Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 10.27.25

Good Monday morning.

Just a reminder to please check out our choices for the Winner and Loser of the Week in Florida politics. This feature runs each Sunday morning. Click here to read the latest edition^[1].

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Central Florida Public Affairs (CFPA), one of Orlando’s fastest-growing government relations firms, has hired longtime political strategist Lydia Claire Kirkland to lead its new Tallahassee operations and statewide advocacy efforts.^[2]

“As Central Florida Public Affairs continues to grow, expanding into Tallahassee allows us to better serve our clients at the center of Florida’s policymaking,” said CFPA founder and CEO Sharon Smoley. “Hiring a seasoned political adviser underscores our commitment to offering unmatched insight and advocacy across the state. We’re thrilled to have Lydia Claire Kirkland join our team — her experience, relationships, and understanding of Florida politics make her the perfect person to launch and lead our Tallahassee presence.”

Kirkland will oversee donor engagement, advise clients on political strategy and spearhead policy initiatives. “This opportunity to open a Tallahassee office for CFPA allows the firm to grow its portfolio of clients, and I’m excited to join a team that’s driven policy forward and shown incredible success for its clients in a short amount of time,” she said.

Rep. Lawrence McClure, a Hillsborough County Republican, praised the move: “Lydia Claire is a trusted strategist and advocate, navigating both the political and legislative arenas with grace. CFPA’s clients will be well served by her experience and professionalism.”

Founded in 2021, CFPA represents Fortune 100 companies, sports and entertainment agencies and industry leaders. Kirkland joins Smoley, Senior Policy Adviser Rachael Kobb, and Government Affairs Adviser Robbie Vogan in expanding the firm’s statewide reach.

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Florida’s business, civic and policy leaders will convene in Orlando this morning for the Future of Florida Forum and Florida Chamber Annual Meeting, which will focus on shaping the state’s economic and workforce future.

This two-day event will take an unflinching look at where Florida stands — what’s working, what’s falling short and how far we’ve come toward achieving the 39 goals of the Florida 2030 Blueprint. From workforce readiness and infrastructure to innovation and competitiveness, attendees will help shape the strategies that will drive Florida’s future.

Featured presenters include Matt Higgins (entrepreneur, investor, “Shark Tank” star) and Stephen M. Ross (CEO and Chair of Related Companies and owner of the Miami Dolphins) as headliners. Other notable voices: U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, Jared Perdue (Florida DOT Secretary), Ray Rodrigues (chancellor of the State University System of Florida), Adrienne Johnston (president and CEO of CareerSource Florida), Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas (Florida Department of Education), Heather Kasten (president and CEO, Sarasota Chamber of Commerce), Melissa Seixas (president, Duke Energy Florida), Archie Collins (president and CEO of TECO), Matt Dunagan (executive director, Florida Sheriff’s Association) and Sheriff Dennis Lemma (Seminole County).

Day One will set the tone with high-level discussions on Florida’s competitiveness, infrastructure, innovation and workforce readiness. The opening keynote will challenge attendees to rethink risk, innovation and incremental progress. At the same time, panels will explore the future of work, demographic shifts and how businesses can help lead training and talent development.

Additional sessions will spotlight the state’s growth corridors, transportation and broadband needs, and the mounting challenges of climate and resilience planning.

Throughout the day, a central theme will emerge — that Florida’s next decade of prosperity depends on strong public-private collaboration and bold action. The Forum will bring together executives, educators, elected officials and community leaders to align strategies for keeping Florida competitive on the global stage.

The event underscores a simple truth: the tools for success are already in place, but the window to act is narrowing. The Future of Florida Forum promises insight, collaboration and a clear look at the opportunities — and responsibilities — shaping Florida’s path to 2030.

Register now to be part of Florida’s vision for 2030.^[3]

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RealdDonaldTrump: Just in: Documents show conclusively that Christopher Wray, Deranged Jack Smith, Merrick Garland, Lisa Monaco, and other crooked lowlifes from the failed Biden administration signed off on Operation Arctic Frost. They spied on Senators and Congressmen/women and even taped their calls. They cheated and rigged the 2020 Presidential Election. These Radical Left Lunatics should be prosecuted for their illegal and highly unethical behavior!

—@ByronWarRoom: “I’m fully supportive of eliminating property taxes. We have to make sure we’re taking care of emergency services, police, firefighters, road maintenance, road construction—essential services that are critical in every community. — @ByronDonalds^[4]

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 8; Ted Cruz to keynote Miami-Dade GOP’s Lincoln Day Dinner — 15; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 20; ’Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 25; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 30; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 32; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 37; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 37; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 43; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 46; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ six-episode docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 46; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 51; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 53; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 59; Legislative Session begins — 78; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 78; The James Madison Institute’ 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 79; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 83; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 95; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 101; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 102; last day of the Regular Session — 137; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 149; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 150; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 161; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 170; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 170; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 175; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 179; F1 Miami begins — 186; ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 207; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 218; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 224; State Qualifying Period ends — 228; FIFA World Cup begins — 227; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 250; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 255; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 260; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 262; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 266; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 283; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 285; Primary Election Day 2026 — 295; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 319; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 323; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 327; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 332; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 339; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 343; Early Voting General Election Mandatory period begins — 362; 2026 General Election — 372; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 417; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 417; Tampa Mayoral Election — 491; Jacksonville First Election — 512; Jacksonville General Election — 568; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 586; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 648; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 704; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 781; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 991; U.S. Presidential Election — 1107; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1507; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2238.

— TOP STORY —

“Donald Trump administration posts notice that no federal food aid will go out Nov. 1^[5]” via Adriana Gomez Licon of The Associated Press — The federal government shutdown that began Oct. 1 is now threatening to cut off food assistance for millions of Americans.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that no Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will be distributed Nov. 1, warning that “the well has run dry.” The Trump administration has refused to use roughly $5 billion in contingency funds to keep the program running, saying the funds are legally reserved for disaster relief.

The decision would halt benefits for roughly one in eight Americans who rely on SNAP to buy food. States are scrambling to respond, but USDA guidance says they won’t be reimbursed if they cover the costs themselves. Arkansas and Oklahoma are already advising residents to prepare for interruptions by turning to food pantries and charities.

The administration is blaming Senate Democrats for the impasse, saying they refuse to reopen the government unless they reach a deal on health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. Democrats counter that Republicans could end the shutdown immediately if they were willing to negotiate in good faith.

A leaked USDA memo underscored the department’s position, emphasizing the need to preserve contingency funds for emergencies such as Hurricane Melissa, which recently intensified into a major storm. Officials said the money must remain available for disaster response rather than ongoing benefits.

Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut called the standoff “manufactured chaos,” arguing that if both sides met halfway, the government could reopen within days and avert a food aid crisis.

“New shutdown problem: Miami is the U.S. capital for seniors on food stamps” via Claire Heddles and Shirsho Dasgupta of the Miami Herald — Ahead of Thursday’s lunch rush at Curley’s House Food Bank in Miami’s Liberty City, Executive Director Lavern Spicer said she’s preparing for a sharp uptick in customers as the federal government shutdown enters its fourth week. Florida’s Department of Children and Families tells millions not to expect food assistance next month. “People are afraid because they don’t know what’s going to happen with this shutdown,” Spicer said. Her organization already feeds 5,000 families a month and expects thousands more if Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits lapse in November. “We are going to need a lot of help to take on those types of numbers.”^[6]

— STATEWIDE —

“Evaluating property tax cuts, Speaker Daniel Perez wonders: ‘Do we have too many counties?’” via Meleah Lyden of WUSF — Perez raised eyebrows by asking whether some of the state’s smallest counties should even exist as lawmakers weigh property tax reform ahead of the 2026 ballot. Perez said deeply rural counties depend so heavily on property tax revenue that eliminating it could cause many to “cease to exist.” The House has floated seven potential resolutions to cut or restructure property taxes, though Perez admitted they’re meant to start a conversation, not dictate final policy. DeSantis has dismissed the proposals as political gamesmanship, insisting on a single, voter-approved measure. Perez countered that real fiscal reform requires hard questions about local government efficiency, duplication, and whether consolidating smaller counties might be necessary as part of broader tax relief.^[7]

“Mack Bernard joins property tax debate, files four relief measures” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Sen. Bernard of West Palm Beach has introduced four proposed constitutional amendments for the 2026 ballot aimed at cutting property taxes, adding a Democratic perspective to an issue already heating up in Tallahassee. His proposals mirror and expand on ideas pitched by House Republicans, focusing on relief for seniors and long-term homeowners. One measure, SJR 270, would exempt seniors 65 and older from non-school property taxes if they’ve lived in their homesteads at least five years and earn under $350,000. Others would freeze assessed values after 20 years, add a 50% exemption after 30 years, and cap property value hikes for new homesteads and small businesses. The proposals arrive amid growing tension between DeSantis and Perez over competing tax-cut strategies.^[8]

“Ana Maria Rodriguez, Johnna López renew bipartisan push to close Florida’s swimming pool safety gap” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Drowning has long been the No. 1 cause of death for Florida children ages 1 to 4. Sen. Rodriguez and Rep. López want to change that. This week, they filed companion bills requiring additional safety measures for swimming pools on residential property. If passed, the legislation would require that home pools have at least one safety feature in place — a barrier, cover, alarm or other safeguard — when the property is transferred or sold on or after Oct. 1, 2026. Home inspectors would also have to report violations of that requirement. Florida has consistently led the nation in unintentional drowning deaths among children aged 1 to 4.^[9]

Happening today — Legislative delegations meet: Manatee County, 8:30 a.m., 101 Old Main Street, Bradenton. Contact Zahid Siddique at [email protected] for agenda placement or local bill submissions. Osceola County, 9 a.m., Osceola County Commission Chambers, Kissimmee. Contact Jennifer Amparo at [email protected] for questions or to request a speaker form. St. Johns County, 9 a.m., St. Johns County Auditorium, 500 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine. Contact Danielle Curbow at [email protected] or (386) 446-7610 to be placed on the agenda. Leon County, 10 a.m., Knott Building, Room 412, 400 S. Monroe St., Tallahassee. Contact Caleb Colton at [email protected] for information. Polk County, 10 a.m., Polk County Administrative Building, 330 W. Church St., Bartow. Contact [email protected] to request a presentation form or agenda slot. Broward County, 5 p.m., Memorial Regional Hospital Conference Center, 3501 Johnson St., Hollywood.^{[10][11][12][13][14]}

“How to fix Florida’s voucher funding snags? Parents, lawmakers want answers” via Jeffrey S. Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — Kimberly Tirado says her family’s experience with school vouchers exemplifies the problems with Florida’s growing program. The St. Cloud mom of four views vouchers as a saving grace for her oldest child, who used the funds to obtain special education services her high school did not provide. But after a year of homeschooling, when Tirado considered returning her daughter to public school, everything went awry. For three days after Tirado visited Harmony High last Fall, the school listed her daughter as enrolled — even though the girl never took a class there. That was enough to get her tagged as ineligible for the voucher she was awarded, Tirado said.^[15]

—“School choice reforms top 2026 wish list for Florida districts” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO^[16]

“Florida wants to post more college syllabi online. Professors fear what’s next” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Florida is considering a move that would give people a closer look at what’s being taught in its public universities — another potential flash point as conservative-led states scrutinize higher education. University leaders in Florida want schools to post what textbooks, instructional materials and readings are required for most courses, similar to a policy recently adopted by Georgia colleges. Supporters say the change promotes openness and accountability, helping students see what they’re signing up for and encouraging professors to stay on topic. But some faculty fear the changes could invite political pressure and harassment at a time when higher education is under an intense ideological spotlight, particularly around lessons touching on gender, race and diversity.^[17]

“Florida’s restriction on concealed carry under 21 is unconstitutional, Broward judge rules” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The section of the Florida law prohibiting adults under age 21 from carrying a concealed firearm is unconstitutional, a Broward judge ruled. Effectively dismissing a case against a Fort Lauderdale resident who turns 20 in December, Broward Circuit Judge Frank Ledee said the restriction is inconsistent with the Second Amendment. Ledee agreed with the defense argument that 18-year-olds are treated as adults in multiple legal settings, including the ability to vote, marry and serve in the armed forces. “Because the Second Amendment’s plain text applies to the concealed carry of firearms, Florida’s concealed carry ban, as applied to eighteen-to-twenty year olds, is unconstitutional unless the State can affirmatively prove that the prohibition is consistent with this Nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation,” Ledee said, finding that the state had not met that burden in the case against Joel Andrew Walkes, 19, of Fort Lauderdale.^[18]

“Florida ranks last in nation for state worker pay, new report shows” via James Call of USA Today Network — State of Florida employees are the rock-bottom lowest hourly earners in the country, trailing state workers in neighboring Alabama and Georgia by thousands of dollars to rank 51st among the states and Washington D.C. for government pay. Nearly 100,000 state employees handle the paperwork, maintain the facilities and provide the services that keep the 16th largest economy in the world, and fourth among U.S. states at $1.7 trillion, humming. But they are compensated with, on average, $26,000 less than workers in Illinois, which has the fifth largest economy and get paid $39,000 less than workers in New York, who provide services for the third largest economy in the U.S.^[19]

“Florida’s beaches are public — until you try to park there” via Iulia Lupse for The Washington Post — In Florida and beyond, the idea that beaches are a public commons is increasingly undermined by local rules and regulations that effectively limit access. What looks like a scenic coastline can still be out of reach when parking is banned, passes are handed out selectively, or significant chunks of dry sand are placed beyond the reach of everyday visitors. Although state constitutions and landmark court decisions uphold public access, counties and municipalities are using ordinances, fees and screening rules to shrink the actual space people can use. The legal right exists; the practical one often does not. The result: the beach may be labeled “public,” but if you can’t get on it, that label is little more than a rhetorical gesture.^[20]

— D.C. MATTERS —

“White House tightens the clemency process as Trump resumes pardons” via Katherine Doyle and Matt Dixon of NBC News — At the end of May, Trump had issued 73 clemency actions, not including all the Jan. 6 defendants. Trump once called the power to pardon “a beautiful thing.” “You got to get it right,” he told reporters during his first term. But after May, the pardons stopped. People familiar with discussions said top White House officials became concerned about attempts by outsiders to profit from the clemency process, and two of those people said the White House paused Trump’s pardons to gain greater control over the process. Another factor has been the President’s crowded agenda, which included foreign and domestic priorities, one of those people said. Two senior White House officials said Chief of Staff Susie Wiles became more outspoken after reports emerged that lobbyists and consultants were advertising themselves as offering access to Trump’s pardon authority for steep prices.^[21]

“Democrats juxtapose East Wing demolition with fight over Obamacare health insurance help” via Anne Geggis of The Palm Beach Post — The congresswoman who represents Trump’s home district in Palm Beach County has decried the ongoing demolition of the White House’s East Wing to make way for a Mar-a-Lago-style ballroom. U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel, a Democrat who represents House District 22 in West Palm Beach and Palm Beach, said during an Oct. 23 town hall with constituents that the tearing down of the executive mansion facilities looks like a massive explosion struck 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. “Boy, it looks like a bomb hit it, doesn’t it?” Frankel said, responding to a question from Anne Blanford of Boynton Beach, who asked why Trump is being allowed to “tear down a wall on the White House” to build a “stupid” ballroom.^[22]

“Justice Department will monitor Elections in California and New Jersey” via Shawn Hubler and Laurel Rosenhall of The New York Times — The Trump administration said on Friday that the Justice Department will monitor polling sites in California and New Jersey ahead of the Nov. 4 election, amid requests by Republican Party officials in those states. Although election monitoring by the Justice Department is not uncommon, it will likely heighten tensions as voters weigh in on some of the nation’s most closely watched races. Trump has pushed the Justice Department to pursue parts of his agenda, including going after his political enemies, eroding its traditional independence. Trump also blamed his 2020 Election loss on rigged voting, although there was no evidence of widespread voter fraud.^[23]

“Trump’s pressure on museums won’t stop at the Smithsonian” via Philip Kennicott of The Washington Post — Trump’s pressures have focused on issues such as race, identity and the traumas of American history, they are grounded in a more profound distrust of museums as places where people make memory and emotion public, independent of the classic, mainstream narratives of American life told and retold by Hollywood, politicians and purveyors of feel-good patriotism. The Trump culture campaign, now into its 10th month, has already been remarkably effective. It has shaken the Smithsonian, forced out top leadership at federally supported arts institutions, decimated the national endowments that support the arts and humanities nationwide, and placed major arts and culture foundations on notice of potential federal legal action.^[24]

“Florida cattle ranchers have beef with Trump’s plan to import meat from Argentina” via Ana Goñi-Lessan of the USA Today Network-Florida — Florida’s cattle industry is bristling at Trump’s proposal to import more beef from Argentina, arguing that the plan risks weakening domestic producers in the name of lower prices. The Florida Cattlemen’s Association put out a statement on its Facebook page, saying Trump’s proposal to import more beef from Argentina to combat record-high prices “threatens American cattle producers.” “The federal government should let the free market work instead of intervening in cattle markets or rewarding countries that don’t meet our animal health and food safety concerns,” the post says. Trump announced his plan to lower beef prices over the weekend, but an administration official confirmed that the U.S. is preparing to quadruple its beef purchases from Argentina.^[25]

“MAGA lobbying firms are booming. This is where their money goes.^[26]” via Julian Mark and Federica Cocco of The Washington Post — For the first time, a firm that once employed Trump’s Chief of Staff, Wiles, and Attorney General Pam Bondi became the highest-paid lobbying shop in Washington so far this year, underscoring an intense demand for inroads into Trump’s orbit. Ballard Partners, founded by GOP fundraiser and Trump ally Brian Ballard, more than quadrupled its revenue this year, representing such clients as Harvard University and TikTok. Lobbying expenditure overall increased by 21% this year compared with the same period in 2024. If the pace continues through year’s end, it would be the largest annual increase since at least 1998.

— ELECTIONS —

—”Jimmy Patronis snags Trump endorsement^[27]” via Florida Politics

—”Trump backs ‘MAGA Warrior’ Randy Fine ahead of contested Primary in CD 6” via Florida Politics^[28]

—”Trump endorses ‘America First Patriot’ Mike Haridopolos for re-election” via Florida Politics^[29]

—”Greg Steube secures another Trump endorsement” via Florida Politics^[30]

“Governor finally calls Special Election for SD 14 to replace Jay Collins” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — DeSantis has called a Special Election to replace former Sen. Collins in Senate District 14. A Special Primary will be held Jan. 13, with a Special General Election on March 24. The vacancy occurred on Aug. 12 after DeSantis tapped Collins to be his Lieutenant Governor. Two candidates have so far filed to run for SD 14: perennial Republican candidate Amaro Lionheart and Democrat Brian Nathan. A higher-profile candidate will likely jump into the race now that a Special Election has been called.^[31]

“Gov. Ron DeSantis calls Special Election for House District 87 in Palm Beach County” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — More than two months after he appointed then-Rep. Mike Caruso to serve as Palm Beach County Clerk, DeSantis has called for a race to replace him in House District 87. DeSantis issued an executive order on Friday demanding a Special Election next year. The Primary, if there is one, will be held Jan. 13, the same day as the 2026 Legislative Session’s regular meetings are scheduled to begin. The General Election, if one is necessary, will take place on March 24 — 11 days after the Session is expected to end. DeSantis appointed Caruso, a fellow Republican, as Clerk on Aug. 18, 67 days ago.^[32]

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“‘Sunday church in the Everglades.’ Faith movement grows at Alligator Alcatraz protests” via Lauren Costantino of the Miami Herald — Every Sunday, rain or shine, faith leaders and activists gather outside Alligator Alcatraz, Florida’s controversial $608 million migrant detention center deep in the Everglades. Since the beginning of July, the facility has faced lawsuits from environmental and civil rights groups, as well as growing weekly prayer vigils protesting its existence. The interfaith coalition — spanning Methodists, Unitarians, Jews and others — calls the detention center immoral and contrary to God’s will. Led by clergy such as Rev. Candace Thomas and Rev. Arthur Jones III, the vigils draw hundreds and have inspired similar protests across the state. Participants pray, sing and demand access to detainees for spiritual care, even as officials defend the center as necessary to detain violent offenders. The protests show no signs of stopping.^[33]

“Miami Dade College fights to avoid public hearing about Trump library deal” via Claire Heddles of the Orlando Sentinel — Miami Dade College’s Board of Trustees could end its legal battle with historian Marvin Dunn by holding a new public hearing on giving away prime downtown land to be used for Trump’s high-rise presidential library — but new court filings show the college would rather duke it out in higher court. The college’s attorneys told the Miami-Dade Circuit Court on Thursday that they plan to appeal Judge Mavel Ruiz’s ruling temporarily blocking the college from transferring the deed to the land. The case would go to the 3rd District Court of Appeal, where DeSantis appointed half the judges. They’re asking the lower court to stop proceedings until an appellate panel weighs in. Dunn’s attorneys are asking the court for the opposite — to speed the trial up. They are proposing discovery in the next few weeks and a trial by January to “allow an early resolution of this controversy of great public importance.”^[34]

“Early voting underway as Miami Beach faces pivotal Nov. 4 election^[35]” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Early voting is underway in Miami Beach, where voters are choosing a Mayor and three city Commissioners in an election that could reshape the city’s governance and relationship with Tallahassee. At stake on Nov. 4 are four of the seven seats on the dais — a potential governing majority — in a city confronting turbulence on multiple fronts: state scrutiny over finances, charges that a local ordinance conflicts with Florida’s homelessness law, the removal of cultural landmarks due to their so-called “woke” significance and accusations of pay-for-play policymaking that benefits developers. Amid the tension, residents are weighing how the city should balance order, affordability and its international image. All Commission seats are elected at-large, meaning every voter can weigh in on each race. If no candidate in a Commission race wins a majority, the top two advance to a Dec. 9 runoff.

“State oversight panel finds Miami judge’s texts ‘appear to be coercive,’ questions her impartiality” via Grethel Aguila of the Miami Herald — A state oversight panel found probable cause to bring formal disciplinary charges against a Miami-Dade judge in an investigation that began after the Miami Herald published her text messages denigrating a fellow judge and pressuring Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle about one of Miami’s most significant criminal cases. The 22-page document outlining the allegations and charges against Judge Bronwyn Miller, a former prosecutor and current judge on Miami’s 3rd District Court of Appeal, was filed Thursday evening with the Florida Supreme Court. “Your communications cast reasonable doubt on your capacity to act impartially as a judge, undermine your appearance of integrity and impartiality, demean the judicial office, interfere with your proper performance of judicial duties, may lead to your frequent disqualification, and appear to be coercive,” the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission said.^[36]

“Melissa Castro proposes ‘anti-kickback’ rule in Coral Gables to ban post-approval developer deals” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Coral Gables Commissioner Castro wants to make sure no elected official in the city can quietly cash in on development projects they helped approve, even years later. At the City Commission’s next meeting, Castro will introduce a proposed ordinance that would create strict new anti-kickback and disclosure rules for elected officials. The change is necessary, she said, to close a glaring “loophole” in local ethics law. “I feel like some elected officials will guarantee a developer that, yeah, they’re going to have the votes. Maybe they’ll vote ‘no’ themselves, but they’ll guarantee the project passes. And then afterward, that’s where the arrangement comes up. I think there needs to be more transparency when it comes to those types of — I don’t want to say corruption, but it’s corruption,” Castro said.^[37]

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Eleven days before election, suspended Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill appears in court” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Suspended City Commissioner Hill appeared briefly in court Friday for a hearing in her felony trial, less than two weeks before she hopes voters send her back to City Hall. While Hill had hoped to have her charges tried before Election Day, she said she was feeling optimistic about her chances at an eventual trial and at the ballot box next month – though no trial date has been set thus far, and another hearing is scheduled in January. “I know that I’ll be vindicated; I’ve harmed no one in this work. I’ve done great work,” she said outside of the courthouse on Friday. “My constituents are responding to the work that I’ve done and they want me to continue it.” Hill was indicted last year on seven felony charges that encompass mortgage fraud and elder abuse.^[38]

“Days’ worth of gridlock: Orlando’s traffic delays break record” via Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel — Traffic in Orlando hit a new high in 2024, with drivers across the City Beautiful wasting an average of 68 hours sitting in traffic last year, up 6% from 2023. It’s part of a trend seen across the nation, where the national average has hit an all-time high of 63 hours, equivalent to nearly eight full workdays lost to traffic. Orlando ranks 24th among the top 101 urban areas with a population over 1 million for traffic delays, but Miami and St. Petersburg are worse. The average driver in Miami lost over 90 hours sitting in traffic, according to the report. Central Florida’s growth has worsened its traffic woes, said Kartikeya Jha, assistant research scientist at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. The Orlando metro area has ballooned in size, adding over 76,000 new residents in just one year in 2024 and outpacing the state’s growth. The region’s population now stands at over 2.9 million.^[39]

— LOCAL: TB —

“Ex-Hillsborough sheriff’s commanders added to questionable officers list” via Dan Sullivan of the Tampa Bay Times — Four former Hillsborough County sheriff’s commanders who resigned amid a recent academic cheating scandal have been placed on a list of law enforcement officers whose credibility could be challenged if they testify in court. The Hillsborough State Attorney’s Office this month put former Chief Deputy Anthony Collins, former Cols. Michael Hannaford and Chris Rule, and retired Capt. Lora Rivera on what’s known as the Brady list — a catalog of local law enforcement officials who require a special disclosure to defense attorneys if they surface as witnesses in a criminal case. Cops can be added to the list due to misconduct or ongoing internal investigations within an agency that could raise questions about their credibility.^[40]

“Is one month enough for Trop site proposals?” via Mark Parker of St. Pete Catalyst — A prominent development firm has asked St. Petersburg to extend its window for submitting Historic Gas Plant District redevelopment proposals. Some people are tired of waiting. Mayor Ken Welch announced Tuesday that, starting in mid-November, he would officially welcome proposals to reimagine the area around Tropicana Field for 30 days. Troy Simpson, president of Delray Beach-based Kolter’s mixed-use division, emailed Council members and the city’s procurement department on Wednesday to request 90 days. The receipt of two recent unsolicited proposals did not trigger the process, despite conflicting reports. State law requires local governments to provide at least 30 days’ notice before entering into “any contract to sell, lease, or otherwise transfer real property” within a Community Redevelopment Area.^[41]

“MLB’s Rob Manfred offers Trop repair update, praise for new Rays owners” via Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times — Major League Baseball Commissioner Manfred said Saturday in Toronto that repairs to hurricane-damaged Tropicana Field remain on track for the Rays to return next season. The Rays are scheduled to play their first nine games on the road, then return to the Trop for a three-game series against the Cubs and Yankees starting April 6. “We’re hopeful that it will be ready for the opening homestand,” Manfred told reporters before Game 2 of the World Series. “It certainly is going to be open very early in the year.” “I think the most appealing thing about this group was their ties in the Tampa Bay region. I think that’s a really important thing in terms of getting political support for getting a new facility built. They’re well-financed, (a) really strong group and I am confident that something good’s gonna happen in Tampa.”^[42]

“DeSantis appoints two, reappoints three to Tampa Port Authority Board” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — DeSantis has appointed or reappointed five members to the Tampa Port Authority Governing Board. DeSantis has reappointed members Chad Harrod, the current Board Chair; Ted Connor, the Vice Chair; and Patrick Allman, the Secretary. He has appointed two others to fill vacancies: Christopher Carrere and Mark Kaplan. Carrere is a yacht broker for Galati Yacht Sales. He also serves as a member of the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation’s Executive Committee, the International Yacht Brokers Association, and the Certified Yacht Brokers. He earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of the South, Sewanee.^[43]

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“‘Slap in the face’: Leon teachers reject pay deal; Hanna says no raises for administrators” via Alaijah Brown of the Tallahassee Democrat — Leon County educators flooded the latest bargaining session with the School District in hopes of hearing a pay raise offer that’s higher than $40 a month. Many left the Oct. 23 meeting disappointed. “When you work as hard as we do, and we do work very hard, it’s disappointing that you don’t feel like they really have your back. They think they do, but they don’t really,” Susan Vinson, a 30-year LCS teacher now at Killearn Lakes Elementary School, told the Tallahassee Democrat after the meeting.^[44]

“Triumph Gulf Coast Board gives nod to $65M in grants to Panhandle region workforce development^[45]” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The Triumph Gulf Coast Board approved millions of dollars in grants designed to create new high-wage jobs in Northwest Florida. The panel approved $65 million in funding this month that will not only create those jobs but is also likely to provide more than 10,000 industry certifications for workers. The grant is earmarked for projects in five different Panhandle counties. About $12.83 million approved by the Triumph Gulf Coast Board is dedicated to supporting the recruitment of “Project Kilowatt” in Bay County. That project is an advanced marine manufacturing company that develops carbon-fiber hulls for watercraft and electric propulsion vessels. The company is planning to locate its international headquarters and other operations in Bay County, and the funding will help the county acquire 11.55 acres of waterfront property on St. Andrews Bay. The county will retain ownership of the land leased to the company.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“‘No better than a grift,’ says Sarasota School Board member about Schools of Hope” via Kerry Sheridan of WUSF — Mater Academy, a Miami-based charter network with a state “Schools of Hope” designation, is targeting underenrolled public schools across Florida, including Sarasota County, to share their facilities. State Department of Education officials toured local schools this week to assess available space, prompting alarm among district leaders who see the move as a threat to traditional public education. Sarasota School Board member Tom Edwards called the plan a “grift,” accusing the state of shifting taxpayer-funded assets to profit-driven charters. He said the district is developing creative alternatives — such as new programs and academies — to better use its own space and block Mater’s entry. The district has until late November to prove it’s efficiently utilizing its schools to avoid a takeover.^[46]

— TOP OPINION —

“In Trump-friendly Iowa, the President’s policies have hit hard” via Pooja Salhotra of The New York Times — For Iowans, losing China’s soybean market in the President’s trade war was only one of many economic shocks that have hit the state since the start of Trump’s second term.^[47]

The cost of tractors and fertilizers has shot up with these tariffs. Labor has grown scarcer in agribusinesses. Major manufacturers have laid off workers. Even the ubiquitous wind turbines that provide income for some Iowa farmers are in the President’s sights.

“Right now, we’re fighting different economic wars all at once,” said Summer Ory. The couple works on the family’s farm. “You can sustain it one at a time, but right now it’s death by a thousand paper cuts.” Since siding with Barack Obama twice, Iowa has become a stronghold for Trump.

Yet perhaps no state has struggled more with his economic policies.

During the first quarter of 2025, Iowa’s gross domestic product dropped by 6.1%, more than any other state aside from neighboring Nebraska.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Why Trump’s East Wing demolition needed to happen” via Ross Douthat of The New York Times — The unfinished Obama Presidential Center in Chicago and Trump’s planned White House ballroom reveal two sides of America’s architectural dysfunction. On one hand, progressive-led cities excel at preserving the old but routinely fail to build the new with either efficiency or beauty, producing public projects that are slow, bland, and soulless. On the other hand, Trump’s brash approach to construction, while crude and egocentric, often achieves what endless consultation prevents: tangible results. His proposed neo-Classical ballroom, though derivative, fits the White House’s character and will likely prove useful. By contrast, the Obama Center embodies the progressive tendency toward imposing, joyless design. Both symbolize a nation that can’t balance preservation, progress, and aesthetics in the public spaces it builds.^[48]

“Tallahassee must renew focus on property insurance” via Yoni Anijar of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — For families and seniors across South Florida, the most dreaded piece of mail is no longer a bill, it’s the property insurance renewal notice. The sticker shock is real, and the anxiety it causes is a quiet crisis unfolding in every neighborhood. This is not a force of nature; it is a man-made storm of market failure and flawed policy, and it has put the dream of homeownership at risk for the very people who built our communities. While Tallahassee has taken important initial steps, the crisis has continued to evolve. Lasting relief requires addressing the fundamental market failures that are driving up costs. The result is predictable: Citizens Insurance swells, private carriers flee, and you, the homeowner, are left to pay the spiraling cost.^[49]

“Reject this super-bad idea in Delray Beach^[50]” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — Be wary of a big idea that any elected official springs on his colleagues at the end of a long meeting. Be doubly wary if that idea never appeared on a public agenda, which means the people had no advance knowledge it was coming. And be triply wary if that surprise was sprung by a city official who is resigning his seat and, figuratively speaking, already has one foot out the door. All of this just happened in Delray Beach. Those are three reasons — there are many more — why city officials should quickly reject the idea that Commissioner Rob Long floated on the night of Oct. 14.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Iconic St. Augustine Beach bistro relocates to former landmark Gypsy Cab Co. space” via Teresa Stepzinski of The Florida Times-Union — A chef-driven neighborhood bistro known for its elevated, fresh-from-scratch menu inspired by American and international cuisines is revitalizing the former home of a beloved St. Augustine dining destination. Purple Olive celebrated its “grand re-opening” Friday, Oct. 24, at its new location — 828 Anastasia Blvd. on Anastasia Island — where it “refreshed and refurbished” the former landmark Gypsy Cab Co. restaurant building.^[51]

“Heat has essentially wiped out two key coral species on Florida reefs” via Catrin Einhorn of The New York Times — After a record ocean heat wave in 2023, scientists report that Florida’s two most iconic coral species — elkhorn and staghorn — are now functionally extinct from the state’s reefs. The branching corals, once vital habitat builders, have been wiped out across nearly all of the Florida Keys and the Dry Tortugas, with up to 100% mortality recorded. The study, published in Science, found surviving colonies only in limited areas of the north, too sparse to sustain reef ecosystems. Researchers described the loss as a “guillotine” event caused by unprecedented marine heat, far surpassing previous bleaching episodes. While some massive corals have shown resilience, experts warn that without curbing climate change, restoration efforts alone cannot prevent further reef collapse.^[52]

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are Rep. Mike Giallombardo, devoted Sunburn reader and GOP activist extraordinaire Deborah Cox Roush, and the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Alexis Muellner.

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