Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 9.12.25

Good Friday morning.

To honor Charlie Kirk, Gov. Ron DeSantis has ordered all state and U.S. flags to be lowered to half-staff at local and state buildings until sunset Sept. 14

“It is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, a Christian conservative public figure and prominent media personality,” DeSantis wrote in his memo.

DeSantis’ memo comes after President Donald Trump proclaimed that all U.S. flags be flown at half-staff at the White House, federal buildings, and military buildings across the country to pay tribute to Kirk.

Kirk, who co-founded Turning Point USA, was shot and killed on Wednesday while speaking at a university campus in Utah.

“As one of the most prominent voices of his time, Charlie worked to help spark conversations that would engage millions of young Americans in civic life and challenge them to articulate their values,” DeSantis said in his memo. “He was widely recognized for his leadership and influence in the political landscape and was admired by many prominent figures, including President Donald Trump. Charlie was a strong man of God as well as a husband and a father, and he is now rejoicing with our Lord in Heaven.”

___

“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.^[1]

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.^{[2][3][4][5][6]}

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

Tweet, tweet:

—@BarackObama: We’ll never forget the lives we lost on Sept. 11, 2001. Let’s continue to honor their memories and the courage of our first responders who put themselves in harm’s way.

—@WiltonSimpson: We must never forget what the best of America and our people can be in the wake of national tragedy. It was a privilege this week to pause and honor the lives lost on September 11th with so many at Saint Leo University’s ‘In Their Honor’ ceremony.

—@RepDonaldsPress: Michael Boyle was a champion marathon runner, an excellent softball player and an @FDNY firefighter from Manhattan. He was off duty during the morning of September 11th, 2001, but stepped into action when the alarms sounded and jumped onto a firetruck with his fellow firefighters. Michael lost his life-saving others when the first tower collapsed and his heroic legacy will never be forgotten.

—@VernBuchanan: As we mourn Charlie, I’m grateful for his impact across our state. Charlie, who owned a home in Longboat Key, recently traveled to USF, UF and FSU to promote open debate. I hope the students who heard him carry on his commitment to peaceful dialogue.

—@DanCohenHiggins: When elected, the people look to you to serve and to represent. The people also look to you to lead by example. When tragedy occurs, the responsibilities of being an elected official are magnified and amplified. It is often during these times that we, as elected officials, reveal our true ability to serve, represent and lead. Yesterday’s murder of Charlie Kirk was a tragedy on every level, irrespective of whether you vehemently disagree with his messaging. When an elected official, entrusted with the confidence of his community, makes callous, dangerous statements proclaiming that any American is a “fitting sacrifice” to gun violence, it not only belies the confidence of his office, but it also makes clear that he is not fit for office. I call for the immediate resignation of Councilman Steve Cody for the public statements he made yesterday regarding the murder of Charlie Kirk. He revealed that he can no longer be trusted to serve, lead nor represent this community.

—@MearKat00: It appears lots of people that celebrate murder are getting fired today.

—@JohnMorganESQ: What Kamala (Harris) doesn’t understand is if President (Joe) Biden got out early, she had no chance to win the nomination, but the Democrats had a chance to win the presidency. She really just needs to go away. Her career is over. Mercifully.

—@philipaklein: Trump should revisit the decision not to extend Kamala Harris’ Secret Service detail.

—@RepThomasMassie: We have 217 of the 218 signatures required. We just need one more Congressman to sign the discharge petition in order to force a vote in the House on a bill to release the (Jeffrey) Epstein files. Victims deserve justice and Americans demand transparency.

— DAYS UNTIL —

The Emmys — 2; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 5; ‘Black Rabbit’ with Jude Law and Jason Bateman premieres on Netflix — 6; Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards — 6; ’Tulsa King’ season three premieres — 9; Paul Thomas Anderson’s ’One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 14; Special Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 18; Taylor Swift’s new album ’The Life of a Showgirl’ drops — 21; Regular Session Committee Weeks begin — 24; Florida TaxWatch Annual Board Meeting — 24; ’Tron: Ares’ premieres — 28; ‘Six Kings Slam,’ featuring six of men’s tennis’ best players in the world, premieres on Netflix — 33; Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 38; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 39; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 44; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 45; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 53; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 65; ’Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 70; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 75; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 77; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 82; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 82; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 88; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 91; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 96; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 98; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 104; Legislative Session begins — 123; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 123; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 147; last day of the Regular Session — 182; MLB Opening Night matchup between the Giants and Yankees — 194; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 195; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 206; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 215; F1 Miami begins — 231; Untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 252; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 263; FIFA World Cup begins — 272; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 305; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 364; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 368; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 462; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 462; Tampa Mayoral Election — 536; Jacksonville First Election — 557; Jacksonville General Election — 613; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 631; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 693; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 749; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 826; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1036; U.S. Presidential Election — 1152; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1552; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2283.

— AFTERMATH —

“FBI releases photos of a person of interest in Charlie Kirk’s assassination^[7]” via Bridget Brown, Michael Warren, Curtis Yee, Sam Burdette and Nell Clark of The Associated Press —The FBI has released photos of a person of interest in the fatal shooting of Kirk, appealing to the public for tips as the search for the shooter continues. Authorities believe the suspect, described as being of college age, fired a single shot from a high-powered, bolt-action rifle before jumping off a roof and fleeing. Investigators have recovered the weapon and are analyzing inscriptions on the ammunition.

Kirk, 31, was the founder of Turning Point USA and a prominent activist who personified the pugnacious, populist conservatism of the Trump era. An unabashed Christian conservative known for making provocative statements, he built his organization by targeting younger people and debating on liberal-leaning college campuses, a strategy many GOP activists had avoided.

In a video from the Oval Office, Trump declared Kirk a “martyr for truth and freedom” and announced he would be posthumously awarded a national honor. While condemning the “demonizing” of political opponents, the President claimed the rhetoric of the “radical left” was “directly responsible” for the assassination.

The President also stated that he plans to attend Kirk’s funeral, which is expected to take place in Arizona.

The assassination has drawn bipartisan condemnation and focused renewed attention on the escalating threat of political violence in the United States. However, a broader national reckoning over how to prevent such political grievances from manifesting as deadly violence remains elusive.

As law enforcement officials pursue multiple leads, they report having received over 200 public tips in the investigation. They continue to urge the public to submit any information, stressing that “no tip is too small” in the ongoing effort to identify and apprehend the shooter.

“Donald Trump says his supporters should respond peacefully to Kirk killing^[8]” via The Guardian — Amid a multi-agency search for Kirk’s killer, the FBI has released images of a person of interest and is offering a $100,000 reward for information. Trump, after blaming the “radical left” for the assassination, has now urged his supporters to respond peacefully, noting Kirk was an “advocate of nonviolence.” This call for calm contrasts with demands for “vengeance and retribution” from many on the far right. The Trump administration also announced plans to punish foreigners in the U.S. who praise the attack and confirmed Kirk will posthumously receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, with Trump declaring him a “martyr for truth and freedom.” The gunman remains at large.

“‘People are scared to death’: Members of Congress fear for their safety after Kirk assassination” via Scott Wong, Melanie Zanona and Kyle Stewart of NBC News — The assassination of Kirk is sending shock waves through Capitol Hill, with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle expressing fears for their own safety and taking greater security precautions following a Summer of political violence. Members are beefing up their security, moving public events indoors or canceling them altogether. One is even vowing to carry firearms. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the progressive star who has faced numerous death threats over the years, said Thursday she had postponed two public events planned for this weekend in North Carolina, including a rally in Raleigh set for Sunday.^[9]

“Anna Paulina Luna calls for Kirk statue in U.S. Capitol” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Luna, a close ally to conservative commentator Kirk, is calling for a permanent statue in the U.S. Capitol honoring Kirk, who was assassinated while speaking at a college in Utah. In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Luna, a Republican who represents Florida’s 13th Congressional District in Pinellas County, called Kirk “a patriot, a father, and a fearless voice for conservative values.” “His death is a wound to our nation, a stark reminder of the escalating political violence fueled by the divisive and hateful rhetoric from the left,” she wrote, blaming Democrats for the culture that leads to political violence against conservative figures.^[10][11]

“Florida warns teachers not to post negatively about Kirk” via Steven Walker of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Following the assassination of right-wing activist Kirk, Florida’s top education official warned teachers that anyone who posted “disgusting comments” about Kirk would be reprimanded. Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas wrote in a letter to school superintendents on Thursday that some online posts made by teachers had been brought to his attention, but he did not provide specifics about what the posts said or who wrote them. The Commissioner promised to investigate any teacher who engaged in “this vile, sanctionable behavior.” Florida law gives Kamoutsas the authority to sanction educators’ teaching certificates. He said that while educators have First Amendment rights, they also have professional duties as teachers and publicly sharing their personal views could “undermine the trust” of students and families.^[12]

“Jacksonville Board member under fire after saying Kirk ‘spewed nothing but hate’” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — Jacksonville City Council President Kevin Carrico said he will file legislation ousting a City Board appointee who posted on social media that Kirk “spewed nothing but hate” after a sniper fatally shot Kirk in what authorities have called a political assassination. Carrico announced his intention on Sept. 11 after Council member Rory Diamond said the Council must “swiftly remove” Leofric Thomas Jr. from the Public Service Grant Council.^[13]

“Palmetto Bay Council member Steve Cody faces calls for resignation after Kirk comments” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — As many Americans appeal for unity in the wake of the assassination of Kirk, some Florida elected officials are showing that divisions remain across the political landscape. Palmetto Bay City Council member Cody, who holds the District 2 seat, said on his Facebook account, “Charlie Kirk is a fitting sacrifice to our Lords: Smith & Wesson (gun manufacturer). Hallowed by their names.” Cody said he was referencing a long-published statement where Kirk once said that protecting the Second Amendment was worthwhile even if some people die from shootings. “I think it’s worth it to have a cost of, unfortunately, some gun deaths every single year so that we can have the Second Amendment to protect our other God-given rights,” Kirk said in 2023.^[14]

“Clay County teacher suspended after Kirk post: ‘One less evil person’” via Tate Rosenberg of First Coast News — The Clay County School District has confirmed that a teacher has been suspended after their seemingly positive comments toward the death of conservative activist Kirk. First Coast News was sent a screenshot of a post by a viewer from the teacher, who was employed at Ridgeview Elementary in Orange Park, regarding their comments. “Charlie Kirk had 2 kids and STILL SAID gun deaths were the cost to keep the 2nd amendment … this philosophy led to his own death becoming an acceptable cost,” the teacher had posted. “One of the top five Trump surrogates. One less evil person on this planet.” The post received a mixed to mainly hostile reception, with some commenters calling the teacher an “evil individual.”^[15]

“Panthers fire PR employee for social media post about Kirk shooting” via Joseph Person of The Athletic — The Carolina Panthers have fired a public relations employee for a social media post he made about the killing of right-wing activist Kirk. Charlie Rock, who joined the team as a PR intern last year before being promoted to football communications coordinator, posted a video on his personal Instagram account that showed a Kirk speaking engagement with the caption, “Why are y’all sad? Your man said it was worth it …,” along with a screenshot of the Wu-Tang Clan song, “Protect Ya Neck.” A source briefed on the situation said Thursday that Rock is no longer with the organization.^[16]

“DC cancels ‘Red Hood’ comic book series after writer shares inflammatory post following Kirk shooting” via Aaron Couch of The Hollywood Reporter — DC has shelved its Red Hood comic book series following writer Gretchen Felker-Martin sharing posts on Bluesky that joked about the shooting of Kirk, who was killed by an assassin’s bullet on Wednesday. “Hope the bullet’s OK after touching Charlie Kirk,” read one post. “Thoughts and prayers, you Nazi bitch,” read another by Felker-Martin. The writer is trans, while Kirk was known for his anti-trans stance. Felker-Martin’s Bluesky account is now deactivated, but those posts were screenshotted and widely spread before DC canceled the series.^[17]

“MAGA blames ‘South Park’ for Kirk assassination as Comedy Central pulls episode” via James Hibberd of The Hollywood Reporter — Some conservatives are pointing fingers at South Park for mocking the conservative thought leader in a recent episode. While Comedy Central pulled the same episode from a scheduled repeat Wednesday night and sources say the channel will not be airing the episode in its linear rotation for the immediate future (though as of Thursday morning, the episode was still currently available on streaming). The second episode of the current 27th season of Comedy Central’s satirical hit — titled “Got a Nut” — had Eric Cartman becoming a right-wing podcaster and spouting tropes used by Kirk, who tours college campuses debating progressive students. “Who wants to debate the master debater?” demanded Cartman, who also took on Kirk’s hairstyle and later attended a ceremony giving out “The Charlie Kirk Award for Young Masterdebaters.”^[18]

— STATEWIDE —

“‘Before tragedy strikes’: Barbara Sharief refiles bill to strengthen protections against violence” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — If you’re at risk of serious violence, Sen. Sharief wants to provide more access to safety measures. That’s the goal of legislation (SB 32) she has refiled for the coming Session. If passed, the measure would expand protections under existing injunction statutes, substituting “repeat violence” with “repeat or serious violence.” In short, the changes would expand a court’s ability to issue restraining orders and take other protective actions. Under current law, someone seeking help from courts must show repeated incidents of threats or violence. Under SB 32, a single serious act — bodily injury or a death threat directed at the petitioner — would qualify.^[19]

“‘Chilling reminder’: Multiple historically Black universities under lockdown after receiving threats” via Tesfaye Negussie, Deena Zaru, Arthur Jones II, and Doc Louallen of ABC News — Multiple historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are on lockdown after receiving potential threats on Thursday, including Alabama State University, Virginia State University, Hampton University in Virginia, Southern University in Louisiana, and Clark Atlanta University in Georgia. Spelman College, located near Clark Atlanta University, has also implemented shelter-in-place protocols as a precautionary measure due to its proximity. Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach is on lockdown due to a potential threat to campus safety, school officials said on Instagram. The FBI released a statement regarding the threats on Thursday, saying federal investigators are “aware of hoax threat calls” to several historically Black institutions.^[20]

“Personnel note: House Democrats add three new staffers as caucus gears up for 2026 Session” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — House Democrats are expanding their team with three new hires, bolstering their policy, communications and operations as the caucus eyes the upcoming 2026 Legislative Session. House Dems are hiring Josh Cohen as an attorney with a focus on health care legislation. Lauren Guagliardo has been tapped as Deputy Communications Director. And Hannah Vanover is stepping in as office manager. Cohen is a graduate of Stetson University College of Law. He previously worked in employment law, including a stint with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. He also brings political and advocacy experience from his time with the National Organization for Women, where he worked on health care and gun violence prevention policy. Cohen’s first stint in the Capitol came as an intern in then-Rep. Ben Diamond’s office.^[21]

“Bear advocates aim to win hunt permits, foil Florida’s bear hunt” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Betsy McClain has never shot anything, but the breeze, yet the Longwood animal advocate hopes to win a bear-hunting permit for Florida’s first hunt in a decade. If lucky, she’ll be aiming at saving a bear by blocking a bona fide sportsman from securing one of 187 bear permits the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission plans to distribute by lottery to licensed hunters to participate in the controversial December hunt. The state will begin accepting applications on Friday at 10 a.m. “I consider myself pretty experienced with black bears,” said McClain, 71, who lives near the Little Wekiva River, where bears often roam. “I’ve had black bears on my patio, in my garage … I’ve had them in my yard for as long as I’ve lived here. I love them, I really do.”^[22]

— D.C. MATTERS —

“U.K. fires its ambassador to Washington over emails to Jeffrey Epstein” via Lauren Frayer of NPR — Days before Trump arrives in the United Kingdom for a state visit, the U.K. has fired its ambassador to Washington over links to convicted sex offender Epstein. In 2008, before becoming ambassador to the United States, Peter Mandelson — a former Cabinet minister and European Union Trade Commissioner from the center-left Labour Party — wrote Epstein an email saying, “I think the world of you and I feel hopeless and furious about what has happened.” In another, he wrote: “Your friends stay with you and love you.” Mandelson’s emails, published Wednesday by The Sun newspaper, were sent after Epstein was indicted by a grand jury in 2006. The New York financier pleaded guilty two years later to soliciting sex with a minor.^[23]

“Judge cuts off Ryan Routh within minutes of his first words to jury, calls them a ‘mockery’” via Hannah Phillips of The Palm Beach Post — Seconds into Routh’s opening statement, prosecutors lodged their first objection. The typewritten statement, more a rhapsody than a presentation of evidence, was impermissible, they said. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon let him carry on, anyway. It was a win for Routh, representing himself in court against charges of plotting to assassinate Trump, but a short-lived one. Three minutes in — after he’d invoked Adolf Hitler, mused tearfully over peaceful meetings between humans 1.5 million years ago, and asked jurors “Why are we here?” — prosecutors objected again for the same reason. This time, Cannon agreed. She said she had limited patience and wouldn’t tolerate Routh “making a mockery of this court’s dignity.” She gave him one more chance.^[24]

“ICE raid will delay Hyundai’s construction plans in Georgia, CEO says” via Joann Muller of Axios — An ICE raid on a Hyundai-linked battery plant in Georgia last week will delay construction plans by months, the CEO of Hyundai Motor Co. said Thursday. Hyundai’s now-$26 billion commitment to build in the U.S. was one of the signature early wins for Trump, but that’s all up in the air as the repercussions of the immigration raid take hold. ICE raided the plant Sept. 4, arresting hundreds of workers, many of them South Korean. The images of their countrymen in shackles caused broad outrage in South Korea, prompting the country’s President to reportedly say Thursday that it could chill the U.S. ally’s investment plans.^[25]

“Kevin Cabrera visits Santiago to oversee sight restoration for hundreds of Panamanian patients” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — U.S. Ambassador Cabrera joined Panama’s First Lady and top health officials in Santiago this week to highlight a joint U.S.-Panama mission restoring sight to hundreds through cataract surgeries and other procedures. The event at Luis Chicho Fábrega Hospital showcased nearly 300 cataract surgeries, along with pterygium procedures and a cornea transplant. Patients traveled from Veraguas and surrounding provinces, many of them regaining their vision after years of impairment. “Each surgery represents a new opportunity to return to work, study, and enjoy life,” Cabrera said in a statement. “This mission is a result of our expanded security cooperation to continue working alongside Panamanians to improve lives and promote prosperity, strengthening the ties between the United States and Panama.”^[26]

— ELECTIONS —

“Byron Donalds’ dollar signs are huge warning signs” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — The Governor of Florida gets to spend a lot of our money. So, at the very least, any candidate for this job owes the public complete transparency about their own money. How about it, U.S. Rep. Donalds? Donalds stands atop the list of Republican candidates because he has Trump’s coveted seal of approval. No justification exists for a serious candidate to evade federal financial disclosure requirements, as he did for his and his wife Erika’s income and assets. Erika Donalds’ charter school income was not fully disclosed on Byron Donalds’ 2023 financial disclosures until last month, the investigative news site Florida Bulldog found. This isn’t petty paperwork. The amended disclosure lists Erika Donalds’ OptimaEd and Optima Management Services as worth $1 million to $5 million in 2023. That’s real money.^[27]

“Florida Realtors sold on James Buchanan’s SD 22 bid” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Florida’s Realtors say Buchanan should be handed the keys to a Senate seat. The Florida Realtors PAC is endorsing the Sarasota Republican in Senate District 22. The Representative and longtime real estate agent remains the only candidate in the race to succeed Sen. Joe Gruters, who cannot run again because of term limits. “As a Realtor, Rep. Buchanan understands the unique complexities of the real estate industry, as well as its importance to Florida’s economy,” said Marilyn Pearson-Adams, Chair of the Florida Realtors PAC trustees. “He has led the way on critical issues during his time in the Florida House and will bring that same experience and expertise to the Florida Senate. We are proud to support him in his candidacy for SD 22.”^[28]

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“‘Nobody’s asking for this’: Democratic Parkland leaders bash court decision ending Florida’s open carry ban” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — On the heels of a ruling by an appellate court ending all restrictions on the open carry of firearms in Florida, several elected Democratic officials from Parkland — the site of the state’s deadliest school shooting — are bashing the decision as dangerous. The 1st District Court of Appeal ruled that Florida’s statutory limits on carrying guns for self-defense violate the Second Amendment. A spokesperson for Attorney General James Uthmeier’s Office said he will not seek a rehearing or Florida Supreme Court review. “More guns make us unsafe, and people fly off the handle in road rage, over shopping carts,” Sen. Tina Polsky said. “If you have a gun at the ready on your hip right there at Publix, it’s really dangerous.”^[29]

“Ron DeSantis appoints former state lawmaker, hostage negotiator to Miami-Dade College Board” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — The Miami-Dade College District Board of Trustees just gained two notable new members. One is José Félix Díaz, a lawyer and former state Representative who led a successful charge in 2016 to expand Florida’s KidCare enrollment to the children of legal immigrants. The other is Juan Segovia, a decorated homicide detective in the Cold Case Unit of the Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office who also works as a hostage negotiator. They join two reappointed Board members: Board Chair Michael Bileca, a state lawmaker-turned-executive of a charter school nonprofit whose Board includes Díaz, and city of Hialeah Chief Operating Officer Ismare Monreal.^[30]

“Feud between Deerfield Beach and Broward Sheriff’s Office shows no sign of abating” via Rafael Olmeda of the Florida Sun-Sentinel — The dispute between the Broward Sheriff’s Office and the city of Deerfield Beach showed no signs of slowing down this week after the City Commission called for studies into what it would cost to reestablish an independent police and fire-rescue service. The city’s five-member Commission made no permanent decisions at its most recent meeting this week. Still, it was clear the tensions between the City Manager and Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony have not abated, and the long-term safety and security of the city’s 90,000 residents could be affected if the two sides don’t reach an agreement soon.^[31]

“Former Gables Commissioner is denied for City Board appointment. Here’s why” via Michelle Marchante of the Miami Herald — After one of her City Board appointees was ousted last month, Coral Gables Commissioner Melissa Castro named her new pick for one of the city’s most important Advisory Boards. But her decision to appoint former Gables Commissioner and recent mayoral candidate Kirk Menendez to fill the seat on the city’s Planning and Zoning Board was blocked by three of the other four members of the City Commission. Mayor Vince Lago, Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson and Commissioner Richard Lara cited various concerns in rejecting Castro’s motion to appoint Menendez, including his 2023 vote to raise the salaries of himself and other Commissioners and ongoing scrutiny of the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Association, where Menendez is President.^[32]

“A divided Lauderdale-by-the-Sea approves adding ‘President Donald J. Trump Drive’” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Reflecting a deeply divided community, a split Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Town Commission has voted to add “President Donald J. Trump” to the name of Sea Grape Drive. The 3-2 vote came after almost three hours of sometimes heated comments, mostly from opponents, applause and jeers from both sides, as well as occasionally testy discussion by the Commissioners. The chasm over Trump is widespread across the country, but political divisions aren’t the norm in the small seaside town, a place that Southern Living magazine describes as “the old-fashioned beach town of our dreams” that comes “straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting.” Opponents warned that the cherished vibe could be ruined by the addition of Trump’s name to Sea Grape Drive.^[33]

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Orange County moves closer to redistricting and expanding its Commission” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Orange County is edging closer to redrawing its District boundaries and expanding from six Commissioners to eight. A Redistricting Advisory Committee that met throughout the year is scheduled to present the final two proposed District boundary maps to the Orange County Commission. As it stands now, the Orange County Commission is expected to vote on the final map at an Oct. 14 meeting. The County Commission ultimately has final say on which map is selected. Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said he is hopeful the Commission won’t significantly redo the proposed boundaries suggested by the Committee.^[34]

“Orange judge reprimanded by Florida Supreme Court over rude comments” via Silas Morgan of the Orlando Sentinel — Orange County Judge Martha Adams was publicly reprimanded by the Florida Supreme Court for making rude comments toward local prosecutors. The reprimand comes after the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission in February found that Adams had violated the state’s judicial conduct code while presiding over Orange County criminal cases. The Commission said Adams exhibited “biased, impatient, undignified and discourteous behavior” toward members of the Orange-Osceola State Attorney’s Office. Adams called one prosecutor an “ass,” and she said she would start being a “bitch” to the State Attorney’s Office in her rulings, the Commission found. Judicial records do not say when the incidents took place, but she was served with a notice of investigation in October 2024.^[35]

“Seminole gives early nod to raising taxes for first time in years” via Martin E. Comas of the Orlando Sentinel — At a budget meeting packed with residents, Seminole Commissioners this week gave preliminary approval to hike the county’s overall property tax rate for the first time in 16 years. The new proposed rate of $5.38 per $1,000 of a property’s taxable value would be a 10.2% increase from the current rate of $4.38. That means the owner of a home with a taxable value of $300,000 would see a jump of nearly $150 in their property tax bill next fiscal year, which starts Oct. 1. Commissioners will cast a final vote on the new tax rate on Sept. 23.^[36]

“Man pepper-sprayed by Orlando officer charged under Florida’s ‘Halo Law’” via Cristóbal Reyes of the Orlando Sentinel — When James Lake spotted a group of people being arrested by Orlando Police on the corner of Central Boulevard and Orange Avenue early Labor Day morning, he pulled out his cellphone and began recording. That moment, captured on a 37-second video that circulated on social media last week, showed one officer ordering bystanders to step away while carrying pepper spray in his hand. “Everybody needs to get back,” the officer barked. “Get back and get out of the roadway.” “Yes, sir; yes, sir. We are cooperating, we are cooperating,” replied Lake as he began moving backward while still recording. But then, the officer sprayed him, and the final seconds of the video show Lake running away before cutting out.^[37]

“‘You shot me, man!’ Video shows Orange deputy accidentally fire on home invasion victim” via Silas Morgan of the Orlando Sentinel — A man who had just defended his home from an attempted break-in ended up being shot by an Orange County deputy just as he unlocked his door. Newly released body camera footage shows the deputy quietly say, “Oh, shit, I didn’t mean …” after his gun fired and struck the victim, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The deputy has been placed on temporary, paid administrative leave while an investigation of the incident continues. Deputies had responded on Aug. 23 to reports of a home invasion in the 2600 block of Sheringham Road, just off Silver Star Road. A preliminary investigation found the victim, a man in his 40s, had fired shots at four suspects trying to break into his home.^[38]

— LOCAL: TB —

“State limits city’s ability to replace street art” via St. Pete Catalyst — The City of St. Petersburg lacks First Amendment free speech protections, which hinders its ability to replace recently removed street murals that promoted inclusivity. Assistant City Attorney Brett Pettigrew said the State of Florida can also abolish St. Petersburg at any time, provided it appeases municipal creditors. His comments stemmed from a hurried City Council Committee discussion on Thursday regarding potential alternatives for public art. Mayor Ken Welch pledged that St. Petersburg would create “powerful new expressions of who we are” about a week before the Florida Department of Transportation began erasing five murals over Labor Day weekend. Those efforts will likely require private property and funding.^[39]

“AI is changing the startup scene. Will it help Tampa Bay?” via Erika Kengni and Shauna Muckle of the Tampa Bay Times — One of the region’s buzziest startup hubs announced this Summer that it was to undergo a “strategic transformation.” New Tampa Bay Innovation Center CEO Rebecca Brown said artificial intelligence has changed how startups succeed — making outside capital less essential, and great ideas more important. The rise of AI as a tool for founders may help Tampa Bay overcome one of its most significant weaknesses: a lack of venture capital funding. For most startups, a multimillion-dollar investment can still make or break the company’s future. Companies that use AI to develop software can bring products to market without hiring more people or relying on venture capital dollars, Brown said.^[40]

“Citrus County saddened by loss of Deputy Andy Lahera” via Mike Wright of Florida Politics — Citrus County is mourning the death of a beloved Sheriff’s deputy whose struggle for recovery following a devastating accident galvanized the community. Deputy Andy Lahera, critically injured while directing traffic following the Lecanto High School graduation ceremonies in May 2023, died Thursday morning. The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office announced Lahera’s passing. ”Deputy Lahera’s life was defined by his steadfast dedication to the safety and well-being of Citrus County, and his absence leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him,” the announcement says.^[41][42][43]

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Black student beaten in viral Jacksonville arrest video files federal civil rights lawsuit” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A young Black man seen in a viral video being punched, pulled out of his car and slammed to the ground by police has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit, alleging systemic brutality and cover-ups within the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO). William McNeil, a 22-year-old student at Livingston College, joined lawyers Ben Crump and Harry Daniels this week to announce the lawsuit against Sheriff T.K. Waters, deputies Donald Bowers and D. Miller, and the city of Jacksonville. The suit claims both excessive force in McNeil’s arrest and unconstitutional policies that enabled the violence, alleging Fourth and 14th Amendment violations. It seeks damages for McNeil’s physical and psychological injuries, and injunctive relief to change JSO’s policies on use-of-force and reporting.^[44]

“Escambia, Santa Rosa sheriffs, Pensacola police, won’t enforce Florida’s open carry law” via Benjamin Johnson of the Pensacola News Journal — The Pensacola Police Department, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office will no longer enforce Florida’s law banning the open carry of a firearm following the 1st District Court of Appeal (DCA) decision Sept. 10 deeming the statute to be unconstitutional. A three-judge panel for the First DCA unanimously ruled in favor of former Escambia County Commission candidate Stan McDaniels, finding that Florida cannot “extinguish the right” to open carry “for ordinary, law-abiding, adult citizens.” “At the PPD, we’re no longer going to enforce the statute,” spokesperson Greg Gordon told the News Journal.^[45]

“Some Northeast Florida police are allowing open carry of guns” via Dan Scanlan of Jax Today — Several local police departments have instructed officers not to enforce Florida’s ban on open carry of guns, a day after a court found the ban unconstitutional. The latest was the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. In a social media post on Thursday, the department said adults who can legally possess a firearm cannot be stopped from openly carrying it in most public places. The Clay County, Bradford County and Columbia County Sheriff’s offices issued similar statements … Despite the ruling, businesses, stores and private property owners still may prohibit open or concealed carry of firearms on their premises. And restrictions on open carry remain in places such as courthouses, police and sheriff’s offices and certain government buildings, as well as elementary, middle and high school campuses.^[46]

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Circuit Judge orders recall election on removal of Beach Council members” via Phil Fernandez of the Naples Daily News — Chief Judge J. Frank Porter of the 20th Judicial Circuit ordered a recall election for the removal of a pair of Fort Myers Beach Town Council members. It was a necessary step put into motion when Council members Karen Woodson and John R. King refused to resign after the historically rare submission of more than 500 verified recall petitions, representing over 15% of the town’s registered voters. “Any member of the governing body of a municipality may be removed from office by the electors of the municipality,” Porter said of the law in the order.^[47]

“Sarasota County to spend $1.7M on Pocono Trail Preserve expansion” via Christian Casale of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Sarasota County will spend about $1.7 million to connect Pocono Trail Preserve with a 1-acre land acquisition along Dona Bay. The county will pay about $1.475 million for the land, with the rest of the funds going toward closing costs and developing the land for public use. The Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program (ESLPP) Advisory Board first approved the property for county purchase in 2021. The 8.2-acre Pocono Trail Preserve is just off Tamiami Trail, a few blocks away from Nokomis Community Park and the Legacy Trail. It was acquired by the county in 2002 and features hiking trails and a fishing pier.^[48]

“Venice City Council adopts rolled-back rate at first budget hearing” via Earle Kimel of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — On a 5-2 vote, the Venice City Council approved a cut in the property tax rate for the 2025-26 fiscal year, when it adopted a rolled-back millage rate. The vote reduces overall revenues by $419,000, with city residents now taxed at a rate of 3.845 mills compared with the current millage rate of 3.9041. This does not impact the separate 0.3405 mills assessed for debt service — primarily for the 2016 bond issues to build a new police station and repave roughly 70 lane miles of roads. One mill represents $1 in property taxes for every $1,000 in taxable value. The city will still go into the 2025-26 fiscal year with a $172.5 million budget.^[49]

“Former U.S. Congressman from North Carolina arrested in Florida” via Luke Tucker of WBTV — A former United States congressman from North Carolina was arrested in Florida on Wednesday. Records showed that former Rep. Madison Cawthorn was arrested in Lee County on Sept. 10. Sister-station WHNS reported that he was wanted for failing to appear in court in neighboring Collier County. The court appearance he failed to show up for was reportedly over driving with a suspended or revoked license. Collier County records showed he was charged with the offense on Aug. 19. The 30-year-old posted a $2,000 bond Wednesday and was released from Lee County jail soon after he was booked.^[50]

— TOP OPINION —

“If we keep this up, Kirk will not be the last to die^[51]” via David French of The New York Times — God help us. On Wednesday, an assassin’s bullet cut down Kirk, a husband, father of two small children, and a hero to countless conservative college students. He was perhaps the most successful conservative personality not named Trump, having built Turning Point USA into the nation’s most influential conservative youth organization. To simply list his accomplishments is to understate his impact and the profound shock of his death.

Kirk was a fixture in the lives of young conservatives; people felt like they knew him. This will hit very close to home. When he was killed on a college campus — a place where he was doing exactly what we ask people to do: show up, debate, and engage peacefully — it created a new and terrible sense of dread.

Who can feel safe now? Where can they feel safe?

One of the worst elements of modern politics is how we learn about our opponents only through the clips and quotes that make us angriest. Our hearts harden until some celebrate the death of those they despise. I’ve seen gutting footage of Kirk’s daughter hugging him; he was not just a political avatar, but a person deeply loved. If politics prevents us from mourning a family’s loss, then we are truly lost.

When I speak on college campuses, I’m often asked what worries me most. My answer is easy: hatred. Vast political differences can be managed, but small conflicts spiral when hatred and vengeance take hold. Every act of political violence builds the momentum of hate and fear, turning political differences into blood feuds that shatter families and, over time, break nations.

Already, we are seeing calls for vengeance online, with grieving friends and allies declaring that “we’re at war.” This is how a country is lost — when we stop seeing our opponents as human, when we crave vengeance more than peace, and when our goal becomes inflicting pain on our enemies rather than pursuing the common good.

I met Kirk only once, and he was perfectly civil, even friendly. We discussed debating our differences on campus someday. He was not afraid of a debate. When the assassin aimed, he didn’t just target a precious human being; he aimed at the American experiment itself. We must not be enemies. We have to recover our decency. The gun cannot rule the day.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Kirk’s murder was an assault on the free exchange of ideas” via Bruce Anderson for The Ledger of Lakeland — The beating heart of higher education is the mystical quest for truth, where fresh minds are freed to think big thoughts. For society to move forward, thought cannot be fenced in; all ideas must be challenged and considered. Kirk, in his sadly short life, was a major proponent of this philosophy. He took his unvarnished, raw energy directly to the center of learning, engaging civilly with college kids who opposed him, living by the electric tagline “prove me wrong!” His assassination, gunned down on the sacred turf of an American university while in conversation with students, strikes at the very soul of this tradition. It is an attack on the freedom of speech that we’re all about.^[52]

“Kirk’s assassination brings Trump’s authoritarianism into even clearer focus” via Jeff Timmer of Lincoln Square — I have long argued that Trump and today’s Republican Party are the greatest threat this nation has ever faced, worse than any foreign foe, because they have turned a major party into an instrument of authoritarian power. Trump’s grotesque exploitation of Kirk’s murder — immediately scapegoating political enemies without evidence — is pure authoritarian theater, the well-worn script of dictators. The burden for this assault on our republic lies squarely with the GOP and the political right, not with those who resist; calls for “both sides” to de-escalate are dangerously naive. That leaves the rest of us with one obligation: to resist peacefully but relentlessly, in our communities and at the ballot box, to defend the American ideal from those destroying it from within.^[53]

“Attorney General’s threats are baseless, embarrassing^[54]” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — For months, we’ve watched Attorney General Uthmeier stagger from spectacle to scandal, acting less like a statewide leader and more like a schoolyard bully who isn’t very knowledgeable about the law. This week, he proved it twice. First, he ludicrously accused former Sen. Linda Stewart of harassing law enforcement for a simple social media post warning that ICE was at a bus station — a post that is clearly protected by the First Amendment. Then, just hours after threatening State Attorney Monique Worrell, he demanded she drop a grand jury-indicted murder charge against a woman, swallowing the defense’s “stand your ground” claim whole. This reveals an agenda void of consistency, simultaneously attacking Worrell for being too lenient while defending a homicide defendant.

“Florida first, Florida strong: A conservative case for expanding Medicaid” via Joel Rudman for the Miami Herald — As a family physician and former Republican state representative, I’ve long believed in Florida First and that compassionate, common sense conservative principles should guide our health care policy. As such, I support Medicaid expansion in Florida because it meets all three of these criteria. As a state representative from Navarre, health insurance was paid for, putting members woefully out of touch with the actual cost of coverage. Now, as a private citizen, my family’s health insurance costs more than $25,000 a year. I would tell my colleagues that there aren’t many families that can afford that. These are not freeloaders — they’re waitresses, construction workers, gig workers and caregivers.^[55]

“I’m a former Florida legislator and doctor. Vaccines offer parents freedom, peace of mind.” via Ronald “Doc” Renuart for The Florida Times-Union — Having a strong vaccination program provides freedom for parents to know that their child has little chance of getting a life-threatening communicable disease at school. It also provides the freedom of a safe learning environment for our most vulnerable. This nation’s forefathers supported vaccinations early in our country’s history. Gen. George Washington, in fact, delayed a military campaign to ensure that the Continental Army was vaccinated against smallpox in 1777, since that disease had created more casualties than the British army.^[56]

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— WEEKEND TV —

ABC Action News Full Circle with Paul LaGrone^[57] on Channel 10 WFTS: Lt. Gov. Jay Collins talks about political violence in America and his future. Former House Speaker Paul Renner, a candidate for Governor, discusses real problems and solutions for everyday Floridians.

Facing South Florida with Jim DeFede^[58] on CBS 4 in Miami: The Sunday show offers viewers an in-depth look at politics in South Florida and other regional issues.

In Focus with Allison Walker^[59] on Bay News 9/CF 13: In Focus will discuss mental health services and outreach throughout the state of Florida. Joining Walker are state Sen. Darryl Rouson and Johnny Crowder, founder of CopeNotes.

Political Connections^[60] on Bay News 9 in Tampa/St. Pete and Political Connections^[61] on CF 13 in Orlando: The weekly Sunday show is now a joint weeknight show airing Monday through Friday at 7 p.m.

The Usual Suspects^[62] on WCTV-Tallahassee/Thomasville (CBS) and WJHG-Panama City (NBC): Steve Vancore sits down with Dara Kam, political reporter for the News Service of Florida.

This Week in Jacksonville with Kent Justice^[63] on Channel 4 WJXT: U.S. Rep. Randy Fine and Dr. Sunil Joshi, Chief Medical Officer for the City of Jacksonville.

This Week in South Florida with Glenna Milberg^[64] on Local 10 WPLG: Milberg speaks with U.S. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, as well as Ofir Akunis, the Acting Consul General of Israel in Miami. The big news of the week and the newsmakers Sunday at 11 a.m.

— ALOE —

#F**kCancer — “A single exercise session may slow cancer cell growth, new study shows” via Gretchen Reynolds of The Washington Post — Exercising muscles pumps out substances that can suppress the growth of breast cancer cells, according to an important new study of exercise and cancer. The study, published last month, involved 32 women who’d survived breast cancer. After a single session of interval training or weightlifting, their blood contained higher levels of certain molecules, and those factors helped put the brakes on laboratory-grown breast cancer cells. “Our work shows that exercise can directly influence cancer biology, suppressing tumor growth through powerful molecular signals,” said Robert Newton, the deputy director of the Exercise Medicine Research Institute at Edith Cowan University in Perth, Australia, and senior author of the new study.^[65]

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today is top lobbyist Jeff Hartley of Smith Bryan & Myers, Jonathan Tallman, and Elizabeth Wester.

___

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

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