Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 10.23.25

Good Thursday morning.

The Protecting America Initiative (PAI) is launching a new ad in Florida highlighting what it describes as a serious threat posed by Chinese-manufactured medical devices and the risk of sensitive U.S. patient data landing in the wrong hands in Beijing.^[1]

The 30-second spot, “Monitoring,” backed by a five-figure buy, will air on digital platforms in Florida over the next three weeks.

The ad’s closing sums up the overall mission.

“Let’s get China out of our health care.”

The ad praises President Donald Trump for “already getting tough on China,” but sends a message to Florida Republicans, who hold supermajorities in both chambers of the Legislature and control the Governor’s office and all Cabinet positions.

“Florida Republicans can do more,” a narrator intones.

Florida has been a leader in efforts to push back against Chinese influence. Gov. Ron DeSantis previously signed legislation restricting Chinese Communist Party (CCP) land purchases near critical infrastructure and prohibiting CCP-linked procurement. In June, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier issued subpoenas to companies suspected of selling devices that could send patient data to China.^[2][3]

To watch the ad, please click the image below^[4]:

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McNicolas & Associates, a communications firm representing public and private companies, organizations, agencies and municipalities, has promoted two of its employees to key leadership roles.

The firm has promoted Ansley Seaton to vice president of Communications and Megan Kuehhas to director of Public Relations.

Seaton began working for the firm in 2019, distinguishing herself from day one as a creative and strategic communicator.

“At McNicholas & Associates, we pride ourselves on cultivating talent that delivers strategy development and execution at the highest level, and Ansley is the perfect example of that commitment in action,” firm President and CEO Tom McNicholas said. “This promotion is a well-earned recognition as she has been a key player in the firm’s success over the years, consistently bringing leadership, creativity, and commitment.”

Kuehhas has a diverse background in hospitality and sports management, including work with professional sports teams. She spent nearly a decade working at Friar’s Head in Suffolk County, New York, a world-class golf course.

Both promotions are effective immediately.

___

Happening today — The Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s Capitol Police will host the 5th Annual Trunk or Treat at the Capitol Complex. The family-friendly event will feature decorated vehicles, treats, and community engagement opportunities. To accommodate participating vendors, two lanes of Jefferson Street will be closed from 3 to 8:30 p.m., with an officer stationed at Monroe and Jefferson to assist Capitol employees with access. For additional information or concerns, contact Capitol Police at (850) 488-1790.

— DAYS UNTIL —

’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 3; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 4; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 12; Ted Cruz to keynote Miami-Dade GOP’s Lincoln Day Dinner — 19; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 24; ’Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 29; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 34; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 36; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 41; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 41; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 47; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 50; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ six-episode docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 50; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 55; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 57; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 63; Legislative Session begins — 82; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 82; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 87; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 99; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 105; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 106; last day of the Regular Session — 141; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 153; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 154; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 165; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 174; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 174; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 179; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 183; F1 Miami begins — 190; ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 211; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 222; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 228; State Qualifying Period ends — 232; FIFA World Cup begins — 231; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 254; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 259; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 264; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 266; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 270; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 287; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 289; Primary Election Day 2026 — 299; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 323; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 327; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 331; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 336; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 343; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 347; Early Voting General Election Mandatory period begins — 366; 2026 General Election — 376; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 421; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 421; Tampa Mayoral Election — 495; Jacksonville First Election — 516; Jacksonville General Election — 572; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 590; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 652; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 708; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 785; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 995; U.S. Presidential Election — 1111; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1511; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2242.

— TOP STORY —

“Ron DeSantis touts insurance refunds required under Florida’s decades-old excess profits law” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — Progressive will return nearly $1 billion to Florida customers by early 2026 after triggering the state’s excess profits law, a rarely used measure requiring insurers to refund unusually high earnings. The company credits reforms championed by DeSantis and the Republican-led Legislature — particularly lawsuit restrictions that curbed costly litigation — for boosting profits.^[5]

At a Sarasota news conference, DeSantis called the refunds proof that his insurance reforms are working, saying it’s “better for money to go back to customers than to lawyers.” Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky said other carriers could also be required to issue refunds, warning companies to comply voluntarily before regulators step in.

Progressive, which serves 2.7 million Floridians, said the final refund figure could change depending on hurricane losses. Still, the average customer stands to receive about $300, either as bill credit or a rebate check. The excess profits law, dating to the 1970s, mandates that insurers return excess earnings collected over three years.

DeSantis also said major auto insurers, including State Farm and Allstate, plan to lower rates in 2025, while using the moment to warn lawmakers against undoing the litigation limits he pushed through. The House has discussed rolling them back, but the Senate hasn’t followed suit.

Meanwhile, debate continues over Florida’s costly “no-fault” auto insurance system. Former Sen. Jeff Brandes and his Florida Policy Project argue that deeper reforms are needed, citing some of the nation’s highest rates and widespread uninsured driving.

— STATEWIDE —

“DeSantis spotlights rise in threats on political commentators” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis said recent threats against conservative commentators Seth Dillon, Josh Hammer, and Laura Loomer reflect a troubling rise in political violence, adding he faces similar threats “all the time.” Texas man Nicholas Ray is being extradited to Florida on charges of extortion and death threats after allegedly targeting the trio. Attorney General Uthmeier said the threats were aimed at Jewish conservative media figures. Ray reportedly accused Dillon of involvement in Charlie Kirk’s death, while Loomer said she was targeted over antisemitic conspiracy theories. DeSantis told “Fox & Friends” such attacks on influencers and commentators have “absolutely increased” compared with a decade ago, as political extremism and online radicalization continue to fuel real-world danger.^[6]

“DeSantis defends new law allowing charter schools to demand free space in public school buildings” via Anthony Man of the Orlando Sentinel — DeSantis brushed aside concerns over a new Florida law that allows certain charter schools to demand free space in the state’s public schools. Democrats and some School District leaders are concerned about provisions of the new law that give schools of hope the ability to demand space to set up their operations in public schools, without having to pay rent or the cost of janitorial, cafeteria and other services. The Governor was asked about concerns from Sarasota County school leaders that the Schools of Hope law he signed would hurt the existing school system there. Similar concerns have been voiced in Broward County. “I don’t think that that’s true,” DeSantis said, focusing on the goals articulated by backers of the Schools of Hope expansion: That it would help “attract charter operators in areas that are very poor performing and one of the aspects of that was there’s excess space in the school buildings that the charter operator could use that excess space and then do a program.”^[7]

“DeSantis says Florida drivers on Progressive insurance could pocket $300” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The average Progressive customer from Florida will receive a $300 rebate, DeSantis announced at a news conference in Sarasota. Florida negotiated nearly $1 billion in rebates for Progressive insurance policyholders. Other major auto insurers could be following suit in the next few months, DeSantis said, as he highlighted reforms that are helping consumers save money. DeSantis called the news “a big deal that’s going to be helpful for a lot of folks.” “It depends on how long you’ve been with Progressive,” DeSantis said. “If you’ve been with Progressive this whole time, you’re going to get a bigger rebate. It might be a check. It might be a credit on your bill.” The savings are the result of new litigation reforms from late 2022 and 2023 after Florida was once “a litigation hellhole,” DeSantis said.^[8]

“Lesson learned? Lawmakers propose teacher mentoring bill” via Andrew Powell of Florida Politics — Two lawmakers are proposing legislation that would introduce a teacher mentoring program for public schools across the Sunshine State. Sen. Shevrin Jones filed the Senate measure (SB 182), with Rep. Yvonne Hinson filing a House companion bill (HB 157). The bills would pair experienced and recognized educators with teachers who may be facing challenges in their classrooms. The program would be administered through the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) and would focus on improving classroom management, teacher involvement and student performance. A 2024 FDOE presentation on the power of mentorship in teacher preparedness states that teachers who feel prepared, particularly those who have entered the profession within the last three years, are better equipped to handle challenges. It further adds that when teachers feel developed and supported, teaching outcomes can increase.^[9]

Happening today — Legislative delegations will hold public meetings in preparation for the 2026 Legislative Session: Seminole County, 9 a.m., Seminole County Government Board Chambers, 1101 E. 1st Street, Sanford; Palm Beach County, 10 a.m., Wellington Community Center, 12150 Forest Hill Boulevard, Wellington; Bradford County, 10 a.m. Bradford County Commission Meeting Room, 945 North Temple Ave, Starke; Union County, 2 p.m., Lake Butler City Hall, 200 Southwest 1st Street, Lake Butler.

“Poll: 63% of Floridians are willing to pay higher water bills to clean up ‘forever chemicals’” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A supermajority of Floridians view toxic, so-called “forever chemicals” in waters across the state as a serious public health problem and are willing to help fund cleanup efforts, new polling shows. Nearly two-thirds of informed respondents — 63.4% — said they’d be open to paying slightly higher water bills to help remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from their drinking water supply. But there remains a general lack of awareness of PFAS chemicals. Only 8% of Floridians surveyed said they were “very familiar” with PFAS before taking the poll, while 42% said they had never heard of the chemicals. Of those who had, fewer than 15% learned about them from government sources; most became aware through news media. After being informed of the dangers of PFAS, 55% said they viewed the chemicals as a “major problem,” and another 34% said it was a “minor problem.”^[10]

“Environmental Defense Fund raises concerns about natural gas impact on Florida’s energy affordability” via Florida Politics — Rising and unstable natural gas costs pose a $21 billion affordability threat to Florida’s families and businesses by 2034, according to a new report commissioned by the Environmental Defense Fund. The EQ Research analysis concludes that higher energy bills are directly linked to Florida’s reliance on natural gas. And future natural gas prices are predicted to fluctuate. To determine the impact on Floridians, the study used cost projections from 2025-2034 based on scenarios from the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s 2025 Annual Energy Outlook. Under the base case scenario, natural gas prices are projected to rise from less than $4 per million BTU in 2025 to $5 per million BTU by 2034.^[11]

“Appeals court says Lyft shielded in crash” via Jim Saunders of the News Service of Florida — Pointing to a 2017 state law that helped shield ride-hailing companies from liability, an appeals court rejected a lawsuit stemming from a crash that resulted in a motorcyclist suffering neurological injuries. The 2017 law created a set of regulations related to companies such as Lyft and Uber, including saying that drivers can be considered independent contractors if certain conditions are met. In rejecting arguments that Lyft was “vicariously” liable in the July 5, 2017, accident that injured Dexter Franklin, the appeals court said, in part, that driver Rolando Cepero was working as an independent contractor at the time. The 11-page opinion said “a principal is not vicariously liable for the injury caused by the negligence of an independent contractor. This is because the party that retained an independent contractor has no control over the way the work is done.”^[12]

“VISIT FLORIDA London trip puts spotlight on the Sunshine State” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — VISIT FLORIDA recently hosted a two-day travel trade show in London to help drive tourism to the Sunshine State. More than 150 people attended the Florida Huddle event last month, which featured 20 destination partners and helped British and Irish tourist agents learn more about Florida’s offerings. Florida Huddle is Florida’s official travel trade show. “Florida is proud to lead the way as the first state to host a dedicated, multiday trade show for the UK & Ireland markets,” VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO Bryan Griffin said in a statement. “This innovative conference will shape the future of our industry. By hosting our own show, we’ve been able to bring together tour operators, travel agents, and media to fully focus on Florida.”^[13]

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Donald Trump ally pushing conspiracy case says grand jury empaneled” via Zoe Tillman and Chris Strohm of Bloomberg — A federal grand jury will convene in Fort Pierce in January as part of a Justice Department probe reportedly tied to allegations of a Democratic-led conspiracy against Trump. Trump ally Mike Davis revealed the grand jury’s formation during a recent interview, referencing an order approved by U.S. Attorney Jason Reding Quiñones. The order, dated Sept. 26, confirms a grand jury will begin Jan. 12, 2026, though it doesn’t specify the investigation’s scope. The probe, directed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, follows claims from former intelligence officials, including Tulsi Gabbard, that Obama-era figures fabricated evidence linking Trump to Russia. Prosecutors have recently indicted several Trump adversaries, including James Comey, Letitia James and John Bolton, intensifying partisan tensions.^[14]

“Trump’s border czar says 600k to be deported in 2025” via Julianna Bragg of Axios — ICE expects to deport more than 600,000 undocumented immigrants by the end of the year, Trump’s border czar Tom Homan said. The estimate comes as the Trump administration touted that approximately 1.6 million undocumented immigrants have “voluntarily” self-deported, and another 400,000 were deported in the first 250 days of Trump’s second term. “If you’re in the United States illegally, you’re not off the table,” Homan said. “If we find you, we’re going to arrest you.”^[15]

“Independent voters are turning on ICE” via Peter Hamby of Puck News — Some 72% of respondents told Echelon that they have “seen, read, or heard about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests and immigration enforcement recently.” Echelon found that ICE is not very popular with Americans these days, and the public is increasingly concerned about its behavior. In the poll, voters are generally split on whether they support (47%) or oppose (45%) ICE’s immigration enforcement efforts. That number is in line with Trump’s general approval on immigration (47%), which remains underwater despite being one of his lone chits with the public early in his administration. Half of voters say that ICE should not wear masks or face coverings while conducting arrests in public places, including a majority of independents (52%). As with most of the questions in this latest Echelon survey, independent voters are siding with Democrats: 51% of them oppose National Guard troops in American cities.^[16]

“DeSantis named co-Chair of bipartisan campaign for congressional term limits” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — U.S. Term Limits announced that the Florida Governor and former U.S. Rep. David Trone, a Maryland Democrat, would join together to promote congressional term limits. “Our Founders wouldn’t recognize the 119th Congress if they saw it today. Congress is now less a representative body and more like an elite country club of career politicians who are consumed by an obsession to remain in power — a far cry from its original purpose,” DeSantis and Trone said in a joint statement. “The President, numerous Governors, Mayors, and state Legislatures across the country have term limits. There is no reason the same should not be true for Congress.”^[17]

— ELECTIONS —

“Florida Governor’s race revives GOP’s old Obamacare battle” via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Florida’s 2026 Governor’s race is reigniting the GOP’s Obamacare fight as Rep. Byron Donalds and DeSantis push to scale back Affordable Care Act coverage in a state where nearly 5 million rely on it. Both argue that most people should use health savings accounts or catastrophic plans instead of comprehensive insurance. Democrat David Jolly, once a Republican who voted to repeal the ACA, now champions expanding Medicaid and extending federal subsidies, warning that millions could lose coverage if Congress fails to act. The clash underscores deep divisions within Florida’s political landscape as the GOP’s old anti-ACA stance resurfaces — despite the state’s heavy dependence on the program’s subsidies and protections for pre-existing conditions.^[18]

“‘America First Patriot’: Trump endorses Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Trump is again backing Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner, just as he did before the 2022 Election, when Simpson got more than 59% of the vote. In a social media post, Trump said, “Simpson is the strong and highly popular Agriculture Commissioner for Florida” and “a Fifth Generation Floridian, lifelong Egg Farmer, successful Businessman, former President of the State Senate, and now, as Agriculture Commissioner, has served the Sunshine State during a career ‘loaded up’ with accolades and wins.” Trump’s “Complete and Total Endorsement” described the Trilby Republican as a “true America First Patriot, who has been with us from the very beginning” and “an incredibly effective Voice for Florida Agriculture, and our amazing Farmers and Ranchers.”^[19]

“‘He shows up when it matters’: Luisa Santos backs Richard Lamondin for CD 27” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Entrepreneur Lamondin just notched an endorsement from Miami-Dade County School Board’s only millennial member as he campaigns for Florida’s 27th Congressional District. Santos, who in 2020 became the School Board’s youngest-ever member, said in a statement that she’s supporting Lamondin because he’ll fight for a future where every student, teacher and family in Miami has a fair shot at success. “Every day, I see the incredible potential of our students and the heavy challenges our families and teachers face. I see classrooms full of bright minds, but also parents stretched thin and educators doing so much with so little,” she said in a statement.^[20]

Happening tonight:

“‘He’s the real deal’: Big-name GOP leaders back Randy Maggard for re-election” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — State Rep. Maggard is picking up support from some of the biggest names in Republican politics as he seeks another term representing House District 54. Maggard’s campaign announced endorsements from House Speaker-designate Sam Garrison, U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, state Sen. Danny Burgess and Agriculture Commissioner Simpson. “I’m humbled by the support of those our district knows and trusts,” Maggard said in a statement. “I look forward to continuing to fight for President Trump’s agenda during my last term in the Florida House.” Garrison called Maggard “an outstanding and accomplished legislator,” saying he has seen him “fighting for the conservative policies his district and our state expect from us.”^[21]

“Harry Cohen kicks off re-election campaign with overflow crowd and bipartisan support” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Hillsborough County Commissioner Cohen officially kicked off his re-election campaign at a standing-room-only event at Pane Rustica. The event drew so many supporters that they overflowed out of the restaurant. Attendees supporting Cohen included three Tampa Mayors: current Mayor Jane Castor and former Mayors Bob Buckhorn and Sandy Freedman. There was also a bipartisan show of support among civic and business leaders, elected officials and community activists, including Tampa City Council members Alan Clendenin, Charlie Miranda and Luis Viera, as well as former Clerk of Court Pat Frank, who made a cameo appearance days before her 96th birthday, drawing cheers from the crowd. Cohen also received early endorsements from the Hillsborough County Firefighters, the Tampa Police Benevolent Association, and Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister.^[22]

“In Lakeland Mayor race, one candidate has raised nearly five times her opponents combined” via Sara-Megan Walsh of The Ledger of Lakeland — Lakeland Commissioner Sara Roberts McCarley has built what may be the largest campaign fund in city history, amassing $81,675 — more than 83% of all donations in the 2025 mayoral race. Her total surpasses what Mayor Bill Mutz raised in either of his campaigns. Roughly 50 of her 143 donors gave the maximum $1,000, including prominent figures linked to Publix, AgAmerica, and The Southern Group, as well as several Republican legislative PACs. Nearly 40% of her money comes from outside Lakeland. McCarley insists donors expect nothing in return, citing personal and professional ties. She has already spent more than $50,000, leaving about $31,000 in cash. Rivals Cedrick Valrie, Kay Klymko, and Kaitlin Kramer trail far behind in fundraising.^[23]

Save the date — Capital Bay Tiger Club to host top Florida GOP officials — Republican Party of Florida Chair Evan Power and Florida GOP Executive Director Bill Helmich will both be on hand at a Capital Bay Tiger Club event next week in Tallahassee. The group describes the talk as “an in-depth look at the state of the Florida GOP. From election strategy and grassroots engagement to the party’s vision heading into 2026, Power and Hellmich will share insights on what’s driving Republican momentum across the Sunshine State.” The event will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Miami-Dade asks FPL and a rival company to pick sites for a garbage incinerator” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — After Miami-Dade County’s elected leaders disagreed on where to build a new garbage incinerator, will the private sector do any better? In a surprise vote Tuesday, County Commissioners set a December date for preliminary approval of a site for building an incinerator plant for burning about half of Miami-Dade’s garbage — trash that’s currently being sent by truck and train to landfills as far away as Central Florida. Like the old incinerator in Doral that was shut down by a fire in early 2023, the new “waste-to-energy” facility would burn trash to create electricity. Commissioners directed Mayor Daniella Levine Cava to analyze proposals by a pair of competing consortiums — one led by Florida Power and Light and the other by FCC, a global trash-processing conglomerate based in Madrid — and recommend her favorite ahead of the Commission’s Dec. 16 meeting.^[24]

“Man struck, killed by Brightline train in Pompano Beach, deputies say” via Milena Malaver of the Miami Herald — A Brightline train hit and killed a pedestrian early Wednesday morning in Pompano Beach, according to the Broward Sheriff’s Office. At around 2 a.m., BSO deputies and Pompano Beach Fire Rescue went to the intersection of Northeast 48th Street and North Dixie Highway in Pompano Beach after reports of the collision. Brian Baker, 63, was pronounced dead at the scene, BSO spokesperson Gerdy St. Louis said. BSO homicide and crime scene detectives are investigating the fatal crash. An investigation by the Miami Herald and WLRN showed that Brightline is the deadliest passenger railroad in the United States. The Pompano Beach fatality brings the Brightline death toll to 186 since 2017, with 160 of those deaths in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties.^[25]

“New Fort Lauderdale City Hall to open by 2028, Mayor says. Next up: Choosing a builder” via Susannah Bryan of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Three years from now, Fort Lauderdale should have a new City Hall to replace the one it lost when floodwaters destroyed the building in April 2023. It’s too early to say what the building will look like; how tall it will be or how much it will cost. But this much is sure: The new building will be nothing like the old building. “Fort Lauderdale has grown in the last 60 years, and so have the needs,” Mayor Dean Trantalis said. “The old City Hall reflected a bygone era. Today we are looking for a more forward-looking iconic design that is more reflective of the future rather than holding us back to the past.” The old City Hall was an eight-story concrete building with a fortress-like appearance. Built in the 1960s, it stood its ground for decades at 100 N. Andrews Ave. until floodwaters breached its basement more than two years ago, sealing its fate.^[26]

“What to expect at 2026 Fort Lauderdale boat show: Upgraded luxury venues, record crowds” via David Lyons of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — From the newly revamped Las Olas Marina to the all-new luxury Pier Sixty-Six Resort, tens of thousands of marine enthusiasts will find a fresh array of exhibit spaces, restaurants and places to play when the 66th Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show kicks off next week. Tickets went on sale more than a month ago for the show, which is expected to draw more than 100,000 people and 1,300-plus vessels including superyachts and recreational vessels at venues on both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway from Oct. 29 through Nov. 2. The 164-slip Pier Sixty-Six Marina will be taken over by the show, with its Pier South again serving as the home of a “superyacht village,” which will host the show’s largest vessels along with luxury hospitality, industry seminars, and high-end exhibitor displays. “We’re very, very excited — you’ve got this fabulous five-star resort that is now part of the show,” said Andrew Doole, president of U.S. Boat Shows at Informa Markets, the show’s producer. “We’re taking both sides of the marina. There are events in the hotel.”^[27]

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Volusia Council shoots down arts funding again, Danny Robins criticized” via Sheldon Gardner of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Volusia County Council members again declined to support funding for community cultural grants, after speakers urged them to reconsider the funding on Tuesday, Oct. 21. Some on the County Council also faced criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates and others. On Oct. 7, District 3 Council member Robins pulled grant funding from the consent agenda for a vote. He raised concerns about events such as drag shows being featured at the Athens Theatre in DeLand and the Shoestring Theatre in Lake Helen.^[28]

“Chandler Langevin sues Palm Bay over censure, claiming free speech infringement” via Tyler Vazquez of Florida Today — Langevin is suing the city of Palm Bay, saying a censure resolution passed by the City Council this month that limits his participation in Council meetings violates the First Amendment. Langevin has been under fire for his anti-Indian and anti-immigrant remarks on social media. Palm Bay City Council this past month voted to ask DeSantis to remove Langevin from office over his comments, which include calls to deport “all Indians” and “There is not a single Indian that cares about the United States. They are here to exploit us financially and enrich India and Indians.” The city also said that Langevin misused his public office when he used the city letterhead to send a letter to Rep. Mike Haridopolos requesting the pardon of a California man with ties to white supremacist groups convicted of rioting last year.^[29]

“Rising insurance costs put Central Florida childcare centers in jeopardy” via Michael Cuglietta of the Orlando Sentinel — The cost for liability insurance for Timothy Davis’ preschool has gone from about $25,000 a year in 2021 to $70,000 this year. The sharp increase has strained Davis’ budget — and his classrooms. “At best, you’re at a stalemate. You can’t give yearly raises. You can’t make yearly improvements. You want to hire an extra teacher, but now you can’t,” said Davis, owner of Park Avenue Preschool & Child Care Center in Seminole County, which serves about 400 students. “It’s very scary. The insurance companies dictate the price. And they can charge whatever the hell they want.” Liability insurance costs for child care centers are on the rise across the country.^[30]

“$1 million in question as Winter Park arts partnership ends” via Matthew J. Palm of the Orlando Sentinel — A plan for Central Florida Vocal Arts to share space with the Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts at the former Winter Park Library has been called off, leaving questions about $1 million from Orange County that was earmarked to help renovate the building. The Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs Council will meet on Nov. 12 to determine whether the $1 million grant will be disbursed. The original grant, recommended by the Council, was approved in June by Orange County Commissioners as part of the cultural-facilities program. “This transformative project will convert the 33,000-square-foot building into a state-of-the-art venue featuring multiple performance stages, rehearsal and recording spaces, a visual arts gallery, and educational facilities to support the next generation of artists,” Blue Bamboo wrote. “More than an expansion, this is an investment in Winter Park’s cultural and economic vitality — creating opportunities for local performers, elevating the arts ecosystem, and contributing to a flourishing creative economy.”^[31]

“Orlando Air Show canceled amid ongoing government shutdown” via Patrick Connolly of the Orlando Sentinel — The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are grounded due to the federal government shutdown, leading the Orlando Air Show to cancel this weekend at the last minute. The air show (which technically is held in Sanford) brings in millions of dollars in economic impact. “We’re disappointed that we had to pull the plug on this year’s show. Given the trickle-down effect of the government shutdown, which made it necessary for the military to withdraw, including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds,” Chris Dirato, the show’s director of public relations, told the Sentinel. Organizers promised to return in 2026.^[32]

— LOCAL: TB —

“Charlie Crist for St. Pete Mayor?” via John Hill of the Tampa Bay Times — It was intriguing to hear last week that Crist is mulling a run to become St. Petersburg Mayor. After all, I hadn’t heard about Crist for an entire election cycle, which is an eternity in his shoes. I’m not sure if Crist can win, or even if he should. But having the former Florida Governor in the race won’t be boring. It also reflects Mayor Ken Welch’s challenge in securing a second term. Crist told my colleague Colleen Wright that friends have encouraged him to run, and he’s “seriously considering” it. Friends are encouraging me to run — that’s what politicians always say. It’s a way to float a trial balloon, project a base of support and save face if a campaign doesn’t pan out. Still, the news underscores the belief that Welch will face serious opposition for re-election next year. Say what you will about Crist, but he’s never wavered from declaring his love for St. Petersburg.^[33]

“Bill would put Hillsborough school superintendent up for a vote” via Divya Kumar of the Tampa Bay Times — A bill could make the Hillsborough County Public Schools superintendent position a partisan elected position up for a vote every four years. Amid tension between the state Board of Education and the School District, Rep. Michael Owen introduced a bill at the Hillsborough County state legislative delegation meeting on Tuesday that he said would make the county’s school superintendent more accountable to voters. “I believe that the parents and the voters of Hillsborough County should determine who the CEO of their child’s education is,” Owen said.^[34]

“David Fischer, former 3-term Mayor of St. Petersburg, has died” via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — Fischer, who served as Mayor of St. Petersburg longer than anyone in the city’s history from 1991 to 2001, died Wednesday morning. He was 92. In his decade at City Hall, he saw the inaugural season of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, came under fire for his handling of civil unrest following a fatal police shooting of a Black motorist, helped end the Tampa Bay “water wars,” and planted more than 18,000 trees. Fischer looked out at some of those oak trees he planted from his window at Westminster Palms, where he was in hospice, said his daughter, Susan Fischer McGarry. She said he fell recently and, between a heart condition and dementia, was in a weakened state when he died at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday.^[35]

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Commission to take up oyster rules” via the News Service of Florida — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission next month could give final approval to a plan for limited oyster harvesting in parts of Apalachicola Bay. The Commission will consider proposed rules for a harvesting season that would last from Jan. 1 to Feb. 28, with future seasons running from October through February. Apalachicola Bay once supplied more than 90% of Florida’s oysters and 10% of the oysters sold nationally. But the Northwest Florida bay has been closed to harvesting since 2020. The industry collapsed in the region in 2013 because of issues such as drought and overharvesting. Florida has long contended that excessive water use by Georgia has caused damage. The bay is at the southern end of the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river system, which starts in northern Georgia. The Commission is scheduled to meet Nov. 5 and 6 at Palm Beach State College in Belle Glade.^[36]

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Another phase winding down for the reconstruction of this Lee County bridge. What to know” via Mark H. Bickel of The Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has posted its latest progress report on the reconstruction of the Little Pine Island Bridge. For a lengthy stretch of time late last year into this year, the work being done in the first phase of the project was anything but “little” despite the size of this Lee County bridge. During that time, which was right at the beginning of snowbird and tourist season, the bridge was turned into a one-lane crossing, and the result was lengthy backups heading in both directions, depending on the time of day − east toward Cape Coral and west toward Pine Island. Residents and business owners were frustrated with the delays, and their voices were loud enough to prompt FDOT to take steps to “expedite” the Phase I portion of the project.^[37]

— TOP OPINIONS —

“The real lesson of the shutdown: We need term limits” via Ron DeSantis and David Trone for The New York Times — As another government shutdown paralyzes Washington, the dysfunction highlights a deeper sickness: Congress has become a retirement home for career politicians clinging to power. With re-election rates north of 90%, incumbents exploit fundraising advantages, name recognition, and taxpayer-funded perks to shield themselves from accountability. The result is a self-sustaining club of political insiders who prioritize re-election over governing.^[38]

The solution is clear — term limits. America’s founders understood the danger of entrenched power; rotation in office was a cornerstone of early political culture. If term limits bind Presidents, there’s no reason members of Congress shouldn’t be. Longevity in office breeds partisanship, empowers lobbyists, and deepens public cynicism.

Campaign cash only cements that imbalance. In 2024, political action committees gave incumbents $11 for every $1 sent to challengers. Redistricting reform won’t fix that, nor will it dismantle the seniority system that stifles fresh ideas. Real reform must limit how long anyone can wield congressional power.

Congress could pass a constitutional amendment, as it nearly did in 1995. If lawmakers refuse, states can act through an Article V convention. Twelve have already signed on — a third of the way to forcing Washington’s hand. The threat alone might be enough to spur real action.

America deserves a Congress that looks forward, not inward — one driven by public service, not personal tenure. Term limits would restore accountability, curb corruption, and return power where it belongs: with the people, not the politicians.

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“Democrats keep falling for political fantasies. When will they learn?” via Jonathan Martin of POLITICO — Democrats have a recurring problem: they fall in love with shiny new outsiders instead of choosing disciplined, electable candidates. Maine Senate hopeful Graham Platner is the latest heartbreaker — a bearded veteran-turned-oysterman who briefly enchanted the left with a viral video and salt-of-the-earth vibe before his own words and tattoos torpedoed his credibility.^[39]

His record of calling himself a “communist” and “antifa supersoldier” is political gold for Republicans and a reminder that vetting matters more than vibes.

The pattern is painfully familiar — Amy McGrath, Stacey Abrams, Beto O’Rourke — idealized, overfunded, and eventually defeated. Democrats confuse charisma for competence, while Chuck Schumer’s cautious “career politician” recruits may lack spark, but at least they survive the oppo research gauntlet.

Platner’s implosion shows how “crowdsourced democracy,” where viral consultants manufacture authenticity, often leads to candidates loaded with baggage before the first debate. The myth of the self-made outsider is comforting but politically suicidal in red and purple states.

There’s still a chance Maine’s Susan Collins loses, but not because Democrats have found a messiah. Winning takes discipline, not swooning. The goal isn’t inspiration — it’s 51 Senate votes. Until Democrats accept that, they’ll keep mistaking cults of personality for strategy.

Republicans, of course, have their own idol problem. But for Democrats, the lesson is clear: stop chasing saviors and start picking candidates who can actually win elections, not just go viral for a week before collapsing under the weight of their own mythology.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Failure to extend health care tax credits would deal blow to small businesses” via Julio Fuentes for Real Clear Health — As Congress wrangles over the fate of enhanced premium tax credits, the stakes for America’s small businesses couldn’t be higher. These credits are the difference between affordable health coverage and economic freefall for millions of entrepreneurs and employees. If lawmakers fail to act before the year’s end, premiums could spike by 75%, jobs will vanish, and GDP will take a $34 billion hit. Extending the credits isn’t partisan — it’s practical. With overwhelming public support and safeguards already in place to prevent abuse, there’s no excuse for delay. Small businesses are the foundation of the U.S. economy, and keeping their workforce healthy keeps the country strong. Congress must act now to protect coverage, jobs, and stability nationwide.^[40]

“Florida’s wildlife lovers snap back, saving bears $5 at a time” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — When the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved the state’s first official black-bear hunt in a decade, many Floridians were heartsick — already mourning 172 bears the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission designated for slaughter in a hunt scheduled for December. But then they rallied and fought back with a barrage of $5 bills that could protect dozens of those otherwise-doomed bears. A coalition of environmental groups started pooling money to buy entries into the lottery that would determine who got a permit to kill a bear. Under the rules approved by the state for handing out permits, potential hunters could submit an application and a $5 fee. Afterward, the state would conduct a lottery to determine who among them would receive one of the coveted toe-tags. Of the 160,000 $5 applications, advocates are sure that non-hunters submitted at least 30,000. Donors also chipped in money to defray the cost of helping winners who couldn’t afford their “spare a bear” permits.^[41]

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Study shows Florida drivers face frightening odds on Halloween” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — While Halloween can be spooky in any locale, Florida ranks among the scariest places when it comes to fatal car accidents on the night of trick-or-treat. A new study by the Melbourne-based law firm Andrew Pickett Law assessed traffic data for every state and found Florida roads can be downright frightening on Halloween. The Sunshine State ranked as the 12th-most deadly state for drivers during the holiday. Analysts with Andrew Pickett Law tapped data from the U.S. Department of Transportation Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST) to formulate its list. The ranking was based on FIRST figures for fatal crashes on Halloween between 2013 and 2023.^[42]

“LaLiga cancels Miami league match after complaints” via B. Scott McLendon of the Miami New Times — The dream of watching one of Europe’s top soccer teams play a competitive league match in the U.S. died abruptly Tuesday night, only two months before FC Barcelona was scheduled to take on Villarreal CF at Hard Rock Stadium. While the U.S. regularly hosts Summer warmup tournaments featuring the best teams from across the Atlantic, those games are about as meaningful as NFL preseason matchups, maybe even less so. So, when LaLiga, Spain’s top soccer league, announced a regular-season contest in Miami, South Florida soccer fans were ecstatic. But thanks to overwhelming complaints from Spain — including Barcelona players — and a faltering timeline, co-promoters LaLiga and Relevent Sports opted to cancel the game altogether.^[43]

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today is one of the brightest minds in Florida politics, John Sowinski.

___

Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.