Fw: Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 7.28.26 — Burnin’ today: Florida 10 for 10, Rays Stadium, Fishback, Jolly, Donalds, Murphy & lobsters

Sunburn — Your morning grab-and-go of Florida politics. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Tuesday morning. Just off embargo — Florida has been No. 1 in higher education long enough that the streak is getting its own scholarship. The State University System of Florida will mark 10 straight years atop U.S. News & World Report's State Rankings with "Florida 10 for 10: Celebrating a Decade of Leading Higher Education," a statewide scholarship program awarding up to $1,000 each to 10 full-time undergraduates at every participating university. Applications open Monday, Aug. 3, at flbog.edu/FL10for10. Florida has led the rankings since they debuted in 2017. U.S. News weighs educational attainment, graduation rates, affordability and student debt, and the System has plenty to point to: the lowest in-state tuition in the country, a record seven schools among the top 100 public universities, 80% of in-state students attending without a federal loan and a median salary of $52,600 for graduates within a year of finishing. The University of Florida helps power the state’s decade atop national higher education rankings. Image via Fresh Take Florida. "Florida's Board of Governors cares about one thing, first and foremost — student achievement," said Board of Governors Chair Alan Levine. "Our students graduate with low or no debt, and they have high-value jobs they can compete for." Chancellor Ray Rodrigues said Florida has stayed focused on outcomes "at a time when confidence in higher education is being tested." "By prioritizing skills and qualifications, our universities are developing the next generation of leaders for Florida and the nation," he said. The 12-university System serves more than 431,000 students, the second-largest public university system in the country. ___ Hillsborough County voters aren't just fine with the Rays moving across the bay. They're prepared to reward the elected officials who get it done. A polling memo obtained by Florida Politics shows 67% of likely Hillsborough County voters support the team's plan to build a new ballpark near Raymond James Stadium. After hearing details of the project, support jumps to 75%. A proposed Tampa Bay Rays ballpark near Raymond James Stadium draws strong support from Hillsborough County voters. The survey, conducted by Ryan Tyson's Tyson Group, finds support in every major group: 70% of Republicans, 66% of Democrats and 64% of independents, with the strongest numbers among men (74%) and voters ages 55-64 (76%). The Rays, purchased by a group led by Patrick Zalupski in September, struck a nonbinding agreement with the city and county in May to build at Hillsborough College's Dale Mabry Campus — a $2.3 billion project with $967 million in public money. Here's the twist: the best-testing message isn't baseball. The Rays plan to partner with Hillsborough College to rebuild the campus and offer students internships, which 82% said makes them more likely to back the project. The owners' share of construction costs, without raising taxes, came in at 78%. As for the officials who still have votes to cast, the memo's bottom line is this: 61% of voters said an elected official who votes "Yes" on the project would score a win, including 65% of Republicans and 64% of Donald Trump 2024 voters. The poll surveyed 400 likely voters via live telephone June 16-19 and has a margin of error of 4.9 percentage points.

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Days until   Tiger Bay Club of Central Florida hosts Orange County Mayor debate — 3; ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 3; Optional Primary early voting begins — 6; ‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 8; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 9; Mandatory Primary early voting begins — 11; ‘Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 19; Primary Election Day — 21; ‘The Dog Stars,’ directed by Ridley Scott, premieres — 31; Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards — 35; NFL regular season kicks off — 43; Republican National Midterm Convention — 43; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in the first-ever NFL regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia — 44; Yankees host the Mets for the 9/11 anniversary — 45; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 49; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 53; Tampa Bay Buccaneers home opener against the Cleveland Browns — 54; General Election domestic ballot send window begins — 58; General Election domestic ballot send deadline — 65; ‘Digger,’ with Tom Cruise, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, premieres — 66; General Election voter registration deadline — 69; ‘The Social Network’ sequel, with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres — 73; Optional General early voting begins — 83; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins — 85; General Election ballot request deadline — 86; Mandatory General early voting begins — 88; General Election — 98; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 101; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 101; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 106; 'Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol' starring Johnny Depp premieres — 108; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me,’ releases — 112; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 115; ‘The Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 120; ‘Madden’ premieres — 121; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 143; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 143; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 143; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas — 181; Grammys — 194; Super Bowl LXI — 201; Tampa Mayoral Election — 217; Oscars — 229; Jacksonville First Election — 238; Jacksonville General Election — 294; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 312; ‘Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 374; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 374; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 430; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 507; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans — 545; Oscars — 586; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 668; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 689; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 717; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 833; ‘Black Panther 3’ directed by Ryan Coogler premieres — 871; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa — 909; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,233; College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami — 1,273; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,964.

Top story   “Judge keeps James Fishback in Governor’s race after residency challenge” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Judge David Frank ruled Fishback can remain in Florida’s Republican Primary for Governor, rejecting Lt. Gov. Jay Collins’ challenge to his constitutional residency qualifications. Frank found Collins failed to overcome Florida law’s presumptions favoring candidate qualification and continued residency, leaving voters to decide the contest. James Fishback remains in the Republican Governor’s race after surviving Jay Collins’ residency challenge. The decision follows a monthlong legal fight over whether Fishback abandoned Florida residency while living, voting and owning property in Washington, D.C. Collins cited Fishback’s 2020 D.C. ballot, mortgage documents, tax filings and homestead exemption as evidence he failed Florida’s seven-year residency requirement. Frank acknowledged those records could create separate legal or regulatory exposure, but concluded they did not outweigh Fishback’s sworn testimony that he never intended to abandon Florida as his domicile. Collins’ attorneys also failed to call a witness who directly contradicted Fishback’s stated intent. Fishback celebrated the decision as a defeat for what he called “legal warfare,” arguing voters should settle elections. Collins could still appeal. The ruling arrives three weeks before the Aug. 18 Primary, where both candidates trail U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds by wide margins. The case nevertheless exposed contradictions in Fishback’s prior public statements. He acknowledged voting in D.C. after months of denials and admitted signing documents identifying the property as his principal residence. He said he misunderstood the voting process and incorrectly completed mortgage paperwork. Fishback also faces financial judgments, unpaid legal bills and scrutiny over his campaign rhetoric and tactics. Recent Tyson Group polling showed Donalds at 48%, Collins at 9%, Fishback at 8% and Paul Renner at 4%, leaving the court victory significant for ballot access but unlikely to reshape the race.

2026   “Maxwell Frost backs David Jolly in Governor’s race” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Frost is endorsing Jolly for Governor, praising the Democratic candidate’s willingness to listen to voters and highlighting his call for a moratorium on artificial intelligence data centers. Frost said Jolly has turned concerns from Floridians across the political spectrum into policy proposals, arguing that’s the leadership the state needs. Jolly said he and Frost share concerns about AI’s effects on utility costs, jobs and children, and vowed to pause new data centers until those issues are addressed. The endorsement comes as AI infrastructure becomes an emerging issue in the Governor’s race, drawing contrasts with Republican front-runner Byron Donalds, who has backed legislation addressing data center resource demands. Maxwell Frost joins David Jolly and Gwen Graham after endorsing Jolly for Governor. Image via campaign. "Jolly tells Gen Z town hall he'd bring young people into the Governor's Office" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — If Jolly wins in November, he says the Executive Office of the Governor is going to get younger. "We can never give voice and improve policy outcomes if we don't have more people at the table. And so I do think we have to create those opportunities," he said during a virtual Generation Z town hall. The former Congressman from Pinellas County said he and running mate Gwen Graham "know if young people can look at this campaign and see themselves and see opportunities, we will have done our part in building a new coalition." The pitch wasn't only about hiring. “Byron Donalds rebuts Jolly’s AI data center attacks” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — Donalds is pushing back on Jolly’s claim that he supports placing artificial intelligence data centers throughout rural Florida, saying any future projects must protect water resources, electrical infrastructure and nearby neighborhoods. Donalds said existing Florida law already prevents data centers from shifting costs to utility customers and pledged to strengthen siting requirements to keep hyperscale facilities away from residential communities. Beyond data centers, Donalds outlined a broader campaign message centered on affordability, calling for property tax relief for seniors and working families while maintaining Florida’s low-tax climate. He also touted his campaign’s grassroots operation, saying volunteers have knocked on more than 350,000 doors as he heads into the Aug. 18 Republican Primary with a commanding polling lead. Gadsden County Sheriff Morris Young endorses Donalds — Young, one of Florida's longest-serving sheriffs, is backing Donalds for Governor, citing his support for law enforcement and public safety. "Keeping our communities safe has never been about party; it's about leadership. I'm endorsing Byron Donalds because I believe he will stand with Florida's law enforcement officers and the people we serve," Young said. "Many of Florida's rural and fiscally constrained counties work hard to fund their Sheriff's offices and support their deputies. I believe Byron Donalds understands that challenge and will be a partner in making sure these communities can sustain the resources they need to keep people safe." "It's an honor to have law enforcement legend Sheriff Morris Young's support," Donalds said. "He's spent his career serving the people of Gadsden County, not politics, and that's exactly the kind of leadership Florida needs more of." Happening today — Donalds continues his Defending the Florida Dream Tour with a campaign stop in Pinellas Park. The event begins at 4:30 p.m. at Community Bible Baptist Church, 6565 78th Ave. N., with media check-in at 4 p.m. RSVP: skylar@byrondonalds.com. Happening Wednesday — Donalds continues his Defending the Florida Dream Tour with a campaign stop in Palatka. The event begins at 2:30 p.m. at the Quality Inn & Suites Riverfront, 201 N. First St., with media check-in at 2 p.m. RSVP: skylar@byrondonalds.com. Pompano Beach Commissioner Audrey Fesik endorses Jay Collins for Governor — Fesik, a former Vice Mayor elected to the City Commission in 2024, is backing Lt. Gov. Collins in the race for Governor. "For me, it really comes down to leadership style," Fesik said. "I appreciate his no-nonsense approach and his willingness to say what he means and follow through. After spending time with Jay, I came away with a strong feeling that he has the character, judgment, and temperament to be an excellent leader for Florida." "I'm honored to have Commissioner Audrey Fesik's endorsement," Collins said. "Commissioner Fesik has built a reputation as a principled public servant who puts her community first, and I am grateful for her confidence in our campaign." "'Thank you for having my back': Ashley Moody sings praises of Florida Sheriffs" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Moody called herself Florida's "top cop" when she served as Attorney General, and her symbiosis with law enforcement continues in Washington. Speaking at the Florida Sheriffs' Association Summer Conference, the Plant City Republican praised the men and women who constitute the thin blue line between civil society and anarchy. "Whatever your story has been, your experiences, you bring it with you every day to work. I do that," Moody said. "As the wife of a law enforcement officer, as someone who has worked with law enforcement my entire career, I show up and do that." Teamsters back Annette Taddeo for CFO — The International Brotherhood of Teamsters is endorsing former state Sen. Taddeo for Chief Financial Officer. "Our members expect the same thing from government that is expected of them on the job: show up, do the work, and be accountable. That's exactly what Annette Taddeo has done throughout her career," said Josh Zivalich, President of Teamsters Joint Council 75 and President and Principal Officer of Teamsters Local 769. "She'll be an independent watchdog for Florida taxpayers fighting for affordability and against corruption. That's why we're proud to support Annette Taddeo for Chief Financial Officer." "I am honored to have the support of the Teamsters and their members across Florida," Taddeo said. "As Chief Financial Officer, I will continue fighting for affordability, accountability, and anti-corruption so every Floridian has a voice in our state government." "Voters sour on property tax measure after learning costs" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Support for Amendment 3 drops sharply once Florida voters learn how reducing property taxes could affect local services, according to new polling presented to nonprofit arts leaders. Initial support measured 59%, with 27% opposed and 14% undecided, enough to clear the 60% threshold required for passage. But after respondents heard arguments that the proposal could reduce funding for police, fire protection and other local services, support fell to 40% while opposition climbed to 53%, according to polling conducted for the No on 3 campaign by Steve Vancore of VancoreJones. Patrick Spence of the National Association of Counties warned arts funding and other local programs would likely face cuts, comparing the proposal to California’s Proposition 13 and calling Florida a national test case for future property tax policy.

More elections   "Luke Murphy briefly listed as Treasurer for super PAC boosting his candidacy" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A pro-Murphy super PAC that's legally barred from coordinating with his congressional campaign briefly listed Murphy himself as its Treasurer — an arrangement now being called a clerical error. Let Freedom Ring was originally formed on June 23, but on July 10 it reorganized with Murphy in charge, despite being classified as an "independent expenditure-only political committee." While listing its address at a Tampa UPS store, the super PAC listed Murphy as the custodian of records and Treasurer for the campaign, and a P.O. Box in Havana as a point of contact. Nancy Watkins, the original Treasurer for the super PAC in June, said she turned over the books to Mark Lyle on July 10. But during that time, several political mailers from Let Freedom Ring hit mailboxes in Florida's 2nd Congressional District. Luke Murphy faces questions over a super PAC briefly listing him as its Treasurer. G.T. Thompson endorses Ben Butler in CD 9 — House Agriculture Chair Thompson, a Pennsylvania Republican, is endorsing Butler, a ninth-generation Floridian, dairy farmer and beef cattle rancher, in Florida's 9th Congressional District. "As Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, I know how important it is to have producers at the table when Congress makes decisions affecting America's food supply and rural communities. We need leaders who understand that food security is national security. That's Ben Butler. He is a farmer who understands firsthand the opportunities and challenges facing agriculture. He'll be a principled conservative voice for Florida, our farm families, and the next generation of American agriculture. I'm proud to support Ben Butler for Congress," Thompson said. “New York updates voter records to show Mike Beltran did not vote there last year” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — New York City has updated its election records after determining Florida congressional candidate Beltran did not vote there last year. That comes as Beltran, a Hillsborough Republican, threatens to sue influencer Laura Loomer, who reported Beltran had been registered to vote in both New York and Florida. Loomer alleged, based on city voting records, that Beltran cast a vote last year. But he always maintained that his father, Michael R. Beltran, voted and poll workers mistakenly marked his name instead. Records had shown Michael R. Beltran had not voted in November. Now, the New York City Board of Elections has updated records to align with the younger Beltran’s explanation. According to updated records, he did not vote in November, but his father did. Beltran provided Florida Politics with updated records. Donald Trump releases Oval Office video urging voters to elect Sydney Gruters — Trump is out with a video message filmed in the Oval Office urging Republicans to back Gruters in the Primary for CD 16. "There's an incredibly important Primary Election coming up in your state on Tuesday, August 18, and I'm asking you to get out and vote for Sydney Gruters to represent Florida's 16th Congressional District in Congress," Trump said, reaffirming his "complete and total endorsement" and calling Gruters "phenomenal" and one of "the fiercest America First advocates in the country." "She works so hard. She never gives up. She never stops, and she doesn't lose," Trump said. "She's a winner. She's not going to let you down. She's going to beat everybody, and she will not take any nonsense from anyone." "I am deeply honored by President Trump's confidence and grateful for his complete and total endorsement," Gruters said. Watch the ad here: Donald Trump delivers an Oval Office endorsement of Sydney Gruters in the CD 16 Republican Primary. Chris Collins launches 'Crushing Radicals' TV ads taking on AOC — Collins' campaign for CD 19 is out with two new television ads — a 30-second and a 15-second spot titled "Crushing Radicals" — targeting U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and what the campaign calls "failed liberal policies" in states like New York. "Communist liberals like AOC threaten our way of life with America Last policies," Collins said. "In Congress, I'll fight back and deliver President Trump's America First agenda for Southwest Florida taxpayers: secure borders, safe communities, and no reckless spending." The 30-second spot's narration: "Communists are threatening our way of life. 'Trans girls are girls.' 'They will pay more taxes.' 'We need to abolish ICE.' But Chris Collins will put America First, crushing radical communists, and helping President Trump do the same. In Congress, Chris Collins stood up to radicals like AOC, and protected Florida taxpayers from bailing out Liberal states like New York. 'Chris Collins, now I love him.' I'm Chris Collins, and I approve this message." Watch the ad here: Chris Collins targets Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and liberal policies in his new ‘Crushing Radicals’ television ad.

Even more elections   "Republicans Rachel Plakon, Joshua Sorto vie for HD 36 in north Seminole" via Martin E. Comas of Orlando Sentinel — With rising costs to insure a home, along with soaring gas and food prices, affordability is a top political issue not only across Florida but also in northern Seminole County. It's a key campaign topic for incumbent Plakon and her challenger Sorto, who are vying for the Republican nomination in the House District 36 race. The winner of the Primary will take on Democrat and lawyer Darryl Block in the General Election. Plakon was first elected in 2022 and now seeks her third term. She did not return several calls to talk about her campaign. Sorto, a certified public accountant and Longwood resident, said the affordability crisis "has reached unacceptable levels." Rachel Plakon and Joshua Sorto compete for the Republican nomination in House District 36. "Jose Alvarez faces recurring challenger in Democratic Primary for HD 46" via Brian Bell of Orlando Sentinel — Freshman Rep. Alvarez must overcome a familiar challenger in the August Primary for House District 46 if he's to advance to the November election — where he would face more familiar opponents from 2024. Alvarez, a Kissimmee Democrat, will face Robert LeWayne Johnson in the Aug. 18 election. In the 2024 Primary, Alvarez got 39.4% of the vote while Johnson was second with 25.6% in the four-way race. The winner will face two opponents who also ran in 2024: Republican Michael Cruz and no-party candidate Ivan Rivera. Alvarez, a real estate broker, is a former Kissimmee Mayor and City Commissioner. He was appointed Regional Administrator for the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Statewide   Wilton Simpson names new leadership team for Office of Agricultural Water Policy — Simpson has tapped Jessica Ferris to serve as Director of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' Office of Agricultural Water Policy, with Megan Seward as Assistant Director. Ferris, who had been the office's interim Director, previously served as its staff director, where she led statewide agricultural and water quality initiatives and oversaw the rollout of the new Agricultural Regional Projects Program. Seward continues as Assistant Director, overseeing the office's Best Management Practices implementation, cost-share programs, water quality planning, budgeting and rulemaking; she previously held senior posts at Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the Northwest Florida Water Management District and the Department of Environmental Protection. "Jessica Ferris and Megan Seward are proven public servants with extensive experience in agriculture, natural resources, environmental policy and government operations, and I know they will build on the historic successes of our Office of Agricultural Water Policy," Simpson said. Jessica Ferris and Megan Seward take leadership roles in Florida’s Office of Agricultural Water Policy. Happening today — Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia joins Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, Miami-Dade County Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz, Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister and Putnam County Sheriff Homer ‘Gator’ DeLoach for a news conference in Miami. The event begins at 11:30 a.m., with media arrival at 11 a.m. Location details will be provided upon RSVP to Abigail.Weeks@myfloridacfo.com. “FPL eyes first Florida data center deal this year” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs — Florida Power & Light expects to announce a deal for a large-load data center project before the end of the year, signaling momentum for an industry that has sparked political and community debate across the state. John Ketchum, CEO of FPL parent NextEra Energy, said interest in Florida remains strong, while FPL President Scott Bores emphasized working with communities that welcome development and ensuring transparency throughout the process. The anticipated announcement follows enactment of a new state law requiring large electricity users, including data centers, to cover their own infrastructure and service costs rather than shifting expenses to other customers. The Public Service Commission will further test that framework Aug. 25 when it considers Duke Energy Florida’s proposed large-load tariff. “Florida proposes parental opt-in for classroom AI use” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Florida is moving to regulate artificial intelligence in K-12 classrooms through a proposed rule requiring School Districts and charter schools to adopt AI policies by Jan. 1. The draft would require parents to affirmatively opt their children into AI use, or limit their access, while guaranteeing non-AI alternatives for families who decline participation. Schools would also have to notify parents when AI tools are approved for instruction, establish a formal objection process, prohibit programs that monetize or profile student data, and ensure that AI supplements rather than replaces teachers’ professional judgment. The Department of Education will workshop the proposal Aug. 5, with the State Board of Education potentially voting on final adoption Sept. 16.

D.C. matters   “DOJ asks Supreme Court to restore Trump’s mail-in voting executive order” via Zach Schonfeld of The Hill — The Justice Department asked the Supreme Court on Monday to lift a judge’s block on Trump’s executive order that seeks to restrict mail-in voting, calling the halt premature. Solicitor General D. John Sauer said the courts have no power to intervene yet because the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and other involved agencies are still sorting out how they’ll implement Trump’s directive. “And the injunction is especially indefensible because the agencies are still deliberating over how (if at all) to implement the Order, yet the district court preemptively decided that whatever the agencies may choose to do will necessarily be unlawful,” Sauer wrote. Donald Trump’s mail-in voting executive order heads back before the U.S. Supreme Court. “Democrats urge Trump administration to rethink Endangered Species Act rollback” via Mitch Perry of the Florida Phoenix — Four Florida Democrats are urging the Trump administration to reverse a recent rollback of Endangered Species Act protections, warning the changes could further threaten species including manatees and Florida panthers. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Kathy Castor, Darren Soto and Frost sent a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick calling for withdrawal of a new rule that rescinds the long-standing definition of “harm” under the ESA. The lawmakers argue removing habitat modification and degradation from that definition weakens critical protections and undermines the law’s conservation goals, noting habitat loss remains the leading driver of species extinction. "How IndyCar's most ambitious street race became a test of politics, security and spectacle in Trump's D.C." via Isabelle Khurshudyan and Aleena Fayaz of CNN — As Bud Denker dreamed last Summer of holding an IndyCar race in downtown Washington, D.C., he walked the city's streets in the stifling heat and tried to design the course in his mind. Denker, the President of Penske Corp., a transportation company that also owns motorsports teams, had put on IndyCar races in other cities. But the nation's capital presented a unique challenge. The idea was laughable at first — an offhand suggestion made over a work dinner for how to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. Still, Denker was intrigued and traveled to D.C. in secret, not even telling his boss, Roger Penske.

Local: S. FL   "Miami detention battle looms for Tate brothers linked to rape charges in England" via Jay Weaver of Miami Herald — Federal prosecutors in Miami said they will seek permanent detention of brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate, the infamous social media influencers wanted on rape charges in England, setting the stage for their bond hearing on Aug. 13 as they await extradition to the United Kingdom. The brothers' defense team will face the nearly impossible task of securing their release from the Federal Detention Center in Miami, as Magistrate Judge Lauren Louis pointed out in court that their "detention is presumed" under the U.S. government's extradition treaty with the United Kingdom. In court papers, prosecutors say the brothers should be detained until they are transferred to England because they are a flight risk and danger to the community. Andrew and Tristan Tate face continued detention while awaiting possible extradition to the United Kingdom. "178 sex arrests made in South Florida during the World Cup stretch. See details" via Kairi Lowery of Miami Herald — Almost 200 sex-related arrests were made in South Florida as hundreds of thousands of people flocked to the Miami area for the World Cup, state officials say. Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle and Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced at a news briefing that local law enforcement agencies arrested 178 people in South Florida for human trafficking and other sex crimes during the stretch of global soccer matches played at Hard Rock Stadium and celebrated at fan events across town. They included the arrest of 23 men who attempted to purchase sex with minors and 39 men who were arrested for soliciting sex. Because of their arrests, Fernandez Rundle said 17 potential victims of human trafficking were rescued. "Boca Raton seeks more resources to address homelessness" via Abigail Hasebroock of South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Boca Raton is updating its homeless outreach strategy to improve safety and achieve a "breakthrough" in helping those in need. City Council members agreed that city staff should move forward with bringing on a community resources coordinator, approving four new officers to "enhance downtown patrol coverage," and establishing "a quality-of-life working group," consisting of residents, businesses, service providers, law enforcement representatives and city staff, according to city documents. City Manager Mark Sohaney described the quality-of-life working group as "an open forum to bring everybody together." The city's primary issues and concerns are safety and comfort in public spaces, impacts to downtown businesses, misuse of public facilities and amenities, cleanliness and maintenance concerns, and greater visibility.

Local: C. FL   "Orange Commissioner Maribel Gomez Cordero drops out of clerk race amid lawsuit" via Cristóbal Reyes of Orlando Sentinel — Faced with a civil trial that could have kicked her off the Democratic Primary ballot, Orange County Commissioner Gomez Cordero instead chose to end her campaign for clerk of courts herself. Her letter withdrawing from the race, dated Thursday and uploaded to the Orange County Supervisor of Elections website on Saturday, cited the ongoing lawsuit seeking to remove her for violating Florida's so-called "resign-to-run" law. The Democratic Primary on Aug. 18 will now be between two candidates: former Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh and Roberta Walton Johnson, general counsel for the clerk of courts. "Although I prevailed at that hearing, I do not believe it is in the best interest of the public or the campaign to continue expending taxpayer resources and campaign funds litigating this matter through the trial," Gomez Cordero wrote. Maribel Gomez Cordero withdraws from the Orange County Clerk of Courts race amid litigation. Johanna López endorses Gloria Reina O'Neal for Orange County School Board — Rep. López is endorsing Reina O'Neal in the race for Orange County School Board District 2. "As an educator at Colonial High School for more than 20 years and a former Orange County School Board Member, I've seen firsthand the needs of our students and families. Through my conversations with Gloria Reina O'Neal, I'm confident she is prepared to meet those needs and deliver real solutions," López said. "Gloria is the only candidate raising children who attend Orange County Public Schools, giving her a personal understanding of the challenges our families face every day. As a mom, she understands the importance of strong public schools, safe communities, and opportunities for every child to succeed. Her commitment to accountability, transparency, and serving our community is why I'm proud to endorse Gloria Reina O'Neal." "Quicker bus service and expanding SunRail: How Orange County's next Mayor will fix transit" via Ryan Gillespie of Orlando Sentinel — Buses in Orange County take too long to get people to work, the region's commuter rail line doesn't go to the airport or run nights and weekends, and residents from Maitland to Hunter's Creek complain about time spent stopped in traffic on roads and highways. The topic will be a key motivator for voters in the Aug. 18 nonpartisan election, when all voters can choose among Chris Messina, Tiffany Moore Russell, Stephanie Murphy and Mayra Uribe. All four candidates agree that Lynx, the regional bus system, needs drastic improvements. Messina said he believes SunRail would require too large a subsidy to be a viable solution. "I think we're one technological innovation away from having a really good rail system," he said, noting he wasn't sure what that would be. “Fired Kissimmee attorney sues city over retaliation claim” via Sara-James Ranta of the Orlando Sentinel — Former Kissimmee City Attorney Olga Sanchez de Fuentes has sued the city, alleging she was fired in retaliation for warning that Mayor Jackie Espinosa’s acceptance of city grant funds violated Florida ethics law. The lawsuit claims Kissimmee violated the state’s Public Sector Whistleblower Act and breached Sanchez de Fuentes’ employment contract after she advised city leaders the grants created a prohibited conflict. The filing comes days after a special prosecutor found probable cause to pursue impeachment articles against Espinosa for the same ethics allegations and recommended that the matter be referred to law enforcement. Espinosa denies wrongdoing. Sanchez de Fuentes, who served the city for about 12 years, is seeking damages exceeding $50,000.

Local: TB   "'He has always had our backs': Tampa PBA back Bob Buckhorn for Tampa Mayor" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Former Tampa Mayor Buckhorn has earned support from the Tampa Police Benevolent Association (PBA) in his bid again to serve the city of Tampa as its Mayor. During his tenure as Mayor for two terms spanning eight years, Buckhorn oversaw a new $5.4 million police firearms training facility with nearly 60 shooting lanes, classrooms and a configurable training area where officers could train under realistic scenarios. "There aren't many active or retired Tampa cops that don't have a story about Bob Buckhorn backing them up on a call or assisting in a potentially dangerous situation. It could be the middle of the night or in the pouring rain, and he would stop, get out to make sure that they were safe. He has always had our backs, and we have his," PBA President Brandon Barclay said. Bob Buckhorn earns the Tampa Police Benevolent Association’s endorsement in his campaign for Mayor. “St. Pete expands housing recovery through Sunrise initiative” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — St. Petersburg is launching two new housing programs and expanding mental health funding through its federally backed Sunrise St. Pete disaster recovery initiative. The city’s new Homebuyer Assistance Program will provide eligible households with up to $80,000 in down payment, closing cost or principal reduction assistance through deferred, interest-free loans. A new Voluntary Buyout Program will allow owners of flood-prone properties to sell their homes to the city at post-disaster fair market value, with acquired land preserved for flood mitigation and resilience projects. St. Petersburg also opened applications for roughly $1.25 million in grants to nonprofits providing mental health, case management and related recovery services funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s disaster recovery program. "Jane Castor calls Bertha a 'warning shot' for Tampa Bay area" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Tropical Storm Bertha spared the Tampa Bay area, but Castor says residents should treat the storm as a reminder that hurricane season is no longer hypothetical. In the latest edition of her "Tampa Weekly" newsletter, Castor noted that Bertha was the first storm that Tampa Bay felt effects from during the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. Bertha brought rough surf and dangerous rip currents to the region, forcing Clearwater lifeguards to pull more than a dozen swimmers from the water over two days. "Bertha was our little nudge that hurricane season is not hypothetical anymore," she wrote.

Local: N. FL   "Big money backs Moné Holder in bid to flip Jax City Council seat" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Democrats are in a superminority on the Jacksonville City Council despite holding the registration edge in Duval County. Still, it's clear donors believe a Special Election to replace outgoing Republican Terrance Freeman offers an opportunity to redress that imbalance. Holder, the chief advocacy and political officer at Florida Rising, is getting some help from Jacksonville Together, a political committee advertising on behalf of her campaign. The spot, now airing on local television, introduces viewers to Holder's biography, including her role as Chair of the Jacksonville Planning Commission, and says she would work to counteract the "good ol' boys" on the City Council. The committee is well-funded, mostly through a $200,000 loan from lawyer Steve Pajcic. Moné Holder draws major financial support in her bid for a Jacksonville City Council seat. “'Designed to divide': Daryl Parks calls out Jeremy Matlow over Talethia Edwards political attack” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Tallahassee mayoral candidate Parks held a news conference to blast City Commissioner Matlow, one of his three opponents, over a recent political attack aimed at Edwards, who’s running for a different City Commission seat. On July 23, a Facebook page changed its name to Tallahassee Conservatives and posted a nearly 9-minute video about a 2024 incident in which Orlando police cited Edwards for parking in a disabled spot. Before the name change, the page was home to opponents of the sale of Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare to Florida State University. “This was designed to divide our community,” Parks said. “The page suggests that the purpose of the name change was to make it appear as though conservatives were attacking a Black woman, Talethia Edwards, in order to manipulate public perception in a local race.” “Alachua County School Board backs tentative tax rate increase” via Chelsea Long of The Gainesville Sun — The tentative millage rate of 6.327 mills is up from 6.251 mills in 2025-26, driven by an increase in the required local effort, the minimum amount the state requires local School Districts to levy in property taxes to receive state education funding. The state increased Alachua County's required local effort from 3.003 mills in 2025-26 to 3.079 mills for 2026-27. One mill is $1 per $1,000 of a property’s taxable value. The proposed tax levy totals about $189.1 million, up from roughly $176.3 million collected last year. The local effort accounts for about half the total millage rate and is 6.75% higher than the rolled-back rate, which would generate the same revenue as last year. “University of Florida sets date for Stuart Bell inauguration” via Chelsea Long of The Gainesville Sun — “President Bell has wasted no time getting to work for the University of Florida. Since July 1, he has started to identify and appoint leaders in key positions, met with various stakeholders, and is listening to all of you about what makes the University of Florida the best in the nation,” UF Board of Trustees Chair Mori Hosseini wrote. “Dr. Bell’s strong leadership and vast experience will build on UF’s momentum as a top public university in the nation.” Bell assumed the presidency on July 1 after the State Board of Governors approved his nomination 16-1. Before Bell’s appointment, UF had gone nearly two years without a permanent president. UF began its third presidential search in four years in December 2025, selecting Bell as its sole finalist. The university’s Board unanimously approved his nomination of Trustees on June 10.

Local: SW. FL   Jim DeNiro campaign drops 'Once Upon a Lie' trailer targeting Joe Neunder — DeNiro's campaign is out with a minute-long, documentary-style trailer recasting Sarasota County Commissioner Neunder's record as a dark fairy tale, complete with cinematic narration and AI-generated imagery. "Once Upon a Lie" unfolds in three chapters: a magic mirror reminding voters Neunder gave Hillary Clinton's campaign the maximum contribution in her race against Trump; "The Commissioner Who Cried Wolf," noting the Committee warning that "big developers want Joe Neunder gone" is chaired by developer Dave Balot and took $25,000 from a company tied to Balot and developer Michael Holderness; and Neunder's vote for Sarasota County's $2.52 billion budget, the largest in its history. "The production may be make-believe, but Sarasota County is living with the consequences of Neunder's record," said Max Goodman, DeNiro's spokesperson, who produced the spot. Watch the trailer here: Jim DeNiro’s ‘Once Upon a Lie’ campaign video targets Joe Neunder’s record.  "Naples Mayor headed to jail after probation violation" via Tayeba Hussein of Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — The Mayor of Naples has her weekends booked after a Judge ordered her to serve 10 days in jail for violating her probation after she was charged with drunken driving. Mayor Teresa Heitmann, 62, was arrested on a warrant that accused her of violating her probation after she tested positive for cannabinoids, court documents state. In February, she had pleaded no contest to one count of DUI with a blood-alcohol content of 0.15 or higher stemming from her Aug. 28, 2024, arrest. Florida's legal limit is 0.08. She was sentenced to one year of probation, which included not consuming alcohol and subjected her to random screenings. Judge Rob Crown ruled she must serve 10 days in jail. "Kingston's Corkscrew Sanctuary controversy may not be over after all. Here's why." via Amy Bennett Williams of Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Weeks after announcing he would no longer pursue an evacuation road through Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Kingston developer Joe Cameratta is raising new questions about the future of a historic easement across the sanctuary. The change comes weeks after widespread opposition to the proposed evacuation road through the preserve, internationally famed for its ancient bald cypress trees, Florida panthers, ghost orchids and wood storks. Cameratta said publicity surrounding the proposal undermined efforts to resolve the easement dispute. Cameratta said he is reconsidering returning the right of way because he believes media coverage and statements by Audubon damaged discussions over the issue. He also said his family had received threats.

Top opinion   “Marco Rubio’s foreign policy draws fire from conservative critic” via Max Boot of The Washington Post — Secretary of State Rubio has concentrated his attention on issues that align closely with Trump’s political priorities while the administration’s most difficult diplomatic challenges remain in other hands. Negotiations involving Russia’s war in Ukraine and tensions with Iran have largely been led by other senior officials, leaving Rubio to define his tenure through a series of high-profile battles over international institutions, Cuba and domestic political extremism. Rubio has made the International Criminal Court a central target, arguing the tribunal threatens American sovereignty and could expose U.S. officials and service members to foreign prosecution. The administration has pledged to challenge the court’s authority and prevent its jurisdiction from expanding over American interests. The State Department has also intensified its focus on Cuba, portraying the communist government as an ongoing source of ideological influence and political subversion. That effort comes despite Cuba’s prolonged economic decline and diminished international reach compared to previous decades. Rubio has similarly elevated concerns about left-wing extremism, convening international discussions and promoting new partnerships aimed at combating politically motivated violence. The administration has presented those efforts as part of a broader strategy to address ideological threats at home and abroad. Those priorities contrast with recent studies showing right-wing and jihadist attacks have caused more fatalities in the United States over the past decade than violence attributed to the political left. The administration nevertheless continues to emphasize left-wing extremism as a growing concern. Taken together, the initiatives reflect a foreign policy that places ideological confrontation at the forefront while reinforcing Rubio’s position within the Trump administration and strengthening his standing among Republican voters as attention increasingly turns toward the 2028 presidential campaign.

More opinions   “Measles surge fuels alarm over falling vaccination rates” via Orlando Sentinel and San Diego Union-Tribune Editorial Boards — Surging measles cases nationwide are renewing concerns about declining childhood vaccination rates and the nation’s public health readiness. The United States has recorded more than 2,200 confirmed measles cases this year, already exceeding last year’s total, while Florida has reported 141 infections after recording just eight in 2025. National MMR vaccination rates have fallen below the 95% threshold typically associated with herd immunity, and Florida’s kindergarten vaccination rate remains below 89%. The trend has intensified scrutiny of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose long-standing skepticism of vaccines has become a flashpoint in the national debate over immunization policy as public health officials warn preventable diseases could regain a lasting foothold. “Britain’s 4chan fight tests limits of online speech regulation” via René Rabeder for Florida Politics — Britain’s effort to enforce its Online Safety Act against U.S.-based forum 4chan is emerging as a major test of how far one nation’s internet laws can reach beyond its borders. Ofcom fined the platform £520,000 for alleged failures involving age verification and illegal-content safeguards, but 4chan argues it operates solely under U.S. law and is protected by the First Amendment. The dispute mirrors Florida’s own debate over online safety through HB 3, which restricts minors’ access to social media and faces constitutional challenges. As governments seek greater oversight of digital platforms, the central question extends beyond enforcement: whether countries can impose their speech and safety standards on companies operating outside their borders.

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Aloe   “Lobster mini season begins with safety, enforcement focus” via Angie DiMichele of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Florida’s two-day spiny lobster mini season opens Wednesday, bringing heightened enforcement and safety efforts across South Florida as thousands of recreational divers head to the water. Authorities are reminding participants to carry the required fishing license and lobster permit, follow daily bag limits and measure lobsters in the water before harvesting. Egg-bearing and undersized lobsters remain off-limits, with violations carrying fines and possible jail time. The U.S. Coast Guard is urging boaters to shut off engines whenever divers are in the water, avoid overloading vessels and save alcohol until returning to shore. Forecasters expect relatively calm seas with isolated afternoon storms, providing generally favorable conditions for this year’s popular annual event. Spiny lobster mini season brings divers, heightened enforcement and safety reminders to South Florida waters. “SeaWorld celebrates sharks with weeklong conservation events” via Dewayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel — SeaWorld Orlando is marking Shark Appreciation Week through Aug. 1 with educational programs, conservation initiatives and themed entertainment celebrating one of the ocean’s most recognizable predators. Daily aquarist talks at Shark Shallows highlight shark care and conservation, while visitors can enjoy special character appearances, shark-themed food and beverages, and limited-edition merchandise benefiting the Guy Harvey Foundation’s shark research efforts. The celebration also coincides with the 10th anniversary of Mako, Orlando’s tallest and fastest roller coaster. Shark Appreciation Week runs alongside SeaWorld’s Electric Ocean Summer event, featuring nighttime entertainment, fireworks and a drone show. The park is also offering a limited-time online one-day admission ticket for $59.99 through Sunday.

Happy birthday   Today would have been Bill Cotterell's birthday. We miss him fondly. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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