Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 10.16.25

Good Thursday morning.

U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds remains in a dominant position in the Republican Primary for Governor, polling shows.

A new St. Pete Polls survey shows Donalds would win more than 39% of the vote in a Republican Primary against Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, who has less than 4% support, and former House Speaker Paul Renner, who has less than 3%.^[1]

While more than half likely Republican Primary voters remain undecided, this indicates that the Naples Republican continues to significantly outperform either of the two Republicans most likely to appear on the Primary ballot next year.

The pollsters also tested Donalds’ performance if he were in a head-to-head against only Collins. In such a race, Donalds would win more than 52% of the vote to Collins’ nearly 12%.

If Donalds faced another rumored contender, Casey DeSantis, the race would be slightly more competitive. However, the Congressman still leads a head-to-head Primary with 47% support compared to the First Lady’s 21%.

In both head-to-head races, pollsters informed voters that Donalds had President Donald Trump’s endorsement, while Collins or Casey DeSantis would likely have the endorsement of Gov. Ron DeSantis.^[2]

The poll of 1,034 likely Primary voters was taken from Oct. 13 to 15, and pollsters report a margin of error of 3%.

___

The Florida Ports Council is preparing for a major organizational transition as the statewide trade group adapts to the evolving role of Florida’s 16 deepwater seaports in the global economy.^[3]

The move marks what leaders describe as a “strategic transformation” intended to align the Council’s structure and mission with new realities in international commerce and maritime logistics.

“For decades, the Florida Ports Council has provided exceptional leadership, advocacy, and coordination to ensure Florida’s seaports remain competitive, secure, and vital to the state’s economy,” the organization said in a news release.

Through partnerships with public and private stakeholders, the Council has helped drive infrastructure investments, shape port policy, and raise Florida’s profile in global trade. The planned transition, officials said, is designed to build on that legacy while positioning the organization to support long-term growth.

“We are proud of the Florida Ports Council’s remarkable history of service,” said Michael Meekins, Chair of the Florida Ports Council. “As our seaports evolve, so too must the structure that supports them. This transition is not an end, but a bold new beginning — one that ensures Florida remains a leader in maritime commerce for generations to come.”

Further details about the Council’s new leadership structure are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RadioFreeTom: Well, I for one am relieved to know that in the middle of a government shutdown, the President is laser-focused on bailing out Argentina, as one does with an “America First” policy

Tweet, tweet:

—@TerryMoran: When I was growing up, being a racist was a shameful thing among decent people in America. It demonstrated your ignorance and lack of true love for our country. Now, thanks to social media and a decline in real patriotism, racists are out and proud to proclaim their stupidity.

—@SWD2: I was a young boy once. I never joked about rape or Hitler.

—@ChristinaPushaw: POLITICO specifically is a trash liberal tabloid that pays bounties for distorted hit pieces to destroy right-wingers. (Ask me how I know!) Anyone who purports to be a Republican and collaborates in their smear campaigns should be exiled.

—@StasiKamoutsas: Thank you, @AGJamesUthmeier^[4], for bringing this important issue to light. I immediately contacted Superintendent (Ronnie) Gray of the Suwannee County School District, who committed to me that students at Suwannee High School will be able to establish a TPUSA chapter. We will continue to monitor the matter closely and ensure Florida students don’t face any discrimination in seeking to start a TPUSA chapter.

—@JacobOgles: Chatter in Democratic circles on Capitol Hill isn’t so much about whether the Florida Legislature will try and screw House Ds out of seats, but which incumbents may be forced to run against one another. This could all get very ugly for a caucus already reduced to 8 of 28 seats.

— DAYS UNTIL —

Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 4; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 5; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 10; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 11; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 19; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 31; ’Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 36; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 41; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 43; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 48; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 48; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 54; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 57; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ six-episode, behind-the-scenes docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 57; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 62; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 64; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 70; Legislative Session begins — 89; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 89; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 94; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 106; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 113; last day of the Regular Session — 148; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 160; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 161; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 172; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 181; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 186; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 190; F1 Miami begins — 197; ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 218; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 229; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 235; State Qualifying Period ends — 239; FIFA World Cup begins — 238; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 261; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 266; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 271; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 273; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 277; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 294; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 296; Primary Election Day 2026 — 306; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 330; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 334; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 338; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 343; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 350; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 354; Early Voting General Election Mandatory period begins — 373; 2026 General Election — 383; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 428; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 428; Tampa Mayoral Election — 502; Jacksonville First Election — 523; Jacksonville General Election — 579; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 597; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 659; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 715; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 792; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1002; U.S. Presidential Election — 1118; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1518; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2249.

— TOP STORY —

“Supreme Court appears poised to weaken Voting Rights Act” via Abbie VanSickle and Nate Cohn of The New York Times — The Supreme Court signaled Wednesday that it may weaken a core provision of the Voting Rights Act, potentially restricting the use of race in drawing electoral maps — a move that could trigger major political upheaval and new redistricting battles across the South.^[5]

Several conservative justices suggested that the 1965 law’s allowance for race-conscious mapmaking might need an “endpoint.” Justice Brett Kavanaugh, viewed as a pivotal vote, questioned whether the continued use of race in districting could still be justified decades after its adoption.

The case, Louisiana v. Callais, centers on whether lawmakers violated the Constitution by creating a second majority-Black congressional district. A lower court had struck down the map as an unconstitutional racial gerrymander, but the Supreme Court allowed it to stand temporarily for the 2024 Elections.

If the court rules that race cannot guide map design, Republican legislatures could erase as many as a dozen Democratic-held districts across states, including Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina. Analysts warn the shift could reshape the House balance of power before the 2026 Midterms.

Civil rights advocates, led by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, argued that race remains essential in combating vote dilution. Justice Sonia Sotomayor warned that removing race from consideration would “just get rid of” the Voting Rights Act’s power to protect minority voters.

Outside the court, demonstrators rallied to defend the law, chanting “Black Voters Matter” as the justices debated whether America’s most enduring civil rights safeguard has reached its expiration date.

— STATEWIDE —

“Former Hope Florida charity leader at courthouse on second day of grand jury” via Lawrence Mower, Romy Ellenbogen and Justin Garcia of the Tampa Bay Times, with Alexandra Glorioso of the Times/Herald Tallahassee Bureau — A grand jury investigation into the Hope Florida Foundation entered its second day Wednesday, with former foundation President Joshua Hay seen leaving the Leon County courthouse amid scrutiny over the alleged misuse of $10 million in Medicaid settlement funds. The probe, led by State Attorney Jack Campbell, focuses on whether DeSantis administration officials diverted the money through the state-created charity for political purposes. Hay, who approved the transfer of funds to nonprofits tied to the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Save Our Society from Drugs, declined to comment. Republican Rep. Alex Andrade, who testified before the grand jury, has accused former DeSantis Chief of Staff James Uthmeier and attorney Jeff Aaron of orchestrating a money-laundering scheme. The secretive proceedings are expected to continue for days.^[6]

Happening today — CFO Blaise Ingoglia will hold a news conference on government accountability and wasteful spending: 1:30 p.m., media arrival 1 p.m. Location details will be provided upon RSVP through Abigail Weeks at [email protected]^[7].

“Proposed repeal of Florida’s ‘free kill’ law again advances to penultimate House Committee” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Florida lawmakers advanced HB 6003, a revived bipartisan bill to repeal the state’s controversial “free kill” law, which prevents certain families from suing for non-economic damages in medical negligence deaths. The measure, identical to one vetoed last year by DeSantis for lacking damage caps, passed the House Civil Justice and Claims Subcommittee 16-2. Sponsors Reps. Dana Trabulsy and Johanna López said the 1990 carve-out in Florida’s Wrongful Death Act unjustly shields negligent providers. Hospitals, insurers, and business groups warned repeal could drive up costs and worsen physician shortages, citing rising malpractice payouts. Supporters, including victims’ families, argued the law denies justice to grieving relatives. The bill now heads to the House Judiciary Committee before a possible floor vote.^[8]

“House member claims Florida is failing to go after marijuana products aimed at children” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — State lawmakers claim the Florida Department of Health is falling behind on regulating medical marijuana products aimed at enticing children. Florida law prohibits marijuana dispensaries and treatment centers from marketing toward children, notably by controlling the shape and depictions of edibles in hopes of discouraging young people from using them. But at least one member of the House’s Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee, during an update Tuesday from the state’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use, said the agency is not doing enough to crack down.^[9]

“Lawmakers and County Commissioners debate Board structure, forecasting a growing fight” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — State lawmakers directly challenged county officials on their effectiveness during a House Subcommittee focusing on county Board structures. The group of County Commissioners representing municipalities across Florida defended their Boards and argued in favor of home rule, asserting that local authorities should determine county Board structures. The debate was part of a growing conflict between local officials fighting for home rule against the state of Florida. The discussion centered around whether county Boards should be represented by at-large seats or divided into set districts.^[10]

What Teddy Bridgewater is reading — “Shevrin Jones bill would let coaches offer financial help to K-12 athletes” via Andrew Powell of Florida Politics — A newly filed bill would allow high school coaches to use their own personal funds to support basic needs of student athletes on their teams. Miami Gardens Democratic Sen. Jones filed a measure (SB 178) that would allow coaches to provide financial help to public K-12 student athletes. The bill also introduces safeguards to prevent misuse or recruitment-related incentives. Under the legislation, the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) would be required to adopt bylaws permitting coaches to use personal funds in good faith to provide food, transportation and recovery services.^[11]

“Nick DiCeglie addresses storm bill lawsuits” via Mark Parker of St. Pete Catalyst — A new law that restricts local governments from regulating development faces over two dozen lawsuits. DiCeglie has pledged to amend the legislation. The Pinellas County Republican used lessons learned from a devastating 2024 hurricane season to draft Senate Bill 180, which dictates how local governments must prepare for and respond to natural disasters. However, what became law July 1 also restricts city and county officials from adopting “more restrictive or burdensome” land-use and zoning regulations until October 2027.^[12]

“Corrections secretary asks for ‘staggering’ $500+ million to maintain operations” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Sounding as desperate as he ever has since being appointed four years ago, Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) Secretary Ricky Dixon asked a panel of state lawmakers for more than $512 million for next fiscal year to maintain the prison system. “It is a staggering amount of money that we’re asking for. I’m aware of that,” Dixon told the Senate Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice. Adding to the scale of the needs, he mentioned that the amount did not include funding for the salaries of correction officers, which he said rank among the lowest for their size in the country. “If I continue to do this job, we’re going to have the support we need, because we cannot keep going in the direction we’re going in,” he added for emphasis. Florida houses more than 89,000 inmates in its corrections system, a population that has increased by more than 10,000 since 2021. That is expected to rise by another 4,100 over the next three years.^[13]

“Florida Auditor General report blasts DBPR for sloppy oversight over prescription drug entities” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida Deputy Auditor General Matthew Tracy sharply criticized the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) in a presentation before the House Administration Budget Subcommittee, accusing the agency of “a wholesale dropping of the ball” in overseeing the state’s Division of Drugs, Devices and Cosmetics. His audit, covering July 2022 through December 2023, found that DBPR failed to monitor wholesalers and manufacturers of controlled substances properly, lacked a complete registry of entities, and allowed late or missing reports. Tracy urged stronger management and cybersecurity controls. DBPR Secretary Melanie Griffin attributed shortcomings to leadership turnover and staffing instability but said no consumer harm occurred. Lawmakers from both parties expressed concern over the findings and the department’s insufficient oversight.^[14]

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Donald Trump administration authorizes covert CIA action in Venezuela” via Julian E. Barnes and Tyler Pager of The New York Times — The Trump administration has secretly authorized the CIA to conduct covert action in Venezuela, stepping up a campaign against Nicolás Maduro, the country’s authoritarian leader. The authorization is the latest step in the Trump administration’s intensifying pressure campaign against Venezuela. For weeks, the U.S. military has been targeting boats off the Venezuelan coast, it says, that are transporting drugs, killing 27 people. American officials have been clear, privately, that the end goal is to drive Maduro from power. The new authority would allow the CIA to carry out lethal operations in Venezuela and conduct a range of operations in the Caribbean. The agency would be able to take covert action against Maduro or his government either unilaterally or in conjunction with a larger military operation. It is not known whether the CIA is planning any operations in Venezuela or if the authorities are meant as a contingency.^[15]

“Judge blocks Trump admin from laying off federal workers during government shutdown” via Hassan Ali Kanu of POLITICO — A federal judge in California on Wednesday blocked the Trump administration from laying off thousands of federal employees during the ongoing government shutdown, ruling that the move appears politically motivated and unlawful after citing comments from Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Budget Director Russ Vought, while accusing officials of exploiting the funding lapse to bypass reduction-in-force rules and target Democratic workers; the injunction bars any further layoff actions against members of the American Federation of Government Employees as Justice Department attorneys declined to defend the legality of the plan, insisting instead that affected workers pursue administrative remedies despite more than 4,000 employees already being dismissed across multiple federal departments.^[16]

“Trump is opting some of the government out of the shutdown” via Jacob Bogage, Riley Beggin and Perry Stein of The Washington Post — Trump is all but ignoring the federal shutdown for parts of the government he favors — keeping paychecks flowing for military service members and FBI agents and backfilling publicly sensitive social benefit programs in a push to alleviate political pain from the closure as it enters its third week. The White House budget office posted on social media that the administration was preparing to “batten down the hatches,” lay off more federal workers and dig in for a prolonged impasse. But Trump has also used the shutdown as an opening to seize additional power and render Congress — where negotiations are at a standstill — a non-factor in managing the country’s finances.^[17]

“Federal firings could reach 10,000 during shutdown, OMB director Russell Vought says” via Emily Peck of Axios — Vought said that more than 10,000 federal workers could end up getting fired during the shutdown. That’s more than twice as many terminations as the White House reported conducting just last week in court filings. In court filings last week, the White House said it planned to lay off at least 4,100 federal workers. Asked about this on the Charlie Kirk Show, which was broadcast from the White House on Wednesday, Vought said the number “could grow higher. I think we’ll probably end up being somewhere north of 10,000.”^[18]

—“Shutdown is costing U.S. economy $15 billion a day, Scott Bessent says” via David Lawder and Andrea Shalal of Reuters^[19]

“Mike Johnson shrugs off allegations against Cory Mills” via Hailey Fuchs of POLITICO — Speaker Johnson is shrugging off news that a judge granted the request for a restraining order against embattled Rep. Mills sought by the Florida Republican’s former girlfriend. “I have not heard or looked into any of the details of that,” Johnson said. “I’ve been a little busy. We have a House Ethics Committee. If it warrants that, I’m sure they’ll look into that.” The restraining order centered around the former girlfriend’s accusations that Mills had threatened to circulate explicit videos of her.^[20]

— ELECTIONS —

“Why a Venezuelan American Democrat says he has a chance in Florida’s Senate race” via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — Sitting at a cozy corner table at Caracas Bakery, Florida’s newest Democratic Senate candidate, Hector Mujica described his Sunday routine: church with his wife and 16-month-old son, sometimes with their dog Coco in tow, before heading here for pastries. “This place has been a bit of a ritual for the sacredness of our weekends,” Mujica said. “It’s a small business that a friend of mine started a few years ago,” he added, raving about the cachitos de jamón. “Venezuelans have the best baked goods.” A pastor’s kid and child of immigrants who left Venezuela for Broward County, Mujica, 36, points to his faith and parents’ example of service as central to his identity — and to his campaign pitch to Floridians. His newly launched campaign video opens with a Bible verse and shots of him walking the streets, talking to homeless Floridians.^[21]

“George Moraitis grows war chest to $485,000 as he aims to unseat Jared Moskowitz” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Republican Moraitis raised more than $106,000 in the third quarter, bringing his total to over $485,000 since launching his campaign in March to unseat Democratic U.S. Rep. Moskowitz in Florida’s 23rd Congressional District. Moraitis, a Navy veteran and former state lawmaker, said voters are ready for a conservative leader who will fight for taxpayers and protect freedoms. He’s earned endorsements from U.S. Reps. Greg Steube and Jake Ellzey. Moskowitz remains a top GOP target, with redistricting possibly reshaping the District to favor Republicans. While Moraitis leads Primary rival Joe Kaufman in total fundraising, Raven Harrison has posted the highest Republican total so far, mainly through personal loans.^[22]

Robin Peguero outraises María Elvira Salazar in Q3 — Homicide prosecutor and congressional investigator Peguero outraised U.S. Rep. Salazar with $330,070 collected to the incumbent’s $214,549 in Q3. Peguero’s opening haul is well above that of other challengers in Florida’s 27th Congressional District, and it’s the strongest showing for a Democratic challenger in any targeted district in Florida this cycle. The 27th District is among the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s top-tier “Districts in Play” nationwide. “Our Congresswoman has been more focused on currying favor with her party bosses in D.C. than working for our families here in Miami. And now it’s clear: Her donors are abandoning her. She’s been in lockstep with the administration as it rips immigrant families apart — while doing nothing to secure our border,” Peguero said.

“David Silvers raises $56K in first full quarter running for SD 26, quintupling Rick Roth’s haul” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Former Rep. Silvers, a Democrat running to represent Senate District 26 in Palm Beach County, added $56,500 to his campaign coffers in his first full quarter as a candidate. His Republican opponent, former Rep. Roth, collected $11,700 during the same time period — about five times less. Silvers’ most significant gain, a $40,000 check, came from Citizens for Law Order and Ethics, a political committee chaired by the man who also runs his PC, Rick Asnani. NextEra Energy, the parent company of Florida Power and Light, gave $5,000. EC-PAC, a PC chaired by West Palm Beach construction executive Allen Gast, donated $1,000. Associated Industries of Florida chipped in $500.^[23]

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Miami airport blocks Kristi Noem video blaming Democrats for shutdown” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — Add Miami International Airport to the list of airports that aren’t airing Homeland Security Secretary Noem’s video blaming Democrats for the ongoing shutdown of the federal government. Noem’s video is meant to replace the traditional message from Homeland Security Secretaries welcoming passengers to federal security screening areas. Some airports — including Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International — are refusing to play the video, which has been criticized for misusing federal dollars to impose a partisan message on passengers waiting to be screened at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints. Miami-Dade’s Democratic Mayor, Daniella Levine Cava, oversees MIA. An airport spokesperson cited county policy regulating airport communications, stating that the video wouldn’t be seen at MIA.^[24]

“‘Last man standing’: Fort Lauderdale not giving up fight to keep Pride street art” via Susannah Bryan of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — One by one, rainbow crosswalks in cities across the Sunshine State are turning black. But Fort Lauderdale has not given up its legal fight to save Pride street art and colorful crosswalks amid a statewide crackdown that’s made headlines nationwide. “We are the last man standing,” Fort Lauderdale Commissioner Steve Glassman told the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. “This is an issue where you have to stand up for yourself. If we don’t stand up now, when do we stand up?” Fort Lauderdale’s Pride flag was painted on Sebastian Street as a tribute to the large LGBTQ community that frequents that area of the beach.^[25]

“Palm Beach County sees sharp drop in opioid overdose deaths for first half 2025” via Shira Moolten of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Palm Beach County has begun 2025 with another sharp decrease in opioid deaths following the crisis peaking in 2017, officials announced. The local drop-off comes amid a national plunge. According to newly compiled data from the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office, opioid overdose deaths surged in 2017, then began to decrease. Between 2022 and 2024, the number of fatalities decreased by over 40%, said Mike Jachles, a spokesperson for Riviera Beach Police. By the first two quarters of 2025, the number of deaths since 2022 had decreased even further, by 64%. The downturn is part of a national trend.^[26]

“Hialeah Council approves $200 relief for homeowners despite impact on the budget” via Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — The Hialeah City Council narrowly approved a one-time $200 relief payment for homesteaded property owners — a measure that will cost the city an estimated $6.4 million. To fund the $200 payments to 32,100 eligible homestead property owners, Hialeah will see a reduction of $4.6 million from the general fund and will delay around 18 city projects totaling $3.8 million. These include improvements to street lighting, park replacements, the installation of CCTV cameras in city parks, playground resurfacing, impact window replacements, air conditioning replacements, computer upgrades, building improvements and the replacement or purchase of city vehicles, among others.^[27]

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Monique Worrell calls on James Uthmeier, Ron DeSantis to abandon ‘campaign’ to remove her” via Cristóbal Reyes of the Orlando Sentinel — Orange-Osceola State Attorney Worrell warned Attorney General Uthmeier to stop trying to “manufacture a pretext for my removal,” sending unusual letters to him and to DeSantis that urged the Republican leaders to “set aside the political theater.” In the 10 months since Worrell began her second term, Uthmeier has repeatedly lambasted her office’s policies and decisions. The public attacks, which Worrell has countered with defenses of her work, have left her supporters fearful that DeSantis, who removed her from office in 2023, would do so again. “It is clear that your campaign of misinformation and intimidation seeks to manufacture a pretext for my removal,” Worrell wrote to Uthmeier.^[28]

“New Orange Commission districts dash Winter Park’s bid for more influence” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Despite intense lobbying from a cohort of Winter Park leaders, including its Mayor, Orange County’s elected Governing Board adopted a new map of Commission districts that lumps the wealthy and influential city with rural east communities — where its political power may be diminished. But the decision was good news for many in Pine Hills. This unincorporated, low-income, heavily Black and Hispanic area is divided by the county’s existing map and prefers an alternative new District that both unites the neighborhood and separates it from Winter Park. The Board’s 5-2 majority in favor of what was dubbed “Map 7B” included Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad, who retains a District similar to her current one, combining Winter Park and rural east Orange.^[29]

“Daytona ‘No Kings’ protest set for peak of Biketoberfest weekend. Will worlds collide?” via Jim Abbott of The Daytona Beach News-Journal — Tens of thousands of motorcycle fans will descend on Daytona Beach this weekend as the 33rd annual Biketoberfest celebration kicks into high gear. Still, it won’t be the only big gathering at the World’s Most Famous Beach. The city will also be among the roughly 2,500 sites of a nationally organized “No Kings” protest in opposition to Trump, his policies, the escalating immigration raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the President’s attempts at deploying National Guard troops to Democrat-controlled cities. In Daytona Beach, a “No Kings” protest is slated to unfold from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, outside Daytona Beach City Hall, 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., a little over 2 miles from Biketoberfest’s traditional hub on Main Street.^[30]

“ACLU sues Daytona Beach — again — over City Commission districts” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The Florida chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is suing the city of Daytona Beach and the Volusia County Elections Supervisor over allegations of unconstitutional racial gerrymandering regarding City Commission districts. It’s the second lawsuit the ACLU has filed targeting Daytona Beach’s districts in less than two years. “In crafting Zones 5 and 6, the Commission set an arbitrary and unjustified racial target: that they should have at least 50% Black residents,” the new lawsuit said. “The City engaged in racial gerrymandering that unconstitutionally abridges Plaintiffs’ rights to the equal protection of the laws.”^[31]

“Palm Bay City Council member retains Anthony Sabatini as counsel amid possible censure vote” via Phillip Stucky and Brandon Spencer of Bay News 9 — The Palm Bay City Council is currently set to consider censuring Chandler Langevin “for conduct unbecoming of an elected member of City Council and for improperly using the City of Palm Bay letterhead.” Sabatini wrote a letter to members of the Council, arguing that such a vote could go against Langevin’s right to free speech under the U.S. Constitution. “It has come to my attention that members of your Council are seeking to unlawfully punish Councilman Chandler Langevin for his previously expressed view regarding immigration,” Sabatini wrote. “Resolution 2025-41, which has been placed on your Oct. 16, 2025, agenda, contains several items that are punitive and constitute adverse action. Although a City Council may impose restrictions on its members’ speech during Council meetings, such actions are subject to constitutional limitations, particularly under the First Amendment.”^[32]

— LOCAL: TB —

“Charlie Crist is mulling a run for St. Petersburg Mayor” via Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times — Former Florida Governor and U.S. representative Crist has run for public office seven times in the past 20 years. Now, Crist, 69, is considering running to be the Mayor of his hometown. “I’ve had a lot of friends encourage me to consider it,” Crist said. He said he’s “seriously considering it” because he loves the city. Crist lives in the Gateway area with his fiancée, Chelsea Grimes. He said he would talk to his family more before making a decision.^[33]

“Hillsborough County leaders OK $18 million for Steinbrenner Field renovation” via Bay News 9 — The Hillsborough County Board of Commissioners approved almost $18 million for renovations to Steinbrenner Field. The stadium is the Spring Training home of the New York Yankees, and this year served as a temporary home for the Tampa Bay Rays during the regular season after Tropicana Field was damaged by Hurricane Milton last October. The Board approved the measure in a 6-1 vote, with Donna Cameron Cepada voting against. The money will come from bed tax funds, such as hotel money. No general fund taxpayer dollars will be used. Steinbrenner Field first opened in 1996 under the name Legends Field. It was renamed after former owner George Steinbrenner in 2008. He died two years later.^[34]

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Ahead of USA’s 250th anniversary, feds’ $3.6M grants to help train Duval teachers in civics” via Steve Patterson of The Florida Times-Union — Duval County Public Schools teachers will get extra training on teaching civics through federal grants totaling $3.6 million for local colleges to help schools prepare lessons involving the 250th anniversary of America’s founding as an independent nation. The country’s semi-quincentennial in 2026 will be a chance to tell young people about the core principles behind the country’s government, and those involved in teacher-training efforts aim to animate their thinking. “Civics isn’t just memorizing dates and facts — it’s about preparing students to think critically and participate in democracy,” Diane Yendol-Hoppey, a University of North Florida professor, said in a release from UNF about $2.1 million the school is slated to receive.^[35]

“Money, aerospace drive turbulence between City Council member and aviation CEO” via The Florida Times-Union and The Tributary — Jacksonville City Council member Nick Howland had been butting heads for two years with the Jacksonville Aviation Authority when he vented to NASA Chief of Staff Brian Hughes, a former top city administrator, over the Summer. “They’ve pissed me off a bit,” Howland said of the agency. Aviation authority CEO Mark VanLoh has been a “real obstacle to me to get anything done at Cecil field for workforce development and aerospace and industry growth,” Howland told Hughes over a series of text messages that were later disclosed in a public-records request. Acting like a “real gentleman,” Howland lamented, has “not been very effective.”^[36]

“County hangs fire as it ponders Tallahassee Fire Department takeover” via Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — Leon County’s government is still locked in limbo as it determines what the future of firefighting behind county lines looks like — and if there is a future that involves the county maintaining its own fire department. County Commissioners reviewed a legal analysis on whether to advance a possible ballot question to their citizen Charter Review Committee. The question, to be put before county voters in 2026, concerns who should provide fire protection: the city of Tallahassee or the county. The County Attorney determined that if the item went to the citizen Charter Review Committee and were later placed on the November ballot, it would have no effect at all.^[37]

“UWF considers removing Juneteenth as an observed holiday” via Mary Lett of the Pensacola News-Journal — In a proposed amendment to UWF/REG.-2.028, titled University Holidays, the Juneteenth holiday is removed from the calendar. Neither Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. nor Chief of Staff Clifford Humphrey could be reached for comment. Instead, the university emailed a statement. “At the University of West Florida, our goal is always to create the best possible academic and campus experience for our students and to support the well-being of our faculty and staff. To that end, we are still reviewing calendar proposals that will preserve the integrity of our academic calendar and ensure students meet credit hour requirements, while also giving our faculty, staff, and students quality time to enjoy their families during the holidays,” the statement said.^[38]

“Alachua County to return to at-large voting districts after appeals court decision” via Elliott Tritto of The Gainesville Sun — The 1st District Court of Appeal on Oct. 15 overturned an Alachua County judge’s ruling last year that will once again allow all five County Commissioners to be elected countywide. The appellate court voted unanimously in favor of the county, which appealed Judge Olin Shinholser’s ruling in October 2024, declaring a ballot measure on single-member districts set for November 2024 “unlawful” and in violation of state statute. The decision will let residents vote for Commissioners at-large in November 2026. Under single-member districts, only voters who reside in a particular district cast ballots for their Commissioner.^[39]

“Destin, World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, cements memory of Charlie Kirk with artificial reef” via Tina Harbuck of The Destin Log — While many across America honored the memory of Kirk on Oct. 14 by gathering for prayer or holding vigils, a few from the Destin area cemented the memory of the day by participating in the making of a Charlie Kirk Memorial Reef. A group of nine people from Okaloosa and Walton counties traveled to Orange Beach, Alabama, to Walter Marine for the Charlie Kirk Memorial Reef project. “I’m privileged and honored to be a part of it,” said Bob Schmidt of Destin. “Anything with Charlie Kirk … I’m all about it.” The group, spearheaded by Capt. Mike Parker, made the two-hour trek to Orange Beach with trucks loaded with signs and other memorabilia that signified the life of Kirk.^[40]

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“No pay for three Lee County, Florida teachers who posted about Kirk” via Mickenzie Hannon of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — District spokesperson Rob Spicker confirmed the status, adding that the suspensions began Oct. 3, the same day the employees were formally notified of the Superintendent’s recommendation for termination. “Those recommended for termination are suspended without pay,” he said. The suspensions will remain in effect as the employees await the School Board’s decision on Nov. 4 regarding Superintendent Denise Carlin’s recommendation to terminate three employees. The District said findings from the investigations have also been sent to the Florida Department of Education, which may take separate disciplinary action. The School District has not released the names of the educators or the content of the posts under investigation, citing employees’ due process rights.^[41]

“Rob Rominiecki to run for Sarasota City Commission” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Former New York security expert Rominiecki is running for the Sarasota City Commission, with an eye toward fresh energy in local government to solve problems and ensure a thriving and inclusive community. He’s also hyper-focused on affordability issues. “Sarasota is one of the most vibrant communities in the nation, but if teachers, police officers, hospitality workers, and the artists who fuel our cultural life can’t afford to live here, then Sarasota as we know it will cease to exist. I believe we can fix this,” Rominiecki said. He blamed inaction for the ongoing affordability crisis, particularly on housing.^[42]

— TOP OPINION —

“Why AI is not a bubble*” via Derek Thompson of Derek Thompson’s Substack — Consensus is the rarest resource in modern markets, and yet nearly everyone — from CEOs to podcasters — agrees that artificial intelligence has entered a full-blown bubble. Jeff Bezos calls it industrial. Goldman’s David Solomon warns of a “drawdown.” JPMorgan’s Jamie Dimon frets about a “correction.” But the remarkable part isn’t the chorus of alarm; it’s that no one seems to behave as if they believe it. Investors keep buying, corporations keep building, and the money keeps flowing like it’s 1999 all over again.^[43]

The numbers alone look absurd. Hundreds of billions in capital are being shoveled into data centers, most of which don’t yet produce meaningful profit. Oracle’s multibillion-dollar deal with OpenAI depends on revenue that doesn’t exist and power plants that haven’t been built. Even by the mad standards of railroad and telecom manias, the ratio of investment to returns is staggering.

And yet, this isn’t Pets.com redux. The world’s most profitable companies — Microsoft, Apple, Nvidia, and their peers — are bankrolling this expansion with cash, not borrowed fantasy. Their price-to-earnings ratios are high but not deranged, and their profits are real. The infrastructure they’re building may prove as essential to the 21st century as railroads were to the 19th.

AI revenue is actually growing fast — tripling in some cases. The “Triple-Digit Test” suggests that as long as revenue keeps doubling annually, the music won’t stop. If it slows, the correction will come hard and fast.

Still, unease lingers. Corporate entanglements, opaque financing, and herdlike product strategies suggest fragility. If AI fails to deliver tangible productivity gains, or if commoditized models crush margins, reality will reassert itself.

The irony is that everyone says they know it’s a bubble — and then keeps dancing anyway.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“How not to win the Nobel Peace Prize” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — The last steps in turning swords into plowshares are inherently the most difficult. Although Hamas and Israel called off the killing and exchanged prisoners, they have yet to agree to the lasting peace that Trump proclaimed, perhaps prematurely, to Israel’s parliament on Monday. The situation is still fluid. Nonetheless, it is lifesaving progress, and Trump can be justly proud. “If the implementation of all the stages of this peace plan rebuilds a pathway for Israeli-Palestinian peace, that would be worthy of a Nobel Peace Prize. Maybe even two,” wrote The New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, who has doggedly chronicled Middle East conflict for decades. It might “actually inspire Trump to make peace in America as well,” he added wistfully. As a wise and candid adviser would tell Trump, if he allowed himself to have one, the Nobel Committee considers nominees in their totality.^[44]

“Trump’s war on ‘the enemy within’ keeps running into a legal buzzsaw” via David Ignatius of The Washington Post — Trump claims a right to send troops into U.S. cities to battle what he calls “the enemy within.” But three federal judges have savaged his Justice Department’s arguments in recent rulings, and their scornful language sends a message that the lower courts, at least, won’t tolerate what they see as illegal presidential behavior. We can’t be sure about the ultimate judicial limits on Trump’s power until the Supreme Court rules on one of the cases in which he has asserted extraordinary executive authority. But as we watch this constitutional drama play out, it’s worth studying the harsh initial rulings rejecting what one judge called Trump’s attempt at “creating a national police force with the President as its chief.”^[45]

“Florida’s Cabinet vastly overpaid for land the state didn’t need. Why?” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — Normally, when the state finalizes a big environmental-land purchase, it’s cause for celebration. And there’s no doubt: The four acres that DeSantis and members of the Florida Cabinet approved for purchase last week are a pretty piece of property, situated next to the city of Destin’s Norriego Point Beach park and close to another gem in the state’s parks system, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. So why are so many of the state’s past and current leaders — Republicans and Democrats alike — crying “boondoggle?” Well, that starts with the price tag: $83 million. Nor could Clay Henderson, a New Smyrna Beach conservationist who’s known as the father of Florida’s environmental-land purchasing program. Next, the seller, Robert Guidry of Louisiana, operates through two companies he holds. He’s a lavish campaign donor who has dumped buckets of money into the war chests of Florida Republicans, including $250,000 to one of DeSantis’ political committees.^[46]

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

Disney displays three expansion plans, shows off Tropical Americas model” via DeWayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel — Walt Disney World is giving Disney’s Hollywood Studios visitors a miniature peek at the resort’s expansion plans. It’s a salute to three projects, but mainly Tropical Americas, the under-construction land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Near the rear of the Walt Disney Presents attraction at DHS is a formidable scale model of Tropical Americas. It is flanked by 2D artist concepts for the “Monsters, Inc.”-inspired land set for Hollywood Studios and the Frontierland expansion, featuring “Cars” attractions at Magic Kingdom. It isn’t newsy news. The model was unveiled at the D23 event in California in August 2024, but it’s nice for WDW visitors to get a look. It’s fun to stare and go into Magic Eye mode, imagining where this all fits into Animal Kingdom.^[47]

“Lord of the Rings cast reunion announced for MegaCon Orlando 2026” via Patrick Connolly of the Orlando Sentinel — Fans of the “Lord of the Rings” films might have a hard time believing that it’s been 25 years since four hobbits left the Shire to embark on an unforgettable adventure. Now, the cast members who portrayed Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin are reuniting for a tour of 11 North American cities, including a stop at MegaCon Orlando on March 21, 2026. “An Evening with the Hobbits: In Celebration of 25 Years” gathers Sean Astin, Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan and Elijah Wood, promising more than a reunion and “so much more than a panel” during this “once-in-a-quarter-century” celebration tour. Tickets for the event go on sale at 10 a.m. Oct. 22, along with VIP experiences that include photo ops and autograph sessions.^[48]

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best wishes to my wonderful mother-in-law, Robin Todd, as well as Rep. Lisa Dunkley, former Rep. Loranne Ausley, Angelo Cappelli, Cesar Hernandez, Mark Maxwell, a partner at SCG Governmental Affairs, Rebecca O’Hara, Carrie Patrick, Beth Switzer, and Becca Tieder.

___

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