission's decision after the vote. Tal Siddique helped steer more than $2.5 million back to Manatee County schools. Image via Suncoast Searchlight. "New College Foundation votes to dissolve alumni association despite objections" via Francesca Abarca and Gabriela Szymanowska of Suncoast Searchlight — The New College Foundation Board voted to dissolve the school's nearly 50-year-old alumni association, approving a controversial restructuring over the objections of alumni leaders. Critics and other community members argued the move would eliminate an independent alumni voice and further divide the college, which was transformed in recent years under DeSantis. The Foundation Board approved the changes on all but one vote. The decision replaces the New College Alumni Association with a new Foundation-appointed Alumni Engagement Committee. Among those who urged the Foundation not to approve the proposal was Jono Miller, former professor and former president of the New College Alumni Association, who criticized the college's relationship with alumni under its current leadership.

Top opinion   “Donalds cruising to GOP gubernatorial nomination should worry Florida Republicans” via AI, based on original work by Mary Anna Mancuso of the Miami Herald — Donalds may appear to be coasting toward the Republican nomination for Governor with Trump’s endorsement, a commanding fundraising edge and favorable polling. But beneath those advantages are signs the Florida GOP is not as unified as many assume, raising questions about the party’s direction after the Aug. 18 Primary. The biggest warning is the persistence of a large bloc of undecided Republican voters despite Donalds’ dominance. That uncertainty suggests a meaningful share of the electorate remains unconvinced, even as party leaders project confidence that the race is effectively over. James Fishback has capitalized on that opening by building enthusiasm among younger conservatives, particularly voters focused on affordability and economic issues. His campaign has drawn energetic grassroots crowds that evoke earlier insurgent movements Republicans initially dismissed before they reshaped the party. History offers cautionary examples. The Tea Party wave elevated outsiders such as Rick Scott in 2010 and Dave Brat in 2014 after establishment figures underestimated the appeal of anti-establishment candidates. Those victories permanently altered the Republican political landscape. Even if Donalds secures the nomination comfortably, the voters attracted to Fishback are unlikely to disappear after the Primary. Some may disengage, while others could become receptive to appeals from former Republican-turned-Democrat David Jolly, complicating Republican efforts to unify for the General Election. The larger challenge extends beyond one campaign. Florida Republicans have long benefited from insurgent energy but now find themselves defending the establishment. How the party responds to growing ideological and generational divisions after the Primary may prove more consequential than the nomination itself.

More opinions   “What we really learned from the Fauci hearing” via Rachael Bedard of The New York Times — The Senate hearing featuring Fauci revealed far more about America’s deep political divisions than it did about the COVID-19 pandemic. By invoking the Fifth Amendment throughout hours of questioning, Fauci became a stand-in for years of unresolved anger, allowing lawmakers to replay familiar arguments over lockdowns, scientific authority and government accountability without producing meaningful new evidence. The diary excerpts released before the hearing illustrate the uncertainty surrounding pandemic decision-making rather than proving deliberate deception. Instead of examining how public health officials and policymakers should respond to the next crisis, the proceedings reinforced partisan mistrust, making consensus on future pandemic preparedness even more difficult to achieve. "The long-running Cory Mills trainwreck looks bound for final crash" via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — But first, let's check in on one of Central Florida's longer-running trainwrecks: Mills. For nearly four years, the Republican congressman who represents Seminole and Volusia counties has been a national embarrassment. Then last week, reports surfaced that the U.S. Department of Justice is investigating Mills. Mills says he has done nothing wrong and has challenged the stories that say he's being investigated. Both Seminole Sheriff Dennis Lemma and Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood have endorsed Mills' GOP Primary opponent, former Fox 35 anchor Ryan Elijah. Trump endorsed Mills, calling him an "America First patriot." House Speaker Mike Johnson said last week that he's standing behind Mills, calling him "a great team member" and saying: "That's what we do here is we make sure our incumbents are reelected." “South Florida children are drowning. How do we keep our kids safe?” via the Miami Herald editorial board — Florida is on pace for another devastating year of child drownings, underscoring the need to treat water safety as a public health priority. Fifteen children have drowned in South Florida and 74 statewide so far this year, following a record 119 child drownings in 2025. In a state surrounded by water, swimming should be viewed as an essential life skill rather than a recreational activity. Swim lessons, constant adult supervision, CPR training and proven safety measures such as pool barriers and anti-entrapment drain covers can help prevent tragedy. Expanding access to swimming instruction and reinforcing water safety awareness could save young lives before another preventable loss occurs.

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Aloe   “Message in pickle jar travels 650 miles across Florida waters” via Tina Harbuck of The Destin Log — Asa Dalphone got a surprise six months after tossing a pickle jar into the Gulf of Mexico while commercial fishing about 40 miles southwest of Destin. The jar, containing a note written on the inside of a Little Debbie box with his contact information, washed ashore in Boca Raton after traveling more than 650 nautical miles. Dalphone had sealed the jar with electrical tape, hoping to see where ocean currents would carry it, and even expected it might end up in Mexico. Instead, he received a WhatsApp message from the man who discovered it on Florida’s Atlantic coast, turning a lighthearted experiment into an unforgettable story about chance and the power of ocean currents. Asa Dalphone’s pickle jar traveled more than 650 miles through Florida waters. Image via The Destin Log. “Could the most radical plane design since the Concorde take on Boeing?” via Benjamin Katz of The Wall Street Journal — The aircraft that JetZero wants to do it with is no less radical than its ambition. It looks more like a manta ray than the tube-with-wings blueprint that has been the default for over 70 years. If JetZero can cross the line, the blended-wing aircraft would mark the biggest shift in passenger-jetliner design since the supersonic Concorde. Forget one or two aisles; this one has four and is set to fly about 10,000 feet higher than today’s airliners. Initial designs replace passenger windows with digital screens and, to compensate, a skylight in the ceiling to flood the cabin with natural light. Each seat, the company says, has its own overhead luggage compartment. And each toilet has a dedicated waiting space.

Happy birthday   Celebrating today is Rhett O'Doski of McGuire Woods. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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