Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 10.6.25

Good Monday morning.

Ron Book was the first member of the Florida lobbying corps to earn a Nobel Prize nomination, and now he’s got a leg up on snagging a SAG card.^[1]

The veteran lobbyist makes a brief but memorable appearance in “Haul Out the Halloween,” a Hallmark Channel original film set to drop Oct. 11 at 8 p.m. (cord-cutters can catch it streaming on Hallmark+ starting Oct. 12).^[2]

The movie, starring Lacey Chabert of “Mean Girls” fame, is the third installment in Hallmark’s “Haul Out the Holly” franchise, which, according to TV Insider, mixes suburban HOA politics into feel-good holiday chaos.^[3]

This time, the crew trades Christmas lights for cobwebs as Evergreen Lane launches “EverScream Lane,” a spooky neighborhood fundraiser that somehow still ends with a tidy moral and perfect lighting.

Book pops up alongside Chabert in an HOA scene — we weren’t granted an advanced screening, but we’re betting it will be the most realistic portrayal of local lobbying you’ll see on Hallmark this decade.

While Chabert couldn’t make “fetch” happen, here’s hoping she can convince Hallmark to make Book a regular in the “Haul Out the Holly” cinematic universe.

Check out the trailer via Hallmark or click the image below.^[4]

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Florida TaxWatch’s 46th Annual Meeting opens this week with a packed agenda blending fiscal discipline, public service and a few well-placed punchlines.

Most of Monday is dedicated to the FTW Board members-only Gov. Bob and Mary Jane Martinez Citizenship Institute, with the Chairman’s Dinner to follow.

Lt. Gov. Jay Collins will deliver the keynote at the kickoff reception, which begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Palm Ballroom of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World.

The bulk of the programming is reserved for Tuesday, when Attorney General James Uthmeier is scheduled to deliver a “State of the State” address. Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, perhaps the most quotable Sheriff in the U.S., follows with “A Conversation on Accountable Leadership.”

Also on the agenda: An hourlong discussion on Florida’s Media Landscape with yours truly.

View the full agenda here.^[5]

—“Florida TaxWatch warns Florida’s employee health insurance trust fund could be exhausted if changes aren’t made” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics^[6]

___

Americans for Prosperity is launching a new website this week, with updated pages for each state chapter. The Florida page emphasizes that “freedom is brighter in Florida” and highlights how AFP-Florida is working to advance lasting policy solutions throughout the state.

To check out the new site, please click the image below^[7]:

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“Want more Florida Politics in your Google News feed? There’s a new tool for that.” — Google News has launched a new “preferred sources” feature, allowing users to customize their “Top Stories” feed to display content from their favorite publications prominently.^[8]

For followers of Florida’s political landscape, this tool is a game-changer, ensuring they receive timely, in-depth reporting on the Governor’s office, the Legislature and high-stakes campaigns.

By selecting Florida Politics as a preferred source, readers can prioritize its indispensable coverage, ensuring they see the latest headlines on key issues, such as property insurance and the state budget, first. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to enable the feature. Don’t forget about other ways to connect, such as through our breaking news text messages, following @Fla_Pol on X, and signing up for newsletters like Last Call, Takeaways from Tallahassee and The Delegation.^{[9][10][11][12][13]}

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@JamesUthmeierFL: There’s only one answer for Virginia: bring back @JasonMiyaresVA^[14] as your Attorney General. He’s a tough-on-crime top law enforcement officer who displays strength and honor. The Democrat alternative entertains violence toward political opponents.

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

—@BrianRoemmele: Yesterday was the last day an AOL modem picked up the line for a dial-up customer to log in to the Internet. It is an end of an era and frankly a few hundred still used the service knowingly. I still have a BBS running for dial-up AI and Bitcoin access.

Tweet, tweet:

—@BMarcello: Florida State has lost nine of its last 10 ACC games. When FSU joined the ACC in 1992, it took over 13 years to lose nine conference games (101-9 in first 110 ACC games).

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

’Tron: Ares’ premieres — 4; ‘Six Kings Slam,’ featuring six of men’s tennis’ best players in the world, premieres on Netflix — 9; Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 14; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 15; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 20; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 21; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 29; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 41; ’Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 46; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 51; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 53; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 58; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 58; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 64; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 67; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 72; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 74; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 80; Legislative Session begins — 99; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 99; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 123; last day of the Regular Session — 158; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 170; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 171; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 182; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 191; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 196; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 200; F1 Miami begins — 207; ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 228; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 239; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 245; State Qualifying Period ends — 249; FIFA World Cup begins — 248; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 271; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 276; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 281; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 283; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 287; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 304; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 306; Primary Election Day 2026 — 316; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 340; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 344; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 348; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 353; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 360; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 364; Early Votion General Election Mandatory period begins — 383; 2026 General Election — 393; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 438; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 438; Tampa Mayoral Election — 512; Jacksonville First Election — 533; Jacksonville General Election — 589; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 607; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 669; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 725; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 802; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1012; U.S. Presidential Election — 1128; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1528; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2259.

— TOP STORY —

“Prosecutors convening grand jury in Hope Florida investigation” via Lawrence Mower, Alexandra Glorioso and Justin Garcia of the Tampa Bay Times — Prosecutors in Tallahassee are convening a grand jury this month as part of a criminal probe into the Hope Florida Foundation, a charity championed by Casey DeSantis. Witnesses have been subpoenaed to testify, though their identities and the targets of the investigation remain undisclosed.^[15]

The inquiry stems from revelations that the DeSantis administration directed $10 million from a Medicaid settlement with Centene through the foundation, with nearly all of it ultimately funding a political committee aimed at defeating a marijuana legalization initiative.

The money trail prompted a legislative investigation, with Rep. Alex Andrade alleging a conspiracy to commit money laundering and wire fraud by Uthmeier, the former Chief of Staff, and the foundation’s attorney, Jeff Aaron.

Gov. DeSantis has dismissed the investigation as politically motivated, accusing critics of manufacturing a case. But prosecutors rarely convene grand juries unless they believe potential crimes occurred, particularly in sensitive corruption cases.

The scandal has complicated Casey DeSantis’ political ambitions and cast a shadow over Hope Florida, a program designed to steer residents away from government assistance by linking them to faith-based groups.

Lawmakers also found the foundation violated state transparency laws and concealed the source of the $10 million until pressed. Records show state officials inserted the donation into settlement negotiations, and the money was routed through nonprofits to a political committee. The grand jury’s findings could determine whether indictments are issued and whether one of the most politically charged scandals in Florida deepens further.

— STATEWIDE —

“Ron DeSantis just re-stacked the deck on the Board that sets electricity rates in Florida” via Jason Garcia of Seeking Rents — A year after lawmakers erased “climate change” from state law, banned offshore wind projects and weakened fossil fuel oversight, the Governor has tapped the bill’s sponsor to help oversee Florida’s energy system. Former Rep. Bobby Payne, a longtime ally of utility interests and recipient of more than $150,000 in industry campaign money, is set to join the state’s Public Service Commission, which will soon decide whether to approve a nearly $7 billion rate hike and one of the highest profit margins in the nation. Payne’s history of delivering tax breaks and siding with powerful utilities underscores how deeply politics and corporate influence shape decisions that will directly affect Floridians’ energy costs in the years ahead.^[16]

“Amid Florida’s property tax debate, cities and counties hike fees to cover rising costs” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Amid increased scrutiny of their property tax collections, some cities and counties are emphasizing a different method to fund core services. They’re turning to service fees to augment their budgets, using them to pay for spiking public safety salaries, construction costs for new fire stations, equipment and digging up aging pipes below busy streets. Tacked onto property tax bills, these fees can’t be spent as freely as general tax revenues, but they often don’t draw the same complaints either. Mike Steigerwald, Kissimmee’s City Manager, “ … at the end of the day, we have to make sure we’re diverse in our revenue streams.”^[17]

“Coaster death reignites debate over Florida’s regulation of theme parks” via Skyler Swisher of the Orlando Sentinel — Universal Orlando reopened the Stardust Racers roller coaster Saturday, less than three weeks after 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was found unresponsive on it and died. That decision, apparently made by park management itself, overrode the family’s wishes that it remain closed until all investigations are completed. Universal company officials stated that their review found the ride to be functioning properly and that employees had followed the correct procedures. State officials observed and reviewed testing, and the ride’s manufacturer and a third-party roller coaster engineering expert validated the findings, according to a company memo. However, critics argue that the company drove that process, as is typical in Florida’s regulatory scheme. “It’s the fox guarding the henhouse. That’s the best way to describe it,” said Ken Martin, a Virginia-based ride safety analyst.^[18]

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Judge temporarily blocks Donald Trump administration from deploying troops in Portland, Oregon^[19]” via Claire Rush and Rebecca Boone of The Associated Press — A federal judge in Oregon temporarily blocked Trump’s plan to deploy the National Guard in Portland, ruling that the move was unjustified by the city’s small, mostly peaceful protests and would undermine state sovereignty. U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut, a Trump appointee, wrote that the President’s decision was “untethered to the facts” and warned against “military intrusion into civil affairs.” The state and city had sued after the administration announced plans to federalize 200 Guard troops to protect federal property. The White House immediately appealed, defending the deployment as necessary to safeguard assets. Oregon officials hailed the ruling as a crucial check on presidential power, calling Trump’s depiction of the city as “war-ravaged” a political fabrication.

“Trump seizes on shutdown to punish political foes” via Tony Romm of The New York Times — Trump has embarked on a legally dubious campaign to weaponize the federal budget during a contentious government shutdown, halting more than $27 billion in approved funding in a bid to punish Democratic-led cities and states. Rather than broker a legislative truce or seek to ameliorate the fallout of a costly fiscal stalemate, the President has leveraged the crisis to exact revenge on rivals, slash federal spending and pressure Democrats into accepting his political demands. Since the shutdown started on Wednesday, the Trump administration has canceled or delayed federal aid to 16 states, most of them run by Democrats Budget experts said they could not recall a time when a President had weaponized funding in this manner during a shutdown, even when Mr. Trump occupied the White House during the most extended closure in U.S. history — a five-week interruption in late 2018 and early 2019.^[20]

“Once again, Supreme Court rules Trump can strip Venezuelans of TPS protections” via Verónica Egui Brito and Syra Ortiz Blanes of the Miami Herald — The justices granted an emergency request from the Trump administration to block the ruling of Northern California District Judge Edward Chen. Last month, Chen ordered federal officials to restore a Joe Biden-era extension of Temporary Protected Status for Venezuela, which was set to expire in October 2026. The justices also wrote that the future of the protections will depend on how an appeals court in California responds to a separate appeal from the Trump administration regarding the same case, currently pending in San Francisco. “Although the posture of the case has changed, the parties’ legal arguments and relative harms have not,” the court said in a 300-word ruling. “The same result that we reached in May is appropriate here.” The ruling especially makes those with no other lawful pathways vulnerable to deportation to a homeland in turmoil so extreme that the federal government opted to grant TPS in the first place.^[21]

“Trump administration offers migrant children cash to self-deport” via Maria Sacchetti of The Washington Post — The Trump administration is offering $2,500 to unaccompanied migrant children ages 14 and older if they return to their home countries voluntarily. A government record detailing the “Family Assistance Reintegration Program” says that minors residing in the U.S. Health and Human Services shelters will be eligible. As of August, an average of 2,000 minors were in shelters, according to agency data. Department of Homeland Security officials announced on Friday that financial assistance will first be offered to 17-year-olds. They described the program as “strictly voluntary” and aimed at helping children return to their families. Minors will be given the money only after an immigration judge grants their request to depart the United States and they return home, the department said.^[22]

“How Marco Rubio went from Trump’s political opponent to the White House inner circle” via Emily Goodwin of the Miami Herald — As Trump overturns traditional U.S. alliances and transforms America’s role in the world, Rubio has become the point man for carrying out the President’s “America first” policies. It’s been a long journey for Rubio, one that has seen him evolve from a Trump critic to the President’s right-hand man, holding the joint titles of Secretary of State and National Security Adviser. Now he has a prime seat at the table, whether that is in bilateral meetings at the United Nations, sit-downs with other leaders in the Oval Office, state dinners at Windsor Castle or small group policy discussions in Chief of Staff Susie Wiles’ office. Critics say it’s come at a price that includes injecting Trump’s personal politics into the State Department and shifting his own policy positions to make himself more amenable to the President.^[23]

“Rick Scott files ‘Stop ANTIFA Act’” via Mitch Perry of the Florida Phoenix — A week after Trump signed an executive order designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization, Florida Republican U.S. Sen. Scott has introduced federal legislation to codify that order. Antifa is a decentralized leftist movement that stands for “anti-fascist.” It lacks a hierarchical organizational structure, bank accounts and revenue streams. Scott’s Stop ANTIFA Act directs the National Joint Terrorism Task Force to coordinate and supervise a comprehensive national strategy to “investigate, prosecute, and disrupt entities and individuals engaged in acts of political violence and intimidation designed to suppress lawful political activity or obstruct the rule of law.” “Antifa has gotten away with its evils and terrorized cities across our country for far too long,” Scott said in a written statement.^[24]

“With the government shutdown threatening air travel, a GOP bill seeks to keep flights running” via Peter Pinedo of Fox News — As federal agencies hunker down for what could be a protracted government shutdown, Rep. Aaron Bean is introducing a bill to make sure that Americans’ flights can continue on schedule no matter how long the closure lasts. In a statement to Fox News Digital, Bean’s office called the bill a “preemptive strike against chaos in the control tower, ensuring that the backbone of our aviation system doesn’t buckle under political gridlock.” The statement explained, “This isn’t just about paychecks. It’s about keeping our skies safe, our flights on time and our economy airborne.”^[25]

— ELECTIONS —

“‘No way’: Trumpworld won’t help Madison Cawthorn attempt a political comeback” via Reese Gorman of NOTUS — Once a MAGA poster child, Cawthorn is attempting a political comeback — this time in an open House seat in Florida — but he shouldn’t expect any help from those in Trump’s orbit. “No way,” one source close to Trump told NOTUS when asked whether Cawthorn would get the backing of the President and his circle. A second source close to the White House said that they “don’t think it’s a high priority” to help get Cawthorn elected. “Madison was a disaster in his first term in Congress, and everything that Team Trump has seen from him since only makes people think he’s going to be even a bigger disaster this time around,” another source close to the White House told NOTUS.^[26]

“‘Incredible momentum’: Robin Peguero reports $330K raised in first quarter running for CD 27” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Former federal prosecutor Peguero is swiftly gaining ground in the Democratic Primary race for Florida’s 27th Congressional District. Peguero’s campaign reported this week that in his first quarter campaigning, he stacked more than $330,000 — outpacing the Primary’s current fundraising leader and delivering what his camp called “the strongest showing for any Democratic challenger in any targeted district in Florida this cycle.” Official fundraising reports from federal-level candidates are due Oct. 15. According to Peguero’s campaign, more than 2,500 donors have contributed to him so far. The winner of that race next year will face Republican U.S. Rep. María Elvira Salazar, who is seeking a fourth term.^[27]

“‘I know what’s at stake’: Terrance Freeman launches HD 12 campaign” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — A former President of the Jacksonville City Council is looking to succeed term-limited Wyman Duggan in House District 12. “The people of Northeast Florida deserve a representative who will always put their values first,” Terrance Freeman said in a statement announcing his run. “I’m ready to stand in the fight for freedom, opportunity and prosperity — and I will never waver in that mission.” Freeman begins his campaign with a considerable war chest in a district that is drawn to help Republicans. His “For the Future We Want” committee has more than $200,000 in the bank. HD 12 encompasses parts of Jacksonville’s Westside and Southside, crossing the St. Johns River. The district has a GOP plurality, with more than 47,000 Republicans, more than 38,000 Democrats and more than 25,000 independent voters.^[28]

“AIF endorses Freeman for HD 12” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — The Associated Industries of Florida is backing Freeman in the race for Jacksonville-based House District 12. “AIF is proud to support Terrance Freeman for Florida House District 12. From his time as a professional baseball player to his time on the Jacksonville City Council, Terrance has a long track record of bringing people together behind a common cause,” said AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis.^[29]

Happening Tuesday:

Happening this weekend:

Save the date:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“CFO’s Broward figures sound shocking, but leave property tax picture murkier than before” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Bolstered by polished-for-TV visuals, Florida’s CFO brought his traveling property tax exhibition to Pembroke Pines. The intent was clear: Depict Broward County government as a hotbed of wasteful, abusive and excessive spending. CFO Ingoglia got the desired headlines. But after the big reveal — he removed a large blue cloth to reveal a large chart on an easel purporting to show “overspending” and “overtaxing” and held up a series of smaller cards with big numbers — questions abound. It remains unclear if the spending is profligate, as Ingoglia and DeSantis assert. Or if it’s hyperbole from the Republican state officials designed to make the Democratic-controlled county government look bad. Or if it’s aimed at helping to sell voters on an audacious push from Ingoglia and DeSantis to drastically reduce or even eliminate property taxes for residential homeowners — and further the two officials’ political ambitions.^[30]

“Pam Bondi’s firing of federal prosecutor in Miami threatened to derail big Medicare fraud trial” via Jay Weaver of the Miami Herald — Bondi’s firing of Will Rosenzweig threatened to upend the trial of two Medicare fraud defendants set to start on Monday because he was the lead prosecutor. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said it was not prepared to proceed without him. A fellow prosecutor involved in the case asked a federal judge to delay the start of the trial until early November, saying if he didn’t grant his request, the U.S. Attorney’s Office would consider dropping the health care fraud and conspiracy charges against them. Usually, when federal prosecutors weigh whether to dismiss an indictment before trial, it’s for lack of evidence — not for lack of a prosecutor to try the case — underscoring perhaps the unintended consequences of Bondi’s firing of Rosenzweig on Sept. 23 while he was observing the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, with his family.^[31]

“Miami-Dade School Board member proposes fix to stalled bus safety camera program” via Clara-Sophia Daly of the Miami Herald — The school bus safety program was approved by Miami-Dade County School District in August 2023 as a “turn-key” solution proffered by BusPatrol, a company that would install cameras on buses, work with the Sheriff’s Office to issue $225 citations to drivers who failed to stop, and ensure motorists could contest them in court. The program aimed to provide safety for children who use public school buses by ticketing drivers who fail to stop at the extended stop arms of buses receiving and dropping off students. The program was revenue-generating, so it didn’t require School Board approval. School Board member Danny Espino proposed contracting with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings, based in Tallahassee, which uses administrative law judges to hear challenges to traffic citations virtually. Hillsborough County already uses the model.^[32]

“Miami Beach loses appeal to keep rainbow crosswalk amid battle with FDOT: Commissioner” via NBC 6 South Florida — In a post on social media, Commissioner Alex Fernandez said the Florida Department of Transportation issued a ruling Friday afternoon calling for the removal of the crosswalk located at Ocean Drive and 12th Street. The city filed the appeal after the state requested the removal of the crosswalk a month ago. The state of Florida said removing rainbow crosswalks across Florida is about maintaining consistent roadway safety standards, but critics said it’s about targeting the LGBTQ community. Fernandez noted that the city will explore alternative ways to celebrate inclusivity.^[33]

“What before/after crash data reveals from West Palm, Boynton, Delray rainbow intersections” via Chris Persaud of The Palm Beach Post — Intersections in West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach and Delray Beach were painted with the rainbow art in 2021 to honor LGBT inclusion and unity. By September, they were removed after the FDOT issued a memorandum stating that street murals posed traffic hazards and that the department could withhold state funds from cities that did not remove their street art. However, in two of the three rainbow intersections, the number of crashes declined after those cities colorized their intersections in June 2021, according to police data from January 2017 through August 2025. The exception occurred in Boynton Beach, where there were no crashes at the intersection of East Ocean Avenue and Northeast First Street from 2017 through 2021; however, four crashes occurred after the intersection was painted.^[34]

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Meet the four candidates vying to be Lakeland’s Mayor in the November election” via Sara-Megan Walsh of The Ledger — Mayor Bill Mutz, who was elected in 2017, made it publicly known in March that he had no intention of seeking a third term. Sara Roberts McCarley, current City Commissioner representing the Southwest District, was the first to announce she was launching a campaign for the Mayor’s seat. Southeastern University professor Cedrick Valrie quickly followed, filing in April. Two other challengers, health care professional Kay Klymko and Lakeland bartender Kaitlin Kramer, threw their hats in the ring closer to the qualification deadline of Sept. 19. There’s a wide variety of perspectives, experiences, age ranges and cultural backgrounds between the candidates, who seek a four-year term in office. The Mayor is an at-large position, meaning all registered Lakeland voters may cast a ballot in this race.^[35]

“Calls mount for Palm Bay Council member to resign or be removed over anti-Indian immigrant posts” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Elected leaders from both sides of the political aisle and at all levels of government are putting Palm Bay Council member Chandler Langevin on blast over a string of anti-Indian social media comments he has posted in recent weeks. Langevin, a 33-year-old Republican veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who was elected in November, has posted numerous incendiary, racist and xenophobic statements online through his X account. His most frequent targets in recent weeks have been immigrants from India and their descendants. On Tuesday, one day after Palm Bay Mayor Rob Medina penned a letter denouncing his words without naming him, Langevin wrote on X that he received support from “working class Americans and parents” before doubling down on his comments. U.S. Sen. Scott, sharing a news report about the Thursday City Council meeting, said on X that there is “no place for this kind of hate in Florida.”^[36]

— LOCAL: TB —

“Hillsborough Sheriff leaders under scrutiny amid growing cheating scandal” via Dan Sullivan and Tony Marrero of the Tampa Bay Times — Two high-ranking Hillsborough County Sheriff’s officials are under an internal investigation. A third quit the agency this week after it was revealed they’d corresponded with a man at the center of academic cheating allegations that preceded last month’s resignation of Chief Deputy Anthony Collins. Michael Hannaford and Chris Rule, both colonels with the Sheriff’s Office, exchanged emails in 2021 and 2022 with Robert Roush, in which they sought his help with writing assignments, according to public records obtained by the Tampa Bay Times. It is unclear how much Roush helped the pair. Both colonels remain employed and have not been suspended. Capt. Lora Rivera, who oversaw the sheriff’s professional standards bureau, resigned Thursday amid allegations she’d paid Roush to complete a work-related paper for her. “I’m absolutely embarrassed,” Chronister told the Times. “I’m livid. I’m heartbroken.”^[37]

“Hillsborough schools rank second in nation for book removals, report says” via Nakylah Carter and Divya Kumar of the Tampa Bay Times — Maya Angelou, James Baldwin, Chuck Palahniuk and Stephen King are among the hundreds of authors whose books were temporarily or permanently yanked from some school library shelves in Hillsborough County over the last school year. In all, Hillsborough had the second-most titles pulled from any School District in the U.S. during the year ending in June, according to a data analysis of school book removals. The study, which ranked Florida first among states in the number of pulled books, comes as the clash over what students can and cannot read continues to divide classrooms and campuses across the nation.^[38]

“New Trop site deal? Ken Welch ‘reviewing it in detail’” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — St. Petersburg Mayor Welch says his administration is reviewing “in detail” an unsolicited proposal from developer Casey Ellison and investor Cathie Wood to buy available portions of the Tropicana Field site and redevelop it in phases. In his statement, Welch thanked Ellison, Wood and Jonathan Graham, president of the Black-owned HORUS Construction Services, for their interest in reimagining the space. Baker Barrios, an architecture firm, is also a project partner. “I appreciate their interest in developing the Historic Gas Plant District — which remains a top priority of my administration — as well as their ongoing commitments to our community,” Welch said.^[39]

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Jacksonville City Council VP addresses budget concerns raised by DeSantis and CFO Blaise Ingoglia^[40]” via Ajay Uppaluri of News4Jax — Jacksonville opened its new fiscal year with a hard-fought budget that City Council Vice President Nick Howland called “a big win for Jacksonville’s families,” while conceding it’s not perfect and more cuts may come. DeSantis and Ingoglia blasted what they labeled as excessive city spending at a news conference at Jacksonville International Airport. Howland partly agreed, noting that the city collected over $120 million more than expected last year, which prompted spending cuts and concessions to property owners and stated that waste still exists. Public safety remains the top priority: more than half of the general fund — over $1 billion — is allocated to police, fire, and related needs.

“Jacksonville Mayor’s Office denies link between rescinded job offer and resignation of top aide^[41]” via Ben Becker of WOKV — Jacksonville’s Mayor’s Office is denying any link between the sudden withdrawal of a $125,000 city job offer to former Bar Association executive Craig Shoup and the resignation of Chief Administrative Officer Karen Bowling, who recruited him. Shoup accepted the Neighborhoods Administrator role, resigned from his post and even completed orientation before being informed by voicemail that the offer was rescinded — just hours after Bowling’s resignation. City officials stated that the decision was due to a “reevaluation” of the role, not Bowling’s exit, although they declined to elaborate. The reversal comes amid heightened political tension at City Hall, a bruising budget battle, and lingering friction between the administration and the City Council over spending, staffing, and contentious legal decisions.

“Florida A&M community celebrates the HBCU’s 138th anniversary, Founders Day^[42]” via Tarah Jean of the Tallahassee Democrat — Florida A&M University marked its 138th anniversary with a Founders Day wreath-laying ceremony honoring its evolution from a small teacher-training college for 15 students in 1887 to the nation’s top-ranked public HBCU. President Marva Johnson reflected on FAMU’s legacy of “knowledge, dignity and purpose,” calling it a seed of hope that grew into an educational powerhouse. Former Presidents Larry Robinson and Timothy Beard joined current leaders and student representatives at the Eternal Flame ahead of the university’s official Oct. 3 anniversary. The event, held early due to a rescheduled football game, celebrated FAMU’s continued excellence, including its seventh consecutive year as the No. 1 public HBCU. At the same time, alumni reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the institution’s mission for future generations.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Witness in Carmine Marceno probe raises alarm federal case may ‘go away’” via Bob Norman of the Florida Trident — Bonita Springs jeweler Ken Romano, a key witness in the federal investigation of Lee Sheriff Marceno, stares into the camera and addresses an audience of one about rumors circulating that the corruption case against Marceno is going to be killed by the Trump administration. In the video, Romano singles out trash mogul Anthony Lomangino — a major campaign donor to both the Sheriff and Trump — and Attorney General Bondi. “So, word on the street from your own people, a lot of your own people, is that Lomangino and Pam Bondi, the Attorney General of the United States, is gonna take all this, whatever’s happened, and put it on the shelf for you. Is that true?” Romano said on TikTok.^[43]

“Collier Board split on whether to recommend conversion of orange grove into homes” via Laura Layden of the Naples Daily News — Planning Commissioners couldn’t agree on whether to support a developer’s efforts to convert an orange grove into hundreds of homes in eastern Collier County. On Oct. 2, Commissioners voted 2-2 on a motion by the Advisory Board Chair to recommend in favor of the project. The tie vote followed an hourslong hearing. It came as a disappointment to the developer’s land use attorney, Rich Yovanovich, who described the proposed development as a “good project,” with the inclusion of much-needed affordable housing and other community benefits. After the vote, Yovanovich said he hoped there would be a reconsideration, but the two Commissioners who voted against the project didn’t budge.^[44]

— TOP OPINION —

“Trump’s remarkable polling stability^[45]” via The Washington Examiner — A new poll shows Donald Trump holding a 43% approval and 54% disapproval rating, nearly unchanged from five months ago. Despite political turbulence, his support has remained locked in a narrow four-point range for months, signaling remarkable stability in public opinion.

This time, Trump’s approval rating is stronger than it was at a similar point in his first term, when he averaged just under 40%. Today, he stands near 45% on average, with notable strength among men, White voters, those without college degrees, Southerners and Republicans, where his support exceeds 90%.

The consistency underscores a defining feature of Trump’s presidency: a low ceiling and high floor. He rarely surpasses 50% approval but seldom dips below the high 30s.

That floor reflects a deeply entrenched base that remains loyal regardless of controversies, policy battles or media scrutiny. Even a prolonged government shutdown has left Trump seemingly unconcerned, as he remains confident that his core support will hold.

Such resilience could prove crucial if Democrats retake the House and pursue impeachment, as many expect. A steadfast base would give Trump significant political protection against removal.

Ultimately, the poll highlights a paradox: Trump may never win over a majority of Americans, but his enduring support ensures he remains a formidable political force. That high floor — more than any fleeting surge in popularity — may be the most potent weapon he has heading into the next phase of his presidency.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“The shutdown is only proving Trump’s point” via Matt Bai of The Washington Post — The ostensible reason for forcing a shutdown has to do with the Affordable Care Act; Republicans would allow a pandemic-era expansion of subsidies to expire, endangering health care coverage for millions of Americans starting next year. Republican Senate leaders say they’re willing to negotiate over the issue — but not until Democrats allow for a temporary extension of government funding. That’s as much of a concession as Democrats are likely to get, and probably where they’ll end up anyway. So, it’s reasonable to wonder what kind of grand strategy they think they’re pursuing here. The Democratic leader in the Senate, New York’s Chuck Schumer, gave us a glimpse into his 3D chess-master thinking this week when he told reporters: “The strategy is — the American people are demanding it.” Huh. If I might paraphrase a famous line from “The Princess Bride,” I’m not sure the word “strategy” means what he thinks it means.^[46]

“Ivermectin rides again — this time in Florida’s cancer fund” via the Orlando Sentinel and South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial boards — Florida is poised to become ivermectin’s new best friend. Thanks to conspiracy theory-spouting social media influencers, the go-to treatment for horse worms and small-animal mange has leapt from tinfoil-hat COVID cure to all-around cancer treatment. In Florida, where open hostility to science has friends in high places, some portion of the state’s $60 million Florida Cancer Innovation Fund grants will be spent investigating its potential to be a cancer cure. As a breast cancer survivor, First Lady Casey DeSantis is a sympathetic messenger. No one hearing her discuss cancer research and the need to allocate some of the $60 million to study ivermectin could doubt her sincerity. Sincerity is not science, however. And people with cancer need science.^[47]

“Mockery can’t dim the shine of Orlando’s Poet Laureate program” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — This week, Orlando will introduce residents to the city’s third Poet Laureate: Camara Gaither, a mental health therapist who has been writing poetry since she was a child and now uses it — to great effect — in her work with victims of sex trafficking, young people fighting to stay away from crime and drugs, Orlando invests in programs like this because it cares. Because the men and women who lead this great city, starting with Mayor Buddy Dyer, care. Though Orlando’s leaders span the ideological spectrum, they are united behind the idea that Orlando’s strength starts with its heart. These areas need the kind of investment that the hard-eyed men in charge of Florida’s government resist making.^[48]

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Florida students can now win the Charlie Kirk trophy” via Jay Waagmeester of the Florida Phoenix — Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas announced Friday that the Florida Civics and Debate Initiative championship trophy will be named for Kirk, who gained notoriety for debating students on college campuses before he was assassinated last month^[50] during one of those events in Utah. “The tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk underscores the importance of civic dialogue rooted in respect and understanding. Mr. Kirk’s example as a champion of open civic discourse reminds us that disagreement can and must remain peaceful, principled and constructive,” Kamoutsas said in a letter to district superintendents. The civics and debate program began in 2020 with 59 teams across 11 school districts. Today, there are 330 teams in all 67 counties.^[49]

“Florida Retail Federation: Halloween spending should break record, buy locally” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — A National Retail Federation (NRF) consumer survey results published in the past week show there likely will be a record amount of spending on Halloween goods by Americans this year. According to the NRF report, 49% of Americans are kicking off their shopping for Halloween early this year and they are expected to collectively spend $13.1 billion across the country on the frightening festivities. “Florida retailers are ready for a frightfully festive season,” said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the FRF. “Whether you’re stocking up on candy or crafting the perfect costume, shopping early means you’ll get the best selection while supporting local retailers. And don’t let last-minute shopping haunt you; make sure to Find It In Florida when picking up all the seasonal surprises.”^[51]

“Monday Night Football still a big deal — just not like it once was” via Mark Woods of The Jacksonville Times-Union — Spoiler alert: Taylor Swift likely will not attend the Jaguars-Chiefs game. However, this is still a big deal for Jacksonville. It’s Monday Night Football. Started in 1970, it’s the longest-running sports series on American TV. Only “60 Minutes” and the daytime soap operas have had longer streaks. To a degree, it remains a rare event that can still have people watching the same thing one night and talking about it around the water cooler the next morning. But here’s the obvious: We don’t watch TV or, for that matter, gather around water coolers like we once did. And primarily because of that, Monday Night Football isn’t as big a deal as it once was.^[52]

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Happy birthday to a great guy and good friend, Jim Rimes, as well as Mat Bahl, Chief of Staff to House Speaker Daniel Perez; former House Speaker Allan Bense; Joe Follick; former Pinellas Tax Collector Diane Nelson; and former Sen. Kevin Rader.

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