Earle Ford drops CD 13 bid, announces run for CFO

HEADLINES His departure largely clears the path for Leela Gray to challenge Anna Paulina Luna.


The post Earle Ford drops CD 13 bid, announces run for CFO appeared first on Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.. For More Florida Politics - CLICK HERE:


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Jacksonville Bold for 5.20.26: True heroism

Jacksonville headlines span politics, budgets, housing, sports and growth. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Attorney General James Uthmeier is recognizing a Clay County deputy as the 2025 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year after the “rescue and recovery” of four victims of child sexual abuse and exploitation. Detective Eva Solis is being honored for an investigation into a child exploitation and human trafficking case, where the probe uncovered seven identified victims, one child rescued, three victims recovered, and more than two million CSAM files. James Uthmeier recognized Eva Solis after her investigation helped rescue and recover victims in a child exploitation case. “The dedication shown by Detective Solis led to the takedown of true predators, who are now in federal custody, and her work reflects the highest ideals of law enforcement and protecting those who cannot protect themselves — especially children,” a release from Uthmeier’s office reads. Uthmeier announced the honor on Wednesday morning.

Crossed lines   State Rep. Angie Nixon continues to make news regarding congressional reapportionment, which weakens her leverage on her political side and draws discipline for using a bullhorn during last month’s vote. Nixon was then detained on Friday to end an hourslong sit-in at Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office. Nixon wanted to meet with DeSantis to urge him to call a Special Session to repeal the new, allegedly “race-neutral” congressional map his office pushed through, but DeSantis did not oblige. She was removed from his office; only then did he comment on the scene via social media. “FAFO,” he posted Friday, presumably not referring to the efforts of the Florida Agency for Fiscal Oversight, as he amplified an allied journalist’s post that called the Black Jacksonville Democrat “ghetto.” Angie Nixon was detained after a sit-in at Ron DeSantis’ office over Florida’s congressional map dispute. DeSantis has a history of not shying away from atavistic signifiers interpreted by many as obtuse to our nation’s history of institutionalized racism, of course, including worrying that a Black Democratic opponent would “monkey” up Florida’s progress if elected in 2018, and delivering a parody of the speech patterns of the House Democratic Leader that revealed more about DeSantis’ inherent biases to critics. He also boosted Chief of Staff Jason Weida’s post that trumpeted Nixon’s arrest with a less racially charged reaction. “Deservedly so. Our office isn’t a platform for this performative nonsense,” the Chief Executive chided. Nixon, a candidate for the U.S. Senate who is leaving the House this year after six years of making more headlines than legislative wins, had been sanctioned by the House Rules and Ethics Committee days before. The panel did not pursue harsher sanctions or have any significant debate about the punishment in what was a very quick meeting. For her part, Nixon said she was “annoyed and aggravated for Floridians” after she was released from being sequestered in the basement of the Capitol Building. Nixon maintains her arrest was for seeking a meeting, revealing she is due in court next month.

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Insurance summit   Insurers and medical professionals concede that rising healthcare costs too often fall on patients. But getting Congress to approve a solution acceptable to all parties remains frustratingly out of reach. U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean hopes to find an elusive bipartisan policy answer, bringing together interests, including Florida medical professionals, for a health summit in the U.S. House. Aaron Bean hosted a U.S. House health summit focused on bipartisan solutions to rising healthcare costs and the No Surprises Act. “We’re looking for consensus, and that consensus has to have bipartisan support if we’re going to have action,” the Fernandina Beach Republican said. “The first thing is identifying the problem, shining light on it.” Hopefully, it will lead to policy action that brings all parties together, though Bean’s event highlighted disparities in agendas and a lack of desire to reach consensus. The summit included a lengthy debate about potential changes to the No Surprises Act, a law passed in 2020 and implemented in 2022 that aims to standardize prices for procedures and treatments. Read more here.

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Eyes in the skies   Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters may soon have more eyes in the sky funded by the state of Florida. The House Justice Budget Subcommittee agrees with the Senate Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice’s $610,000 allotment to fund the Drone First Responder Program. The funding was prioritized this Session by Sen. Clay Yarborough and House Speaker Pro Tempore Wyman Duggan. T.K. Waters could see Jacksonville’s drone response program expand with $610,000 in proposed state funding. The money, should it make it to the final budget ratified by Gov. Ron DeSantis, will allow for the development of this program, which is intended to augment the efforts of officers on the ground who will deploy the devices. Drones are expected to help with response times, make efforts more efficient and keep police safer as they manage what the House appropriations request calls “improbable situations.” The $610,000 is expected to cover one fixed-wing mapping drone with required accessories, 10 drone inverters, 10 external drones for reconnaissance, 25 interior drones to assess building safety, batteries and maintenance. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office will be required to document the program’s efficacy should it be funded. Given the close relationship between DeSantis and Waters, whom the Governor endorsed in a 2022 Special Election, it should be an easy sell for the executive branch.

In the Navy   It’s anchors aweigh for another tranche of state funding for Jacksonville’s USS Orleck Museum. The House is agreeing to the Senate’s $782,000 request to improve public access and safety for the Cold War-era Gearing-class destroyer parked in Downtown Jacksonville. The ask was carried by Sen. Clay Yarborough this Legislative Session. The USS Orleck Museum could receive $782,000 to expand access, improve safety and enhance STEM-focused educational exhibits in Jacksonville. The money, per the appropriations request, will “greatly expand one of the most STEM worthy areas of the ship (the Communications compartments), provide increased access to new areas on board for students and the public, such as the After Fireroom, and five Veterans Museum Kiosks.” It will facilitate classes in “Seamanship, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math + History (SSTEAM+H).” It’s the only Naval museum of its type in the state, and it's proven to be a destination. Visiting students are not just from every county in Florida, but from all 50 states. Current exhibits include a simulated Russian submarine encounter from the Cold War and a Mount 52 experience from the Vietnam Conflict, designed to give visitors a sense of the perils sailors faced during the ship’s 37 years of service.

Hanging on the telephone   The Senate and House are aligned on allocating more than $1.6 million to Flagler Hospital’s Be Resilient and Voice Emotions (BRAVE) program, which will help ensure that young people in Florida with mental health struggles continue to have access to resources. Legislators have funded this initiative before. This year, Republican Sen. Jay Trumbull and Republican Rep. Josie Tomkow carried the requests. Flagler Hospital’s BRAVE program could receive $1.6 million to expand youth behavioral healthcare support across Florida. Flagler says the program “supports families throughout the treatment process by helping them find timely and appropriate care through offering telephonic assistance.” BRAVE screens families for behavioral health services that meet their needs, then links them to partners for services, and offers support through treatment that includes at least eight visits. The model is designed to address a recurring problem in youth behavioral health: families seeking help often run aground at the referral stage, with appointments booked weeks out, providers that do not take their insurance, or screening conversations that route them to services that do not fit the child’s needs. The legislative request aims to keep no-show rates below 7%, indicating an effort to ensure follow-through and provide help.

Vet bet   The Senate and House Budget Committees agree to support two Five Star Veterans Center projects poised to benefit those who served their country but now struggle with reentry into civilian life. The House Health Care Budget Subcommittee and Senate Appropriations Committee on Health and Human Services conference aligned on allotting $500,000 to expand the facility in the Arlington neighborhood that currently accommodates 40 vets, as well as $250,000 for the Homeless Housing and Reintegration Project. Five Star Veterans Center could receive $750,000 to expand housing, behavioral health and reentry services for veterans. Bringing the money home was a bipartisan effort championed by Senate Democratic Leader-designate Tracie Davis and Republican Sen. Clay Yarborough, as well as House Speaker Pro Tempore Wyman Duggan and Republican Rep. Dean Black. Jacksonville, a place with a rich military tradition and multiple bases for many decades, is a place that service members gravitate to when they leave the armed forces. It’s that appeal, in part, which makes the facility need to be expanded beyond its current capacity, along with renovations to ensure that those who gave their health for the country can recover once their service is completed. Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and related issues will benefit from the funding, as the center does its part to ensure, via behavioral health services, job support, and urine tests to ensure they stay off illegal drugs, that they can integrate into the community at large. Jobs are one part of the puzzle, of course. Housing is another. The Homeless Housing and Reintegration Project includes on-site security, residential living expenses and behavioral health assessments.

No go?   There certainly was a lot of hoopla about a planned autonomous-vehicle manufacturing plant in Northwest Jacksonville. But tangible evidence of any construction on the factory is scant. As Florida Politics and other outlets reported in March, Holon announced it will build a new facility in Jacksonville to produce 15-passenger self-driving vehicles, with the factory set to open in 2028. Holon officials had promised they’d have a groundbreaking on the facility in April. Questions are growing around Holon’s delayed Jacksonville factory after a promised groundbreaking failed to materialize. But as the Jacksonville Business Journal reported this week, any progress on the plant is hard to find. Neither Holon nor City Hall has explained what happened to the Holon plans, and the factory’s groundbreaking hasn’t happened yet. JAXUSA Partnership, the business development wing of the JAX Chamber, commissioned an economic impact study from the University of North Florida (UNF) Coggin College of Business to assess the factory’s impact. It is estimated that Holon, a German-based autonomous-vehicle manufacturer, would contribute about $300 million to the First Coast economy. The city of Jacksonville approved an incentive package that required Holon to invest $80 million locally by the end of this year. But neither the city nor the company could explain where things stand to the Business Journal.

Pier review   A high-profile tourist draw in a county loaded with tourist attractions will be out of commission for most of this year. St. Johns County officials closed the Ocean and Fishing Pier this week to repair the pilings to the seaside platform in St. Augustine Beach. County engineers are working to strengthen and repair the structure’s pilings. The work will continue through November. St. Johns County closed its Ocean and Fishing Pier for repairs that will limit access through November. The work is extensive. County officials say the project will be so involved that beach access to the area will be affected. Access to the north side of the pier will be closed, while the south beach access will remain open, allowing visitors to reach the ocean. Officials advise that surfers, anglers and swimmers should stay at least 500 feet away from the pier if they’re in the water. The parking lot at the pier site at 350 State Road A1A will also see some reduced parking spaces to accommodate construction equipment. But officials say the lot will remain open, with most of the parking spaces available. The gift shop at the base of the pier will also stay open. The St. Johns County pier has endured some tough times in the past few years. In July 2024, the St. Johns County pier became basically defunct after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed a sand replenishment project on the beach around the pier. Years of erosion had depleted the shoreline of sand, and the beach renourishment effort was designed to restore the area of much-needed beach.

Home hum   The number of home sales in Northeast Florida dropped in April as house prices flattened out. The Northeast Florida Association of Realtors (NEFAR) released figures for the six-county housing market, showing that single-family unit transactions were sluggish. There were 1,845 closed sales in April on the First Coast, down by 4.9% from a year ago, when 1,940 homes were sold. It’s also a 3.4% drop compared to March, when there were 1,910 transactions. Northeast Florida home sales fell in April while prices flattened and inventory shifts signaled a more balanced market. The median home sales price was mixed for the North Florida area. That figure came in at $390,000, which is a slight 0.4% increase from April 2025 but a 1.3% decline from March. NEFAR President Kim Knapp said the figures for April reflect a housing market that favored sellers for the past few years and is beginning to iron out. “April’s numbers continue to reflect a market that is stabilizing and becoming more balanced across Northeast Florida. Buyers are seeing more options and greater flexibility, while sellers continue to benefit from steady activity. As inventory grows and affordability continues to influence decisions, we are seeing a healthier pace emerge across the region,” Knapp said in a news release. The active inventory of houses on the market was mixed, with 2,755 homes for sale in April. That’s down by 13.5% from April 2025, when there were 8,209 houses for sale. But the latest inventory figure is 10.7% higher than the March figure of 6,414. In Duval County, home to Jacksonville and the largest population on the First Coast, there were 910 homes sold last month. That’s a drop of 8.8% from April 2025, when there were 998 closings. It’s down by 7.2% from the 981 sales in March. The median home sale price came in at $332,500, a 0.3% drop from a year ago and a 0.3% increase over March.

Ospreys ascendant   UNF keeps making news, with two items this week particularly worthy of note. Per a media release, the school “has received a National Science Foundation (NSF) award that will allow researchers to make 3D‑printed metal parts more reliable and less wasteful.” The goal of the initiative, which will be led by Dr. Longfei Zhou and supported by students Maria Fernanda Ocrospoma Figueroa, Tessa Baur and Taylor Uhruh, is to address problems as they arise during the fabrication process. Essentially, preemptive quality control is used to rectify a nagging problem. UNF announced new research advances with an NSF grant and a heat lab focused on manufacturing and extreme temperatures. The arm of a 3D Printer is prone to streaks when used to create parts for airplanes, medical implants, and energy systems, thereby impeding structural integrity and function. In some cases, this can render the product unusable. UNF also opened a new heat lab this week to study the impact of elevated temperatures on the human body. UNF opened the Perry Weather Heat Lab on Monday, which will serve as a research hub studying the effects of extreme heat on people. It’s located within the Korey Stringer Institute (KSI) at UNF and will help develop protocols and policies for people dealing with hot climates and seasons. The Heat Lab will be located within the KSI at the Southside Jacksonville Campus. The original KSI was founded in 2010 at the University of Connecticut in memory of Korey Stringer, an NFL player. He passed away after suffering heat stroke during training camp when he was on the roster for the Minnesota Vikings in 2001. His widow, Kelci Stringer, was at the UNF ceremonial opening of the Heat Lab on campus Monday. The KSI satellite facility at UNF originally opened in 2005.

Lottery pick   Some 350 student-athletes from 17 public high schools across Duval County were honored for their performance on the field and academic achievements as well at the Gateway Conference Awards in Jacksonville this month. The May 11 event at the Florida Theatre in Downtown Jacksonville brought officials from the Florida Lottery and the Jacksonville Jaguars to present awards to the student-athletes who compete in 22 different sports. Coaches, athletic directors, school administrators, families and other community leaders attended the event. The student-athletes being honored for their leadership were nominated by those school officials for their dedication both on and off the field. More than 350 Duval County student-athletes were honored in Jacksonville for academic achievement, leadership and athletic excellence. “This celebration goes far beyond athletic performance — it’s about recognizing the discipline, commitment, and leadership these student-athletes demonstrate every day,” said Florida Lottery Acting Secretary Reginald D. Dixon. “At the Florida Lottery, our mission is to support education and create opportunity for Florida students, and these young leaders embody exactly what that investment is meant to build. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and support their continued journey toward success in school, in sports and in life.” Dixon added at the ceremony that there are additional measures to support the athletes through the Florida Lottery Bright Futures Scholarship Program when they go on to attend college. The program assists students in higher education to pursue career goals. Jacksonville’s NFL franchise, the Jaguars, also added their support for the event as partners. Team officials added that the event shares values such as teamwork, preparation and perseverance that are essential to athletics. “Once again, the Jaguars are honored to celebrate high school students in the Gateway Conference Awards whose well-rounded accomplishments in academics, sports and beyond represent the complete package,” said Jaguars Senior Vice President and Chief Community Impact Officer Whitney Meyer. “Their commitment to leadership and excellence sets them apart today and signals a bright future for Jacksonville as these students graduate and go on to make meaningful contributions to our community.”

Sporting JAX to host playoff match   On Sunday, Sporting JAX makes history as the first fully professional women’s team in the city’s history to host a postseason game. Sporting JAX is set to host Carolina Ascent FC at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday at Hodges Stadium (Peacock). As the first expansion team in the nine-team Gainbridge Super League, Sporting JAX exceeded expectations, leading the league for much of the second half of the season. But a late-season slump, including a 3-1 loss at Carolina in the regular-season finale, left Jacksonville level on points with Lexington SC. Lexington won the Players’ Shield as regular-season champions because of a tiebreaker. Sporting JAX will host Jacksonville’s first professional women’s postseason match Sunday at Hodges Stadium. The team has already earned some accolades. Midfielder Ashlyn Puerta, 19, earned the Golden Playmaker honor in the Gainbridge Super League as the league’s leading assist provider. Puerta won the award over teammates Paige Kenton, Meg Hughes, and Sophia Boman, along with Brooklyn FC’s Sam Kroeger, who all had seven assists. Puerta accomplished the feat in the fewest minutes of the group. Puerta, Kenton, and Baylee DeSmit all scored at least 10 goals, becoming the first trio to reach double-digits in the league. It has been a remarkable success on the field for the first-year team. “(Associate head coach) Alan (Kirkup) was saying from the first day that we could be the best team in the league,” said captain Sophie Jones. “Looking back on that, how many people believed that? I think we thought it was a possibility, but we knew there was going to be a lot of work to be done.” In the early days of the season, results were inconsistent. Sporting JAX notched just one win in the first four games. Then, a 4-3 victory at Carolina, powered by the club’s first hat trick by Puerta, started a run. Between Sept. 28 and Feb. 7, the team did not lose a game. They became the league's highest-scoring team (54 goals in 28 games) and arguably played the most attractive soccer of any Gainbridge Super League team. “When we first talked about our goals at the beginning of the season, it was making the playoffs,” said vice-captain Parker Roberts. “But it was also to create our own identity. We have our core values: hard working, cohesive, combative, and creative. Can we embody all of these things and bring them together? That’s where our success has come from.” Carolina has some unfinished business. Last season, they won the Players’ Shield but were eliminated in the semifinals by Fort Lauderdale United FC. The Ascent has won six straight games and is unbeaten in the last 11, both matching league records set by Carolina last season. The winner of Sunday’s match will face the winner of Saturday’s other semifinal between Lexington and Dallas Trinity FC. The league final is set for Saturday, May 30. If Sporting JAX wins on Sunday and Dallas upsets Lexington, the final will be held at Hodges Stadium. If Lexington wins, they will host the final in Kentucky.

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The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 5.21.26 — Burnin’ today: DeSantis, Rays, insurance, Rubio, whistleblowers & holiday traffic!

The first word on Sunshine State power plays ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Thursday morning. Two questions for you — As Memorial Day approaches, we’re putting together our annual look at the biggest questions shaping state politics heading into Summer. This year, there’s no shortage: the closing stretch of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ tenure, what could be a competitive race to replace him (and maybe a real U.S. Senate contest), a congressional map reshaped by redistricting, and a slate of down-ballot races that got a lot more interesting once the lines shifted. So, what’s at the top of your list? The newly competitive seat, the unexpected candidate, the Primary that could go off script? Send us the questions you keep coming back to. With Ron DeSantis on the clock, Florida Politics wants the questions — and the AI lobbyists. Second — an unrelated ask. Around major holidays, we run a ‘brought to you by’ rundown tying the occasion to the lobbyists whose clients help make it happen. Now we’re launching FloridAI — a look at firms representing companies in the artificial intelligence space, from data centers and chipmakers to startups trying to carve out a place in Tallahassee. If your firm represents an AI client, let us know who, and you could land in the rundown. Send your replies to Peter@FloridaPolitics.com. ___ Former Sen. Lauren Book and the Lauren’s Kids Foundation have received a national Gracie Award from the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation for the organization’s sixth-grade prevention education video, “Safer, Smarter Teens: Grooming.” The Gracie Awards recognize programming created by, for and about women across television, radio, streaming and digital media. This year’s honorees also included Oprah Winfrey, while actor Andie MacDowell received a lifetime achievement award. Lauren Book’s Lauren’s Kids earns a national Gracie Award for a prevention video teaching teens to spot grooming red flags. The “Grooming” video is part of the Safer, Smarter Teens curriculum and is aimed at helping middle school students recognize manipulative behavior, boundary testing and other warning signs associated with grooming. The lesson incorporates the organization’s STOP safety framework — Secrets, Touches, Offering favors and Pushing boundaries. “Prevention education saves lives, and this national recognition underscores the urgent importance of having honest, age-appropriate conversations with our children and teens,” said Book, founder and CEO of Lauren’s Kids, child sexual abuse survivor and architect of the Safer, Smarter Schools curriculum. “Our children deserve access to the tools they need to recognize unsafe behaviors, to access help, and to know that doing so is an act of courage. I’m incredibly proud of our team and honored to see this work recognized alongside so many extraordinary storytellers and changemakers.” The Lauren’s Kids Safer, Smarter Schools curriculum is used in classrooms in Florida and nationwide to teach students about personal safety, healthy boundaries and abuse prevention. ___ “EDGE Communications expands team amid busy 2026 Election cycle” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — South Florida-based EDGE Communications is expanding its political operation ahead of the Midterms with two new hires in Orlando and Miami as the firm grows its footprint across the state. Hope Butts joined as Campaign and Communications Coordinator in Orlando, while Jacobo Quiroz was hired in Miami as Campaign Coordinator and aide to Senior Vice President Veronica Goddard. The staffing additions come as founder and CEO Christian Ulvert takes on a higher-profile role after being named senior adviser to David Jolly’s gubernatorial campaign. Ulvert said the hires reflect continued growth driven by client demand for campaign strategy and communications support. Both new staffers bring political and community experience, with ties to Florida International University and public service work. EDGE continues to expand its reach in statewide campaign consulting and strategic communications. ___ The Florida Trucking Association has named Scott Perry as its next president and CEO, effective June 1. Perry brings more than three decades of experience in logistics and transportation. He spent more than 26 years with Ryder System, rising to Chief Technology and Procurement Officer, and later served as president of Specialized Logistics for The Suddath Companies. Most recently, he worked as vice president of Regional Operations and Brokerage at Proficient Auto Logistics. Scott Perry takes the wheel at the Florida Trucking Association, bringing deep logistics experience and familiar ties to the industry group. He holds degrees from Jacksonville State University, the University of Tennessee and Harvard University. Perry is also no stranger to the Florida Trucking Association. He previously served on the group’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee and was Chair in 2021, where he focused on industry safety, technology and workforce recruitment efforts. In addition to his transportation background, Perry has been active in anti-human trafficking initiatives, serving for a decade as Chair of the Board for Truckers Against Trafficking. “I am honored to have this opportunity to join the FTA team and to partner with our fantastic carrier and supplier members, our state agencies, and elected officials,” Perry said. “Together we will continue to make Florida’s transportation environment one of the best in the country.” FTA Board Chair James Sadler of Publix Super Markets said Perry’s “breadth of experience across operations, technology, and advocacy, paired with his deep ties to FTA and the Florida transportation community, makes him the right person to lead the organization into the future.”

Days until   ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 1; new mission for ’Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ premieres at Disney World — 1; Marvel’s ’Spider-Noir’ arrives on Amazon Prime — 6; Rafa Nadal documentary ’Rafa’ premieres on Netflix — 8; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 12; Florida Tech & Innovation Summit — 13; ’Cape Fear’ series premieres on Apple TV — 15; ’Masters of the Universe’ premieres — 15; 2026 Florida Chamber Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 18; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 18; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 21; Steven Spielberg’s ’Disclosure Day’ premieres — 22; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices — 22; Flag Day — 24; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 — 24; President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday — 24; ’Toy Story 5’ premieres — 29; The final season of ‘THE BEAR’ premieres — 35; ’Supergirl’ premieres — 36; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 36; live-action ’Moana’ premieres — 41; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 44; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 49; 2026 Florida Python Challenge — 50; MLB All-Star Game — 54; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 56; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 60; ’Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 71; ’Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 76; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 77; Early voting period begins — 79; ‘Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 87; Primary Election Day — 89; NFL regular season kicks off — 111; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 112; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 113; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 117; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 121; Tampa Bay Buccaneers opener against Cleveland Browns — 122; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 126; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 133; General Election voter registration deadline — 137; Early Voting General Election begins — 156; General Election — 166; ’Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 169; 2026 Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 174; ’The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 183; Brad Pitt reprises his role as Cliff Booth in a new film directed by David Fincher, written by Quentin Tarantino — 188; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 211; ’Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 211; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 211; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 249; 69th annual Grammy Awards — 262; Super Bowl LXI — 269; Tampa Mayoral Election — 285; 2027 Oscars — 297; Jacksonville First Election — 306; Jacksonville General Election — 362; ’Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 380; ’Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 442; ’MIAMI VICE’ reboot premieres — 442; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 498; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 575; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 613; 2028 Oscars — 654; ’Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 736; ’Incredibles 3’ premieres — 757; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 785; U.S. Presidential Election — 901; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 977; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,301; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,341; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,032.

Top story   "Hillsborough approves nonbinding Rays stadium agreement" via Nicolas Villamil of the Tampa Bay Times — Hillsborough County Commissioners moved the Tampa Bay Rays stadium proposal forward, approving a nonbinding memorandum of understanding in a 5-2 vote that keeps negotiations alive on a proposed $2.3 billion ballpark deal with the city of Tampa and the team. The vote followed a contentious public meeting packed with supporters and critics, with debate centered on taxpayer exposure, reserve funding and whether the county should continue negotiating without firm financial guarantees. Commissioners Joshua Wostal and Donna Cameron Cepeda opposed the measure. Hillsborough Commissioners keep the Rays stadium talks alive, advancing a nonbinding deal in a split vote. Image via City of Tampa. Supporters argued the vote was not final approval, but a necessary step to continue talks. Commissioner Harry Cohen called it a conditional yes, while Chair Ken Hagan said it marked the closest local officials have come to finalizing a Rays deal. The proposal outlines about $976 million in public funding, including roughly $796 million from the county and about $180 million from Tampa. While the total subsidy dropped from earlier versions, the county’s share increased. County officials said more financial analysis is needed, especially regarding return on investment and financing methods. Interest costs tied to bonds backed by tourist development taxes could add roughly $300 million beyond current estimates. The nonbinding approval also strengthens the Rays’ effort to secure $150 million in state support during ongoing budget talks. The Tampa City Council’s vote is the next major hurdle as local governments weigh whether a final stadium agreement is financially justified. — "Hillsborough College approves lease with Rays for stadium" via the Tampa Bay Times

2026   "Trump’s PAC men” via Leigh Ann Caldwell of Puck — James Blair is leaving the White House and returning to Republican political operations as a central figure in efforts to protect the GOP House majority ahead of the Midterms. A close Trump adviser and key architect of the party’s election strategy, Blair is expected to help oversee major campaign spending, potentially through MAGA Inc., which controls a massive political war chest tied to Trump. His influence has expanded through a network of super PACs, consulting ties and campaign coordination strategies that have shaped Republican Primaries and broader fundraising efforts. Blair’s next role comes as Republicans prepare for a high-stakes election cycle that could test Trump’s political machine and the operatives around it, including strategist Chris LaCivita. The outcome of the Midterms could further strengthen — or sharply weaken — their standing in GOP politics. James Blair heads back to GOP campaign trenches, bringing Trump-world muscle into the fight to protect the House majority. “A setup error buried Phil Ehr’s Q1 fundraising. Fixing the problem has been harder than expected” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Well over a month past the due date for first-quarter campaign finance reports, Federal Election Commission (FEC) records still don’t show accurate first-quarter filings from Democrat Ehr’s U.S. House campaign. It’s not for lack of trying. Ehr, a retired Navy pilot running to flip Florida’s 28th Congressional District, has been working to get his numbers in since before the April 10 due date. Issues with NGP VAN, a popular platform Democratic campaigns use for fundraising, voter data and outreach, have stifled those efforts. The problem, which originated with an error by Ehr’s team last year, now appears on track to be fixed on NGP VAN’s end, based on communications between the company and the campaign that followed an inquiry by Florida Politics. When Ehr set up its new committee for the 2026 cycle, Ehr Force Inc., on NGP VAN’s back end, campaign staff configured it to file Form 3X — the form used by PACs and party committees — rather than Form 3, the correct form for candidate campaign committees. "Eddie Speir’s DeSoto disaster: Grilled, mocked and out of answers" via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Speir faced sharp criticism from grassroots Republicans during a DeSoto County Republican Executive Committee meeting, where activists pressed the congressional candidate on campaign transparency, policy positions and his repeated use of rhetoric over specifics. Speir was questioned about operating his campaign alongside Inspiration Academy, the nonprofit school he founded, and struggled to satisfy concerns about whether he should separate himself from the institution while running for office. He also drew scrutiny for vague answers about what he hopes to accomplish in Congress and for inconsistent responses on gun rights when pressed beyond broad Second Amendment slogans. Comments dismissing affordable housing concerns and criticizing tax breaks for first responders further fueled pushback. The contentious exchange underscored growing frustration among Republican activists seeking direct answers, policy clarity and seriousness from candidates asking for their support. "Will Joe Garcia run for Congress again? The rumor mill is churning" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — It's been a while since Garcia served in elected office. He represented Florida’s 26th Congressional District for one term, from 2013 until 2015, before Republican Carlos Curbelo unseated him in the 2014 Election. That District, following reapportionment after the 2020 Census, is now Florida’s 28th Congressional District, and it's now occupied by U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez. There hasn’t been much talk about the District this election cycle. It was largely unchanged in the GOP-led mid-decade redistricting, and the Cook Political Report lists it as a “Solid R” seat, with a Republican +10 advantage. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) targeted Giménez in 2020 and 2022 but has so far been silent on his seat this cycle. His District is not yet one of the DCCC’s "districts in play."

More elections   Twenty-four past presidents of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association endorse Wilton Simpson — Twenty-four past presidents of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association endorsed Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner, adding to the support received from the agriculture community across the state. Simpson is also backed by 61 Florida Sheriffs, Florida FarmPAC, the Associated Industries of Florida, U.S. Sens. Rick Scott and Ashley Moody, and Trump. “These past presidents represent decades of commitment to ensuring Floridians have access to quality food for their families, and I am incredibly proud to have earned their support,” Simpson said. "Now is not the time to roll the dice on the quality of our food supply chain. The Department of Agriculture serves on the front lines in that fight, and I am proud to serve alongside the hard-working farmers, ranchers and cattlemen whose life’s work is to feed Florida.” Wilton Simpson locks in more cattle-country backing, with past Florida Cattlemen’s presidents joining his growing Agriculture Commissioner coalition.

Statewide   "Federal reimbursement for 'Alligator Alcatraz' starts flowing" via Kate Payne of The Florida Trib — The initial installment of the long-awaited $608 million federal reimbursement for "Alligator Alcatraz" is expected to hit the state's bank account in a matter of days, according to correspondence obtained by The Florida Trib. "Please expect an electronic payment to be made to your organization’s bank within 3 to 5 business days," reads an email from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to the Florida Division of Emergency Management, the state agency that oversees the operation of the detention center. The federal government’s approval of the $58.2 million payment was first reported by the Florida Phoenix. “Donald Trump judicial pick now faces ethics complaint” via Stephany Matat of USA Today Network — A Florida judge may have broken judicial conduct rules before being nominated by Trump to be a federal judge. The crux of the complaint: The judge sought the nomination while also presiding over a case involving Trump. The Freedom of the Press Foundation said it filed the complaint on May 19 against Jeffrey Kuntz, chief judge of the 4th District Court of Appeal, with the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission. Its proceedings are confidential until formal charges are filed. “By presiding over a case in which he had an undisclosed and substantial personal interest in the outcome, without recusing himself or disclosing that interest, Judge Kuntz failed to uphold the integrity and independence of the judiciary as required," it said. “The integrity of the judiciary depends on public confidence that judicial decisions are made on the law and the facts, not on a judge’s personal career interests,” said Seth Stern, the foundation’s chief of advocacy, in a statement. Jeffrey Kuntz faces an ethics complaint after questions emerge over judicial conduct tied to a Trump-era federal nomination. "Report says Florida insurers are strong, more profitable entering hurricane season" via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida — Florida’s property insurance market is entering the 2026 hurricane season on a stronger financial footing, with a new AM Best report pointing to legislative reforms and calmer recent storm activity as key drivers of improvement. The report found Florida-based property insurers posted underwriting profits in 2024 for the first time in more than a decade, with stronger capital reserves helping carriers better absorb future losses. Reforms passed in 2022 and 2023, particularly those aimed at curbing costly litigation, were cited as major factors in stabilizing the market. The private market’s recovery has also sharply reduced reliance on Citizens Property Insurance, whose policy count has dropped significantly. After years of steep premium increases, some insurers are now holding rates steady or filing modest decreases. Still, affordability and storm risks remain major concerns heading into hurricane season. "What do data centers have to do with FPL's owners' merger plans? Lots." via Clayton Park of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Growing demand for artificial intelligence and cloud computing services and the enormous amount of electricity required by the data centers that provide them is behind the push by Florida Power & Light's owners to acquire Dominion Energy. The proposed blockbuster deal — characterized as a merger between NextEra Energy, FPL's Juno Beach-based parent company, and Dominion, based in Richmond, Virginia — was announced Monday. The all-stock deal would create "the world's largest regulated electric utility business," according to the companies. "Ex-employee's FDOT lawsuit gets dismissed, refiled as litigation continues" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by a former Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) employee who alleged she was forced out of her job after complaining about an inappropriate boss. But within days, Grace Rodriguez refiled an amended complaint against FDOT. This time, she also added her former boss as a defendant. It's the latest update in the litigation against the state agency that started last year. Rodriguez had accused her former boss, Moataz "Mo" Hassan, an Operations Engineer in Central Florida's District 5, of being controlling and angry. Her lawsuit listed several examples of Hassan yelling at her, claiming she belonged to him, talking about his sex life, and giving her a Quran even though she was a Christian. But U.S. District Judge Anne Conway ruled in favor of FDOT's motion to dismiss Rodriguez's lawsuit and noted that Rodriguez's complaint was "lacking in detail and specificity" in a May 5 order.

D.C. matters   "Jan. 6 police officers sue Trump to block $1.8B ‘lawfare’ fund" via Dan Mangan of CNBC — Two police officers who defended the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6 attack are suing Trump and top administration officials over a new $1.8 billion Department of Justice fund created to compensate people claiming they were targeted by prosecutorial overreach. Former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn and Metropolitan Police officer Daniel Hodges argue the “Anti-Weaponization Fund” is unlawful, unconstitutional and could direct taxpayer money to Jan. 6 defendants and allied groups involved in the riot. The suit, filed in federal court in Washington, also names Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The legal challenge follows a DOJ settlement in which Trump dropped a separate tax information lawsuit. The administration defended the fund, calling it a way to address alleged government “lawfare.” Daniel Hodges and Harry Dunn sue to block a $1.8 billion DOJ fund they say could reward Jan. 6 allies. "RFK Jr. taps Stephanie Haridopolos as temporary Surgeon General" via Jessica Nix and Rachel Cohrs Zhang of Bloomberg News — Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. enlisted Haridopolos — a Satellite Beach physician married to U.S. Rep. Mike Haridopolos, the former Senate President — to temporarily take on some of the responsibilities of the U.S. Surgeon General, he said in an email. Before her federal move, Haridopolos led the 2023 push to expand Florida KidCare eligibility and was heavily involved in lobbying for the state’s pill mill law. The Trump administration has not had a confirmed Surgeon General because two nominees for the role were pulled before confirmation votes in the Senate. In her new role, she will promote public-health actions, advisories and guidance until the new nominee is confirmed. "How Zyn became all the rage inside Trump World — including with RFK Jr." via Liz Essley Whyte, Josh Dawsey and C. Ryan Barber of The Wall Street Journal — Nicotine pouches are gaining growing attention inside the Trump administration as federal regulators loosen oversight and the products expand rapidly in the tobacco and nicotine market. A recent White House meeting between Trump and tobacco executives reportedly highlighted interest in pouches, followed by an FDA policy shift allowing more nicotine and vaping products to remain on shelves while awaiting scientific review. Supporters argue that pouches offer a lower-risk alternative to cigarettes and vaping, particularly for adult smokers seeking to quit. Public-health experts, however, warn that they still carry cardiovascular risks, addiction concerns and potential harm to youth. Popular products such as Zyn, VELO and on! have surged in sales and visibility, especially among conservative circles and administration officials. The debate reflects broader tensions between harm reduction, regulation and public-health safeguards. Zyn gains fresh traction in Trump World, turning nicotine pouches into a political and public health flashpoint. "Raúl Castro indicted as tensions ramp up" via Aysha Bagchi, Francesca Chambers, and Natalie Neysa Alund of USA Today Network — The U.S. has indicted Castro for murder and conspiring to kill U.S. nationals in an attack against civilian pilots who were trying to rescue people fleeing Cuba on rafts, acting AG Blanche announced. “If you kill Americans, we will pursue you, no matter who you are, no matter what title you hold, and in this case, no matter how much time has passed,” Blanche said. The allegations date back to 1996, accusing Castro of ordering Cuban fighter jet pilots to shoot down two civilian planes that were working under a humanitarian group, Brothers to the Rescue. Four members of Brothers to the Rescue were killed. “This was premeditated murder,” Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart said at a Wednesday morning news conference on Capitol Hill. "Premeditated murder, ordered, as was known then, as is known today, by Raúl Castro himself." —"Would U.S. seize an indicted Raúl Castro from Cuba? Miami reps say he ‘can leave now’" via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald —“How Florida politicians, candidates are reacting to Castro’s indictment” via Romy Ellenbogen of the Tampa Bay Times "Marco Rubio offers ‘new relationship’ to Cuban people" via Marc Caputo of Axios — Secretary of State Rubio marked Cuban Independence Day with a Spanish-language video message to the people of the island that blamed their "unimaginable hardships" on their communist leadership. This is the first time Rubio has addressed the Cuban population directly as Secretary of State. It’s part of the Trump administration's multi-layered pressure campaign targeting Havana. Rubio’s speech focuses on the Cuban military business conglomerate known as GAESA, which has an estimated $18 billion in assets and controls 70% of Cuba's economy through its control of hotels, construction, banks, stores and cash remittance from the U.S. "Cuba is not controlled by any 'revolution.' Cuba is controlled by GAESA," Rubio says. —”GOP congressional leaders say Florida ready to do business with Cuba only if Castro regime falls” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics "The evangelical Primary has already started. Rubio has the early edge on JD Vance" via Megan Messerly of POLITICO — The evangelicals who helped elect Trump President are already sizing up his successor. So far, many of them believe that Rubio has the edge. Prominent evangelicals see the Secretary of State as a figure who can win over both Trump’s MAGA party of today and the Ronald Reagan-era conservatives who once ran Washington. But they note that their rank-and-file voters remain genuinely open to Vice President Vance, particularly younger Americans who are curious about what a more populist social conservatism might look like under Vance’s stewardship. "(Rubio) has a great deal of trust and admiration from conservative evangelicals and an amazing story that appeals to evangelicals looking for candidates to support," said Al Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. JD Vance and Marco Rubio emerge as early names in the evangelical lane, with 2028 jockeying already underway. New IGC report examines Americans’ views on foreign aid — A new report, Budgetary Illusions: Americans' Misperceptions of Federal Spending on Foreign Aid, from the Institute for Governance and Civics (IGC) at Florida State University finds that Americans dramatically overestimate how much of the federal budget is spent on foreign aid, often placing it at 20% to 25% when the actual share is about 1% or less. Drawing on decades of nationally representative survey data, the report shows these misperceptions cut across political affiliations, education levels, and demographic groups. “Inside the next phase of OpenAI’s political strategy” via Brendan Bordelon of POLITICO — The artificial intelligence industry’s push for tech-friendly federal legislation is foundering in Washington. So OpenAI’s top lobbyist and political strategist is pursuing a backup strategy — setting national AI policy by waging a state-by-state campaign. Chris Lehane calls the plan “reverse federalism”: With Capitol Hill deadlocked, the company behind ChatGPT is increasingly spending its time lobbying state legislatures to pass AI safety laws the industry can live with. OpenAI’s quest to shape policies in a “critical mass” of states has already found success in California and New York, he said — with Illinois as its next target. “The hearing Kalshi couldn’t avoid” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — On Wednesday, the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Technology, and Data Privacy gavels in the first hearing a Senate body has ever held on prediction markets. After months of losing ground in Washington, Kalshi now faces hard questions. The witness list is its own tell. Former U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry, now a senior adviser to the Coalition for Prediction Markets, shares the panel with American Gaming Association CEO Bill Miller, integrity-monitoring executive Scott Sadin, Tennessee regulator Mary Beth Thomas, and public-health researcher Harry Levant. Chair Marsha Blackburn framed the stakes around “recent match-fixing scandals,” and U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz put it plainer, arguing fans shouldn’t wonder whether a missed buzzer-beater was bought.

Local: S. FL   "Coral Gables Manager Peter Iglesias resigns abruptly, exits after Oct. 2" via Elaine “Ladra” De Valle of Political Cortadito — Iglesias will step down Oct. 2, ending a short but politically notable return to City Hall after his dramatic firing and rehiring during one of the city’s most divisive political stretches. Iglesias said his resignation is timed to allow the city to complete budget season and begin a search for new leadership, framing his tenure as a transitional effort focused on continuity, infrastructure and long-term planning. His exit comes just over a year after he was restored to the post following a shift in Commission power that returned Mayor Vince Lago’s allies to stronger influence. While no public reason beyond timing was given, the move is fueling speculation about political tensions inside City Hall. His successor will inherit a deeply divided Commission, legal disputes and ongoing battles over development, governance and public trust. Peter Iglesias abruptly exits Coral Gables City Hall, leaving behind a politically fraught Commission and fresh questions about stability. "Miami Beach cop faced an FBI child porn probe. Could he still be the next Chief?” via Aaron Leibowitz of the Miami Herald — In 2023, the FBI was investigating Police Capt. Steven Feldman for charges of possession of child pornography, a case that began when Dropbox flagged three files that he had allegedly uploaded. But he ultimately made it past the scandal relatively unscathed. Feldman and the three other officers agreed to accept “letters of reprimand” for violating the department’s social media policy but received no other discipline. Months later, Miami Beach Police Chief Wayne Jones promoted Feldman to major, making him part of the chief’s executive team. Now, as Jones looks to retire in 2028, Feldman is speculated to be among Jones’ top picks for a successor. "Deputy Fire Chief in Broward sues for whistleblower protection from supervisors" via Luisa Yanez of Miramar News — A Miramar Deputy Fire Rescue Chief is suing the city, alleging he faced retaliation from supervisors after reporting what he believed were crimes and gross mismanagement within his department that impacted public safety, Miramar News has learned. The three-page complaint, filed in Broward County civil court on behalf of Deputy Fire Rescue Chief Bruce Britton, details how Britton believes his reporting of alleged wrongdoing affected his career at the Fire Department and ultimately forced him to seek protection under Florida’s Whistleblower Act from city supervisors. "Palm Beach County OKs $280M parks bond referendum for November ballot" via Mike Diamond of the Palm Beach Post — County voters will decide in November whether to approve a $280 million bond issue to fund major improvements to the county park system. They include new parks, beach access in Jupiter and renovations and upgrades to existing park facilities throughout the county. County Commissioners authorized the Parks and Recreation Department to move forward with plans to place the measure on the November ballot. Commissioner Joel Flores called the use of the funds "a good investment," while Commissioner Marci Woodward noted that the funds would enable the county to obtain additional funding from the state and federal governments to provide more park access to residents. "Residents urge Martin County Commission to reconsider quiet zones” via Keith Burbank of Treasure Coast Newspapers — From Hobe Sound to Jensen Beach, Martin County residents want train horns silenced. But it’s unclear whether County Commissioners will take any action. “I would like it to come sooner,” said Commissioner Stacey Hetherington, following a split vote by the Commission to take up the issue later. Commissioner Ed Ciampi moved to hear the item again on June 9, but a separate motion by Commissioner Blake Capps passed 3-2, with Ciampi and Hetherington dissenting. Capps’ motion was to hear the issue again when the Federal Railroad Administration expert — who previously spoke to the Commission — is available to address the issue at a Commission meeting and answer questions. Stacey Hetherington pushes to revisit quiet zones, with Martin County residents pressing to silence train horns sooner. “Palantir makes history in first earnings report since moving to Miami” via Vinod Sreeharsha of the Miami Herald — It may be coincidental, but technology heavyweight Palantir’s first quarterly earnings since moving its headquarters to South Florida have made the company history. The firm that makes software that manages and evaluates large amounts of data and has many contracts with U.S. defense and intelligence agencies, generated $871 million in profit in the first three months of 2026, the largest in its 23-year history and more than four times greater than the same period in 2025. Palantir Technologies Inc. revealed in results announced earlier in May that it’s even more optimistic about the rest of the year than it previously was. The company increased its full-year 2026 forecast. It now expects to bring in between $7.65 billion and $7.66 billion in revenue. That’s nearly half a billion dollars more than its prior estimate of $7.18 billion to $7.2 billion.

Local: C. FL   “Tuesday’s Primaries send a loud message to Central Florida Republicans” via Lauren Melendez of News 6 Orlando — Florida Republicans are watching recent Primary results in states including Kentucky, Texas and Virginia as they assess what voter turnout, Trump-backed candidates and redistricting fights could mean for key battlegrounds such as Central Florida. The outcomes reinforced how closely GOP strategists are tracking national momentum heading into the Midterms while recalibrating around districts reshaped by DeSantis’ congressional map. For Central Florida, where Orange, Osceola and surrounding counties remain politically competitive, the stakes are especially high as demographic shifts and redrawn boundaries could reshape campaign strategy. Republicans see the map as strengthening their statewide edge, while Democrats are looking to urban turnout and legal challenges as paths to blunt its impact. The broader lesson: Central Florida remains one of the most important regions in the state’s congressional and electoral future. Trump hangs over Central Florida GOP politics, with Primary results offering fresh clues for battleground fights ahead. “Seminole looks to new indoor events complex to lure visitors” via Martin E. Comas of the Orlando Sentinel — The proposed 178,000-square-foot facility, estimated to cost up to $175 million, is to sit on an old cow pasture and citrus grove west of East Lake Mary Boulevard and north of Moore’s Station Road. The county’s goal is to lure indoor athletic tournaments — including for basketball, volleyball, wrestling, cheerleading and dance — into the county. Those events would attract fans, families and support staff for teams, which in turn would fill hotels, restaurants and county coffers. Supporters add that the new indoor complex would provide Seminole County Public Schools with a venue to hold graduation ceremonies. The county currently lacks a large facility for such events, and Seminole high schools regularly hold commencement ceremonies at the University of Central Florida’s arena in neighboring Orange County. “Ex-UCF prof placed on diversion after physical altercation with kid on e-bike” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Shou “Sean” Pang, 42, was charged Oct. 14 with misdemeanor battery and misdemeanor trespassing on school grounds. His employment with UCF was terminated about three weeks after his arrest at Jackson Heights Middle School in Oviedo. He had followed a middle schooler riding an e-bike onto school grounds after a brief exchange in which Pang called out to the youth to slow down. “No,” the youth retorted. Pang and the youth on the battery-assisted bicycle had first crossed paths near the Oviedo Aquatics Facility, about a mile and a half from the middle school where Pang ultimately confronted the youth and smacked a bicycle helmet off his head, a school resource officer said. The officer provided Oviedo police with surveillance video. Pang’s profile page on the university’s website listed him as an associate professor at the school’s College of Optics and Photonics and the winner of several awards since he joined the faculty.

Local: TB   "Mail ballot requests are down across Tampa Bay” via Katelyn Ferral of the Tampa Bay Times — Floridians who want to vote by mail must submit a new request ahead of this year’s Midterm Elections, regardless of whether they voted by mail before. Requests for mail-in ballots ahead of the August Primary and the November Midterm Election are down across Tampa Bay. So far, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties have far fewer mail-in ballot requests on file than in 2024, according to elections officials. A 2021 law signed by DeSantis requires voters to re-request mail ballots every two years following each General Election cycle. The law change came amid claims from Trump and others that voting by mail is rife with fraud, but researchers have consistently found very few instances of mail ballot fraud nationwide. "With Bob Buckhorn’s campaign kicked off, critics would be wise to learn it takes fat stacks to run for Mayor" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Buckhorn enters Tampa’s 2027 Mayoral race as the clear front-runner, buoyed by a massive fundraising edge that could prove difficult for opponents to overcome despite loud criticism from detractors. His political committee has already raised roughly $1.8 million, underscoring both establishment support and concerns from critics who argue heavy backing from development and investment interests could influence a future administration. But the larger reality is that money remains a decisive force in expensive media markets like Tampa, where television, digital outreach, staffing and voter targeting demand substantial resources. With a crowded field of 11 candidates, Buckhorn’s best-known challengers — Bill Carlson, Lynn Hurtak and Taryn Sabia — appear to be competing for a narrower anti-Buckhorn lane. Unless support consolidates, Buckhorn’s fundraising strength, name recognition and political experience leave him in a commanding early position. Bob Buckhorn enters Tampa’s Mayor race with fat stacks, a crowded field and an early grip on front-runner status. "Hillsborough emergency director put on leave months ago. The county won't say why." via Michaela Mulligan and Bethany Barnes of the Tampa Bay Times — Hillsborough County’s Emergency Management Director was placed on leave months ago amid an investigation that is still ongoing, less than two weeks before the start of hurricane season. Timothy Dudley Jr. — who saw Hillsborough through harrowing back-to-back hurricanes in 2024 — has been on paid administrative leave since March 13. But why the county is investigating him is unclear. The county has not provided records related to why Dudley was placed on leave, citing an ongoing investigation. A spokesperson said the county will release the records once the review is complete. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Chief Jason Dougherty has stepped into the role in the interim, the county spokesperson said. “Brandi Gabbard unveils St. Pete mayoral platform built around affordability, resilience” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Gabbard is putting climate resilience, affordability and neighborhood growth at the center of her campaign for St. Petersburg Mayor. The St. Petersburg City Council member rolled out a comprehensive mayoral platform, outlining a vision focused on lowering costs for residents, modernizing infrastructure, expanding housing options, supporting small businesses and reshaping the city’s approach to major redevelopment. In a campaign video accompanying the announcement, Gabbard said the city’s future depends on preparation for worsening climate threats. “St. Petersburg is ground zero for rapid climate change, and we need to be ground zero for rapid response. Over 49% of our city is currently located in the coastal high hazard, and that is why it’s so important that we help our residents to be able to build higher, stronger and faster. We have to marry good housing policy with job creation,” Gabbard said in the video. "St. Pete opens $42M federal housing program for developers" via Chuck Merlis of Tampa Bay Business and Wealth — Roughly $42 million in federal hurricane recovery funding is now available for affordable rental housing projects in St. Petersburg. The funding provides a new source of capital for multifamily construction, rehabilitation and conversion projects, including individual awards of up to $15 million per project through a competitive application process funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery program following Hurricanes Idalia and Helene. Applications opened Monday and run through June 12 ahead of expected City Council award consideration in September. The program is part of Sunrise St. Pete, the city’s broader $159.8 million federal disaster recovery initiative. The funding could help offset higher borrowing costs, rising insurance premiums and elevated construction expenses that continue complicating affordable and workforce housing projects across Florida, while also contributing to a broader effort across Tampa Bay to expand affordable rental inventory as cities manage population growth and post-storm housing pressures. “USF's on-campus stadium begins to take shape ahead of 2027 opening” via Anjelica Rubin of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Seventeen months after breaking ground, the skeleton of the University of South Florida’s future $348.5 million on-campus stadium is beginning to emerge, slated to open ahead of the 2027 football season. "15 months, 472 days away from kicking off against Louisville," USF CEO of Athletics Rob Higgins said Wednesday during a construction site media tour. Construction crews are now building out the stadium’s signature student section and the adjacent TGH Center for Athletic Excellence, a 150,000-square-foot football operations facility that Higgins described as a year-round home for student athletes. USF’s on-campus stadium starts taking shape, with steel rising ahead of a planned 2027 kickoff. Image via Tampa Bay Business Journal. “Former Council member honored for restoration project” via Michael Connor of St. Pete Catalyst — Robert Blackmon, who served on the St. Petersburg City Council from 2020 to 2022, is also a local real estate developer. Blackmon and his family were behind the restoration and rehabilitation of the former Standard Oil station, at the corner of 4th Street S. and 24th Avenue, in St. Petersburg’s Harbordale neighborhood. It is now occupied by Pete’s Bagels. The project was honored by the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation on May 14 at the Florida Preservation Awards during the organization’s Preserve Florida 2026 conference in St. Petersburg. A nonprofit founded in 1978, the Trust is dedicated to protecting the state’s history and heritage. The initiative received a “Restoration, Rehabilitation or Adaptive Use” award.

Local: N. FL   “After fundraising $175 million, JU aims higher, seeking $250 million” via Steve Patterson of The Florida Times-Union — There’s no limit on up, apparently. Jacksonville University has hit and surpassed a $175 million fundraising goal, a record-setting landmark for the private Arlington, Virginia, college. Now, JU has raised its goal to $250 million, replacing its capital campaign called FUTURE. MADE. with one dubbed FUTURE. RISING. “Reaching $175 million is the most significant fundraising achievement in Jacksonville University’s history, and it belongs to every person who believed in what this place could become,” JU President Tim Cost said. “FUTURE RISING is our commitment to what comes next, to ensuring that the students who follow have every opportunity to rise, lead and continue to strengthen the region with workforce-ready, global citizens.” Happening today — Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia will hold a news conference in Gulf Breeze. Media are invited to attend: 2 p.m. CST; media arrival at 1:30 p.m. CST. The location has not yet been officially released and will be provided upon RSVP. Media planning to attend should RSVP in advance by contacting Abigail Weeks at Abigail.Weeks@myfloridacfo.com. "‘That is BS’: Rick Scott slams UF over presidential search, deals with Donald Landry and James Uthmeier" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Scott is sharply criticizing the University of Florida’s presidential search after trustees named former University of Alabama President Stuart Bell as the sole finalist without a broader public vetting process. In a letter to State University System Chancellor Raymond Rodrigues, Scott questioned the lack of transparency, arguing UF failed to provide meaningful public input and raised concerns about a reported $2 million payout clause for interim President Landry if he is not selected permanently. Scott also called for scrutiny of how Landry’s contract was approved and blasted what he described as a pattern of questionable hiring decisions, including UF’s arrangement with Attorney General Uthmeier to teach part-time at the law school. The dispute revives broader debate over the state's opaque university presidential searches and oversight of taxpayer-funded contracts. Donald Landry lands in the middle of UF scrutiny, with Rick Scott blasting secrecy and contract questions. "UF rejected a former DEI champion. Will Stuart Bell face the same fate?" via Jasper Smith of The Chronicle of Higher Education — Bell’s selection as the sole finalist for the University of Florida presidency is drawing scrutiny over his past support for diversity initiatives at the University of Alabama, where he oversaw a major expansion of DEI-related recruitment, outreach and inclusion efforts between 2020 and 2024. Under Bell, Black and Latino enrollment increased significantly, diversity-focused programs expanded, and Alabama removed Confederate symbolism while responding to racial tensions on campus. But his record is also attracting criticism from conservative education reform advocates, who argue that he helped build an extensive DEI infrastructure that was later targeted by Alabama lawmakers. Bell later oversaw the closure of Alabama’s DEI office after a state ban took effect. His nomination now lands in Florida, where state leaders have aggressively dismantled DEI programs and made opposition to race-conscious initiatives a central priority in higher education. “UF graduate assistants reach tentative deal, but new laws threaten union” via Chelsea Long of The Gainesville Sun — Contract negotiations between the university and the union, which currently represents over 4,200 teaching, research and graduate assistants, led to a compromise earlier this year with a $20,600 minimum stipend for 9-month employees and $27,467 minimum stipend for 12-month employees. The union also negotiated expansions of paid and parental leave from 8 to 12 weeks, bereavement leave, stronger academic freedom and antidiscrimination protections, and more transparent offer-letter language on contract renewal. That program is now under threat. Earlier this month, DeSantis signed SB 1296, which prohibits public colleges and universities from funding release time. The law also tightens the union certification process, requiring 50% of members to vote in favor of certification. What Jimmy Patronis is reading — “Pensacola airport expansion gets $9M injection of federal funding” via Jim Little of the Pensacola News-Journal — The airport was selected to receive $9 million for the terminal expansion as part of the Federal Aviation Administration's announcement of nearly $1 billion in grants for U.S. airports through the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The grants were the fifth and final round of $5 billion in airport funding authorized in the 2021 law. The $9 million will go to the airport’s terminal expansion, which, when it broke ground last year, officials estimated would cost $113 million to complete. “School Board member makes fiery plea for Escambia Children's Trust” via Mary Lett of the Pensacola News-Journal — Escambia County School Board member Kevin Adams urged other Board members to support the Escambia Children’s Trust as Commissioner Mike Kohler seeks to bring an end to the program. “I have talked to this Commissioner, and I don’t understand why somebody would want to pull these services away from the children when it’s working. … I think it would be a catastrophic issue for the School District in Escambia County if those funds were lost,” said Adams, who cited Children’s Trust data that revealed from 2023 to 2026, the entity provided services to over 10,000 children, with many receiving multiple layers of support. The Escambia Children’s Trust was approved by voters in 2020 and is responsible for allocating more than $10 million annually in property taxes to fund initiatives and services to help children and their families, especially those with the greatest need.

Local: SW. FL   "Jenna Persons-Mulicka appointed as Lee County Supervisor of Elections" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis has appointed Rep. Persons-Mulicka as Lee County Supervisor of Elections, rewarding a key legislative ally with a high-profile local elections post after weeks of signaling she was the leading candidate. The appointment follows the retirement of longtime Supervisor Tommy Doyle, with Chief Deputy Bernie Feliciano serving in the interim. Persons-Mulicka, a Fort Myers Republican in her sixth year in the House, built a policy profile around election law, government accountability and state security while holding major influence in budget and redistricting matters. She recently backed election legislation tightening voter identification and citizenship verification requirements, reflecting a yearslong focus on voting policy. Her move opens House District 78, where Democrat Cindy Banyai is currently the lone candidate, though additional contenders are expected in the reliably Republican Lee County seat. Jenna Persons-Mulicka heads to Lee County elections, giving Gov. Ron DeSantis an ally in a key local post. Susan Frantz files in HD 78 — Conservative businesswoman Frantz has officially transferred her candidacy to the 2026 race for House District 78, the Lee County seat being vacated by Persons-Mulicka following her appointment to be Supervisor of Elections. Frantz enters the race with nearly $130,000 cash on hand and says she is running to “safeguard constitutional freedoms” and “keep extremist ideas out of our classrooms.” Frantz, founder and CEO of Frantz Marketing Solutions, said Lee County “deserves a proven conservative who will stand shoulder to shoulder with President Trump and Gov. DeSantis to defend our freedoms.” She is seeking the open seat after Persons-Mulicka’s move to county elections leadership, setting up an early Republican contest in a reliably conservative Southwest Florida District. "Cape Coral residents receive 911 assistance quicker with new precincts" via Tayeba Hussein of The News-Press — The residents of Cape Coral can rest assured that the next time they need to call 911, a police officer might already be around the corner. Before 2024, Cape Coral was divided into three patrol districts: north, central and south. The Cape Coral Police Department’s officers would patrol their assigned zones, responsible for three pieces of the city that varied in size: the North District was approximately 63 square miles, the South at 36 square miles and the Central covering about 19 square miles. When the city was divided into three, there was much greater uncertainty about how long it might take for officers to respond to a 911 call. The new model divides the city into four quadrants.

Top opinion   "Candidates who collect signatures to get on the ballot have my respect" via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — As Florida’s 2026 Election cycle moves closer to the June qualifying deadline, attention is turning to how candidates secure a place on the ballot — either by paying filing fees or gathering petition signatures from voters. While paying a fee is often the easier and faster option, qualifying by petition requires candidates to collect signatures, sometimes numbering in the thousands, from residents willing to support their ballot access. Candidates across Central Florida said the petition route offers more than savings. Many described it as an opportunity to meet voters directly, hear their concerns and demonstrate grassroots support before formal campaigning accelerates. Orange County Commission candidates Victor Torres, Patricia Rumph and Wes Hodge said petitioning helped them connect with residents and proved their campaigns were rooted in public engagement rather than in financial resources. Legislative and congressional hopefuls echoed that view. Candidates, including Samuel Vilchez Santiago, Erin Huntley, Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet and Barbie Harden Hall, said petitioning strengthened community ties and, in some cases, highlighted concerns about costly filing fees. Still, ballot access methods are not a measure of candidate quality. Strong candidates may pay filing fees, while weaker ones may collect signatures. But petitioning remains a notable test of effort, requiring direct voter interaction and offering candidates early insight into the communities they hope to represent. Check out Florida Politics’ list of candidates who qualified by petition here.

More opinions   "The Castro indictment Miami has waited for is here. Now what?" via the Miami Herald editorial board — A federal indictment of Castro in the 1996 Brothers to the Rescue shoot-down marks a major symbolic and legal moment for Miami’s Cuban exile community, reviving long-standing demands for accountability in the deaths of four men whose civilian aircraft were shot down over international waters. The charges, announced by federal officials at Miami’s Freedom Tower, escalate the Trump administration’s pressure campaign on Cuba and signal a harder posture toward the island’s leadership. Castro, who served as defense minister during the attack, is accused alongside others in a case tied to one of the most painful episodes in Miami’s Cuban American history. While any immediate enforcement action appears uncertain given Castro’s age and Cuba’s political realities, the indictment carries broader geopolitical weight. It also renews calls for deeper reforms in Cuba, including the release of political prisoners and democratic change. "María Elvira Salazar’s 'doble cara' on immigration" via Ana Sofía Peláez for Florida Politics — In Miami, where immigrant communities understand exile, survival and rebuilding, political rhetoric on immigration carries real weight. That is why Salazar’s support for expanded immigration enforcement funding is framed as a contradiction between public messaging and legislative action. While presenting herself as pragmatic and compassionate, her backing of billions for detention, deportation and border enforcement is portrayed as strengthening systems that many families fear. The criticism extends to the Dignity Act, which is cast as symbolic rather than a durable solution for immigrants seeking long-term security. The argument is that policy choices on detention, deportation and temporary protections have direct consequences in homes, churches, schools and workplaces. South Florida, shaped by immigrant resilience, deserves leaders whose votes align clearly with their stated principles. “Trulieve’s support of veterans reaches beyond employment” via Jeremy Davis of the Tallahassee Democrat — Veterans and service members face a suicide risk more than 50% higher than their civilian peers. Every single day, we lose approximately 17 veterans to suicide. These are not abstract numbers — they are brothers and sisters in arms, neighbors and friends, parents and children. They are people who answered their country’s call and came home bearing wounds that are not always visible. That is why, as executive director of production at Trulieve, I am deeply proud of the work we are doing this May in partnership with two exceptional organizations: Stop Soldier Suicide and The Independence Fund’s Operation Resilience program. These are not just corporate sponsorships — for me, this is personal. Stop Soldier Suicide is the only national nonprofit focused exclusively on reducing the military suicide rate. “Is your AI chatbot manipulating you? Subtly reshaping your opinions?” via Richard Lachman of the Tampa Bay Times — A billboard tries to sell you something. So does a used-car salesman. But no matter how smooth the pitch, you’re quite aware of the profit motive, and you can walk away at any time. What if that pitch is invisible, plays to your unique fears and vanities, and is delivered in a voice that sounds like a trusted friend? Generative AI has changed the equation of persuasion entirely: chatbots can now deliver a personalized, adaptive and targeted message, informed by the most intimate details of your life. Large language models can hyper-target messages by drawing from your social media posts and photos. They can mine hundreds of previous chatbot conversations in which you asked for relationship advice, discussed your parenting fails and shared your health concerns and financial woes. They can also learn from each interaction, refining their manipulation in real time, targeting your unique and individual tastes, preferences and vulnerabilities.

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Aloe   "AAA expects record Memorial Day traffic” via News Service of Florida — Despite gas prices being at a four-year high, the auto club AAA anticipates a record 2.7 million Floridians will take to the roads for the Memorial Day holiday weekend. But while people still want to get out, some travel habits have been curtailed. “Memorial Day travel is still reaching record levels, but with the smallest year-over-year increase in more than a decade,” AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins said. “Although travel demand remains strong, higher fuel prices and persistent inflation may cause some travelers to shorten trips, delay plans, or stay closer to home.” The average price for a gallon of gas in Florida jumped to $4.43 on Tuesday from $4.21 on Monday. AAA expects a record Memorial Day rush, though high gas prices may keep some Floridians closer to home.

Happy birthday   Celebrating today are Ken Lawson, Sara Pennington Nuvy, and former Florida Democratic Party Chair Terrie Rizzo. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles and Drew Wilson.

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