The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 6.2.26 — Burnin’ today: DeSantis, Donalds, Trump, Lincoln, Smith, Eskamani & Weiss

Sunburn: Your morning brief from the Sunshine State ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Tuesday morning. Voters back the property tax Special Session, split on what comes next — Three in four Florida voters approve of Gov. Ron DeSantis calling lawmakers back to the Capitol for the three-day property tax Special Session now underway, according to a new Sachs Media survey of 1,000 voters. The approval cuts across the board — 80% of Republicans and nonpartisans, 66% of Democrats, and roughly three-quarters of every age group. What voters want done once lawmakers arrive is far murkier. At first glance, 80% want movement toward lower property taxes: 48% would eliminate them on primary residences outright, 32% would reduce but not eliminate them, and just 20% would leave them alone. Republicans are the most aggressive, with 61% favoring elimination, but the appetite isn’t confined to the GOP — 43% of nonpartisans and 40% of Democrats also back it. Ron DeSantis’ property tax push heads into a Special Session with voters split on the next steps. Among elimination supporters, 56% would hold the line even if it meant a higher sales tax — but across the full sample, that leaves just 27% willing to wipe out property taxes in exchange for significantly higher sales taxes. Asked how to backfill local budgets, voters’ top choice (55%) was raising taxes on second homes, rentals, and businesses, well ahead of state subsidies, spending cuts, or higher sales taxes. A hypothetical amendment modeled on a 2026 Regular Session proposal — phasing out property taxes by raising the homestead exemption $100,000 a year for a decade — drew 54% support, including 70% of Republicans, 49% of nonpartisans, and 37% of Democrats. That outpaces both measures already headed to the November ballot: the agricultural tangible-property exemption (50%) and the Budget Stabilization Fund amendment (37%). ___ U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds’ campaign for Governor is announcing he has now raised more than $81.1 million, a massive haul that further cements the President Donald Trump-endorsed Republican as the financial front-runner in the 2026 race. The Donalds campaign and Friends of Byron Donalds PAC reported raising $13.8 million in April and May, money the campaign says came from 8,812 individual donors during the two months. Donalds’ official campaign account raised more than $2.13 million during that period, while Friends of Byron Donalds PAC brought in more than $11.7 million, underscoring how heavily the overall operation is being powered by outside political committee support. Byron Donalds’ campaign says his Governor bid has raised more than $81.1 million. Since Donalds entered the race, the campaign says he has raised money from 35,292 unique individual donors. His campaign account has collected more than $9.2 million, while Friends of Byron Donalds PAC has raised more than $71.8 million. The numbers arrive as Donalds continues to lead the Republican Primary field and potential Democratic opponents in recent polling, according to the campaign. Communications Director Gates McGavick said the fundraising shows “surging enthusiasm” for Donalds from “Pompano to Pensacola,” calling him the “Trump-endorsed conservative” positioned to keep the “Florida Dream alive.” The haul also raises the pressure on rivals still trying to prove they can compete financially statewide, especially with qualifying and the first sustained statewide advertising fights still ahead in a race increasingly defined by money and Trump.

Situational awareness   Tweet, tweet: —@ComChrisLatvala: Responsible local govt will cut public safety last. Cuts to parks, libraries and other parts of local government budgets will have to be made, but that is a great trade-off for prop tax relief 4 our residents. I hope future Legislatures also look at how we can spend our bed tax $ —@ScottWagnerFL: Full elimination of the residential homesteaded property tax in Broward is just 7% of its overall budget (700MM of 8.6BB) — would leave Broward County with 93% of its revenues and allow it to function at 100% of its FY23-24 levels. Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: —@WerderEdNFL: Having watched three of the four episodes, I can assure you the Rafa documentary is amazing. I follow tennis closely and have seen Rafa live many times but had no idea of his constant physical struggles and how many times he confronted the potential end of his career - almost from the very beginning. What an incredible competitor and champion.

Days until   Florida Tech & Innovation Summit — 1; ’Cape Fear’ series premieres on Apple TV — 3; ’Masters of the Universe’ premieres — 3; 2026 Florida Chamber Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 6; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 6; DeSantis joins Dave Rubin, Ben Shapiro, Jillian Michaels and Adam Carolla for ‘Florida Man’ at The Fillmore Miami Beach — 9; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 9; Steven Spielberg’s ’Disclosure Day’ premieres — 10; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices — 10; Flag Day — 12; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 — 12; Trump’s 80th birthday — 12; ’Toy Story 5’ premieres — 17; House of the Dragon season 3 premiere — 19; The final season of ‘The Bear’ premieres — 23; ’Supergirl’ premieres — 24; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 24; live-action ’Moana’ premieres — 29; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 32; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 37; 2026 Florida Python Challenge — 38; MLB All-Star Game — 42; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 44; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 48; ’Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 59; ’Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 64; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 65; Early voting period begins — 67; ’Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 75; Primary Election Day — 77; NFL regular season kicks off — 99; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 100; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 101; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 105; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 109; Tampa Bay Buccaneers opener against Cleveland Browns — 110; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 114; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 121; General Election voter registration deadline — 125; Early Voting General Election begins — 144; General Election — 154; ’Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 157; 2026 Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 162; ’The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 171; Brad Pitt returns as Cliff Booth, his Academy Award-winning role, in a film directed by David Fincher, written by Quentin Tarantino — 176; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 199; ’Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 199; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 199; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 237; 69th annual Grammy Awards — 250; Super Bowl LXI — 257; Tampa Mayoral Election — 273; 2027 Oscars — 285; Jacksonville First Election — 294; Jacksonville General Election — 350; ’Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 368; ’Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 430; ’MIAMI VICE’ reboot premieres — 430; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 486; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 563; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 601; 2028 Oscars — 642; ’Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 724; ’Incredibles 3’ premieres — 745; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 773; U.S. Presidential Election — 889; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 965; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,289; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,329; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,020.

Top story   “GOP gubernatorial front-runner Byron Donalds breaks with Donald Trump on AI” via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Donalds is testing the limits of Trump-aligned politics in the Governor’s race, saying Florida should lead on artificial-intelligence regulation even though Trump has favored a national approach, giving companies broad room to compete with China. Byron Donalds breaks with Donald Trump on how states should regulate artificial intelligence. Donalds called it a “slight disagreement,” but the split is notable because Trump’s endorsement helped make him the clear GOP front-runner. Donalds said Congress struggles to pass sound policy, especially through the U.S. Senate, and argued that states can move faster. He said Florida should protect minors, give parents more control over what children see and help people protect their name, image and likeness. Donalds avoided saying whether lawmakers should have passed DeSantis’ failed “AI Bill of Rights” during the April Special Session. Instead, he said a Donalds administration would revisit the issue next year and seek “common sense” rules. The politics are tricky: Donalds’ opponents have criticized him over support from Leading the Future, a pro-AI political committee that pledged $5 million to help his campaign and has already spent $3 million on TV ads promoting Trump’s endorsement. Donalds said Florida could work with Texas and Tennessee on guardrails while rejecting California and New York as models. “We want to make sure it’s being done with common sense,” he said, “and Florida should lead the way.”

Special Session   “Florida Legislature advances Ron DeSantis tax-cut plan but splits with him on schools” via Gary Fineout and Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Lawmakers are moving DeSantis’ property tax overhaul forward, but with major changes that protect public-school funding and strip out a proposed trust fund to offset local revenue losses. House and Senate Committees advanced the measures Monday during a three-day Special Session, setting up possible final votes Tuesday. The plan would eventually allow homeowners to shield up to $250,000 of their home’s value from city and county property taxes, but lawmakers balked at applying the cut to school taxes. Local officials warned the proposal could force service cuts, higher fees or both, while Republicans argued voters deserve the final say. Property tax cuts dominate the Special Session agenda, with school funding emerging as a key fault line. “DeSantis teases ‘taxpayer bill of rights’ if homestead tax measure passes” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis is already looking beyond his proposed homestead tax measure, saying a November implementation Session could include a “taxpayer bill of rights” modeled after Colorado’s constitutional spending limits. The plan would establish a local government spending baseline, with future increases tied to inflation and population growth, though DeSantis suggested exceptions could be made for teachers and police. Colorado’s version requires some tax hikes to go before voters and sends refunds when revenue exceeds limits, though recent checks were modest. DeSantis also predicted changes to the Florida Education Finance Program, saying School District funding may need to be rewritten after he leaves office. “‘Concerned is probably an understatement:’ Florida cities brace for property tax blow” via Ryan Gillespie and Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Under DeSantis’ plan to slash property taxes on Floridians’ primary homes, Orange County cities and towns like Belle Isle, Winter Garden, Oakland and Ocoee would stand to lose between 25% and 33% of their total property tax collections if the plan to reach a $250,000 homestead exemption eventually is realized. “I think we’re all kind of sitting back a little dazed and confused and concerned. Although ‘concerned’ is probably an understatement,” Winter Garden City Manager Jon Williams said. Lawmakers this week will consider the proposal, which calls for a $150,000 exemption on homesteaded properties in 2027 and a $250,000 exemption in 2028. “South Florida schools would lose $1B under DeSantis’ tax plan, analysis finds” via Garrett Shanley of the Miami Herald — A House analysis projected that under DeSantis’ proposal, if passed as is, every School District in Florida would experience revenue reductions, though the impact would vary significantly by county depending on property values and the share of homes receiving homestead exemptions. The losses would impact South Florida particularly hard. According to the analysis, Miami-Dade County Public Schools would lose over $500 million in annual revenue under a $250,000 homestead exemption, and $1 billion per year if property taxes are fully eliminated. Broward County Public Schools would lose $473.8 million annually under a $250,000 exemption and $875 million annually under a full elimination of property taxes. “DeSantis property tax plan could reshape Florida Keys funding, trigger concerns over public safety, schools and local services” via Above the Fold — DeSantis’ sweeping property tax proposal is raising new concerns across the Keys, where officials warn the measure could significantly reduce funding for public safety, housing, and schools in a county already heavily reliant on property tax revenue to sustain essential services … In a letter to legislators, Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln said county leaders support tax relief for residents. Still, she cautioned that the plan could destabilize funding for legally required services in a region uniquely vulnerable to hurricanes and geographic isolation. Michelle Lincoln warns property tax changes could strain Keys services, schools and public safety. “Florida TaxWatch urges state legislators to use caution on homestead property tax plan” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida TaxWatch is urging lawmakers to move carefully during the Special Session on DeSantis’ homestead property tax proposal, warning that raising exemptions alone will not solve the state’s tax pressures. DeSantis wants lawmakers to approve increasing the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, with further changes proposed through SJR 2-F. TaxWatch said the plan could deepen inequities by shifting more costs from homesteaded property owners to non-homestead owners unless lawmakers also add limits on local government spending. The Florida Policy Institute has raised similar concerns, while Sen. Don Gaetz supports the proposal. ___ Legis sked 9 a.m. Senate Session, Senate Chamber. — SB 0002F, Save our Homes from Excessive Property Taxes (Ávila). — SB 0004F, Property Tax Administration (Ávila). SelectFlorida Board of Directors, Room 2106, Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus, 300 NE Second Ave., Miami. 9:30 a.m. Florida Public Service Commission conference, Room 148, Betty Easley Conference Center, 4075 Esplanade Way, Tallahassee. 10 a.m. House Session, House Chamber. DEP Lower St. Johns River Main Stem Basin Management Action Plan annual meeting, Virtual.

Epilogue   “Carlos Guillermo Smith touts $8.5M in funding in state budget, including UCF building” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Sen. Smith says he secured funding for 16 projects worth about $8.5 million to help Central Floridians. The largest single project Smith spearheaded was a $5 million grant to the University of Central Florida to construct a 100,000-square-foot Workforce Entrepreneurship Resource eXchange building to support workforce readiness and entrepreneurship. The Orlando Business Journal reported last year that the building would house teaching labs, classrooms, maker spaces, an entrepreneur incubator and space for UCF to collaborate with outside businesses on the main campus. Smith’s funding request described the facility as a place where “higher education and employers co-locate to spark discovery, strengthen workforce pipelines, and turn ideas into real-world impact.” Carlos Guillermo Smith says Central Florida projects secured $8.5 million in the new state budget. “Anna Eskamani secures $3M for Central Florida in budget” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Rep. Eskamani is touting $3 million in local projects that she helped secure for Central Florida as lawmakers passed a $114.5 billion budget. “I am proud to work across the aisle to bring taxpayer money back to our District,” Eskamani said. “Orange County contributes more than $4 billion to the state in sales tax alone; it’s essential that we build relationships with our colleagues across the aisle to bring these dollars back to our community.” Eskamani’s local funding requests that ended up in the budget include $500,000 to improve Central Florida’s waterways by removing excess nutrients at Winter Park’s Mead Botanical Garden. Another $500,000 would go to Share the Care, a nonprofit helping seniors and adults with disabilities, to build a wellness center. SCORE Florida would also receive $400,000 to provide free mentoring and business education services to entrepreneurs across the state.

2026   “‘Frying these fish’: DeSantis not willing to serve up endorsements yet. Will he ever be ready?” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis is keeping his powder dry in the Governor’s race, saying he is focused on property tax policy rather than endorsing a potential successor. Pressed about the race, DeSantis said he is “frying these fish” and will not get into political questions until his policy work is done. He did endorse Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco for Senate, calling it easy because Nocco appeared at Monday’s event supporting the property tax proposal. Lt. Gov. Jay Collins and former House Speaker Paul Renner have sought DeSantis’ backing, but the Governor said candidates should first support his homeowner relief push. “Paul Renner says he wouldn’t have done anything differently than DeSantis as Governor” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Renner is pitching himself as the continuity candidate in the Governor’s race, saying he agrees with DeSantis on “97% of things” and cannot name anything he would have done differently. In an NBC 6 interview, the former House Speaker said DeSantis has been a “great Governor” and told voters, “You’ll like me, if you like Gov. DeSantis.” Renner’s comments come after DeSantis previously called his campaign “ill-advised,” though the Governor has since praised his work as Speaker. Renner and other candidates are still waiting to see whether DeSantis endorses anyone against the Trump-backed front-runner, Donalds. Paul Renner is pitching himself as the continuity candidate in the 2026 Governor's race. “Sydney Gruters lands Richard Corcoran endorsement for CD 16 bid” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — New College of Florida President Corcoran is backing Gruters’ campaign for Florida’s 16th Congressional District. Corcoran, a former Education Commissioner and former House Speaker, is endorsing Gruters based on her work as Executive Director of the New College Foundation during a period of dramatic change at the Sarasota liberal arts college. “When Gov. DeSantis charged us with restoring New College, Sydney did not just talk about excellence; she built it. Under her leadership, the Foundation’s endowment posted the number one returns of any State University System Foundation in Florida and the number one returns in the nation.” “Crowded CD 19 GOP Primary heats up with Catalina Lauf attack ads, other media digs” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — The crowded Republican Primary in Florida’s 19th Congressional District is getting sharper, with Southwest Florida First PAC launching a new attack ad against Lauf. The ad uses Lauf’s past comment that her “original inspiration was always AOC” and accuses her of scrubbing conservative positions from her website after winning a GOP Primary in Illinois. The PAC previously targeted former U.S. Rep. Chris Collins, another Republican in the race to replace Donalds. Lauf has drawn endorsements from prominent conservatives, including U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, U.S. Rep. Burgess Owens and U.S. Sen. Jim Banks, making her a bigger target in the 10-candidate field. Gus Bilirakis endorses Casey Askar in CD 22 — The endorsement gives Askar a Tampa Bay-area ally as he makes a second run for Congress, this time in the redrawn CD 22. Bilirakis, a longtime House advocate on veterans issues, called the Marine veteran “an American success story who has used his abilities to create jobs and help his fellow Americans” and urged his election to keep advancing Trump’s America First agenda. Askar, a Naples businessman and major fast-food franchisee, helped turn out Chaldean Christian voters for Trump in the Detroit suburbs in 2024 before launching his campaign for the nearly coast-to-coast swing seat. “Hector Mujica adds another federal endorsement as questions about CD 28 campaign’s viability persist” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Democrat Mujica just announced an endorsement from U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro in his bid for Florida’s 28th Congressional District, the future of which is in doubt due to state party affiliation strictures. Mujica, a former Google philanthropy executive running to unseat Republican Carlos Giménez, is “exactly the kind of leader South Florida needs in Congress,” Castro said. “He brings real-world experience, a deep commitment to democracy and human dignity, and a clear understanding of the economic pressures facing working families,” Castro added. According to Florida law, a candidate seeking a political party’s nomination must have been a registered member of that party for at least 365 days before qualifying. Mujica does not meet that standard. Hector Mujica picked up another federal endorsement while questions remain about his campaign’s viability. “Phil Ehr’s CD 28 campaign joins Democracy Summer student organizer program” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Ehr’s campaign for Florida’s 28th Congressional District is joining Democracy Summer, a six-week Democratic student organizer fellowship founded by U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin, and adding the program’s first dedicated Spanish-language component. The fellowship runs June 22 through Aug. 7 and will train high school and college students in organizing, voter registration, phone and text banking, canvassing and digital communications. Ehr said the effort is aimed at building civic leadership in South Florida and better engaging Miami-Dade and Keys communities. The announcement comes amid a complicated Democratic Primary against Mujica, whose party registration history has raised questions about ballot eligibility.

More elections   “Maitland Mayor John Lowndes to run for Jason Brodeur’s Senate seat” via Martin E. Comas of the Orlando Sentinel — Maitland Mayor and Democrat Lowndes has filed to run for the Senate in Senate District 10, the seat currently held by Republican Sen. Brodeur. The District covers all of Seminole County and portions of north Orange County, including Maitland and Winter Park. The only other Democratic candidate in the race is Geneva resident H. Alexander Duncan, according to the state’s Division of Elections website. A Winter Park native and attorney, Lowndes has served as Maitland’s Mayor since April 2021 and has lived in the city for more than two decades. He also served on Maitland’s Planning and Zoning Commission and Community Redevelopment Agency. John Lowndes has filed to run for Jason Brodeur’s Senate seat. “Poll: Fentrice Driskell, Michele Rayner locked in tight race for SD 16, but voters are still largely on the fence” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — A new Impact Research poll shows the Democratic Primary for Senate District 16 remains wide-open, with Rep. Rayner narrowly leading House Democratic Leader Driskell 26% to 22%, within the margin of error, and 41% undecided. Driskell gains ground when voters hear biographical information, moving to a 37%-32% lead, and rises further after positive messaging and negative messaging about Rayner. The poll is message testing, meaning it does not reflect a full campaign environment with both sides making their cases. Driskell holds a major fundraising edge, while Rayner brings progressive support and grassroots ties. “DeSantis backs ‘strong conservative voice’ Chris Nocco for SD 21” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — DeSantis is endorsing Nocco in Senate District 21, adding another major Republican name to Nocco’s fast-growing support list. DeSantis said Nocco has done a “great job” as Sheriff, supports his property tax elimination push and would be a “strong conservative voice” in the Legislature. Nocco entered the race after Sen. Ed Hooper announced he would retire two years early. He already has endorsements from Ashley Moody, Blaise Ingoglia, Wilton Simpson, Rick Scott, James Uthmeier, several members of Congress, legislative leaders, police groups and local officials. The real contest would likely be a GOP Primary. “Dan Daley passes on SD 30 bid to again run for HD 96, citing ‘outside’ influences on Senate race” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Coral Springs Democratic Rep. Daley spent years planning an upper-chamber run. But for now, he said, he’s staying on his current track. Daley has confirmed he will not run for Senate District 30, ending weeks of deliberation and speculation while effectively clearing the Democratic Primary path for former Senate Democratic Leader Lauren Book. Instead, he said, he will seek re-election to House District 96, for what would be his final term before term limits take effect. “After a great deal of thought and many conversations with supporters, community leaders, and residents across the District, I have decided not to run for the state Senate seat,” Daley wrote in a statement posted to social media. “Alethea Pugh joins HD 48 race” via Gary White of the Lakeland Ledger — Another Democrat has joined the race for the Florida House in District 48. Pugh of Dundee has filed to run in hopes of challenging the incumbent, Rep. Jon Albert. Albert, the former Mayor of Frostproof, is seeking his second term in the District, which covers southeast Polk County, including Winter Haven, Lake Wales and Frostproof. Pugh is the third Democrat to enter the race, though at least one of the others apparently has withdrawn. Luis Davila of Winter Haven filed to run in April 2025, but he is no longer listed as a candidate on the Florida Division of Elections website. Pugh served briefly on the Dundee Town Commission, receiving an appointment in December 2024 to replace Steve Glenn, who had vacated Seat 2 after leaving town for a new job. Alethea Pugh joins the race for House District 48 in southeast Polk County. “AFSCME Florida announces fleet of mostly Miami-focused endorsements ahead of Midterms” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — AFSCME Florida is rolling out nine endorsements ahead of qualifying for the 2026 Midterms, with most of its picks focused on Miami-Dade races. The public-sector union is backing former state Sen. José Javier Rodríguez for Attorney General and newly elected Sen. Brian Nathan for Senate District 14. Its Miami-Dade County Commission endorsements include Anthony Rodriguez, Marleine Bastien, Juan Carlos “J.C.” Bermudez, Danielle Cohen Higgins, Vicki Lopez, Natalie Milian Orbis and Micky Steinberg. Several are seeking re-election, while Lopez and Milian Orbis are trying to keep seats they gained by appointment. County Commission qualifying ends June 9, while state-level qualifying closes June 12.

Statewide   “Florida sues OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman, claiming company concealed serious risks of ChatGPT” via David Fischer of The Associated Press — Florida is suing OpenAI and CEO Altman, alleging the company knowingly marketed ChatGPT while concealing risks tied to self-harm, violence, crime planning and minors’ data. Attorney General Uthmeier said OpenAI ignored internal and external safety warnings and allowed a dangerous product to reach millions of Floridians. The lawsuit cites two shooting investigations and allegations involving a teen suicide, while OpenAI said its models encouraged users to seek real-world support and that it continues strengthening safeguards. The company also said it has added protections for minors, including age prediction, a more protective experience and parental tools. Sam Altman faces a lawsuit from Florida over alleged safety risks posed by ChatGPT. “Florida is now OpenAI’s biggest problem in red America” via Andrew Atterbury and Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Republicans are turning artificial-intelligence regulation into a defining issue, with DeSantis, Uthmeier and GOP gubernatorial candidates all signaling support for state-level action. Uthmeier sued OpenAI and its CEO, Altman, alleging that ChatGPT harms children and lacks adequate safeguards, while Donalds broke with Trump by saying states should lead on AI regulation, despite pro-AI money backing his campaign. The push follows failed DeSantis-backed AI bills that would have expanded parental oversight of chatbot use. Even House Republicans who stalled the legislation left the door open for state action if Congress fails to act.

D.C. matters   “Iran’s reopened underground missile sites show limits of U.S. bombing plan” via Thomas Bordeaux and Tamara Qiblawi of CNN — Satellite imagery shows Iran has unblocked 50 of the 69 tunnel entrances struck by the U.S. and Israel at 18 underground missile facilities, using bulldozers and dump trucks to clear debris and repave roads. Experts warn Iran still has roughly 1,000 missiles in those buried sites and could resume large-scale launches if fighting restarts. The recovery undercuts a central war aim — Trump listed destruction of Iran’s missile capability among five objectives — and highlights a strategic imbalance: degrading the sites required precision munitions, while restoring them required little more than construction equipment. “’ You’re fucking crazy’: Trump fumes at Benjamin Netanyahu in call on Lebanon” via Barak Ravid and Marc Caputo of Axios — Trump lashed out at Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu over Israel’s escalation in Lebanon in an expletive-laden call on Monday. Earlier on Monday, Iran threatened to abandon the negotiations with the U.S. over Israel’s actions in Lebanon. Summarizing Trump’s remarks to Netanyahu, the U.S. official said: “You’re fucking crazy. You’d be in prison if it weren’t for me. I’m saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this.” Donald Trump lashed out at Benjamin Netanyahu over Israel’s escalation in Lebanon. “Trump admin plans to drop ‘weaponization’ fund” via Marc Caputo of Axios — The Trump administration plans to abandon its $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund, which arose from a settlement between Trump and the IRS over the leak of his 2019 and 2020 tax returns by a former contractor. Under the deal, Trump dropped a $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS in exchange for the fund — which carried little oversight — and broad protection from IRS audits. The proposal drew bipartisan condemnation on Capitol Hill and was halted by two federal judges. One administration official called it “a distraction,” while another said the West Wing “got blindsided” by the fund’s creation. “Pete Hegseth strikes female and Black Navy officers from promotion list” via Greg Jaffe and Kate Kelly of The New York Times — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth blocked promotions for at least seven Navy officers selected by a Board of senior admirals, removing at least two women and two Black men from the one-star list in what current and former defense officials say violates Pentagon rules governing the merit-based promotion system. The resulting slate of 22 nominees includes no women, even though women account for roughly 21% of the active-duty Navy. U.S. Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island, the top Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, said that nearly 60% of senior officers whom Hegseth has fired or sidelined are women or Black. “Pentagon bans journalists from press office, designating it a classified space” via Scott Nover of The Washington Post — The Defense Department has reclassified its press office as a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility, barring journalists from a space they had freely accessed for years under previous administrations. The Pentagon says the change was driven by the relocation of speechwriters who handle classified material into the office, requiring secure network access. The move compounds existing media restrictions under Hegseth, who has curtailed press access to most Pentagon spaces since taking office. The New York Times has two active lawsuits challenging Pentagon press policies; a federal judge struck down one restrictive policy in March, and the government is appealing. “Appeals court blocks removal of transgender troops, but allows restrictions on recruits” via Peter Charalambous of ABC News — A federal appeals court ruled the Trump administration’s transgender military ban is likely unconstitutional and “appears to be driven by the bare desire to harm a politically unpopular group.” The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court order blocking the Pentagon from removing current service members because of gender dysphoria, though the 2-1 ruling does not prevent the administration from barring transgender recruits from enlisting. The decision applies only to the service members who brought the suit. Hegseth responded on social media: “See you at SCOTUS.” “Trump names Daniel Perez as Ambassador to Brazil in latest round of appointments” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Trump has nominated outgoing House Speaker Perez as U.S. Ambassador to Brazil, potentially sending one of Tallahassee’s most powerful Republicans to a major diplomatic post after two years of public clashes with DeSantis. Perez, a first-generation Cuban American from Westchester, led the House during fights over veto overrides, Hope Florida, immigration enforcement and property tax policy. Trump also nominated former Lt. Gov. Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Douglas Holder as Ambassador to Bulgaria, Mark Abreu as Ambassador to El Salvador and Seth Reister as U.S. Marshal for North Florida. All nominations require Senate confirmation.   Daniel Perez has been nominated to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Brazil. “A key hearing for the man accused of killing Charlie Kirk will be public, judge rules” via The Associated Press — A Utah judge ruled that reporters and the public may attend a July 6-10 preliminary hearing for Tyler Robinson, the man accused of killing Kirk at Utah Valley University. Robinson’s defense team sought to close portions of the hearing, arguing public presentation of evidence could damage his right to a fair trial, but Judge Tony Graf said court proceedings carry a presumptive right of access. Prosecutors are expected to present forensic analyses, surveillance video, witness recordings, autopsy findings and alleged messages from Robinson. Graf also set a June 12 hearing on defense claims that prosecutors improperly discussed the case in the media. “Oil prices rise, but not by enough to keep Wall Street from more records” via The Associated Press — Oil prices rose after renewed fighting threatened the U.S.-Iran ceasefire, but investors largely shrugged off the increase and pushed major U.S. stock indexes to records. Brent crude climbed 4.2% to $94.98 a barrel, pressuring airlines and other fuel-sensitive companies, while bond yields briefly rose before easing. The S&P 500, Dow and Nasdaq all finished higher, helped by Nvidia, which gained 6.2% after CEO Jensen Huang announced product updates. Wall Street continues to bet that the U.S. and Iran will reach a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ease oil-driven inflation pressure, though high yields remain a risk for borrowers.

Local: S. FL   “Natalie Milian Orbis tops $1M, lands Sheriff’s backing in unopposed Miami-Dade Commission race” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Orbis, the Republican incumbent in Commission District 6, announced this week that her campaign has surpassed the $1 million mark in fundraising. She has also landed an endorsement from Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz, according to her campaign, which qualified for this year’s election by petition in late September. “Thousands of residents personally chose to put my name on the ballot, and that means something,” Milian Orbis said. “This campaign is not being carried by insiders or political games. It is being powered by people who want strong leadership, common sense, and results.” Milian Orbis’ fundraising haul, taken in through her campaign account and political committee, Dade Families First PC, included roughly $242,000 in gains since March 31. Natalie Milian Orbis topped $1 million and won Rosie Cordero-Stutz’s backing. “Adam Cervera nears $350K toward keeping his Broward School Board seat” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A Broward County School Board member is betting heavily on himself ahead of a competitive August Primary. Cervera announced this week that he has contributed $250,000 to his District 6 campaign, bringing his self-reported total fundraising and personal contributions between his campaign account and new political committee to more than $340,000. Official campaign finance reports covering the period between April 1 and May 31 are due June 10. Any or all of the $250,000 self-loan, like all candidate self-loans, is fully refundable to Cervera if unspent. “This race is too important to leave to chance. I am putting my money where my mouth is because I care deeply about the future of our schools, our students, and our teachers. This campaign is not just about winning an election; it is about fighting for the resources, accountability, safety, and leadership our school system deserves,” Cervera said. “Dave Aronberg, David Silvers back Christina Romelus for Palm Beach County School Board” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Two former legislators from Palm Beach County are throwing their support behind a familiar local name seeking a top local education job. Former State Attorney and Sen. Aronberg and former Rep. Silvers are endorsing Romelus in her campaign for Palm Beach County School Board, District 4. Aronberg, who served as Palm Beach County’s top prosecutor for more than a decade and previously represented the area in the Senate, praised Romelus’ record spanning roles in public health, education and elected office. “Christina Romelus has dedicated her life to serving others — as a nurse, an educator, and an elected official,” he said. Tweet, tweet: “FAA sends $60M to Miami, Fort Lauderdale airports” via Sarah Perkel of the USA TODAY Network — The Federal Aviation Administration awarded nearly $60 million to South Florida’s two major airports as part of a $523 million nationwide infrastructure push, distributing 332 grants to airports in 43 states. Miami International Airport received $41.9 million for terminal reconstruction and fuel farm expansion, while Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport received $18.6 million for new taxi lane construction. The Miami grants come as the airport is already deep into a $9 billion modernization effort that includes a new concourse and renovations to more than 100 passenger boarding bridges, more than 600 escalators and moving walkways, and dozens of bathrooms. “Boca Raton Council member pressed over ‘very misleading’ Save Boca email that drew outcry” via Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Sun Sentinel — Boca Raton City Council member Jon Pearlman, Chair of the political group Save Boca, refused to say whether he personally sent or approved a mass email that falsely claimed the city was moving forward with a “$190 million Taj Mahal” police station. The email triggered roughly 600 responses — some threatening — and drew rebukes from fellow City Council members, including two Save Boca-endorsed colleagues. The actual proposal under discussion is a $125 million bond referendum to fund a station now estimated at $120 million, following voters’ rejection of a $175 million bond in March. A follow-up Save Boca email later attacked the revised plan.

Local: C. FL   “Understaffed Flagler Beach Fire seeks Palm Coast’s help for a fee” via Brenno Carillo of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — A staffing crisis at the Flagler Beach Fire Department has the city seeking a formal interlocal agreement with neighboring Palm Coast to borrow firefighters for four weeks for $54,000. Acting Fire Chief Jennifer Fiveash told Commissioners that the department is operating with five personnel when nine are needed, leaving crews on inverted schedules. The shortage traces to a wave of resignations — some citing a “loss of confidence” in then-Fire Chief Stephen Cox — followed by Cox’s termination by City Manager Dale Martin. Four positions remain open. Flagler Beach Fire is seeking help from Palm Coast amid a staffing shortage.

Local: TB   “Ken Welch says Charlie Crist’s property tax pitch would leave St. Pete with ‘impossible choices’” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — St. Petersburg Mayor Welch is pushing back on Crist’s call for a 0.4 mill property tax cut, warning it would force the city into “impossible choices” on public safety, storm recovery and basic services. Crist said the reduction would return about $14.8 million to residents while protecting funding for police, fire and storm recovery. Welch argued cities cannot operate on slogans and said any tax-cut plan needs a serious replacement strategy. The clash comes as Welch seeks re-election against Crist and a crowded field, with Crist leading in fundraising and polling. Welch is also leaning on first responder support and his St. Pete Agile Resilience initiative. Ken Welch is pushing back on Charlie Crist’s property tax proposal for St. Petersburg. “Welch, and his opponents in St. Pete mayoral race, weigh in on Florida’s anti-DEI law” via Jasmin Parrado of Creative Loafing Tampa Bay — St. Petersburg’s mayoral candidates are drawing sharp lines over the state's new anti-DEI law ahead of Pride Month and the August election. Welch said the city will keep supporting St. Pete Pride through in-kind public safety services while reviewing limits on direct funding, and he defended city programs for minority- and women-owned businesses. Crist, Brandi Gabbard, Maria Scruggs and Kevin Batdorf all said they would consider legal challenges or workarounds to preserve cultural events and inclusive programs. Retired Fire Chief Jim Large took a different view, saying taxpayer-funded DEI programs can divide people and that the city should follow the law. “Treasure Island code enforcement could soon have demolition power. What does that mean?” via Mark Schantz of Beacon Media — Treasure Island City Commissioners are moving to give code enforcement officials stronger authority over dangerous buildings and neglected lots. Commissioners unanimously approved two ordinances on first reading on May 19, with a second reading set for July 7. One proposal would allow the building official to condemn and demolish unsafe, unsanitary or uninhabitable structures after notice, a hearing and a special magistrate’s order, with costs placed as a lien on the property. Another would allow the city to clear overgrown or unstable lots if owners fail to comply within 14 days, then bill owners for the work, administrative fees and lien costs.

Local: N. FL   “CRA talks potential contract extension and 38% raise for Executive Director” via Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — CRA Board members, the five sitting City Commissioners, voted unanimously to bring back an agenda item at their meeting in August, which will include a comparable salary review to other CRAs across the country as well as measurable outcomes supporting the need for Executive Director Stephen Cox’s raise. The item was originally wrapped into the consent agenda, which usually goes without discussion and gets unanimously voted on, but the item was pulled by Commissioner Jack Porter. The original contract lasted for five years and would end in September, but before moving forward with any approval, she had questions regarding the raise. FloridAI angle — “Godby High first in nation to use AI, drones, 3D mapping for school safety” via Alaijah Cross of the Tallahassee Democrat — On June 17 and 18, Campus Guardian Angel, ZeroEyes, Ark Strategic, and Leon County Schools will be hosting a summit at the school with demonstrations and discussion sessions surrounding the technologies, including insight from school leaders on the District’s successful deployment. LCS officials say three firearms were seized from students at Godby High School during the 2025–26 school year, underscoring ongoing concerns about campus safety. The state Department of Education will cover the $557,000 cost of launching the program, so that it won’t cost the District. The system will be monitored by the three partnering companies from their HQ locations, and they will communicate with local law enforcement agencies when a threat is detected. Godby High will host demonstrations of AI, drones and 3D mapping for school safety. “North Florida Land Trust coordinates sizable land protection agreement in Bradford County” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — North Florida Land Trust has brokered a deal to protect nearly 861 acres in Bradford County, adding land within the Ocala-to-Osceola Wildlife Corridor and the Camp Blanding Army Compatible Use Buffer Zone. The $5.42 million acquisition was funded by the U.S. Army National Guard and the Department of Defense’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program, with support from the Florida Defense Support Commission. The former Rayonier Forest Resources timber property includes flood plains, wetlands and buffers around Prevatt Creek, a headwater of the Santa Fe River. NFLT will manage the site and may add public access, including hiking trails.

Local: SW. FL   “Kathleen Smith re-elected as Public Defender, will serve full fifth term” via Tomas Rodriguez of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Public Defender Smith has been re-elected in the 20th Judicial Circuit, which covers Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties, after running unopposed. Smith, a Republican, will serve her fifth full term in the role she has held since then-Gov. Crist appointed her in February 2008 to fill the seat vacated by the death of Robert R. Jacobs II. She has worked in the Public Defender’s Office for 36 years and was unopposed in 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026. The position pays $190,000 annually. Kathleen Smith will serve a fifth full term as public defender.

Top opinion   “Gutting property taxes would be ‘catastrophic’ for Miami-Dade” via Daniella Levine Cava for the Miami Herald — I believe in tax relief. I have fought for it my entire career. And as Mayor, I reduced Miami-Dade’s property tax rate to its lowest level since 1982, even as our community’s needs have never been greater. But there is a profound difference between thoughtful, sustained tax relief and what the state is now proposing: the wholesale dismantling of the property tax system that funds the essential services that make our community run. Let me be direct: this affects your safety, your children’s schools and the quality of life you have built here. Eliminating or severely gutting property taxes would be catastrophic for Miami-Dade County. Property taxes generate roughly $55 billion annually across Florida. They fund approximately 50% to 60% of public-school budgets, 18% of county revenues and 17% of municipal revenues statewide. In Miami-Dade alone, property taxes are the financial backbone that pays for police, fire rescue, parks, libraries and the social services that hold our community together. Current projections show the state’s proposal could reduce Miami-Dade County revenues by nearly $386 million in 2027 and $697 million over two years. Those losses would drastically affect services residents depend on, including $146 million for fire rescue, $64 million for Jackson Health System and nearly $39 million for library services. When you call 911 at 2 a.m., a Miami-Dade Fire Rescue team responds. Your property taxes fund that team. When a Miami-Dade Sheriff’s deputy patrols your neighborhood, that deputy’s salary is funded in part by property taxes. When your child goes to a Miami-Dade public school, that school is overwhelmingly funded by property taxes. Eliminate that funding without a credible, proven replacement, and you are not cutting government waste — you are dismantling the services you rely on every single day.

More opinions   “The President’s nonchalance is just a show” via Frank Bruni of The New York Times — Trump’s claims that he does not care about the Midterm are less indifference than performance. His push for Republican gerrymandering in Texas, North Carolina, Florida and elsewhere, along with his demands for new voting restrictions, shows a President deeply invested in protecting GOP control of the House. The Iran war, rising gas prices and Trump’s risky endorsement of Ken Paxton all complicate that effort, but his public shrugging is damage control, not confidence. Trump knows Midterms can cripple a presidency; he said earlier this year that losing them could mean impeachment. Beneath the bluster, the stakes are clear. “Florida doesn’t need more road maps. It needs more investment.” via Crystal Etienne for Florida Politics — Florida does not need another education road map as much as it needs sustained investment in the district public schools already delivering student opportunities. Donalds’ proposal for personalized educational road maps overlooks existing programs in traditional public schools, including career academies, magnet programs, dual enrollment, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, career and technical education, apprenticeships and industry certifications. The deeper problem is that schools are being asked to do more while funding lags behind inflation and rising costs. Public dollars going to charter schools, vouchers, Education Savings Accounts and other alternatives should be subject to stronger transparency, oversight and financial accountability. Public money requires public accountability.

Instagram of the day

Aloe   “Scott Pelley of ’60 Minutes’ accuses CBS News head Bari Weiss of ‘murdering’ the show, report says” via Jocelyn Noveck of The Associated Press — In a remarkable sign of the turmoil at CBS’s top-rated “60 Minutes,” correspondent Pelley said CBS News head Weiss was “murdering the show” and accused its new producer of having “slender qualifications” for the job. Pelley made his accusations in an introductory meeting on Monday between the newsmagazine’s staff and Nick Bilton, the new executive producer named by Weiss last week. Weiss herself was not present. Status reported that Pelley, the longtime “60 Minutes” correspondent, began grilling Bilton at the 10 a.m. meeting about the firings last week of Bilton’s predecessor, Tanya Simon, and correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega. Status also reported that Pelley told Bilton, a former technology journalist and filmmaker with no traditional broadcast news experience, that his qualifications for the position were “slender.” Scott Pelley accused Bari Weiss of ‘murdering’ ’60 Minutes’ amid CBS News turmoil. “Taylor Swift will return to country roots on new song ‘I Knew It, I Knew You’ for ‘Toy Story 5’” via Althea Legaspi and Jon Blistein of Rolling Stone — The upcoming adventures of Woody, Jessie, and Buzz Lightyear just got more exciting with a newly revealed plot twist: Swift has recorded a new song for Toy Story 5 called, “I Knew It, I Knew You.” The pop star announced the track on her website today, revealing three special CD singles featuring different versions of the song. The track is set to arrive June 5. “I’ve always dreamed of getting to write for these characters who I’ve adored since I was a 5-year-old kid watching the first Toy Story movie,” Swift wrote on Instagram. “NVIDIA introduces first PCs designed for AI agents” via Robbie Whelan and Amrith Ramkumar of The Wall Street Journal — NVIDIA unveiled the prototypes in a new generation of personal laptop computers designed for running artificial-intelligence “agents,” using a newly designed version of the company’s signature AI chips. The new PCs will be as thin as 14 millimeters, and the lightest will weigh less than 3 pounds. To start, NVIDIA will work with six manufacturers — Dell Technologies, Lenovo Group, Microsoft, HP, Asus and MSI — to build the laptops. To power the new computers, Nvidia is introducing the RTX Spark, which it described as “the most efficient PC chip ever built.” Eventually, there will be 30 laptop models and about 10 desktop models using the new chips, developed from NVIDIA’s graphics processing units. PCs that use the chip will be “targeted at creators, AI developers and gamers” and priced at the premium end of the market, said Mark Aevermann, NVIDIA’s senior director of product development.

Happy birthday   Happy birthday today to the still-awesome Andrea Gainey and Jim Gill. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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