The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 8.21.20

Grab a quick 'burn for your AM review of the news driving Florida politics. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Sunburn is authored and assembled by: Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson Good Thursday morning. Breaking overnight — "Text exchange shows Jay Collins agreeing Ron DeSantis has Asperger's syndrome" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Lt. Gov. Collins said he believes Gov. DeSantis likely is on the autism spectrum. Florida Politics obtained a screenshot of messages between Collins and Rep. Alex Andrade that included the assessment by the former Senator, who was appointed Lt. Governor last week. Leaked text suggests Jay Collins agrees that Ron DeSantis is on the autism spectrum. Andrade, a Pensacola Republican, did not share the text. He did verify its authenticity. While the context of the exchange is unclear, Andrade confirmed the conversation happened shortly after he appeared on a podcast for Laura Loomer. Asked about the fact that many in Tallahassee believe the Governor to be autistic, Andrade said, "I'm one of them." Andrade, in the text exchange, pressed Collins on whether DeSantis "might have Asperger's. Just yes or no." "Yes, he is," Collins replies. "But it still doesn't change the fact that you're trying to change the subject, misdirect and redirect, because you don't want to accept responsibility." The leaked text exchange dropped as Collins was aboard a flight to California to extradite an undocumented immigrant facing vehicular manslaughter charges after a fatal crash in St. Lucie County. It also leaks as speculation mounts on whether DeSantis will endorse Collins to run as his successor as Governor in 2026. ___ Jaimie Ross, a longtime advocate for affordable housing, the former facilitator of the Sadowski Coalition for over three decades, and the former president and CEO of the Florida Housing Coalition, before her retirement at the end of 2022, died on Wednesday at her home in St. Pete Beach. Jaimie Ross, a tireless and celebrated advocate for affordable housing in Florida, has died. Ross was a tireless advocate in the halls of the Capitol for decades, leading the charge for creating affordable housing for Floridians. In 1991, Ross transitioned from private practice to public interest law by joining 1000 Friends of Florida as the Affordable Housing Director. In this role, she successfully advocated for the passage of the William E. Sadowski Affordable Housing Act, which became law in 1992. This landmark legislation established a dedicated revenue source for affordable housing in Florida, significantly impacting the state's housing landscape. Ross also created the Florida Housing Coalition and led the formation of the Sadowski Coalition. In these roles, she tirelessly advocated, alongside bipartisan statewide organizations, for all the money available in the trust fund to go toward Florida's housing programs. Ross is survived by her husband, Mark Hendrickson, their son Eli, and stepdaughter Katie. Her passing was shared with Florida Politics by her longtime spokesperson, Sarah Bascom, who told Florida Politics she has had the privilege and honor to work with her, learn from her, and be mentored by her for 15 years. ___ The Children's Movement of Florida has tapped Makalyla Buchanan as its new Chief of Staff, bringing nearly a decade of nonprofit and advocacy leadership to one of the state's most prominent early childhood organizations. Buchanan, most recently director of early learning and literacy for the Florida Chamber Foundation, will work alongside CEO Madeleine Thakur and a statewide Board chaired by Movement founder and former Miami Herald publisher David Lawrence Jr., who said Buchanan is "already a proven leader for the future of children and families in Florida." Makalyla Buchanan is the new Chief of Staff for The Children's Movement of Florida. "Every child in Florida deserves a strong start, and I'm thrilled to join The Children's Movement of Florida to help ensure that circumstances never undermine a child's chance to succeed," Buchanan said. "Too often, those closest to these issues are not at the table. We need to make sure the voices of parents, educators, community, and workforce leaders guide the policies that matter most for Florida's future." During her tenure at the Chamber Foundation, Buchanan built statewide partnerships, delivered research and outreach through publications, podcasts and webinars, and grew the number of stakeholders engaged in early learning issues. She will now help advance the Movement's major initiatives, including the business-driven Bosses for Babies campaign, the ReadingPals literacy and mentorship network, and The Future Project, a community-based effort to expand support for children and families. Buchanan also sits on Florida's Early Learning Consortium and the Board of the Early Learning Coalition of North Florida. A graduate of Liberty University and the University of Florida, Buchanan is currently pursuing a doctorate focused on education. ___ Today is "Fentanyl Awareness and Education Day" in Florida, a new observance initiated through bipartisan legislation to spread awareness about the deadly opioid. Florida marks Fentanyl Awareness Day, a new observance to fight the deadly opioid crisis. Fentanyl overdoses are the leading cause of death for Americans 18-45, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. To better protect Floridians, Boca Raton Democratic Sen. Tina Polsky and Wellington Republican Rep. Anne Gerwig sponsored HB 259, which the Governor signed in May. The measure, inspired by a Broward student who lost a loved one to fentanyl, encourages schools and government agencies to hold educational events on prevention resources and the dangers of substance abuse. "Together, through compassion, awareness, and unwavering action," Polsky said, "we can fight the fentanyl crisis and build a future where our communities will thrive."

Situational awareness   —@realDonaldTrump: The Museums throughout Washington, but all over the Country are, essentially, the last remaining segment of "WOKE." The Smithsonian is OUT OF CONTROL, where everything discussed is how horrible our Country is, how bad Slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been — Nothing about Success, nothing about Brightness, nothing about the Future. We are not going to allow this to happen, and I have instructed my attorneys to go through the Museums and start the exact same process that has been done with Colleges and Universities, where tremendous progress has been made. This Country cannot be WOKE, because WOKE IS BROKE. We have the "HOTTEST" Country in the World, and we want people to talk about it, including in our Museums. Tweet, tweet: —@Greg_Price11: Holy crap. Federal investigators administered an English Language Proficiency assessment to the driver of the semi who killed three people in Florida. He "provided correct responses to just 2 of 12 verbal questions and only accurately identified 1-4 highway traffic signs." —@RAlexAndrade: BREAKING: Politician, @JayCollinsFL, hitches taxpayer-funded ride to California along with actual cops as they bring back the illegal that the @GovRonDeSantis administration "caught" and "released" —@JeffreyBrandes: I visited Lowell Correctional today as part of the Judson Women's Field Ministry Program. To my surprise, I was able to join Rep. (Patt) Maney on parts of his scheduled tour. My challenge to legislators: visit a prison. If you refuse to step inside a corrections facility, you're not just in the dark … you're willfully blind. —@PaulFox13: Fifteen days ago, there was post after post hyping Hurricane Erin striking Florida. No recourse. Just move on to the next fifteen-day model output of another storm over Florida. That is hurricane season on social media. Whatever it takes to generate clicks. Wash. Rinse. Repeat. Tweet, tweet: —@Capitol_Cuisine: BREAKING NEWS: sources tell me that Goodies will be reopening in September in the High Point building, right next to the old location!

Days until   Universal's Halloween Horror Nights begins — 8; FSU/Alabama game — 9; Special Election for Senate District 15 — 12; Cowboys-Eagles open NFL season — 14; NAACP Florida State Conference Convention begins — 14; theatrical release of 'Hamilton' — 15; the Emmys — 24; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 27; 'Black Rabbit' with Jude Law and Jason Bateman premieres on Netflix — 28; Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards — 28; 'Tulsa King' season three premieres — 31; Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another' starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 36; Special Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 40; Taylor Swift's new album 'The Life of a Showgirl' drops — 43; Regular Session Committee Weeks begin — 46; Florida TaxWatch Annual Board Meeting — 46; 'Tron: Ares' premieres — 50; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season opening day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 61; 'Mayor of Kingstown' season four premieres — 66; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 67; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 75; 'Wicked: Part 2' premieres — 92; 'Stranger Things' final season premieres — 97; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 99; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 104; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 104; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 110; 'Knives Out 3' premieres — 113; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 118; 'Avatar: Fire and Ash' premieres — 120; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 126; Legislative Session begins — 145; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 169; last day of the Regular Session — 204; F1 Miami begins — 253; Untitled 'Star Wars' movie premieres — 274; FIFA World Cup™ begins — 294; 'Avengers: Doomsday' premieres — 484; Another untitled 'Star Wars' movie premieres — 484; Tampa Mayoral Election — 558; Jacksonville First Election — 579; Jacksonville General Election — 635; 'Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse' premieres — 653; 'The Batman 2' premieres — 771; 'Avengers: Secret Wars' premieres — 848; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1058; U.S. Presidential Election — 1174; 'Avatar 4' premieres — 1574; 'Avatar 5' premieres — 2305.

Top story   "DeSantis: State line won't protect criminal illegals; sends 'Chuck Norris' deputy to nab fugitive trucker" via Charles Creitz of Fox News — DeSantis has dispatched his new Lieutenant Governor, Collins, to California to personally oversee the extradition of Harjinder Singh, an undocumented immigrant from India accused of killing three people in a fatal big rig crash. DeSantis announced the high-profile move on Wednesday, stating that Singh, who fled to the sanctuary state after the incident, will be held accountable in Florida. "Fleeing to a sanctuary state will not prevent him from facing justice," DeSantis told Fox News Digital. Harjinder Singh, accused of killing three in a Florida crash, is being extradited from California. The deadly crash occurred on Florida's Turnpike near Port St. Lucie when Singh allegedly attempted an illegal U-turn using a narrow median crossover designated for emergency vehicles. His maneuver blocked all northbound lanes, leading to a minivan slamming into the trailer and becoming trapped underneath. All three occupants of the van were killed in the collision. Singh, who reportedly failed English and road sign tests, had obtained his commercial driver's license in California. Lt. Gov. Collins, a former state Senator and wounded veteran appointed just last week, was dubbed "the Chuck Norris of Florida Politics" by the Governor for his hands-on approach. Collins affirmed his commitment in a statement, saying he was "en route to California right now to ensure this individual is extradited" to answer for the "three innocent lives" lost. His direct involvement underscores the administration's aggressive stance on the issue. The extradition highlights a sharp political contrast between Florida's immigration policies and California's status as a sanctuary state. Rep. Brian Mast suggested Singh may have believed he would be safer from prosecution there. According to officials, Singh entered the United States illegally in 2020 and was denied work authorization during the first Donald Trump administration. His case has ignited calls for greater vigilance and stricter vetting within the transportation sector to verify the legal status and qualifications of commercial drivers operating on the nation's highways. DeSantis is expected to provide further comments on the extradition later today. Happening today — Lt. Gov. Collins is holding a news conference in Stockton: 10 a.m., Stockton Metropolitan Airport, 5000 S. Airport Way, Stockton.

Statewide   "DeSantis says Collins has 'decisions' to make about 2026" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Gov. DeSantis stopped short of a formal endorsement Wednesday. Still, he strongly suggested Collins could succeed him, calling him a "fantastic Governor" in the making. While touting the "Chuck Norris of Florida Politics," DeSantis said a "groundswell" of support is building and that Collins will be "making decisions" about his future. The looming question, of course, is the potential candidacy of First Lady Casey DeSantis, who is still weighing a run against GOP front-runner Byron Donalds. Both the Governor and First Lady have signaled that there is plenty of time for a decision. For his part, Collins appears eager to run if given the green light, saying it's "something you look at" when conditions align. Ron DeSantis says Jay Collins has 'decisions' to make about a 2026 run for Governor. "'Going to press this issue': DeSantis, James Uthmeier continue push for more congressional seats" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Uthmeier is petitioning the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Commerce Department — while cc'ing Trump — for one more congressional seat for Florida. "We are going to press this issue," DeSantis said. "The Attorney General told me he's going to be willing to go up to Washington and talk to people in the Commerce Department to be able to get this right." Joining DeSantis at the podium was Uthmeier, the Governor's appointed AG, who said he will be "pursuing any remedy necessary to fix this problem." "Obviously, we'd love to do it before the Midterms next year, before voters go and vote," Uthmeier said. "We otherwise look forward to working with the Trump administration on fixing a larger Midterm census to get it right for the country and our citizens. … So, we'll be fighting the good fight." Happening today — FDEM Executive Director Kevin Guthrie will hold a news conference in Auburndale: 9 a.m., Florida's Central Operations & Coordination Office, 660 C Fred Jones Blvd., Auburndale. RSVP to Stephanie.Hartman@em.myflorida.com. "Florida director of state lands resigns months after predecessor" via Emily L. Mahoney and Max Chesnes of the Tampa Bay Times — Less than four months after Florida's state lands director abruptly resigned amid a controversy about the state trading away a wildlife preserve, her replacement is also stepping down. Andrew Fleener, the interim director of state lands within the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, submitted his resignation letter on Tuesday. In it, he said the decision to leave wasn't made lightly, but it was time to "pursue different endeavors that align with my evolving aspirations." The department has not yet announced a permanent replacement for Fleener. "FPL's settlement proposal would substantially lower initial rate hike estimates" via Tom McLaughlin of the Pensacola News-Journal — After reaching an agreement with 10 key stakeholders, Florida Power & Light filed on Wednesday a comprehensive four-year settlement agreement with state regulators. The compromise "significantly reduces FPL's original revenue request while keeping residential customer bills well below the projected national average through the end of the decade," the company said. Under the agreement, FPL has reduced its 2026 base rate revenue request from the $1.545 billion it had presented in February by 39%, to $945 million, the company said. The base rate revenue request for 2027 was reduced by 17%, from $927 million to $766 million. The base rate revenues were estimated to be about $2.9 billion less than the $8.9 billion requested initially over the four years, FPL said. "Florida Realtors again named to 'Best Companies' list" via Florida Realtors — For the fourth consecutive year, Florida Realtors, the largest professional trade association in Florida, has been named one of Florida's "Best Companies To Work For," according to Florida Trend. "We believe in listening, growing and leading together. Our team's passion and purpose drives everything we do to serve our members and elevate Florida's real estate industry. At the heart of it all is a culture that values collaboration, respect and making a difference – together," said Florida Realtors CEO Margy Grant.

D.C. matters   "Matt Gaetz and Ginger Luckey introduce the world to their son Luckey Gaetz" via Brandon Girod of the Pensacola News-Journal — Former Congressman Gaetz and his wife, Luckey, have announced the birth of their son, Luckey Louis Gaetz, via the social media platform X. Ginger shared images of the newborn and a video of Gaetz carrying him from the hospital. In a separate post, she stated their son would not receive "sugary formula," praising Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for his stances on food safety and vaccine policy. Gaetz, 43, recently resigned from his congressional seat after being considered for U.S. Attorney General by Trump. His nomination was shadowed by allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use, which he has denied. His resignation from Congress disrupted a House Ethics Committee investigation into the claims. Matt Gaetz and Ginger Luckey announce the birth of their son, Luckey Louis Gaetz. "As out-of-state Guard troops arrive, Donald Trump's federal crackdown ripples through D.C. neighborhoods" via Matt Brown, Lindsay Whitehurst and Chris Megerian of The Associated Press — The main drag in Washington's Columbia Heights neighborhood is typically crammed with people peddling pupusas, fresh fruit, souvenirs and clothing. On Tuesday, though, things felt different: The white tents that bulge with food and merchandise were scarcer than usual. "Everything has stopped over the last week," said Yassin Yahyaoui, who sells jewelry and glass figurines. Most of his customers and fellow vendors, he said, have "just disappeared" — particularly if they speak Spanish. The abnormally quiet street was one of many pieces of evidence showing how Trump's decision to flood the nation's capital with federal law enforcement and immigration agents has rippled through the city. "Trump calls for resignation of Federal Reserve Gov. Lisa Cook" via Patrick Svitek and Andrew Ackerman of The Washington Post — Trump demanded the resignation of Cook, a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, in his latest effort to bend the independent central bank to his will. The pressure campaign, if successful, could give Trump a majority of allies on the Board and allow him to fulfill his goal of lowering interest rates, even as the Supreme Court has pushed back on his attempts to exert direct control over the independent and powerful body. "This marks a new escalation in attacks on Fed independence," noted Derek Tang, an economist at LHMeyer, an economic consulting firm. "Trump administration to screen immigrants for 'anti-American' views" via Jack Morphet, Victoria Albert and Michelle Hackman of The Wall Street Journal — The Trump administration plans to scrutinize social media for "anti-American ideologies" when deciding to grant visa or green-card applications. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the primary agency in charge of legal immigration, said its officers should give significant weight to evidence that an immigrant "has any involvement in anti-American or terrorist organizations" when reviewing residency, work and visa applications. When it comes to what registers as anti-American ideology, the updated guidance points to a provision of immigration law dating back to the Cold War that prohibits immigrants from becoming U.S. citizens if they are members of communist or anarchist organizations. It doesn't specify the range of speech the administration would categorize as anti-American. "'Heartbreaking' transportation cuts hit home in GOP districts" via Chris Marquette and Sam Ogozalek of POLITICO — Trump's signing of the GOP's recent tax and spending package has resulted in the cancellation of more than $2.2 billion in federal grant money, abruptly halting infrastructure projects in communities across the nation, including some in Republican strongholds. The rescinded funds were part of a Joe Biden-era program designed to reconnect neighborhoods divided by highways. In St. George, Utah, an $87.6 million grant intended to ease congestion on Interstate 15 was eliminated, leaving local officials "heartbroken." Similar cuts have impacted projects in Kentucky, Montana, and Maryland, often in districts represented by GOP lawmakers who voted for the bill, creating unexpected complications for Trump's congressional allies. "House Republicans plan to release some Jeffrey Epstein files" via Jasmine Li of The Wall Street Journal — A Republican-led House Committee said it plans to publicly release some files it receives from the Justice Department related to Epstein, as controversy over the convicted sex offender continues to divide the GOP. The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform "intends to make the records public after thorough review to ensure all victims' identification and child sexual abuse material are redacted," a spokesperson for the panel said. She said the Committee would consult with the Justice Department to ensure that any released documents don't negatively affect ongoing criminal cases and investigations. The Committee subpoenaed the Justice Department this month to turn over Epstein-related records in its possession by Tuesday. "Leading pediatrics group recommends COVID shots for young children, differing from CDC" via Jennifer Calfas of The Wall Street Journal — A prominent pediatrician group is recommending parents inoculate their young children against COVID, diverging from current federal health leaders who have questioned and shifted the guidance for the shots for kids. The American Academy of Pediatrics, in its immunization guidelines, recommended COVID shots for all children ages 6 months through 23 months. Children in that age group are particularly vulnerable to severe COVID infections, and the vaccines would protect them from serious illness, the pediatrician group said. The group's guidance differs from current COVID shot recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under the leadership of Health and Human Services Secretary Kennedy, a longtime vaccine skeptic. "Kathy Castor slams end of public broadcasting grant program for emergency warning systems" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) has abandoned its grant program for the Next Generation Warning System. The move came after Congress passed a federal rescissions package that massively defunded public media. That has Florida elected officials alarmed about whether local public broadcast outlets will be able to warn citizens about the next hurricane. "My colleagues across the State of Florida should be outraged and immediately join me to demand President Trump reinstate funding to this Warning System," U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor posted on X. The Warning System was initially funded in 2022, when $136 million was budgeted over three years for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to partner with CPB on the program. Since then, CPB has led the hiring process for the effort and solicited requests for applications from local stations. "Trump's principal deputy Press Secretary heads to K Street" via Alex Thompson of Axios — Harrison Fields, the Trump White House's principal deputy Press Secretary, is leaving his position to join the Republican lobbying and public affairs firm CGCN. The departure is notable as Fields is a veteran of both Trump administrations, one of the first significant staff changes of the second term, and one of the most senior Black men on the President's team. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt praised his service and "lasting impact." Fields called his role an "honor and blessing" and affirmed his continued support for the MAGA movement. In his new capacity, Fields is also expected to assist the gubernatorial campaign of Rep. Donalds, who has Trump's endorsement. Harrison Fields is leaving the Trump White House to join the lobbying firm CGCN. "Federal probe finds illegal alien driver failed English road sign test in deadly Florida crash" via Michelle Vecerina of Florida's Voice — The U.S. Department of Transportation announced Tuesday that a federal investigation into a recent deadly truck crash in Florida found the driver, an illegal alien, failed a required English language proficiency assessment. The probe, led by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or FMCSA, will examine the motor carrier and the states that issued the driver's licenses. Singh, who was driving a semitruck and trailer, attempted to turn around at an unauthorized location in St. Lucie County last week, causing a collision with a minivan that killed all three people inside. Singh, who entered the U.S. illegally across the southern border in 2018, later obtained a commercial driver's license in California. "Elon Musk pledged to start a political party. He is already pumping the brakes" via Brian Schwartz of The Wall Street Journal — Musk has told allies that he wants to focus his attention on his companies and is reluctant to alienate influential Republicans by starting a third party that could siphon off GOP voters. Musk's posture marks a shift from early last month, when he said he would form what he called the America Party to represent U.S. voters who are unhappy with the two major political parties. As he has considered launching a party, the Tesla chief executive has focused in part on maintaining ties with Vice President JD Vance, widely seen as a potential heir to the MAGA political movement. Musk has stayed in touch with Vance in recent weeks. "ICE shares call to 'charge' CT lawmaker for speaking out on local ICE activity" via Julia Marnin of the Miami Herald — A Connecticut lawmaker has come under attack after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement shared a social media post calling on authorities to "charge him" for speaking out about reports of local ICE activity. After state Rep. Corey P. Paris posted an Instagram statement on Aug. 15, in which he mentioned reported ICE activity and advised residents in Stamford, his district, to stay safe and vigilant, the account "Libs of TikTok" on X accused him of "doxing ICE's live location." The account, followed by millions of X users, made the accusation in a post that includes a photo of Paris and a screenshot of his Instagram statement.

Elections   "Another SD 11 Sheriff backs Ralph Massullo in Special Election" via Mike Wright of Florida Politics — Add Al Nienhuis' name to the list of Sheriffs backing Massullo for Senate District 11. Nienhuis, the Hernando County Sheriff, joins Sheriffs Chris Nocco from Pasco County and Dave Vincent from Citrus County in supporting Massullo. Nienhuis referenced Massullo's representation of northern Hernando County as part of Massullo's old House District 23 seat. Massullo served eight years in the House before term limits forced him from office in 2024. "I always appreciated Ralph Massullo's hard work representing Hernando County in the Florida House," Nienhuis said. Hernando Sheriff Al Nienhuis endorses Ralph Massullo in the Senate District 11 Special Election.

Local: S. FL   "'This is a crisis': Miami-Dade Mayor warns funding fix for the arts is short-term" via Amanda Rosa of the Miami Herald — Miami-Dade's arts community can breathe a sigh of relief. For now. After weeks of outrage over a budget proposal to cut arts grants funding and eliminate the county's cultural affairs department, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava met with hundreds of arts leaders and community members for a virtual town hall to share some news they'd want to hear. The Mayor's newest proposal restores "nearly" all arts and cultural programming grants and preserves the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs as is. Speaking to an audience of about 700 people who tuned into the meeting, Levine Cava said it's now up to the County Commissioners to accept or deny her proposal. Daniella Levine Cava proposes restoring arts funding after weeks of community outrage in Miami-Dade. "'Utter bullshit': Miami Beach officials say they'll fight state order to remove rainbow crosswalk" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami Beach is expected to soon become the latest locality to receive a Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) order to remove its rainbow roadway markings recognizing the LGBTQ community. City officials say they won't comply easily. Commissioner Joseph Magazine noted on Facebook that FDOT informed Miami Beach that the city "must remove all 'artistic crosswalks,' specifically the rainbow-colored crosswalk on Ocean Drive and 12th Street, which has for so long stood as a welcoming sign to our LGBT community." "This is complete and utter bullshit that the state has no business getting involved in," he said. "I am unequivocal in my support and championing of our LGBT community and that crosswalk was a welcome sign for everyone. It bothered no one." "Miami-Dade considers axing free ride service amid budget crisis. Riders protest" via Max Klaver of the Miami Herald — As Miami-Dade County Commissioners debated the proposed 2025-26 county budget, MetroConnect – an Uber-like service that provides free, short rides in areas of the county with limited transit options – remained on the chopping block. The move to eliminate the $11 million program comes as the county grapples with how to offset a projected $400 million deficit for next year. Via, the firm contracted to administer MetroConnect, estimates that the service conducts roughly 2,000 rides each weekday. Many of those rides serve seniors, people with disabilities and lower-income households. Speaking during Wednesday's meeting, Commissioner Eileen Higgins described the program as a "mixed blessing," lauding MetroConnect for filling gaps in the county's public transit network while calling out what she considered to be financial inefficiencies. "State DOGE chief: Some Palm Beach County inefficient spending is 'eye-popping'" via Mike Diamond of The Palm Beach Post — Florida CFO Blaise Ingoglia announced that a state audit of Palm Beach County has uncovered "eye-popping" examples of wasteful spending, though he declined to provide specifics during a news conference, promising a full report in about 60 days. Ingoglia stated the audit, conducted by the new Department of Government Efficiency, aims to find waste to "arm voters" and potentially justify property tax cuts. He accused the county of inflating its budget with COVID-era grant money and giving "egregious raises" instead of cutting back. County officials said they welcome the review, which examines why local tax revenue has increased 36% since 2021 while the population has grown by only 7%. "State moves forward on ethics charge against Broward judge" via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The state's Judicial Qualifications Commission is proceeding with an ethics charge against Broward County Judge Lauren Peffer for conduct during her 2024 Election campaign. Peffer, who ran on a platform of restoring public trust in the judiciary, is accused of violating judicial rules by promoting a book that contained fabricated allegations of misconduct against judges in another county. The book included fake recordings targeting the Chief Justice of the Florida Supreme Court. While Peffer stopped referencing the book after its veracity was questioned, the Commission is faulting her for failing to verify its claims before using it in her campaign. She was elected with 52.5% of the vote. "Hialeah's $500K family feud rolls on, and taxpayers are footing the bill" via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — A lawsuit one degree of separation from Hialeah Council member and mayoral candidate Jesus Tundidor has already drained hundreds of thousands of dollars from city coffers, and the bills keep coming. Invoices obtained by Florida Politics show the city government has run up a $500,000 tab defending itself in a lawsuit filed by Tundidor's relatives (Tundidor et al. v. Hernandez and City of Hialeah). Wydler Law, a firm that typically handles personal injury cases, is on the receiving end. Hundreds of hours have been billed on research and discovery, much of it resembling on-the-job training for a legal team some believe is ill-suited for the task at hand. "Delray Beach exploring legal options on keeping its rainbow-colored Pride crosswalk" via Jasmine Fernández of the Palm Beach Post — The rainbow-painted Pride crosswalk in downtown Delray Beach will remain for at least a few more weeks after City Commissioners voted to hold an administrative hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 2, before potentially removing it. Florida, specifically the FDOT, has ordered the removal of Pride crosswalks in cities, citing safety concerns related to "non-compliant pavement surface markings" and the need to keep roads "free of political ideologies." It has sparked a debate, particularly in Delray Beach, about what rights state governments have in directing local authority. Mayor Tom Carney said the Commission was within its rights to schedule the hearing, citing language in a notice sent from FDOT on Aug. 15.

Local: C. FL   "Dispute at Lake GOP meeting prompts lawsuit, fresh calls for Taylor Yarkosky to step down as Chair" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Lake County Republican Party Chair Yarkosky is facing renewed calls to resign after a GOP Committee member, Autumn Jacunski, was hospitalized after her hand was allegedly smashed in a door while being denied entry to a party meeting. Jacunski has filed a lawsuit, represented by Yarkosky's political rival, Anthony Sabatini, claiming party Vice Chair Mike Trainor intentionally injured her. The altercation, which resulted in a police report being sent to the State Attorney, has prompted other local Republicans like former official Carey Baker to demand new leadership publicly. Yarkosky declined to comment on the incident due to the litigation but expressed pride in the party's overall work. Taylor Yarkosky faces calls to resign after a GOP meeting dispute led to injury. "Incumbent Judith Fike defeated amid racist post controversy in Groveland Council race" via James Wilkins of GrowthSpotter — Groveland incumbent Council member Fike, embroiled in a controversy over alleged racist and anti-gay social media posts, lost in a Primary race as Jim O'Neil and Michael Jaycox moved on in the race to represent Council District 4. O'Neil and Jaycox will face each other in the municipal election on Nov. 4. Based on results reported by the Lake County Supervisor of Elections, O'Neil received votes in 496 of the 988 total ballots cast for the three candidates, representing 50.2% of the total tally. Jaycox received 353 votes, representing 35.7% of the ballots cast. Fike received just 139 votes for a 14.1% share. "Deltona joins lawsuit challenging SB 180, limiting local planning decisions" via Mark Harper of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Deltona has joined five other communities across Florida in signing onto a legal challenge to a state law preventing planning and zoning regulatory changes for more than three years. The City Commission voted 4-3 on Aug. 18 to join an as-yet unfiled lawsuit potentially seeking injunctive relief from a 2025 state law known as SB 180, which was intended to protect homeowners who, following natural disasters such as hurricanes, want to rebuild but might face difficulties posed by local government restrictions. But critics, including many county and city officials, say the law cuts too deeply into municipal home rule. "Volusia Schools' administrative costs rise, bucking a trend, while enrollment stagnates" via Gabriel Velasquez Neira of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Volusia County faced stagnant enrollment in 2024, but reported an increase in administrative costs, according to data required by the Educational Accountability Act and distributed by the Florida Department of Education. The administrative spending increase bucks a trend. Over a nine-year trend, costs peaked at 33% in 2020, the year that the COVID epidemic hit, and dropped to 10% in 2023. According to the data, the number for 2024 was 15%. Over the long haul, from 2015 to 2024, the Volusia County School District saw a $6.5 million increase in administrative costs, when adjusting for inflation, while the number of full-time students dropped by more than 1,800.

Local: TB   "Trial postponed in Tim Burke-Fox News video leak case" via Dan Sullivan of the Tampa Bay Times — A federal judge postponed the trial of Tampa media consultant Burke amid concerns that the lawyers involved in the case may need more time to deal with pretrial matters. U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle granted a request from Burke's defense to reschedule the trial, which was reserved for three weeks in September. A judge postponed the trial for Tampa media consultant Tim Burke in a video leak case. "Motion to halt Hillsborough pickleball court construction is a dead ball for now" via Breanne Williams of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Pickleball enthusiasts have a brief reprieve as Hillsborough County Commissioners voted against a temporary pause on permitting for new courts. Following a recent lawsuit in Hillsborough County against a homeowners' association attempting to redevelop clay tennis courts into pickleball courts, Commissioner Josh Wostal asked the county to hold off on allowing new courts to be built within 250 feet of residential properties. Nationwide, residents are suing HOAs and municipalities for the construction of pickleball courts near their homes. The complaints all mirror the same argument: Pickleball is far louder than tennis and significantly increases court density, further adding to the cacophony in neighborhoods. "Tampa General to add second hybrid OR with landmark family donation" via Anjelica Rubin of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Tampa General Hospital is adding a second hybrid operating room, a nearly $10 million project made possible by a donation from one of Tampa's legacy business families. Funded through the Jenkins Charitable Foundation, the new space on the Davis Islands campus will combine a surgical suite with advanced imaging technology to support highly complex vascular procedures, a release said. The Jenkins family has deep roots in the region's pharmaceutical industry. In 1957, Richard B. Jenkins founded Beach Pharmaceuticals in Tampa, which the family continues to operate today. "This exceptional gift will elevate the already world-class care available to our patients at Tampa General," John Couris, president and CEO of TGH, said in a statement.

Local: N. FL   "'Toxic culture': Florida School Board grilled over MAGA comment fallout" via Stephany Matat of USA Today Network — What started as a jab at the late pro wrestler Hulk Hogan turned into a legal pile-driver for one Florida School Board, which now faces mandatory free speech training – and possible pay cuts – after state officials said it muzzled a critic. The Florida State Board of Education agreed with the state's top education official that the Alachua County School Board violated the First Amendment. The Board approved Education Commissioner Anastasios "Stasi" Kamoutsas' recommendation that the Board must undergo training, which would require School Boards to submit a letter to the Florida Department of Education ensuring that members were trained and compliant. If they don't comply with the Board's orders, and if any other issues come up in the 2025–26 school year, Board members will have their salaries withheld. Sarah Rockwell's School Board faces state sanctions for violating a critic's free speech rights. "FAMU, FSU students, parents embark on 'new start' during campus move-in this Fall" via Tarah Jean of the Tallahassee Democrat — Trunks of cars were packed with luggage, comforter sets and moving bins on both Florida State and Florida A&M universities Aug. 20 as incoming students moved onto campus ahead of the Fall semester's Aug. 25 start date. And while the experience is a first for college first-year students, assisting the students was also a first for FAMU President Marva Johnson, who welcomed new Rattlers and their parents at Venom Landing on Wednesday morning and assisted them during the move-in process. First-year FAMU student Tianna Ligene says she's feeling all the emotions – excited, nervous, and yet still well-prepared for the college adventure that's to come. Most of her excitement comes from knowing she and her roommate will be among the first ones to reside in the new 700-bed Venom Landing, which opened its doors Aug. 12.

Local: SW. FL   "Fate of Manatee County Central Library draws debate between County Commissioners" via Jesse Mendoza of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Manatee County Commissioners are split on where they would like to spend a limited amount of library system funds. The county has invested significantly in libraries over the years, most recently with the construction of the new high-end Lakewood Ranch Library. The Board also recently agreed to purchase the Mixon Fruit Farms property with plans to repurpose the existing space into a library, with open land outside for other community activities. The topic became more heated, however, during the discussion of the county's Central Library in downtown Bradenton. A previous Board in 2022 talked about potentially selling the waterfront building for high-rise redevelopment and relocating to a different downtown location, following other recent sales, but those ideas never moved forward. Manatee County Commissioners are debating the future of the downtown Central Library in Bradenton.

Top opinion   "An amendment that can help save our democracy" via David French of The New York Times — On Nov. 8, 1787, a pamphleteer who wrote under the pseudonym Cato published one of the most prescient warnings in American history. Cato looked at the proposed Constitution and declared that it might well turn into a vehicle for tyranny. He didn't see a Constitution of enumerated rights that sharply limited the power of the President. Instead, he saw a Constitution that granted the President such sweeping authority "that if the President is possessed of ambition, he has power and time sufficient to ruin his country." In other words, Cato could see a man like Trump coming. We can heed the warnings of the anti-federalists, and we can do it simply enough by changing the first sentence of Article II. Instead of declaring "The executive power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America," it should read, "A President of the United States of America shall execute laws passed by Congress."

More opinions   "A letter to America's discarded public servants" via William Burns of The Atlantic — As a career diplomat who served six Presidents, it was heartbreaking to see so many proud public servants fired under the guise of "reform," carrying their careers out in cardboard boxes. This isn't sensible reform; it is a war on expertise, a retribution campaign that breaks institutions and sows fear. Firing experts in China policy or career officers implementing policies they advised against isn't smart. Treating dedicated professionals with gleeful indignity, giving them hours to clear decades of service, is something you'd expect from Vladimir Putin, not the U.S. government. A weak state of hollowed-out institutions is a greater threat than any imaginary "deep state," and we won't beat autocrats by imitating their methods.

Instagram of the day

Aloe   "Inter Miami: How Florida's soccer club rose to worldwide fame" via Sarasota Magazine — For years, soccer in the United States was seen as an emerging market, often overshadowed by American football, basketball, and baseball. But in recent times, Florida has become the unlikely epicenter of global soccer attention — all thanks to Inter Miami. Once just another Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion club, Inter Miami is now a worldwide name, largely due to high-profile signings, none bigger than Lionel Messi himself. And for fans who want to deepen their engagement with the sport beyond watching, platforms like WE88 provide a secure and exciting way to follow matches, odds, and outcomes in real time — a natural extension of the passion football ignites. Everything changed in June 2023, when Messi announced he was joining Inter Miami. Inter Miami rose to worldwide fame after signing global soccer superstar Lionel Messi in 2023. "Such a Racket! Breakers celebrates opening of $12M racquet center with tennis and 'tinis" via Shannon Donnelly of The Palm Beach Post — Tennis legends Andre Agassi, Steffi Graf, Andy Roddick, and Kim Clijsters gathered at The Breakers in Palm Beach for a "Grand Slam" event on March 21, celebrating the opening of the resort's new $12 million tennis and racquet complex. The daylong affair, which benefited the youth charity First Serve USA, featured a mixed-doubles exhibition match won by Roddick and Clijsters. An evening "Tennis Ball" gala followed, including a Q&A with the players and a live auction. A highlight of the night was the announcement that the new grass center court would be named in honor of Ken Thompson, the resort's veteran tennis director. The state-of-the-art facility includes 16 courts for tennis, pickleball, and padel.

Happy birthday   Celebrating today are Rep. Monique Miller, Jonathan Bydlak, Caitlin Fishman, Mone Holder, and Ryan Patmintra. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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