Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 10.29.25

Good Wednesday morning.

Ballard Partners is expanding its reach into the Indo-Pacific region with the launch of a Honolulu office helmed by new firm Partner Bernice Glenn Kissinger.^[1]

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Bernice Kissinger to Ballard Partners and to open our new office in Honolulu,” said Brian Ballard, founder and president of the Florida-grown global lobbying powerhouse.

“Bernice’s unparalleled experience and expertise in defense contracting and national security, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, will be an invaluable asset to our clients and our firm. Her strategic insights and deep understanding of the region will be invaluable to our clients.”

Kissinger is a longtime defense contracting specialist with a career spanning Japan, Australia, South Korea and Taiwan. She has worked with agencies including the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, Marine Forces Pacific, Army Futures Command, and Army Contracting Command in Orlando. Her policy experience also includes work with the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, particularly in industrial base policy and pricing controls.

A senior fellow at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, Kissinger has been involved in U.S.–Allied defense technology programs for decades. In Japan, she helped launch the country’s first government-led defense accelerator, supporting domestic firms and joint ventures focused on drones, munitions and strategic vehicles.

“I am honored and thrilled to join Ballard Partners and lead their efforts in the Pacific theater,” Kissinger said. “The Indo-Pacific is a region of immense strategic importance, and I look forward to contributing to solutions that strengthen our national interests and alliances.”

___

Florida’s next election cycle may not feature presidential candidates atop the ballot. However, the stakes remain high for the state’s political and economic future, according to Florida Chamber’s political team.

Wrapping up the Future of Florida Forum in Orlando, Chamber Executive Vice President Frank Walker, Senior Director of Political Affairs Andrew Wiggins and Director of Data Research & Analytics Alex Coelho outlined the 2026 landscape, which will feature candidates for Governor, Attorney General and Chief Financial Officer seeking election for the first time, along with Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson’s re-election bid and U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody’s campaign for a full term.^[2]

Meanwhile, half the Senate, all 120 House seats and more than 2,000 local offices will also be on the ballot.

The panel also pointed to a growing list of petition drives. There are 20 currently active efforts, led again by a marijuana legalization amendment that has thus far failed to consistently and convincingly clear the 60% threshold needed to pass.

Walker dismissed the 2026 pot amendment, saying organizers were throwing “good money after bad” in the wake of a losing 2024 effort.

Also on the radar is a pending U.S. Supreme Court case that could trigger new congressional maps across the South, including Florida, where the panel believes Democratic U.S. Reps. Darren Soto and Jared Moskowitz are the most likely sitting Representatives to be drawn out of a job.

The conversation Florida’s GOP transformation — once a perennial swing state, it’s now “paved in a distinctly red shade of asphalt,” Coelho said, noting Miami-Dade’s 41-point Republican shift and record GOP gains in Hispanic registration.

The Chamber panel closed with participants framing the election similarly to many campaigns, calling it a “consequential” cycle for Florida’s future. And one that will determine whether the Chamber achieves the goals outlined in its 2030 Blueprint.

Here are links to additional coverage from the Future of Florida Forum:

—“In Florida Chamber speech, James Uthmeier says his No. 1 goal is prosecuting child predators” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics^[3]

—”Education leaders weigh in on AI at Future of Florida Forum” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics^[4]

—“Florida has the ingredients for greatness, it just needs a game plan” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics^[5]

—“M.Cast report: ‘Strategic imperfection’ becomes an asset amid AI’s rise” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics^[6]

___

Happening today — The Capital Tiger Bay Club examines the state of the Florida Republican Party with Chair Evan Power and Executive Director Bill Helmich, who will discuss election strategy, grassroots engagement and the GOP’s vision heading into 2026, offering an inside look at what’s fueling Republican momentum across the Sunshine State. This special program promises timely insights from two of Florida’s key political leaders: 11:30 a.m., Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, 505 W. Pensacola Street, Tallahassee. Guest tickets are $35. Register here.^[7]

___

Breaking overnight — “Naya Young elected to Tampa City Council, defeating Thomas Scott in Special Runoff Election” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Grassroots activist Young has been elected to Tampa City Council. The first-time candidate defeated Scott, who previously held local office in both the city and Hillsborough County. With mail ballots partially counted, early vote totals completely reported, and all but two precincts reporting totals, Young showed a lead too wide to bridge with outstanding votes, at nearly 61% of the vote. As expected, voter turnout was low. As of 6:39 p.m., 21 minutes before polls closed, voter turnout was at just over 11%, or only a little more than 5,000 votes cast. Final voter turnout numbers will be available once all ballots are counted. Young will fill the remaining term of Gwen Henderson, who died this Summer. She’ll be sworn in on Friday at 3 p.m.^[8]

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@SecWar: Yesterday, at the direction of President (Donald) Trump, the Department of War carried out three lethal kinetic strikes on four vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations (DTO) trafficking narcotics in the Eastern Pacific. The four vessels were known by our intelligence apparatus, transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and carrying narcotics.

—@AndrewDesiderio: Inside the Senate GOP lunch with Vice President (JD) Vance, Vance was bombarded with questions about the Argentinian beef issue, per multiple attendees. GOP Senators told him it was an “insult” to farmers/ranchers. Vance at one point joked, “Does anyone have questions NOT about beef?”

—@StefWKight: INBOX: (Mitch) McConnell says he will “vote in favor of resolutions to end emergency tariff authorities. Tariffs make both building and buying in America more expensive. The economic harms of trade wars are not the exception to history, but the rule.”

—@AnilCacodcar: We asked a focus group of 12 Gen Z NYC voters to describe what the Democratic and Republican Parties would look like as a person. Dems: “Human Resources rep who is fake-nice but ultimately works for the CEO” Reps: “A NASCAR driver sponsored by big corporations”

— DAYS UNTIL —

Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 6; Ted Cruz to keynote Miami-Dade GOP’s Lincoln Day Dinner — 13; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 18; ’Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 23; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 28; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 30; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 35; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 35; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 41; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 44; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ six-episode docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 44; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 49; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 51; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 57; Legislative Session begins — 76; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 76; The James Madison Institute’ 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 77; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 81; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 93; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 99; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 100; last day of the Regular Session — 135; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 147; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 148; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 159; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 168; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 168; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 173; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 177; F1 Miami begins — 184; ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 205; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 216; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 222; State Qualifying Period ends — 226; FIFA World Cup begins — 225; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 248; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 253; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 258; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 260; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 264; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 281; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 283; Primary Election Day 2026 — 293; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 317; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 321; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 325; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 330; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 337; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 341; Early Voting General Election Mandatory period begins — 360; 2026 General Election — 370; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 415; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 415; Tampa Mayoral Election — 489; Jacksonville First Election — 510; Jacksonville General Election — 566; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 584; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 646; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 702; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 779; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 989; U.S. Presidential Election — 1105; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1505; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2236

— TOP STORY —

“Twenty-five states sue Donald Trump admin over withholding food aid funding” via Grace Yarrow of POLITICO — Democratic Governors and Attorneys General from 25 states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over its refusal to use emergency funds to maintain food aid for millions of Americans through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The legal challenge, filed in federal court in Massachusetts, argues that the U.S. Department of Agriculture violated federal law by halting benefits despite having access to funds already appropriated by Congress.^[9]

The states — including California, New York, Massachusetts, and the District of Columbia — claim that the USDA’s move will cause the first delay of SNAP benefits in the program’s history, undermining public trust and forcing state agencies to explain to struggling families why their food aid is being withheld.

The lawsuit seeks to overturn the administration’s directive that states withhold benefits and instead compel the USDA to deploy all available resources to ensure uninterrupted food assistance in November. The plaintiffs emphasize that SNAP supports nearly 42 million Americans and plays a vital role in fighting hunger nationwide.

The funding shortfall comes as the federal shutdown enters its fifth week, with the administration arguing it lacks legal authority to use $5 billion in emergency reserves. SNAP needs more than $8 billion to operate through November.

The plaintiffs countered that USDA could use Section 32 funds — which have been applied to sustain other nutrition programs — to fully finance SNAP for the coming month. They accuse the administration of political maneuvering at the expense of low-income families.

USDA spokesperson Alec Varsamis responded by criticizing Senate Democrats, accusing them of catering to “the Far-Left wing of the party” instead of reopening the government to restore WIC and SNAP payments. The case now poses a significant legal and political test for the administration’s handling of essential nutrition programs amid the ongoing shutdown.

—“Jimmy Patronis pans comments from Nikki Fried about SNAP pause” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics^[10]

— LEGISLATIVE —

“Florida’s ‘anti-communism’ curriculum criticized as ‘propaganda’ by experts” via Steven Walker of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida could soon be teaching students about the “dangers and evils of communism” under proposed new academic standards that some argue amount to “propaganda” and wrongly aim to rehabilitate the reputation of U.S. Sen. Joseph McCarthy, who pushed the “Red Scare” communist panic in the 1950s. The new standards for middle- and high-school social studies classes stem from legislation (SB 1264) that DeSantis signed in 2024. The law mandates instruction on the “consequences of communism” and aims to prepare students to “withstand indoctrination on communism at colleges and universities.” The Florida Department of Education drafted the proposed standards and released them publicly last week. The State Board of Education is to vote on them on Nov. 13.^[11]

“Lori Berman renews her fight to shield victims of violence” via Andrew Powell of Florida Politics — Sen. Berman has refiled a bill that would put in place stronger protections and support systems for victims of domestic violence and dating violence. Berman filed the measure (SB 296), which would establish statewide infrastructure to improve emergency response for victims of violence while also supporting confidentiality and raising public awareness. Known as the “Helping Abuse Victims Escape Now (HAVEN) Act,” the bill would expand and update multiple Florida Statutes to include victims of dating violence alongside victims of domestic violence. Public records exemptions would be extended to include victims of dating violence. Victims would be able to apply for address confidentiality through the Attorney General, who would also designate state and local agencies and nonprofit organizations to assist applicants.^[12]

“Adam Botana pushes for Naples Airport Authority restructure^[13]” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Rep. Botana has filed a bill seeking an overhaul of Naples Airport Authority governance by shifting power from city appointees to countywide elected officials. The proposal would transition the five-member Board from its current structure, in which members are appointed by the Naples City Council, to a new system in which voters across Collier County elect all five members. The bill would also require candidates to have at least five years of aviation or aerospace experience to qualify for a seat and would shift the power to fill vacancies to the Governor’s Office rather than City Council. The bill surfaces amid a broader governance tussle with the City of Naples over airport oversight.

“James Bush sues Ashley Gantt, House Democratic Committee for ‘defamation’ in election ads” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — After back-to-back losses at the ballot box, former Democratic Rep. Bush is taking the woman who beat him and organizations that backed her campaign to court, accusing them of defamation. He is seeking more than $1 million in damages and demanding a jury trial for alleged “slander, lies and false information” he says harmed his reputation and led to “relentless public attacks” in his community. Gantt and her lawyer call Bush’s accusations “baseless” and question the timing of the lawsuit, which comes as she and other Democratic lawmakers sue DeSantis for allegedly denying them access to Alligator Alcatraz.^[14]

— STATEWIDE —

“Florida Democrats call on Ron DeSantis to SNAP into action, secure food benefits^[15]” via Gray Rohrer of the Tallahassee Democrat — Florida Democrats are urging Gov. DeSantis to declare a state of emergency and use state funds to prevent a Nov. 1 lapse in SNAP benefits amid the federal shutdown that began Oct. 1. In an Oct. 28 letter, all 43 Democratic lawmakers cited SNAP’s reach to 2.8 million Floridians and argued Florida has the fiscal capacity to bridge the gap — noting DeSantis’ prior emergency spending on immigration enforcement. The Governor’s Office did not respond. Republicans fault Democrats for the impasse, with Senate negotiations snarled over Affordable Care Act subsidies. The Trump administration says it will not deploy emergency funds for SNAP or reimburse states that do. Twenty-five states and Washington, D.C., have sued to compel federal payment.

“DeSantis warns schools, partners with Turning Point USA to create more Florida chapters^[16]” via Stephanie Mutat of the USA Today Network-Florida — DeSantis announced a partnership with Turning Point USA to expand its “Club America” high-school chapters across Florida following founder Charlie Kirk’s September assassination. Speaking in Sarasota, DeSantis said students should be free to start chapters without interference and vowed to intervene if districts resist. Education Commissioner Stasi Kamoutsas warned schools that blocking such clubs would trigger legal action, stressing accountability and civil discourse. While details of the partnership remain vague, DeSantis linked it to new debate programs honoring Kirk, including a $50,000 “Ronald Reagan Presidential Debate” award. The initiative follows broader state efforts to promote conservative speech on campuses, as officials push back against what they call discrimination in student organizing and political expression.

“DeSantis promises no poop on streets if China’s Xi Jinping visits” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis assured that if Trump hosts Chinese leader Jinping at Mar-a-Lago, Florida won’t require cleanup crews to remove human waste as San Francisco did before Xi’s 2023 visit. “It’s nice and people will enjoy it,” DeSantis told Jesse Watters, taking another jab at California’s homelessness crisis. Trump has said Xi may visit South Florida soon as part of talks expected to yield a trade deal. DeSantis credited Trump for strengthening alliances across Asia to counterbalance China’s influence, arguing that those relationships enhance U.S. economic leverage. The Governor’s fixation on San Francisco’s sanitation stems from a past debate with Gavin Newsom, where he showcased a map marking locations of public defecation across the city.^[17]

“Larry Keefe out as Executive Director for State Board of Immigration Enforcement” via the Florida Phoenix — Keefe exited his post in what the Governor’s Office says was a planned move. A former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, Keefe’s position will be taken over effective immediately by Anthony Coker, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement liaison to the state of Florida. This comes months after the Legislature created the Board to consolidate efforts against undocumented immigration and approve state grants to reimburse state and local law enforcement. “Larry has done a number of things in our administration over the years, and he has performed at a very high level with honor and integrity, and we really thank him for his service,” DeSantis said in a Cabinet meeting.^[18]

AG Uthmeier touts capture, extradition of Kentucky child killer — Uthmeier announced that 42-year-old Ronald Exantus, a convicted child murderer from Kentucky, was extradited after being arrested in Marion County for violating parole by failing to register as a felon. Exantus, who brutally stabbed 6-year-old Logan Tipton to death in 2015, had been released early from a 20-year sentence after being found not guilty by reason of insanity. Acting on intelligence, deputies located him living near two schools in Marion Oaks and took him into custody without bond. Uthmeier praised the “vigilance and decisive action” of state and local agencies, calling the case proof of Florida’s commitment to protecting citizens through interagency cooperation and warning violent offenders to stay out of the state.

“Taxpayers are overpaying for opioid overdose reversal drugs, by about $4.5M annually” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — The state of Florida is paying about $4.5 million more per year on drugs used to provide emergent care in cases of opioid overdose. At issue is the state’s continued purchasing of the brand-name Narcan over a lower-cost generic alternative, naloxone, both emergency opioid antagonist products. Over the past year, the state has continued purchasing Narcan, a nasal spray used to reverse opioid overdose, at a cost of about $27 per unit, at a rate of up to 1 million units each year. Meanwhile, the equivalent generic naloxone sells for about $4.50 less, at about $22.50 per unit. Both versions use the same active ingredient and nasal delivery mechanism. Like many generic drugs, the only difference is cost.^[19]

New and renewed lobbying registrations:

Teye Carmichael, Steve Crisafulli, Jeff Hartley, Lisa Hurley, Samuel Powell, Jonathan Rees, SBM Partners: Via Science

Anna DeCerchio, Christopher Dudley, Nicole Kelly, Brian McManus, Sydney Ridley, Clark Smith, The Southern Group: Southeastern Grocers, OpenAI, Equifax

Zachary Hubbard, Rubin Turnbull & Associates: Big Lands Transect Collaborative

Sha’Ron James, Mary McDougal, Arrow Group Consulting: Broward County Public Schools, Curriculum Associates

Karl Rasmussen, Metz Husband & Daughton: Florida Society of Anesthesiologists

Ashley Spicola, Continental Strategy: City of Tavares, Project Build

— D.C. MATTERS —

“No ‘path’ for a third Trump term, Mike Johnson says” via Meredith Lee Hill of POLITICO — House Speaker Johnson said he discussed with Trump the idea of a third term but concluded it’s not possible under the Constitution’s 22nd Amendment. Johnson told reporters Trump “knows the constrictions” of the law and acknowledged there’s no legal path forward. Speculation about a third term resurfaced after former Trump strategist Steve Bannon told The Economist there was a plan to keep Trump in office beyond 2029. Some theorized Trump might run as Vice President and reclaim the presidency, an idea Trump dismissed as “too cute” but didn’t entirely rule out. The renewed talk underscores the persistent fascination — and unease — surrounding Trump’s long-term political ambitions despite clear constitutional limits.^[20]

“Troops will get their paychecks this week, JD Vance says” via Mia McCarthy and Jordain Carney of POLITICO — Vance said military members will continue receiving their pay amid the government shutdown, suggesting to reporters Tuesday that Trump has identified new funding to avoid a first-ever lapse in troop pay. “We believe that we can continue to pay the troops on Friday,” he said after addressing a closed-door Senate GOP lunch. “Unfortunately, we’re not going to be able to pay everybody, because we’ve been handed a very bad hand by the Democrats.” “This is one of the reasons why you’ve seen some layoffs in the federal workforce. We do think that we can continue paying the troops, at least for now,” he added. Vance also said that the White House is working to keep “as much open as possible,” including SNAP, the federal food aid program that is set to run out of cash at the end of the week.^[21]

“Trump indefinitely barred from firing federal workers during shutdown” via Emily Peck of Axios — A federal judge extended her order barring the White House from firing federal workers in a ruling on Tuesday. The White House has so far been thwarted in using the shutdown to extend its purge of the federal workforce. Judge Susan Illston with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California temporarily blocked the Trump administration from firing workers earlier this month — that ruling was set to expire Wednesday. Tuesday’s order, also called a preliminary injunction, extends that injunction “indefinitely.”^[22]

—”Shutdown imperils key education program for young children” via Mackenzie Wilkes of POLITICO^[23]

“Trump administration purges ICE field officials” via Brittany Gibson of Axios — A third major shakeup is happening with top officials at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Trump administration has put significant pressure on ICE to meet the administration’s arrest and deportation goals. Almost half of ICE’s field office directors are being reassigned from their roles in an effort to ramp up immigration enforcement. They will be replaced with leaders from other parts of the Department of Homeland Security, including Border Patrol, which has been assisting ICE in its operations in Los Angeles and Chicago.^[24]

“Senate rejects Trump tariffs on Brazil” via Stef W. Kight of Axios — The Senate voted Tuesday to repeal Trump’s tariffs on Brazil, with five Republicans joining Democrats. The vote serves as a symbolic rebuke of Trump’s trade policies. Speaker Johnson will not hold a vote on the measure (nor would Trump sign it into law). Sen. Tim Kaine led the legislation, and the final vote was 52 to 48. GOP Sens. Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, Mitch McConnell, Rand Paul and Thom Tillis voted yes along with all Democrats. This is the third time Democrats have forced a vote on resolutions to end Trump’s tariffs. It received the most GOP votes so far.^[25]

“Floridians are helping Trump build a White House ballroom” via Romy Ellenbogen of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida’s wealth and influence are helping bankroll Trump’s new $300 million White House ballroom, which he says is funded through donations and his own money. Major Florida-connected contributors include Tampa Bay Buccaneers owners Edward and Shari Glazer, who also have stakes in Manchester United and real estate ventures through First Allied Corp. and US Property Trust; sugar magnates J. Pepe and Emilia Fanjul of Florida Crystals Corp., whose family empire also controls Domino Sugar; and Hard Rock International, owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, led by CEO Jim Allen, a former Trump Organization executive. Additional donors include the Adelson Family Foundation and Palm Beach residents Laura and Isaac Perlmutter, whose philanthropic and political ties to Trump stretch back years.^[26]

“Ashley Moody, Rick Scott urge Trump to press China for release of Hong Kong activist Jimmy Lai during APEC talks” via Anita Padilla of Florida’s Voice — A bipartisan group of more than 30 U.S. Senators, including Moody and Scott, urged Trump to press Chinese President Xi Jinping for the immediate release of Hong Kong pro-democracy leader Lai during their expected meeting this week in South Korea. In a letter sent ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, the Senators called Lai’s imprisonment “unjust.” They warned that the 78-year-old media tycoon’s health is rapidly deteriorating after nearly five years in custody under Hong Kong’s Beijing-imposed National Security Law. They noted that his detention also inhibits his advocacy for religious freedom.^[27]

— ELECTIONS —

“‘We need him’: Latino Victory Fund endorses José Javier Rodríguez for Attorney General” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Latino Victory Fund is all in on former Sen. Rodríguez’s bid to become Florida’s first Latino Attorney General and the first Democrat to hold the job in more than 20 years. The Washington-based progressive political action committee, which works to increase Latino representation in government, is throwing its full support behind Rodriguez. Latino Victory Fund President and CEO Katharine Pichardo called Rodríguez “a dedicated public servant who knows how to fight and win for Florida’s working families.” “The rule of law, honest government, and policies that help our communities thrive are under attack by MAGA Republicans, but leaders like José Javier aren’t afraid to push back,” she said.^[28]

“Miami’s mayoral race has it all: Indictments, dynasties and Trump’s shadow” via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — The city set to host Trump’s future presidential library is also home to the hottest election in Florida — a 13-way mayoral brawl that could test whether Democrats have any pulse left in the state. Miami voters head to the polls Nov. 4 in a race likely headed for a December runoff, pitting MAGA-aligned candidates determined to extend Trump’s influence in South Florida against Democrats trying to claw back relevance in a deep-red state. “Miami is at a precipice. We have, post the pandemic, been blessed with many new residents and many new businesses,” said Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins, a top-polling candidate and registered Democrat. “The city’s corruption, dysfunction and incapability at getting things done is risking that future success.”^[29]

Happening tomorrow:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“‘They are our neighbors’: Miami-Dade leaders rally behind hurricane relief effort” via Amanda Rosa of the Miami Herald — As Hurricane Melissa crept toward the St. Elizabeth parish of Jamaica, South Florida leaders gathered Tuesday morning to encourage residents to give what they can as soon as possible. “Here we are, not waiting to hear that our help is needed,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine-Cava at a news conference at the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) headquarters in Doral. “We are already organized, galvanized and ready to help.” GEM, a disaster relief nonprofit, is at the center of South Florida’s efforts to collect, sort, pack, transport and distribute donated items for Jamaica and other parts of the Caribbean after the Category 5 storm cuts its path through Jamaica and Cuba and heads toward the Atlantic Ocean. Alongside GEM, several South Florida nonprofits and municipalities began organizing donation drives in advance, anticipating catastrophic devastation in Jamaica.^[30]

“South Florida agencies seek to plug potential gap as cutoff in federal SNAP food aid looms” via David Lyons of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — South Florida nonprofit food distributors already pressured by tight money and limited supplies are gearing up for what is potentially their biggest challenge of the year: helping low-income residents who stand to lose federal nutrition benefits by the end of this week. The SNAP may run dry if the government remains largely idle into November and the U.S. Department of Agriculture follows through on a pledge to withhold between $5 billion and $6 billion in contingency funds. Those backup funds, the agency asserted in a recent memo, are for emergencies, including storms such as Hurricane Melissa. “Bottom line, the well has run dry,” the U.S. Department of Agriculture said in a statement. “At this time, there will be no benefits issued Nov. 1.” There have been no reports of any emergency state initiatives to fill the void in Florida.^[31]

“Miami ballot item would make it easier to sell city land without vote by residents” via Tess Riski of the Miami Herald — Miami city officials are pushing to pass a ballot referendum next week that would allow the city to bypass voters when selling or leasing land valued over $500,000. The proposed charter change, listed as referendum #2 on the ballot, would kick in when the city doesn’t receive enough bids for non-waterfront properties. It would give the five-member City Commission the ability, through a four-fifths vote, to offload properties without voter approval in the absence of three bids from interested buyers, as is currently required. Waterfront land is subject to different city rules, and its sale or lease would still require voter approval in a city election. The proposed change was sponsored by the administration of City Manager Art Noriega, the first ballot referendum Noriega said his administration has pushed for during his five-year tenure as the city’s top administrator.^[32]

“Stuart City Manager Michael Mortell’s impassioned defense doesn’t save his job” via Keith Burbank of Treasure Coast Newspapers — City Manager Mortell was fired by the City Commission Oct. 27. But before he got the boot, Mortell got the chance to weigh in on his own behalf and did so vehemently. “This proceeding would not have gone this way if there had been true transparency,” Mortell said during his speech. He left the dais before the Commission’s 3-2 vote, which went along predictable lines.^[33]

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“World’s largest retirement community taps muni market to help build more homes” via Erin Hudson and Anna J Kaiser of Bloomberg — The largest retirement community in the world is expanding even further with a nearly $130 million high-yield debt deal. The Villages, a 57,000-acre Floridian megaplex, already part of the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the U.S. and on Thursday plans to tap municipal-bond investors to help finance a new development with more than 2,800 new homes. The expansion is part of a broader two-decade plan to capitalize on the aging American population and the appeal of a resort-like community among the Baby Boomer generation. The Villages — which has been the subject of documentaries titled “The Bubble” and “Some Kind of Heaven” — expects its resident population to boom by 60% to roughly 260,000 by 2045.^[34]

“Man gets probation and goes on vacation after leaving his puppies in Disney Springs parking garage” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — A man accused of leaving his puppies in his car at a Disney Springs parking garage last year took a plea deal. He was recently sentenced to probation instead of jail so he could go on a European vacation. Days before his criminal trial was scheduled to start last month, Wilson Nieves Cortes pleaded no contest to cruelty to animals, a third-degree felony, after one of his dogs died. Seven misdemeanor charges against him were dropped. Nieves Cortes, 41, of Puerto Rico, was sentenced to three years of probation. In addition, he must donate $500 to a nonprofit helping animals, pay $518 in court fees and undergo a mental health evaluation, according to court records. He is also not allowed to have unsupervised contact with animals. Court records showed Nieves Cortes was set to fly Sept. 28 on a “once in a lifetime trip” after his Sept. 22 plea deal.^[35]

— LOCAL: TB —

“With a high-profile sexual harassment scandal now public, City Hall culture under Ken Welch is again in the spotlight” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — St. Petersburg Mayor Welch’s administration has been plagued by resignations, scandals and an increasingly toxic workplace culture that began early in his term. Allegations of hostility, retaliation and harassment have surfaced repeatedly, culminating in the resignation of Managing Director Brian Caper after a sexual harassment investigation exposed disturbing conduct. Caper’s behavior — and the administration’s failure to act on earlier warnings — points to deeper dysfunction at City Hall, where nepotism, lax oversight and poor morale appear entrenched. Welch’s cousin, a top administrator accused of inappropriate behavior in Caper’s texts, further underscores the perception of favoritism. With multiple credible challengers emerging for 2026, including Brandi Gabbard and possibly Charlie Crist, Welch faces a mounting credibility crisis threatening his re-election prospects.^[36]

“St. Petersburg to open brief window for Trop redevelopment pitches” via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — For the third time in five years, St. Petersburg is seeking a developer for its most prized tract of land: Tropicana Field, also known as the Historic Gas Plant District. But this latest run at landing a makeover for some or all of the 86 acres breaks from past norms. The city has not put out a written list of criteria to guide prospective bidders. And instead of giving months to sharpen pitches, the city is opening a 30-day window to apply in mid-November, right before Thanksgiving. At least one major developer from South Florida wants more time. Mayor Welch has not announced the formal start and end dates.^[37]

“How and when will St. Pete replace erased murals?” via Mark Parker of St. Pete Catalyst — St. Petersburg officials continue exploring ways to express the city’s diversity and inclusivity without drawing the ire of state leadership. Many stakeholders are ready for action. During an Oct. 23 Committee of the Whole meeting, Council member Gina Driscoll told her colleagues that if they moved high-visibility concepts forward with unity rather than disagreement, they would “arrive at a really great place” by the end of the discussion. She apologized to the community an hour later for a “Bermuda Triangle of bureaucracy” impeding those efforts. “I was expecting that today, two months after we started this saga, something would be coming; something was imminent,” Driscoll said. “I cannot stress enough the urgency that has been communicated about responding to this.”^[38]

“Tampa police receive $430K for immigration training, enforcement” via Ashley Borja of the Tampa Bay Times — The Tampa Police Department will receive a little more than $430,000 in federal funding to expand its immigration enforcement program, deputizing 18 more officers and covering overtime for all police personnel deputized by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Board of Immigration Enforcement, composed of DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet, approved more than $4 million in reimbursements to 15 local Police Departments and Sheriff’s Offices. This is the second time the state has authorized reimbursement funds to local enforcement agencies. In late September, the Board approved $14 million to more than 50 agencies.^[39]

“Tampa General plans to build a hospital as part of Citrus County expansion” via Meleah Lyden of WUSF — Tampa General Hospital is expanding its footprint in Citrus County with the acquisition of a 53-acre property adjacent to the TGH Crystal River Emergency Center in Citrus Hills. Plans for the site include a hospital, medical office building, central energy plant and helipad. This is the latest addition to TGH North, which encompasses the Tampa General facilities in Hernando and Citrus counties, north of Tampa. Steve Short, TGH’s executive vice president of strategic growth, said the system is excited about how this expansion could transform care for the “burgeoning Citrus Hills community.”^[40]

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Leon Sheriff’s Office gets OK for $500K reimbursement for role in illegal immigration crackdown” via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — The Florida State Board of Immigration Enforcement approved up to $500,000 in reimbursements for the Leon County Sheriff’s Office to support enforcement of state immigration policies. The funds will cover deputy training, detainee transport, jail housing costs and new software for data reporting to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. LCSO has trained 21 deputies, far surpassing the Tallahassee Police Department’s single trained officer, and plans to train additional staff. The agency said its expanded role makes sense because it also operates the county jail. The reimbursement follows LCSO’s participation in the federal 287(g) program, which allows deputies to enforce immigration laws and work with ICE. Activists have criticized Tallahassee officials for approving the agreement without public input.^[41]

“Get rid of property tax? City parks will be ‘wiped out,’ Tallahassee Mayor says” via James Call of the Tallahassee Democrat — Tallahassee Mayor John E. Dailey told Leon County’s delegation to the Florida Legislature that the state capital would pay a steep price if voters agree with DeSantis and eliminate property taxes in the Sunshine State. The price tag for the Florida House’s proposed constitutional amendments that either reduce or eliminate property taxes is Tallahassee’s award-winning parks and recreation department. “It will wipe out parks and recreation,” Dailey said during a pre-Legislative Session public hearing held Oct. 27. In attendance were Sen. Corey Simon, Rep. Jason Shoaf, and Tallahassee-area state representatives Allison Tant and Gallop Franklin.^[42]

“Holon signs deal to build its driverless shuttles in $100 million Jacksonville facility” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — A year after Germany-based Holon picked Jacksonville as its U.S. site for making autonomous transit shuttles, the company inked an agreement that put the wheels in motion to start construction of the plant next year for manufacturing the first self-driving shuttles made in America. Holon also announced this week that Jacksonville will be the company’s headquarters for its U.S. operations, as Holon seeks to stake a global leadership position in building autonomous transit vehicles loaded with technology that guides them without a driver on board.^[43]

“‘Keep it as it is’: Miccosukee seek to protect North Florida homelands from development” via Ana Goñi-Lessan of the USA Today Network-Florida — The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida is working to preserve Lake Miccosukee, a pristine prairie lake east of Tallahassee that holds deep cultural and historical significance. Once home to the tribe before their forced relocation during the Seminole Wars, the lake remains one of Florida’s last untouched natural landscapes. Partnering with the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation, the tribe seeks to protect the area from future development and add it to the statewide conservation network. While Florida Forever and conservation easements protect nearby land, thousands of acres remain vulnerable. Tribal members and conservation leaders warn that growth pressures will eventually reach the region, urging immediate action to safeguard the lake’s ecology, history and spiritual importance.^[44]

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Sarasota’s New College says it will be first school to sign Trump’s education compact” via Christian Casale of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — As the Trump administration has clashed with the country’s higher education institutions, Sarasota’s New College of Florida has eagerly stepped into the breach and adhered to the President’s agenda. The college announced it will be the first to sign the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education, a series of policies that institutions would follow to improve funding preferences. New College spokesperson James Miller said in a press release that the federal standards promote “academic rigor, accountability and institutional transparency.” “As other colleges have rejected the compact, we see it as a bold step forward from the Trump administration that will help preserve America’s place as the world’s No. 1 destination for higher education,” Miller said.^[45]

“Bradenton police say school zone cameras are slowing down drivers” via Kristen Barbaresi of WTSP — The city of Bradenton says its school zone cameras are making a big difference. Police say the number of speeders near schools has dropped dramatically — and they credit the program for keeping kids safer. Last year, one of the fastest drivers was caught on camera going 73 mph in a 40-mph school zone. “That is highway speed on a neighborhood street,” said Meredith Censullo, Public Information Officer for the Bradenton Police Department. “It’s just troubling to know there are people doing that.” Since the cameras were installed, officers say they’ve seen a major change. “We studied traffic at nine schools on one day and we had over 3,500 speeders,” Censullo said. “One year later, that dropped 91%.” This school year, Bradenton’s speed zone cameras have issued 3,541 violations. The highest speed recorded so far was 67 mph in a 40-mph zone.^[46]

— TOP OPINION —

“Anti-gay Christian schools are welcome in Florida. But Muslim ones?” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — For years, Florida’s taxpayer-funded voucher program has funneled public money into religious schools that discriminate and distort facts.^[47]

Investigations uncovered schools that expelled LGBTQ students, rejected children with disabilities, and taught pseudoscience and revisionist history — all while lawmakers defended this as “choice.”

But when Muslim-run schools began receiving voucher funds, many of those same politicians suddenly objected. Members of the Freedom Caucus and Florida Attorney General Uthmeier have called for investigations and defunding, revealing the hypocrisy at the heart of the system.

If Christian schools can discriminate freely, they argue, Islamic schools cannot.

The real problem isn’t which religion benefits — it’s that any school using public dollars is allowed to discriminate, indoctrinate or rewrite reality without accountability.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Why the government shutdown will be over by Halloween” via Matt Hickman of Herald/Review Media — The ongoing government shutdown is being compared to a high-stakes poker game — and Democrats “have the nuts,” or the unbeatable hand. Republicans, led by Trump and Speaker Johnson, face mounting pressure as the shutdown nears its 26th day and the Affordable Care Act’s open enrollment begins Nov. 1. Without extending ACA tax credits, premiums will double for 24 million Americans, mostly in red states that rejected Medicaid expansion. Trump’s public hint at negotiating with Democrats reveals his “tell,” signaling weakness. Known as a “blinds stealer,” Trump pushes hard but folds before losing big — the “TACO” (Trump Always Chickens Out) pattern. He’s likely to spin reopening the government as heroic, saving face while avoiding catastrophic political loss.^[48]

“Florida must lead on securing health care from China’s influence” via Doug Wheeler for Florida Politics — A growing national security concern lies within the U.S. health care system’s dependence on Chinese-manufactured medical devices. These devices — ranging from hospital monitors to diagnostic tools — are deeply embedded in American hospitals, creating potential backdoors for cyberintrusion and data theft. Federal regulators have already warned of vulnerabilities that could let foreign actors access sensitive patient data or disrupt hospital operations. The issue extends beyond technology; it threatens U.S. economic independence and public safety. Florida, with its history of resisting CCP influence, can lead by ensuring that taxpayer-funded health care relies only on secure, transparent technology. Through procurement standards, tax incentives and pro-innovation policies, the state can strengthen domestic manufacturing and protect both patients and national security from foreign manipulation.^[49]

“The property taxes DeSantis wants to end keep Florida a good place to live” via Laurence Reisman of Treasure Coast Newspapers — It’s sometimes easy to question the logic of the gentleman governing the third-largest state in the nation. Like the other day when DeSantis posted on X: “Home ownership should mean you fully own your home, not be forced to pay rent to the government in the form of property taxes.” But this isn’t only about logic. It’s about the property tax red herring DeSantis and the Legislature continue to use for political misdirection instead of focusing on several more important issues: insurance rates, inflation, access to health care, the economy, better jobs, home rule, etc. When DeSantis can’t explain what would happen if property taxes are eliminated, something’s awry, big time.^[50]

“A gambling world that sports leagues need to get under control” via Dave Hyde of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Lamar Jackson will start for the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night against the Miami Dolphins. Coach John Harbaugh said so, Jackson noted so and — here’s the relevant news — the Ravens’ injury report confirmed it Tuesday in listing Jackson as “Full Practice.” Under normal circumstances, any Dolphins fan would give a why-us shrug and, more to the point, bettors would wager accordingly. But circumstances were not normal last week, when the Ravens’ injury report and the arrest of three NBA figures on gambling charges created a sky-is-falling theme in the sports world. This was inevitable, right? A sports world that didn’t just invite gambling into games but handed it a drink and sat it in the owners’ suite had a scandal.^[51]

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

(Dedicated to Mike Griffin and Scott Ross):

— ALOE —

“Mason DeSantis’ Halloween costume channels FSU spirit as Osceola” via James Call of USA Today Network — Mason DeSantis, son of Ron DeSantis, will go trick-or-treating this year as Osceola, the designated symbol of Florida State University athletics. Gov. DeSantis disclosed his second grader’s costume during an Oct. 27 appearance on Fox News’ Jesse Watters Primetime. The legendary Seminole warrior plants a flaming spear at the 50-year line at the beginning of FSU home football games. Mason, 7, is “a die-hard Florida State fan, so he is going as Chief Osceola,” his father told Watters. “I’m not sure I’m going to turn him loose with a flaming spear, but he is going to have all the other accouterments.”^[52]

“MAGA singles are looking for love in Washington. It’s a challenge.” via Jesús Rodríguez of The Washington Post — Conservative singles in Washington are struggling to find compatible partners in a city dominated by liberals, where 92.5% voted for Kamala Harris. For women like Morgan Housley and Taylor Hathorn, both seeking devout, masculine men who share their values, the dating scene has been disappointing — full of workaholics, nominal Christians and political tension. The Trump administration’s return has not eased the challenge, as political polarization now overshadows romance. Many conservatives are turning inward, frequenting MAGA-themed mixers, Catholic socials and events like “Make America Hot Again” or the “Harvest Moon Hoedown.” Yet even among like-minded circles, lasting connections remain rare. In a transient city driven by ambition, many conservatives find that faith and ideology aren’t enough to overcome Washington’s isolation.^[53]

“Florida’s solar apprenticeship program builds skilled workforce for a growing industry” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — As solar energy continues to surge as one of the nation’s fastest-growing industries, Florida has positioned itself at the forefront of developing a skilled workforce ready to meet the demand. A first-of-its-kind solar apprenticeship program, launched through a partnership between the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) and the Florida Solar Energy Industries Association (FlaSEIA), is helping to train and certify the next generation of solar professionals while keeping jobs and economic benefits in the Sunshine State. For years, industry leaders sought to create a formal training pathway for solar workers. Historically, the U.S. Department of Labor did not classify solar as an “apprenticeable trade,” arguing that solar job tasks overlapped with existing construction-related apprenticeships. Yet, the solar sector’s rapid growth and evolving technologies made the need for specialized training clear.^[54]

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best wishes to former state Rep. and Polk Co. Supervisor of Elections Melony Bell, former state Rep. and congressional candidate George Moraitis, Kristen Bridges of GrayRobinson, Rivers Buford III, Anthony Pardal, and Caroline Rowland.

___

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