The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 6.4.26 — Burnin’ today: Goodman, PTO, Bargmann, Fort Meade, Colins & Disney Pride

Sunburn: The morning tip sheet for all things Florida politics ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Friday morning. Welcome to the world — From our friend Max Goodman: I was at Steve Scalise’s fundraiser for Sydney Gruters in Sarasota Monday night when I got the call. I raced to Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Greer Tepper Goodman entered this world on Tuesday at 2:19 a.m. Mom and baby are doing great. I can only hope to be as good a girl dad as Peter, and for Kaylin to be as dynamic a mother as Michelle. ❤️ Happy Birthday! Max and Kaylin Goodman hold newborn Greer Tepper Goodman shortly after her arrival at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. ___ After enduring a long Legislative Session and a trio of Special Sessions, legislative leaders are rewarding staff with some much-needed PTO. In a Thursday memo, Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez announced an extended holiday schedule tied to next month's celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday. Legislative staff will receive discretionary holidays on July 1, July 2 and July 6, in addition to July 3, the state-observed Independence Day holiday, since July 4 falls on a Saturday this year. Legislative staff will get extra time off around Independence Day. Under the schedule, the Legislature will close at 5 p.m. on June 30 and remain closed until it reopens at 8 a.m. July 7. "The last few months were filled with many late nights, early mornings, and weekends spent away from your homes and families," Albritton and Perez wrote in the joint memo. “As we all prepare to celebrate the momentous, historic occasion of the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we would like to provide some extra time off for legislative staff.” __ ICF has added a veteran emergency management professional to lead its Federal Emergency Management Agency practice. Molly Bargmann has joined the consulting and technology services company as vice president and lead for its FEMA line of business. She brings more than 15 years of disaster recovery and emergency management experience spanning state, local and private-sector roles. Bargmann's background includes more than a decade of working in emergency management positions in Florida and Nebraska. Most recently, she served as Director of Recovery for AC Disaster Consulting. A Certified Emergency Manager, she has worked on recovery efforts tied to hurricanes, historic floods, hazardous materials incidents and the COVID-19 pandemic. Molly Bargmann joins ICF to lead its Federal Emergency Management Agency practice. Her experience also includes command and support roles during responses to major storms, including Hurricanes Ian, Idalia, Debby, Helene and Milton. In her new role, Bargmann will help oversee ICF's work supporting communities through preparedness, disaster response, recovery and long-term resilience efforts. The company's disaster management practice advises federal, state and local agencies on issues including grants management, mitigation planning, program implementation and stakeholder engagement. Bargmann will also help advance the use of artificial intelligence and technology-driven tools designed to streamline recovery programs, improve decision-making and speed the delivery of assistance following disasters. The appointment comes as Florida communities continue to face increasing challenges from hurricanes, flooding and other natural disasters, placing renewed emphasis on preparedness, recovery planning and resilience initiatives. ___ Breaking late Thursday — “Florida prosecutors target organizers of ‘teen takeover’ events” via Kennedy Owens of Florida’s Voice — Florida’s Office of Statewide Prosecution is preparing a coordinated push to investigate and potentially charge organizers behind social media-fueled “teen takeover” events that have drawn large crowds, arrests and public safety concerns across the state. A memo from Statewide Prosecutor Bradley McVay asks law enforcement agencies to share criminal intelligence and investigative information as prosecutors examine possible multi-circuit cases against organizers, promoters and possibly participants. The memo cites recent gatherings at ICON Park in Orlando, Curtis Hixon Park in Tampa and Pier 60 in Clearwater, where a 17-year-old was shot. Prosecutors say the events are often promoted online and cross jurisdictional boundaries, giving the statewide office authority to pursue broader criminal cases.

Situational awareness   Tweet, tweet: —@HunterBiden: I know this may sound petty, but I can’t stand it when people put Photoshop of a meth pipe in my mouth. A crack pipe doesn’t have that little bowl at the end. This is why we can’t trust AI. Please make the appropriate edit. Thank you for your attention to this matter. —@fineout: An emergency petition was filed this p.m. with the Fla Supreme Court by the groups challenging Florida's new congressional map. The move comes just a few days before qualifying is due to start for the 26 Midterms … —@fineout: Speaking of litigation … just a reminder … lawsuits challenging amendments placed on the ballot by the Fla Legislature have a different process/procedure due to a 2011 change that occurred after the Fla Supreme Court had blocked measures sponsored by Fla Leg. … Tweet, tweet: —@AngieNixon: When it comes to voting rights, there can be no bystanders. —@RAlexAndradeFL: I’ve always considered @Fla_Pol to be a reliable source of breaking news in Florida politics. Unfortunately, Cosplay @JayCollinsFL acting like an amateur and a hypocrite, further cementing his image as a mouth-breathing buffoon, is no longer newsworthy. —@GrayRohrer: A Florida Supreme Court decision out today upholding a rate hike for Florida City Gas indicates the company is a subsidiary of FPL. But FPL's parent company, NextEra, sold it to Chesapeake Utilities in 2023. Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet:

Days until   2026 Florida Chamber Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 3; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 3; 2026 Q2 reports are due — 5; Gov. Ron DeSantis joins Dave Rubin, Ben Shapiro, Jillian Michaels and Adam Carolla for ‘Florida Man’ at The Fillmore Miami Beach — 6; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 6; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 7; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices — 7; Flag Day — 9; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 — 9; President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday — 9; 2026 P1 reports are due — 14; 2025 MUC reports are due for political committees — 14; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres — 14; House of the Dragon season 3 premiere — 16; 2026 P1A reports are due for political committees — 21; the final season of ‘The Bear’ premieres — 20; ‘Supergirl’ premieres — 21; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 21; live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 26; 2026 P2 reports are due — 28; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 29; 2026 P2A reports are due for political committees — 35; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 34; 2026 Florida Python Challenge — 35; MLB All-Star Game — 39; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 41; 2026 P3 reports are due — 42; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 45; termination reports are due after April qualifying — 48; 2026 P4 reports are due — 49; 2026 P5 reports are due — 56; ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 56; ‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 61; 2026 P6 reports are due — 63; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 62; Early voting period begins — 64; 2026 P7 reports are due — 70; ‘Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 72; Primary Election Day — 74; 2026 P7A reports are due for political committees — 77; 2026 G1 reports are due — 84; 2026 G1A reports are due for political committees — 91; NFL regular season kicks off — 96; termination reports are due after June qualifying — 97; 2026 G2 reports are due — 98; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 97; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 98; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 102; 2026 G2A reports are due for political committees — 105; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 106; Tampa Bay Buccaneers opener against Cleveland Browns — 107; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 111; 2026 G3 reports are due — 112; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 118; 2026 G3A reports are due for political committees — 119; General Election voter registration deadline — 122; 2026 G4 reports are due — 126; 2026 G4A reports are due for political committees — 133; 2026 G5 reports are due — 140; 2026 D1 reports are due for political committees — 141; 2026 D2 reports are due for political committees — 142; Early Voting General Election begins — 141; 2026 D3 reports are due for political committees — 143; 2026 D4 reports are due for political committees — 144; 2026 D5 reports are due for political committees — 145; 2026 D6 reports are due for political committees — 146; 2026 G6 reports are due — 147; General Election — 151; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 154; 2026 Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 159; termination reports are due after the Primary Election — 164; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 168; Brad Pitt returns as Cliff Booth, his Academy Award-winning role, in a film directed by David Fincher, written by Quentin Tarantino — 173; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 196; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 196; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 196; 2026 Q4 reports are due for political committees — 220; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 234; termination reports are due after the General Election — 241; 69th annual Grammy Awards — 247; Super Bowl LXI — 254; Tampa Mayoral Election — 270; 2027 Oscars — 282; Jacksonville First Election — 291; Jacksonville General Election — 347; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 365; ‘Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 427; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 427; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 483; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 560; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 598; 2028 Oscars — 639; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 721; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 742; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 770; U.S. Presidential Election — 886; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 962; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,286; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,326; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,017.

Top story   “Rural Florida residents organize against data center expansion” via Emily L. Mahoney of the Tampa Bay Times — Opposition to large-scale data centers is gaining strength across rural Florida, where residents are organizing against projects they say threaten water, energy supplies and community life. In Citrus County, about 200 people packed a Hernando town hall to learn how to fight a proposed expansion of an industrial park in Holder that could bring data centers near homes. The turnout showed how quickly skepticism has spread in communities with little history of organized activism. Fort Meade residents organize against a proposed data center project. Similar fights are unfolding in Fort Meade, Lakeland and near Lake Okeechobee. Residents warn that data centers could drain wells, increase pollution, strain the power grid and bring constant low-frequency noise. Developers and local officials have pitched the projects as job creators and economic opportunities. The opposition cuts across party lines. Organizers say rural residents are less focused on ideology than on who benefits, who pays the costs and whether local governments are listening. In Citrus County, the planning Board delayed action after residents flooded a meeting. Another hearing is set for June 18, with County Commissioners expected to vote July 14. In Fort Meade, opponents see a water-use review by the Southwest Florida Water Management District as a possible last chance to slow a project already approved by the City Council. For many residents, the fight has become a test of whether Old Florida can withstand the pressures of a data-hungry economy.

2026   “Byron Donalds touts donor strength in Governor’s race” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds is pointing to the breadth of his donor base as evidence that his gubernatorial campaign is resonating with voters across Florida and beyond. During a Newsmax appearance, the Republican candidate said fundraising totals only tell part of the story, noting that more than 35,000 supporters have contributed to his bid to succeed DeSantis. Donalds has amassed roughly $81 million between his campaign account and the Friends of Byron Donalds political committee through May, including more than $11.7 million raised by the committee in the last two months. Leading rivals in both fundraising and polling, Donalds says the race is ultimately about Floridians and highlighted his legislative and private-sector experience as he makes the case for taking the state “to another level.” “Jay Collins faces scrutiny over past support for data centers” via Peter Schorsch for Florida Politics — Collins’ campaign is drawing attention for attacking artificial intelligence data centers while the Lieutenant Governor previously backed policies designed to attract them to Florida. Collins recently unveiled a plan calling for stricter regulation of AI facilities and shared campaign messaging criticizing their environmental and infrastructure impacts. However, critics point to his support last year for legislation that would have extended tax incentives for data centers, which he promoted as drivers of investment, job creation and economic growth. The contrast has become a flashpoint in the Republican Governor’s Primary, where Collins is trying to distinguish himself from front-runner Donalds. The dispute intensified after Collins’ campaign circulated an AI-generated video attacking Donalds over data center development and artificial intelligence policy. Jay Collins speaks during a campaign event. "Shock poll shows Democrat Brice Barnes with path to succeed Neal Dunn in CD 2" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A new poll shows Democrat Barnes in a position to flip retiring Republican U.S. Rep. Dunn's seat blue. MDW Communications released a poll that shows if Barnes were in a head-to-head contest with Republican Evan Power, she starts the race with nearly 30% support to his just under 29%. A polling memo carefully notes that, as a statistical tie, it falls within the survey's unpublished margin of error. MDW also tested messaging for an informed poll and found Barnes' performance against Power improves whether voters hear friendly bios or negative background on both candidates. “Bale Dalton named to DCCC’s Red to Blue program as he aims to unseat Cory Mills” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) just named Democrat Dalton to its Red To Blue Program. That makes Dalton the first Florida candidate identified as a top-tier contender to flip a GOP-controlled seat this cycle. He is only the 21st candidate to be added to the program nationwide. He and three others were added to the program on Thursday. In November, Dalton launched his campaign to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Mills in the 7th Congressional District. The DCCC, early in the cycle, identified Mills’ District among those likely to be “in play” in 2026, but this move signals a different level of investment in Dalton’s campaign. “Bale Dalton’s deep local roots, moral clarity, and steady leadership are the type of representation Central Floridians are looking for,” said DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene. Ben Butler touts new endorsements in CD 9 — Republican Butler announced another wave of endorsements for his campaign in Florida’s 9th Congressional District. "Ben Butler is exactly the kind of America First conservative that Florida's 9th District needs in Congress," said Florida Young Republicans Chair, Brandon Ludwig. "He's not a politician looking for a title; he's a farmer and a fighter looking to stand with President Trump and ensure the next generation of Floridians enjoys a free and prosperous state and nation. I am proud to put my full support behind Ben Butler for Congress in my personal capacity.” Alongside Ludwig, Polk County School Board Chair Justin Sharpless, Okeechobee County Property Appraiser Mickey Bandi, Indian River County Property Appraiser Wesley Davis and Highlands County Property Appraiser Raymond McIntyre are also backing Butler. "Judge says Anthony Sabatini must resign his current office to run in CD 11" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A federal judge says Lake County Commissioner Sabatini must resign his current office to run for Congress this year. U.S. District Judge Mark Walker denied an injunction requested by the Mount Dora Republican, who filed a federal lawsuit in May asking to toss portions of Florida's resign-to-run law. "This court is not persuaded that the sole purpose of this resign-to-run law is to create an additional qualification to run for Congress," Walker wrote. "In short, this court is not persuaded that Plaintiff has demonstrated that he is substantially likely to succeed on the merits." Importantly, the deadline to resign to run was May 29. The deadline for congressional candidates to qualify is June 12 at noon. “EMILY's List backs Kathy Castor in reshaped CD 14 race” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — EMILY's List is endorsing U.S. Rep. Castor as the longtime Tampa Democrat seeks another term in a Congressional District reshaped by Florida’s new redistricting map. The national organization, which supports Democratic women who back abortion rights, praised Castor’s record on healthcare, economic opportunity and environmental issues while framing the race as part of a broader fight over representation in Florida. Castor, first elected to Congress in 2006, has represented the Tampa Bay area for nearly two decades and is expected to lean heavily on that record as she campaigns in a District made more competitive by the new boundaries. She currently faces a Democratic Primary challenge from Juan Carlos Arauz ahead of the Aug. 18 election. "Anna Paulina Luna endorses Sydney Gruters' run for CD 16" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Luna is backing Gruters in her campaign for Florida's 16th Congressional District. Luna, who represents Florida's 13th Congressional District, endorsed Gruters at the Republican Party of Pinellas County's annual Lincoln Day Dinner, where more than 400 Republican leaders gathered. “Sydney Gruters has my complete and total endorsement,” Luna said. “She is a mom, a patriot, a proven conservative, and a fighter who has spent her career delivering real results for Southwest Florida. President Trump endorsed her because he knows she will stand with him to secure our border, lower the cost of living, and put America First.” "Miami-Dade Commissioner Oliver Gilbert is running to succeed Frederica Wilson" via Claire Heddles and Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — Miami-Dade County Commissioner and former Miami Gardens Mayor Gilbert has filed to run for Congress to succeed U.S. Rep. Wilson after her 15-year run holding the seat. She announced her resignation last week, prompting a wave of prospective candidates to enter one of the few safe Democratic federal seats in South Florida with no incumbent. Gilbert filed his candidacy for CD 24 with the Federal Election Commission. Gilbert is entering the race with a financial edge: his political fundraising committee Common Voices has more than $1 million in the bank to spend in a short Primary cycle. Oliver Gilbert files to run for the congressional seat held by Frederica Wilson. “Phil Ehr vows lawsuit as Broward SOE throws water on Hector Mujica’s party switch explanation” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Ehr says he’s heading to court on Day 1 of qualifying next week for the 28th Congressional District, where he intends to block Democratic Primary opponent Hector Mujica from the ballot over a party switch last year that Mujica denies approving. That claim — that an error with the Broward County Supervisor of Elections (SOE) Office is at fault for the switch — got undercut this week, when the agency said it reviewed its records and found nothing to suggest it made a mistake. Ehr, a retired Navy Commander who unsuccessfully challenged CD 28 incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez in 2024, told Florida Politics that after qualifying on June 8, he will immediately file suit seeking declaratory and injunctive relief.

More elections   "Michael Grant launches 2028 bid for Ben Albritton's Senate seat with 20-plus endorsements in hand" via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Former House Majority Leader Grant, a Punta Gorda Republican, filed Tuesday to run for Senate District 27, the Southwest Florida seat Senate President Albritton will leave behind when he hits term limits in 2028. Grant rolled out the bid with more than 20 endorsements already in hand — a day-one show of force aimed at clearing the field more than two years before anyone casts a ballot. Grant spent more than a decade in the House across two stints — 2004 to 2008, then 2016 to 2024 — representing Charlotte County and climbing the GOP leadership ladder from Deputy Whip to Majority Whip to Majority Leader, a post he held for two consecutive terms under Speakers Chris Sprowls and Paul Renner. Michael Grant launches a 2028 Senate campaign. “‘She finds the fights that matter’: Senate Democratic leaders line up behind Ashley Gantt’s SD 34 bid” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Less than a week into her Senate District 34 campaign, Miami Rep. Gantt has secured support from most fellow Democrats already serving in the chamber. Seven members of the Senate Democratic Caucus — Leader Lori Berman and Sens. Mack Bernard, LaVon Bracy Davis, Carlos Guillermo Smith, Rosalind Osgood, Tina Scott Polsky and Barbara Sharief — are all backing Gantt, her campaign announced. Gantt, a lawyer, is currently the only candidate running to succeed Miami Gardens Democratic Sen. Shevrin Jones, who confirmed last week that he won’t seek re-election ahead of an expected congressional run. Berman said Gantt will excel in the job. “Ashley carried the twin House bill with the skill and conviction of someone who understood exactly what was at stake for mothers, families, and working women across this state,” Berman said. “Richard Lamondin announces $300K raised in 60 days toward SD 38 race, ‘powered by grassroots donors’” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Two months into his campaign for Senate District 38, entrepreneur Lamondin says he is stacking donations. Lamondin, a first-time Democratic candidate who pivoted from a congressional run in April, announced this week that his campaign has raised more than $300,000 since its April 7 relaunch. The gains game through his campaign account and political committee, his camp said, with nearly 200 donors, more than 80% from South Florida. Official campaign finance reports for the April 1-May 31 period are due from state-level candidates on June 10. Lamondin has not posted his reports early, and Florida Politics has not confirmed the above figures. "Lindsay Polega-Quigley launches HD 60 bid with Lindsay Cross' endorsement" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Democrat Polega-Quigley has launched a campaign for House District 60 just hours after Rep. Cross announced she would not seek re-election to the seat. Cross' decision opens a competitive seat that Democrats will be working to hold in 2026. But Polega-Quigley is entering the race with Cross' support. Democrats maintain a small voter registration edge in HD 60, outnumbering Republicans by fewer than 1,000 voters among more than 108,000 voters. She was re-elected to her seat in November, earning 54% of the vote after a tough challenge from former St. Pete City Council Member Ed Montanari. "Serving Florida House District 60 for the last four years has been the honor of a lifetime. I'm proud to endorse Lindsay Polega-Quigley for this seat and know that she will fight hard for the people of District 60," Cross said. “Wilton Simpson backs ‘principled conservative’ Liesa Priddy in HD 82” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — Republican Priddy is racking up endorsements in her bid for House District 82, with the latest nod coming from Agriculture Commissioner Simpson. “Liesa Priddy is precisely the kind of principled, commonsense conservative leader Florida agriculture needs in Tallahassee. Liesa understands what it takes to safeguard Florida’s family farms, defend private property rights, and preserve our rural communities. I am proud to support her candidacy,” Simpson said. “I am profoundly grateful for Commissioner Simpson’s endorsement,” Priddy added. Simpson’s backing comes a couple of months out from a four-way Primary for the Republican nomination. "Law enforcement, labor, firefighters back Debra Tendrich for re-election to HD 89" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A freshman Democrat who passed one of the 2026 Session's most celebrated bills is heading into re-election with a broad public safety coalition behind her. Rep. Tendrich announced this week that her re-election campaign for House District 89 has received endorsements from the Florida Police Benevolent Association, Palm Beach County Police Benevolent Association, Florida Fraternal Order of Police, Palm Beach County Professional Firefighters and Paramedics Local 2928 and Florida Professional Firefighters. The endorsements follow a notable first term for Tendrich, whose signature achievement this past Session was a sweeping domestic violence reform package that passed both chambers unanimously and was signed by DeSantis last month. "You have demonstrated that you can lead and are not afraid to do so," he said. "Michael Ferguson reports $100K raised, 4K doors knocked in HD 100 bid" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Less than two months in, the only Democrat running to flip Broward's sole Republican-held legislative seat has cleared a six-figure fundraising milestone. Ferguson, an Air Force veteran and lawyer running for House District 100, announced that his campaign has raised more than $100,000 from 115 individual donors since launching on April 7, with contributions averaging under $250. The campaign says it also knocked on more than 4,000 doors across the coastal Broward District, which stretches from Fort Lauderdale to Deerfield Beach. “I’m incredibly grateful to every person who has contributed, volunteered, opened their door, and put their trust in this campaign,” Ferguson said. Michael Ferguson touts early fundraising and field activity in House District 100. “‘Getting things done’: John Taylor swaps mayoral re-election bid for run at HD 109” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — The Mayor who helped turn around one of Miami-Dade’s most troubled cities now wants to take that record to Tallahassee. Opa-locka Mayor Taylor just announced his candidacy for House District 109, promising to focus on affordability, public safety and expanding opportunity for working families. He’s running to succeed Miami Rep. Ashley Gantt, who last week confirmed her own campaign for Senate District 34, which Miami Gardens Sen. Jones — a fellow Democrat — is vacating for an expected congressional bid. Gantt quickly endorsed her would-be successor, who, for now, faces one Democratic Primary opponent, former state Rep. James Bush III.

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Statewide   “Two-thirds of Floridians back James Uthmeier lawsuit against ChatGPT, poll finds” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — A Sachs Media poll shows 65% of Florida voters support Attorney General Uthmeier’s lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman, with support crossing party lines. The survey found that 72% of Republicans, 65% of nonpartisans, and 58% of Democrats support the case that argues OpenAI marketed ChatGPT as safe while concealing risks, especially to children. Voters also support tougher consequences, including restrictions on ChatGPT and financial penalties. The strongest consensus centers on child safety: 96% support requiring parental consent before AI companies collect data from children under 13. The lawsuit makes Florida the first state to sue OpenAI over ChatGPT’s treatment of users. James Uthmeier’s lawsuit against OpenAI draws support from Florida voters. “Redistricting challengers seek Supreme Court intervention” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Voting rights groups challenging Florida’s newly adopted congressional map are making a final push to stop the lines from being used in the 2026 Midterm Elections. The Equal Ground Education Fund and other plaintiffs have asked the Florida Supreme Court to overturn lower-court rulings denying an injunction, arguing there is still time to preserve the 2022 map before candidate qualifying begins Monday. The lawsuit centers on allegations that DeSantis’ office violated Florida’s ban on partisan gerrymandering when drawing the new districts. Plaintiffs point to testimony that partisan voting data was used and note the map significantly increases the number of Republican-leaning districts. They argue that swift court action remains possible and necessary to prevent an election from proceeding under potentially unlawful boundaries. “Property tax proposal could squeeze water management districts” via Kylie Williams of POLITICO — Florida’s proposed property tax overhaul could leave the state’s five water management districts facing significant revenue losses, raising concerns about their ability to maintain flood protection, water quality programs and conservation projects. Legislative analyses show local governments could lose billions in non-school property tax revenue over the next several years, with water management districts included in those projections. Democrats and environmental advocates warn the reductions could undermine essential services ranging from drought response to drinking water infrastructure. Republicans backing the proposal argue that districts can reassess spending priorities and potentially seek alternative funding sources. While the exact impact remains unclear, critics say districts that rely heavily on property tax revenue could face difficult budget decisions if voters ultimately approve the constitutional amendment. “Rainfall prompts more counties to lift burn bans” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Recent rains are bringing relief across Florida, prompting counties to roll back burn bans that were imposed during one of the state’s most active wildfire seasons in recent years. Duval County is among the latest jurisdictions to lift restrictions after improved conditions reduced the threat of rapidly spreading fires. More than 2,200 wildfires have scorched nearly 146,000 acres statewide this year, but only seven active fires remained as of Thursday, according to the Florida Forest Service. Just 15 counties still have burn bans in place, most concentrated in Southwest Florida. While fire danger has eased significantly heading into the rainy season, drought conditions persist across large portions of the state, leaving officials cautious about continued wildfire risks through the Summer. "Chip Wile isn't leaving VISIT FLORIDA after new job. Instead, he's rising up to Chair" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — In November, NASCAR executive Wile announced he was leaving his Florida-based job with the racing organization. But that doesn't mean Wile is departing VISIT FLORIDA, where he has served as Vice Chair. In fact, he is preparing to step up and lead the Board as Chair. Wile, the former president of Daytona International Speedway, had most recently worked as the senior vice president and Chief Track Properties Officer of NASCAR. Wile moved on to become Executive Director of the NASCAR Drivers' Advisory Council, which is based in North Carolina. VISIT FLORIDA is the state's official destination marketing organization. "Chip will continue serving the state he calls home and the tourism industry he has long supported through the remainder of his appointment on the VISIT FLORIDA Board," VISIT FLORIDA spokesperson Allison Hopkins said.

D.C. matters   “Donald Trump’s arch not subject to law limiting D.C. building height, planning chief argues” via Dan Diamond of The Washington Post — The head of a federal Commission reviewing Trump’s planned 250-foot triumphal arch said he believed a federal law limiting the height of construction in Washington should not apply to the controversial project. Will Scharf, the Trump-appointed Chair of the National Capital Planning Commission, said that he had “thought deeply” about whether the Height of Buildings Act, which was enacted in 1910 and intended to preserve the capital city’s historical views and character, should apply to the project. The law restricts most construction in Washington to a maximum height of 130 feet, and the Commission has historically applied the law when deciding whether to approve projects in the region. “John Bolton reaches deal to plead guilty over classified information” via Devlin Barrett and Michael S. Schmidt of The New York Times — Bolton, a national security adviser to Trump in his first term, has reached a tentative deal with prosecutors to plead guilty to mishandling classified information when he compiled notes for a book that was harshly critical of the President. A notice in Maryland federal court, where Bolton was indicted last year, indicates he is now scheduled for a re-arraignment — a hearing that can signal a planned guilty plea. The hearing is scheduled for June 26. Under the terms of the plea deal, which still requires a judge's approval, Bolton plans to plead guilty to a single count of illegal retention of classified information and pay a fine, with a sentence ranging from no prison time to 5 years of incarceration at sentencing. If Bolton had gone to trial and lost, he could have faced decades in prison. John Bolton reaches a tentative plea deal over classified information allegations. “Ballroom donors won $50B in contracts after giving to Trump project, watchdog group finds” via Jonathan Edwards of The Washington Post — More than half of the publicly identified donors to Trump’s White House ballroom project have won new or expanded federal contracts worth more than $50 billion during the past six months. Fourteen of the 27 known corporate donors to the $400 million project, which would replace the East Wing that Trump demolished in October, have seen their government business grow in that window. Most of those same companies are also facing federal enforcement actions over alleged wrongdoing or have had such actions suspended by the Trump administration since the start of Trump’s second term, the nonprofit found. “Granted clemency by Trump, scores of Jan. 6 rioters have been accused of new crimes” via Luke Broadwater of The New York Times — One was arrested after allegedly threatening a person with a gun in a church parking lot. Another was convicted of felony charges of grand larceny and burglary. Still another was convicted of child molestation. At least 97 of the nearly 1,600 people who were charged in connection with the Capitol riot have been accused of new crimes since Jan. 6, 2021. The figure, which is larger than previously known, includes 19 cases that happened after Trump granted clemency to Jan. 6 defendants on the first day of his second term. The rest of the cases happened in the years after the riot. “The pardons closed a chapter for these individuals politically. What I found is that for a significant number of them, the behavior that defined Jan. 6 didn’t stop when they left the Capitol,” said Katherine Pompilio, the study’s author. She said the report likely misses some cases of recidivism by the Jan. 6 defendants. “Senate GOP defeats initial attempts to kill DOJ payout fund” via Katherine Tully-McManus and Jordain Carney of POLITICO — Senate Republicans beat back early attempts to quash the Justice Department’s controversial “Anti-Weaponization Fund” and potentially endanger the GOP’s immigration enforcement bill. Senators voted 50-49 on Thursday to reject an attempt by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer that would have sent the measure back to the Judiciary Committee to insert language that would nix Trump’s $1.8 billion payout vehicle. The move was aimed at codifying Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's promise to House appropriators on Tuesday that the administration would scrap plans for the fund. “Donalds ties inflation concerns to Strait of Hormuz conflict” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds argues that rising consumer costs are being driven largely by elevated oil prices tied to instability in the Strait of Hormuz, predicting relief once the conflict subsides and shipping routes normalize. Appearing on Newsmax, Donalds said lower fuel costs would improve both inflation figures and public perceptions of the economy, benefiting Trump and the broader Republican agenda. He blamed Iran for disrupting global energy markets and said current price pressures stem from geopolitical tensions rather than broader economic weakness. Donalds also criticized a House war powers resolution supported by Democrats and four Republicans, arguing it could undermine ongoing negotiations and weaken U.S. leverage as a tentative ceasefire and diplomatic talks continue. "Kevin Marino Cabrera takes U.S.-Panama outreach on road in Veraguas visit" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — U.S. Ambassador to Panama Cabrera is taking American diplomacy beyond the capital, visiting Santiago de Veraguas to deliver water infrastructure aid, schoolbooks and a new English training program for educators. It's part of what Cabrera, a former Miami-Dade County Commissioner and Trump campaign lead, has branded the "Embassy on the Road" initiative. Among the visit's most concrete deliverables was a return to the IDAAN regional water authority office, where Cabrera joined Gov. Hildemarta Riera Díaz, Mayor Eric Jaén and National IDAAN Director Antonio Tercero González to hand over submersible water pump motors funded by U.S. Southern Command. "Clean water changes lives," Cabrera said.

Local: S. FL   "'Kangaroo court': Chaos at downtown Miami agency as director faces accusations" via Tess Riski of the Miami Herald — A downtown Miami agency has found itself in turmoil as it negotiates an exit package with its executive director following a public reprimand from a City Commissioner that one Board member likened to a "public assassination." Members of the Miami Downtown Development Authority Board gave executive director Christina Crespi until Wednesday to decide whether to resign amid accusations of poor performance by the agency's Chair, Miami Commissioner Ralph Rosado. Crespi has opted not to resign, instead proposing to go on paid administrative leave through Dec. 31 at her current salary of $275,000, plus benefits. “House panel seeks DOJ review of Philip Levine allegations” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A House Oversight Committee investigation into Jeffrey Epstein’s network has led Republican members to request a Department of Justice review of allegations against former Miami Beach Mayor Levine. The request follows testimony from Sarah Kellen, a longtime associate of Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, who told congressional investigators that Levine sexually assaulted her during a trip to Saint-Tropez more than two decades ago. Committee Chair James Comer and four GOP lawmakers emphasized that Congress is not determining guilt but believes the allegations warrant examination by federal authorities. Levine’s representatives denied the accusation, describing the encounter as consensual. The referral comes as congressional investigators continue reviewing newly released Epstein-related records and testimony tied to the broader sex trafficking case. Philip Levine faces calls for federal review after allegations tied to Jeffrey Epstein. “Stephen Ross donation brings exclusive private school to West Palm” via Alexandra Clough of the Palm Beach Post — The private Pine Crest School is expanding to West Palm Beach to create its third South Florida campus, thanks to a large but undisclosed gift from real estate developer Ross. To make the Pine Crest campus happen, Ross' nonprofit is making “a landmark philanthropic commitment” to the school, according to a letter sent to the school community by Pine Crest President Dana Markham. Markham wrote that Ross' pledge is large enough not only to create a West Palm Beach campus but also to boost existing Pine Crest campuses in Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale. The West Palm Beach campus location, planned opening date and the grade levels offered are not yet decided, Pine Crest Chief of Staff Christine Dardet said. "These Florida mothers warned family courts about abuse. Now they can't speak to their children" via Shira Moolten of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — In dozens of custody cases identified by the Sun-Sentinel, judges separated parents from their children not because of physical abuse, abandonment or neglect but rather because court professionals determined the parents had mental health issues, engaged in a behavior known as parental alienation or acted defiantly during custody proceedings. The Sun-Sentinel located 15 orders issued in South Florida over the last 15 years that completely forbade parents and children from speaking due to alleged alienation or defiance of court orders, rather than physical or sexual abuse. Strikingly, 12 of those orders were issued since 2019, and 11 of them severed contact between mothers and their children. "Judge rules on police whistleblower lawsuit against Florida city" via Colleen Wixon of Treasure Coast Newspapers — A lawsuit filed by a longtime city police lieutenant has been dismissed with prejudice in favor of the city. Lt. Daniel Cook, a 37-year veteran within the city police department, failed to provide evidence showing he was retaliated against after raising concerns about a hostile work environment, wrote Circuit Court Judge Cynthia Cox in the court order dismissing the lawsuit. Cook filed the lawsuit in November 2024, saying he faced retaliation after raising concerns about a hostile work environment and other conduct inside the department. He sought more than $75,000 in damages. Cook has 30 days to appeal the decision. The City Council plans to discuss the decision at its June 9 meeting.

Local: C. FL   "Orange County hotel tax revenue is booming with $37.7M in a record-topping April" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Orange County's hotel tax revenue reached the highest level ever seen in April — the latest boom in tourism for the theme park capital of the world. April brought in $37.7 million, up nearly 14% from April 2025, Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond said. The April record stemmed in part from Spring Break travelers from the Northeast and a busy time at the Orange County Convention Center. The Tourist Development Tax (TDT) is a 6% countywide tax on hotel rooms and short-term stays that generates significant revenue used to support continued tourism growth. TDT revenue has been boosted by the opening of Epic Universe, Universal's new theme park, in 2025. "April 2026 produced another record-breaking month for Tourist Development Tax collections," Diamond said. "This was the highest April on record and extends our record-breaking streak to 13 consecutive months of year-over-year growth." Phil Diamond reports record Orange County hotel tax collections for April. “Orange County sounds alarm on property tax proposal” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Orange County leaders are warning that the proposed homestead exemption expansion headed to the November ballot could slash county revenues by roughly $430 million over two years, forcing difficult decisions on public services and long-term planning. Budget officials told Commissioners the measure could significantly reduce funding for county operations, fire rescue and law enforcement while creating uncertainty for municipalities that rely heavily on property tax revenue. Commissioners voiced concerns about potential impacts on transportation, homeless services, mental health programs, cultural initiatives and other locally funded priorities. With voters set to decide the constitutional amendment this Fall, county leaders say they face a major challenge in educating residents about what they view as the proposal’s far-reaching consequences for local government finances and service delivery. "Cocoa and Rockledge police hold gun buyback to curb violence, tragedies" via J.D. Gallop of Florida Today — Just a day after a deadly shooting a short drive from Cocoa's jurisdiction, police and church leaders will buy back guns to get weapons off the streets. Both Cocoa and Rockledge police are working with longtime community advocate Jarvis Wash to host the drive-up buyback on Friday. The buyback, the first in Cocoa in nearly a decade, runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Save-A-Lot Plaza at 1208 Dixon Blvd. in Cocoa. Those turning in weapons will receive a $50 Walmart gift card per gun, up to two firearms. "It's no questions asked," said Cmdr. Tony Marchica of the Cocoa Police Department added that the previous buyback outreach effort in 2018 removed some 250 guns from the streets. "Daytona Beach unveils $27M fire station amid financial scrutiny" via Sheldon Gardner of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — The unveiling of the two-story, 31,000 square foot, roughly $27 million facility arrived as the city faces probes into its financial practices and spending, including recent subpoenas of city officials from the Florida Attorney General's Office. When asked about whether he was concerned about the optics of spending that much on a fire station during a time of intense scrutiny over finances, City Manager Deric Feacher said Daytona Beach residents "want a quality fire department." Both Fire Chief Dru Driscoll and Deputy Chief Jessica Matthews were ordered to appear via subpoena at the Florida Attorney General's Office in April.

Local: TB   "Cindy Stuart enters Hillsborough Commission race to challenge Joshua Wostal; Aileen Rodriguez vows to fight on" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Former Hillsborough County Clerk of Court Stuart has entered the race for Hillsborough County Commission in District 7, where she is aiming to challenge incumbent Republican Wostal. But Stuart won't be the only Democrat in the contest. Rodriguez, who entered the race in January, has vowed to continue her campaign while lamenting Stuart's entry just 11 days before the qualifying deadline. "Over the last year, we've been showing up, listening to residents, and talking about the issues that affect working families every day," Rodriguez said. "That mission hasn't changed, and it won't change because of a last-minute political decision." Cindy Stuart enters the Hillsborough County Commission race. "Aileen Rodriguez endorsers still on board after Cindy Stuart's surprise entrance into Hillsborough Commission race" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Rodriguez's supporters are sticking by her despite a prominent local Democrat's late entrance into her Hillsborough County Commission race for District 7. The Rodriguez campaign announced reaffirmations of support from several backers and from a new endorser, signaling that local Democrats may not be on board with what is now a competitive Primary. Rodriguez, a former regional director for former Republican U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez, quickly vowed to continue her campaign while lamenting Stuart's entrance into the race just 11 days before the qualifying deadline. The campaign also announced a new endorsement from retired Judge E.J. Salcines, "one of Tampa's most respected civic leaders and a longtime champion of the Hispanic community." "I am incredibly humbled to have the continued support of so many leaders, organizations, and advocates that care deeply about the future of Hillsborough County," Rodriguez said. “He quit amid Sheriff’s office cheating scandal. Now, Hillsborough schools hired him” via Dan Sullivan of the Tampa Bay Times — Anthony Collins, the former chief deputy of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office who resigned last year amid an academic cheating scandal, will be the local School District’s new director of security and emergency management. Hillsborough schools Superintendent Van Ayres officially announced his decision to hire Collins at Tuesday’s School Board meeting. The meeting was packed with supporters of Collins, who gave him a standing ovation as Ayres announced the hire. None of the School Board members voiced any objection. “I think it’s very important to know I am very dedicated to ensuring the overall safety of our students and staff,” Collins said. He spoke of building on the work of the retiring chief and “ensuring that we have the strongest, safest School District in the country.” “Tampa advances school-zone camera expansion amid privacy concerns” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — The Tampa City Council voted to advance an expansion of the city’s school-zone speed camera program, but not before raising a host of concerns about privacy, surveillance and the contractor behind the technology. The proposal would increase camera coverage from 12 schools to 18, based on a study identifying high-volume speeding areas. Several Council members said they support efforts to improve student safety but questioned whether vendor RedSpeed should continue managing the program, citing its ties to Flock Safety and concerns about data sharing. Members also pushed for safeguards to ensure that revenue generated by citations is dedicated solely to school safety improvements. The ordinance now heads to a July 16 public hearing and final vote, with staff directed to provide additional answers before then. “Rick Scott urges cancellation of Kanye West stadium shows” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Scott is calling on the Tampa Sports Authority to cancel upcoming West (also known as Ye) concerts at Raymond James Stadium, arguing taxpayers should not subsidize performances by someone he says has repeatedly promoted antisemitic rhetoric. In a letter to Board members, Scott cited Ye’s history of praising Nazis and making inflammatory comments about Jewish people, saying such views are incompatible with community values and Florida’s large Jewish population. The Senator warned that allowing the shows to proceed could help normalize hate while benefiting from a publicly supported venue. The push comes as Ye continues his controversial comeback tour, which has faced opposition and legal challenges in multiple countries, despite public apologies for some of his past statements. "St. Pete Pier contract nearly triples amid budget fears, 'noise' woes" via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — After sounding the alarm on a potential $75 million loss should voters approve property tax cuts proposed by the Governor, St. Petersburg is bringing forward a new contract with a promoter of the St. Pete Pier that nearly triples in cost. Complaints about thumping bass and loud music came from as far away as Gulfport. The spending increase didn't sit right with Council Chair Lisset Hanewicz. Mayor Ken Welch's administration ordered department leaders to identify 3% and 5% spending reductions to close a budget gap.

Local: N. FL   “Donna Deegan and City Council grapple with possible property tax cut” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — Mayor Deegan says a proposal on the November ballot for raising the homestead exemption would deal a “hit to core services” in Jacksonville if state voters approve it. The City Council Auditor’s Office and the Duval County Property Appraiser’s Office both project the city would lose about $300 million in property tax revenue. “It sounds awfully good to say we’re going to cut your property taxes by so much, but what are you going to lose for that?” Deegan said. City Council member Will Lahnen brought some math to the discussion, noting that the city would have to make a 38% cut in non-public-safety spending to close the gap. Donna Deegan warns that a property tax cut could affect Jacksonville's services. “Tallahassee City Manager job posting is live, ready for applicants” via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — After the City Commission authorized staff to hire S. Renée Narloch & Associates — the head-hunting firm spearheading the search — during its May meeting, the company spoke with top officials and the human resources department to get a candidate profile compiled and posted. Current City Manager Reese Goad announced his retirement on April 28, but said he will remain at the helm until his successor is appointed, but not later than Sept. 30. The city is conducting a nationwide search for the next person to step into Tallahassee's top post, but the hiring could end up coming from within. Tallahassee has not hired an external candidate since Steve Burkett, the City Manager in Fort Collins, Colorado, in the 1990s. “Metal detectors being added at 30 Duval elementary schools in 2026-27” via Steve Patterson of The Florida Times-Union — The Duval County School Board approved a $2 million contract June 2 to increase the District’s use of a system called CEIA OPENGATE, which was installed at middle schools during the 2025-26 year. "The students and staff at our elementary schools deserve the same level of safety found at our secondary schools,” Duval County School Police Chief Jackson Short said in a release about the security change. “By adding weapons detection technology to our elementary schools, we remain true to one of our core values ― keeping students and staff safe.” Short told reporters on June 4 that three guns were recovered in District elementary schools over the prior school year, while none were found in middle schools. The District hasn’t identified which schools will be outfitted with the screening equipment. “Questions of loyalty, oversight swirl around Escambia library Board vacancies” via Mollye Barrows of the Pensacola News-Journal — Two seats have remained vacant on the West Florida Public Library Board of Governance (WFPL BOG) since March 1. Board Chair Blaine Wall said those Board members’ terms ended in February, and typically, new members would take their place at the very next meeting, but for the first time, that hasn’t happened. Wall said with only three current members on the five-member Board, a quorum cannot be met if even one person is absent from a meeting. This prevents the Board from conducting its business and becomes particularly challenging during Summer months due to members' jobs and travel plans. “My perception is that they are intentionally keeping these seats open to make it more difficult for the Board to function,” Wall said. “Tom Petty Park renovations complete; ribbon-cutting set” via Elliot Tritto of The Gainesville Sun — On June 6 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Gainesville leaders are inviting residents to a ribbon-cutting celebration to showcase Tom Petty Park’s latest amenities. Gainesville city officials said the renovations to the park, 501 NE 16th Ave., include eight new pickleball courts, seating areas, shade canopies, a multiuse trail with lighting, landscaping, a concessions and storage building, restrooms, a Bee City Gainesville pollinator garden, a stormwater pond, a solar lighting system over the resurfaced parking lot, and LED lighting for the pickleball and tennis courts, multipurpose field and softball/baseball fields. The more than 20-acre park was completed in two phases by Gainesville-based Scorpio Construction. The $2.6 million project was fully funded through the voter-approved Wild Spaces & Public Places half-cent sales tax.

Local: SW. FL   "Cape Coral justified in removing resident from meeting, magistrate says" via Mickenzie Hannon of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — A special magistrate ruled that the City of Cape Coral was justified in removing resident Tina Lepene from a City Council meeting and banning her from attending public meetings for 30 days. She and another resident, Claude Grant, were escorted from a City Council meeting after clashing with Mayor John Gunter over applause and meeting conduct. Special Magistrate Steven Rothstein found that Lepene's clapping and addressing the Mayor without being recognized violated the Council's decorum rules. Lepene and Grant argue that the Council is using decorum rules to silence critics and enforce policies unevenly. The ruling means Lepene remains barred from attending Council meetings through June 5. Cape Coral officials defend the removal of a resident from a public meeting.

Top opinion   "Did you know Trump’s latest judicial nemesis is from Orlando?" via Scott Maxwell for the Orlando Sentinel — Federal Judge Christopher “Casey” Cooper, an Orlando-raised Trinity Preparatory School graduate, has become the latest judge to frustrate Trump, ruling that only Congress can rename or take control of the Kennedy Center. Trump sounded unusually wounded afterward, saying he was ready to hand the “failing Institution” back to Congress while complaining that no President has been treated so unfairly by the courts. The ruling is just the first stop in a broader Florida political tour, turning next to the Democratic race for Governor. Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings greeted David Jolly in Orlando with a rolling billboard reminding voters of Jolly’s past support for defunding Planned Parenthood, an old Republican record Demings clearly wants Democratic Primary voters to remember. DeSantis gets the same skeptical treatment as he works to soften his national image before leaving the Governor’s Mansion. The once-combative Governor is now posting about doughnuts, sports and diners, but voters may not suddenly buy a warmer version of Ron or forget the old one. The strangest turn comes from Palm Beach County, where a woman born without a right hand was ticketed for allegedly holding a phone in that hand. The bodycam video made the story absurd, then serious, showing exactly why video evidence matters when official accounts strain public belief. The point lands hard: Without body cameras, the full truth too often stays hidden.

More opinions   “Keep the hemp loophole closed” via Colleen Burton for Florida Politics — Intoxicating hemp products pose a serious danger to Florida communities. According to the Florida Poison Information Center Network, delta-8 THC exposures have been rising steadily, with children among the most affected. Many of these products rely on synthetically converted or highly concentrated versions of delta-8 THC that can be far more potent than the natural compound, making them more dangerous and harder to regulate. This lack of regulation has allowed bad actors to target and prey on children. They make hemp products look like ordinary snacks, even though they contain dangerous delta-8 THC. Now, thanks to Congress, a hemp loophole is set to close this November. “A Make America Healthy Again moment for Alzheimer’s” via Dean Black for Florida Politics — Florida has spent decades building one of the nation’s strongest Alzheimer’s support systems, but awareness remains a critical challenge for the nearly 580,000 households affected by the disease. Drawing on the personal loss of a father to Alzheimer’s, the piece argues that state leaders have made meaningful progress through caregiver training, research investments and support services, including the Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Initiative passed this year. The next step requires a stronger federal commitment focused on prevention, early detection and access to emerging treatments. Growing research links lifestyle factors to dementia risk, and the Make America Healthy Again movement offers a framework for advancing Alzheimer’s policy, innovation and patient care nationwide.

Weekend TV   ABC Action News Full Circle with Paul LaGrone on Channel 10 WFTS: Averi Harper breaks down the latest in the Iran conflict, Congress’ push to rein in presidential war powers and what recent Primaries show about the political landscape ahead. Janelle Irwin Taylor examines the property tax fight and its impact on homeowners and local governments. Also featured: Floridians preparing for hurricane season, Patrick DeHaan on gas prices and Amy Kincaid on AI’s effect on jobs. In Focus with Allison Walker on Bay News 9/CF 13: Guest host Dalia Dangerfield examines how Florida’s coastal communities can better withstand storms, flooding and other environmental challenges. State Rep. Lindsay Cross discusses resilience policy and infrastructure planning, while Thomas Ries, founder and president of the Ecosphere Restoration Institute, offers insights into restoration efforts and strategies to protect vulnerable shorelines and waterways. The Usual Suspects on WCTV-Tallahassee/Thomasville (CBS) and WJHG: Pollster Steve Vancore and Cragin Mosteller of the Florida Association of Counties. This Week in Jacksonville with Kent Justice on Channel 4 WJXT: Kevin Carrico, President of the Jacksonville City Council, joins the program to discuss issues facing the city and priorities for local government. The show also features Lt. Col. Alex Vindman, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, for a conversation about his campaign and the political landscape heading into the 2026 Election cycle. This Week in South Florida with Glenna Milberg on Local 10 WPLG: Milberg sits down with Florida House Speaker Perez to discuss this week's property tax Special Session, the impact of the Florida Legislature's final vote on local resources and what it means for the November ballot. The big news of the week and the newsmakers are on Sunday at 11 a.m.

Instagram of the day

Aloe   "Pride month brings colorful cocktails to Disney Springs and Kings" via Amy Drew Thompson of the Orlando Sentinel — Three venues at Disney Springs — The Edison, Enzo's Hideaway and Maria & Enzo's — are teaming up to serve three equally potent potables in support of the cause, donating a portion of the proceeds to The Trevor Project, a nationwide lifeline supporting at-risk LGBTQ+ youth. Up first, the pink, proud and spicy Cranstonian ($16), a bold sip featuring Dos Hombres Mezcal, cranberry juice, fresh lime and Aperol, finished with a chili salt rim. Sour-sweet fans will love the golden-hued Passionfruit Margarita ($20), with its Chinola passion fruit liqueur and fresh lime juice. The green, gorgeous Honeydew Smash ($19) is made with Midori Melon Liqueur, Dos Hombres Tequila and Mezcal. At Kings, the Love Wins Lavender Lemonade ($15) features Tito's Handmade Vodka. Pride Month brings colorful cocktail offerings to Disney Springs and Kings Dining and Entertainment.

Happy birthday   So many great politicos are celebrating, including Brad Burleson of Ballard Partners, Kevin Cleary of Allegiant Strategies Group, Jose Fuentes, Jeff Hendry, Matthew Hunter, former Rep. Ricardo Rangel, Seth McKeel of Southern Strategy Group, former Rep. Amanda Murphy, and Heidi Otway of SalterMitchell. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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