Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 9.16.25

Good Tuesday morning.

With the meeting of the Joint Legislative Budget Committee last Friday and the upcoming meeting of the House’s Committee on property taxes, along with other deadlines, the 2026 Legislative Session is, at least from a public affairs perspective, already underway.

That’s why now is the time to lock in the prices for a Session ad package. Here are the current prices:

— $15K package: Rotated ads on FP; rotated ads in Sunburn; op-ed placement availability; etc.

— $8.5K package: Rotated ads on FP; one week per month, rotated ads in Sunburn; one op-ed placement.

The prices will increase at the end of the month. And the number of Session slots is strictly limited.

If interested, please reach out to [email protected]^[1].

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Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings looks poised to jump into the 2026 race for Governor.

Multiple sources say the former Sheriff and Orlando Police Chief has told confidants he intends to run, with an announcement possible as early as next month.

Florida Politics text subscribers knew this already, of course — if you’d rather hear breaking news about the Governor’s race on your way to work rather than long after you’ve loosened your tie, you can join them.^[2]

Back to 2026: Demings, the husband of former U.S. Rep. Val Demings, has been one of the loudest critics of Gov. Ron DeSantis and likewise one of the term-limited Governor’s recurring targets in recent weeks.

With Demings facing term limits as well next year, the timing lines up for a statewide bid. Pressed on Monday on his future, Demings didn’t hedge.

“I’m not saying I’m not going to run,” he said. “Given all these things that have been happening? I might just do that.”

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“From the battlefield to the Legislature: Paul Renner spotlights a life of service” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Former House Speaker Renner has released a digital ad spotlighting his life’s journey and making the case for his next political move: becoming Governor. The three-minute spot recounts Renner’s path, from being raised the son of a minister and a teacher, to serving in the armed forces, prosecuting criminals and leading lawmakers in Tallahassee. It also touches on Renner’s role in advancing school choice, cutting taxes, reforming litigation practices, and more from his legislative career. While most of the video highlights accomplishments that moderate or nonpartisan voters could easily celebrate, the video touches on Renner’s opposition to diversity, equity and inclusion programs, and a narrator proudly proclaims Renner helped ensure “liberal craziness (was) brought to an end.” Renner then continues, arguing that progress must be protected and furthered.^[3]

To watch the ad, please click the image below^[4]:

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This week marks National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, the annual event recognizing the 3.5 million road warriors who keep the country’s supply chain moving.

Florida helped kick things off Monday when the Florida Highway Patrol and the Florida Trucking Association co-hosted the state’s first celebration of the week at the Flagler Weigh Station on I-95.

The event drew a lineup of state and industry leaders, including Florida Trucking Association President Alix Miller, who joined Derek Barrs, awaiting final U.S. Senate confirmation as President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Also on hand were FHP Col. Gary Howze, FDOT officials Marie Tucker and Steven Marshall, and FHP Chief of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Troy Thompson.

The appreciation week, running Sept. 14–20 this year, highlights the essential role truck drivers play in ensuring everything from groceries and medicine to lumber and clothes lands on store shelves safely, securely and on time.

Floridians who pass by big rigs this week are encouraged to give the person behind the wheel a thank you — keep your eyes on the road.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RealDonaldTrump: Subject to SEC Approval, Companies and Corporations should no longer be forced to “Report” on a quarterly basis (Quarterly Reporting!), but rather to Report on a “Six (6) Month Basis.” This will save money and allow managers to focus on properly running their companies. Did you ever hear the statement that, “China has a 50 to 100-year view on management of a company, whereas we run our companies on a quarterly basis???” Not good!!!

—@RealDonaldTrump: Under pressure from the Radical Left Democrats, Mayor Muriel Bowser, who has presided over this violent criminal takeover of our Capital for years, has informed the Federal Government that the Metropolitan Police Department will no longer cooperate with ICE in removing and relocating dangerous illegal aliens. If I allowed this to happen, CRIME would come roaring back. To the people and businesses of Washington, D.C., DON’T WORRY, I AM WITH YOU, AND WON’T ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN. I’ll call a National Emergency and Federalize, if necessary!!!

—@JenniferJJacobs: The plane from Qatar that will be used as AF1 is now being modified by the Air Force, @ellee_watson^[5] reports. Details on the exact changes to the Boeing 747 aren’t being released.

Tweet, tweet:

—@esaagar: @TuckerCarlson^[6] just now to @JDVance^[7] on Charlie Kirk’s show, presumably referencing Bibi: “I don’t think it’s helpful for people, particularly foreign heads of state, to jump in and say he lived for my cause or whatever. That’s disgusting actually… it’s also literally untrue.”

—@GovGoneWild: Today, our office revealed that over $190,000,000 of Orange County’s budget is “excessive and wasteful spending.” They could EASILY cut the millage rate by.86 and offer property tax relief. They are lighting your tax dollars on .

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

— DAYS UNTIL —

DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 1; ‘Black Rabbit’ with Jude Law and Jason Bateman premieres on Netflix — 2; Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards — 2; ’Tulsa King’ season three premieres — 5; Paul Thomas Anderson’s ’One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 10; Special Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 14; Taylor Swift’s new album ’The Life of a Showgirl’ drops — 17; Regular Session Committee Weeks begin — 20; Florida TaxWatch Annual Board Meeting — 20; ’Tron: Ares’ premieres — 24; ‘Six Kings Slam,’ featuring six of men’s tennis’ best players in the world, premieres on Netflix — 29; Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 34; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 35; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 40; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 41; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 49; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 61; ’Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 66; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 71; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 73; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 78; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 78; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 84; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 87; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 92; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 94; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 100; Legislative Session begins — 119; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 119; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 143; last day of the Regular Session — 178; MLB Opening Night matchup between the Giants and Yankees — 190; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 191; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 202; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 211; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 216; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 220; F1 Miami begins — 227; Untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 248; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 259; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 265; State Qualifying Period ends — 269; FIFA World Cup begins — 268; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 291; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 296; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 301; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 303; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 307; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 324; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 326; Primary Election Day 2026 — 336; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 360; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 364; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 368; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 373; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 380; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 384; Early Votion General Election Mandatory period begins — 403; 2026 General Election —413; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 458; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 458; Tampa Mayoral Election — 532; Jacksonville First Election — 553; Jacksonville General Election — 609; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 627; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 689; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 745; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 822; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1032; U.S. Presidential Election — 1148; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1548; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2279.

— TOP STORY —

“People can now carry firearms openly in public in Florida, Attorney General says” via Romy Ellenbogen of the Tampa Bay Times — Following a landmark court decision, Florida’s Attorney General, James Uthmeier, has directed all state law enforcement agencies to recognize the open carry of firearms as “the law of the state.” In a formal memo, Uthmeier clarified that a 1st District Court of Appeal ruling, which found Florida’s open carry ban unconstitutional, is binding statewide and should be immediately observed.^[8]

This directive was issued to resolve confusion among some officials, like Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, who initially questioned if a lower court could override a 2017 Florida Supreme Court decision that had upheld the ban. Uthmeier’s guidance establishes a unified approach, instructing police and prosecutors to refrain from arresting or charging individuals solely for openly carrying a firearm.

The legal basis for the appellate court’s ruling is the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court case, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen. That decision established that Second Amendment regulations must be consistent with the nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation. The appeals court and now the Attorney General, affirm that the Bruen precedent effectively nullifies Florida’s previous ban.

For Floridians, this means they can now openly carry firearms in public spaces like streets and beaches. However, significant restrictions remain in place. Guns are still prohibited in sensitive areas such as schools and courthouses, and private property owners retain the right to forbid weapons on their premises. Officers can also intervene if a firearm is displayed in a threatening or careless manner.

The ruling marks a significant shift for Florida, which was one of only four states with a near-total ban on open carry. While DeSantis has previously supported open carry, the state’s Republican-controlled Legislature had been resistant to passing such measures, making this court-driven change particularly impactful.

In response, a coalition of gun rights groups, including the NRA and Gun Owners of America, released a joint letter celebrating the victory. They warned that any legislative or regulatory attempts to limit the scope of the ruling will be “vigorously and strongly opposed,” signaling a new front in the state’s ongoing debate over firearm laws.

—”‘New day in Florida’: Jimmy Patronis says people shouldn’t fear open carry” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics^[9]

— STATEWIDE —

“Florida Surgeon General says his ‘goal’ is to ban mRNA COVID vaccine” via Kirby Wilson of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo says he does not want mRNA COVID-19 vaccines to be available in Florida. In a podcast interview published Sunday, Ladapo was asked about the state’s announcement this month that officials intended to end all vaccine mandates. He said the controversy over the announcement was overblown because vaccines would continue to be available to those who want them — with one potential exception. “The goal with the mRNA is for that not to be available to anyone, because no one should be using that one,” Ladapo said, in an apparent reference to the COVID-19 shots. The statement is the latest in a series of harsh criticisms of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines from Florida’s top medical official.^[10]

“Florida vaccine mandate rollback falters after Donald Trump criticism” via Richard Luscombe of The Guardian — It took barely two days, and some huffs of disapproval from the White House, before Ladapo’s bold plan to eliminate all vaccine mandates in Florida began to deflate. The action, the fervently religious state Surgeon General had asserted at a fire and brimstone news conference in Tampa, came straight from the heavens: “Who am I, as a man standing here now, to tell you what you should put in your body?” he opined, framing the freedom to reject vaccines as a “reflection of God’s light against the darkness of tyranny and oppression.” Mandates were akin to “slavery,” he said, in comments presumably intended to align with the ongoing anti-vaccination campaign of misinformation and myth of the Health Secretary, Robert F Kennedy.^[11]

“‘Deportation Depot’ opens in Florida, but detainees go unlisted” via Ana Goñi-Lessan of the Tallahassee Democrat — Florida is expanding its immigration detention capacity with a new state-run facility dubbed “Deportation Depot” at the former Baker Correctional Institution, a project involving the federal government. However, a critical lack of transparency has emerged. Because the state manages the facility, detainees held there do not appear on the public U.S. ICE online locator system, and Florida offers no alternative public database. This information void makes it nearly impossible for families and lawyers to find people, a problem mirrored at another state facility, Alligator Alcatraz. While the state can house up to 2,000 immigrants awaiting federal deportation, the absence of a public tracking system raises significant concerns about accountability and due process.^[12]

“Florida sues pornography websites for violating age-verification law, letting minors access^[13]” via Eric Daugherty of Florida’s Voice — Uthmeier filed complaints Monday against several major pornography websites and related companies, accusing them of violating the state’s new age-verification law and allowing minors to access sexually explicit material. The complaints target two groups of defendants. One filing names Gethins Limited, Toccata Inc., Segpay Gateway LLC, Segregated Payments Inc., and Segpay. The operated site distributes pornographic video game content and lacks an age-verification process compliant with Florida law. A second complaint was brought against Aylo Holdings USA Corp., Aylo Billings US Corp., Aylo Group Ltd., and Nutaku Entertainment Ltd. The filing says SpiceVids and Nutaku have no legally sufficient system to prevent minors from accessing their content.

“‘Hateful sentiment’: Florida FWC employee fired over Charlie Kirk comment” via Sophia Fanning of WFLA — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said an employee has been fired over a comment made about Kirk. On Sunday, FWC made a post on X wishing DeSantis a happy birthday, which prompted a flood of unrelated replies from other users. A few hours later, they replied to the post saying they had been made aware of a recent social media post from one of their employees. “We do not condone nor tolerate this type of hateful sentiment,” FWC wrote in the reply. “We’re actively working toward a swift and immediate resolution regarding this individual’s employment.” The Commission said the employee shared a social media post that made light of Kirk’s death, and that the FWC has a “zero-tolerance policy toward the promotion of violence and hate.”^[14]

“Tens of thousands of 7-OH packets removed from Florida stores in a month since ban” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — More than 17,000 packages of the drug 7-OH have been removed from Florida retailers in the wake of the state’s move to ban the substance from commercial sale this Summer. Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who leads the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), issued a news release explaining that state agents have taken the drug off the shelves of stores in more than 20 counties. The move came after Attorney General Uthmeier issued a ban on the substance Aug. 13. Simpson last month immediately agreed to direct law enforcement officials and regulators to fan out across the state, inspecting stores to see if products containing 7-OH were still on the shelves. Simpson said 17,311 packets of 7-OH have since been confiscated.^[15]

“State regulators won’t take up ‘counterproposal’ in FPL rate case” via Jim Saunders of the News Service of Florida — As they consider a proposed settlement that would increase Florida Power & Light’s base electric rates, state regulators will not take up a “counterproposal” offered by opponents. Florida Public Service Commission Chair Mike La Rosa on Friday issued an order dismissing a competing settlement proposal filed by the state Office of Public Counsel — which is designated by law to represent utility customers — and some consumer groups. The Office of Public Counsel and the allied consumer groups are fighting a proposed settlement that FPL reached last month with numerous businesses and groups. The Public Service Commission, on Oct. 6, will start what could be a two-week hearing on the FPL proposal and is expected to issue a decision later in the Fall.^[16]

“Anchoring Florida’s future: Florida Ports tap fresh talent to boost statewide economic development” via Andrew Powell of Florida Politics — The Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development (FSTED) Council has elected new leadership for its 2025–2027 term to guide the state’s critical maritime initiatives. Joshua Revord, Port Director for the Port of Fort Pierce, was named the new Council Chair. In a statement, Revord highlighted the vital role of Florida’s 16 deepwater seaports in the state’s economy, emphasizing their importance in global trade, the cruise industry and expanding workforce opportunities in shipbuilding and space initiatives. He will be joined by Vice Chair Joseph Morris, CEO of Port Everglades, and Secretary Lance Scott, Port Director for the Port of Pensacola, as the Council continues to oversee strategic investments and capital improvements for Florida’s ports.^[17]

— D.C. MATTERS —

“President announces new deadly strike on boat from Venezuela” via The New York Times — Trump announced on Monday that the U.S. military had struck a boat that he said was carrying drugs from Venezuela. It was the second time this month that he had ordered the use of lethal force against a vessel from that country. The strike, carried out in international waters, killed three people, Trump wrote on social media. The strike came less than two weeks after U.S. forces struck another vessel in what officials said was the start of a broader campaign against Venezuelan cartels. Top Trump administration officials used Kirk’s podcast on Monday to threaten a governmental crackdown on left-wing organizations in the name of the slain conservative activist.^[18]

—“Trump releases shock video of new drug boat strike that killed three ‘terrorists’” via Farrah Tomazin of the Daily Beast^[19]

To watch the video, please click the image below^[20]:

“Trump is shutting down the war on cancer” via Jonathan Mahler of The New York Times — Rachael Sirianni first learned her lab might be in trouble just a few weeks into the new year. A professor at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, in Worcester, Sirianni focuses primarily on an aggressive form of pediatric brain cancer known as medulloblastoma. UMass Chan pays for some of Sirianni’s work. Still, most of her funding comes from the federal government. Entering 2025, she had three active grants at the National Institutes of Health that were all set to expire either this year or in 2026. The money from Sirianni’s startup fund was now effectively frozen, and she had no choice but to shrink her lab. When a researcher and her lab manager left, she was unable to replace them. Nor could she offer positions to two undergraduates whom she had been mentoring and was planning to retain.^[21]

“Trump: Cuban man accused of gruesome beheading validates tough immigration policy” via Syra Ortiz Blanes and Nora Gámez Torres of the Miami Herald — Local authorities in Texas have arrested a Cuban immigrant in the case of a gruesome murder of a motel employee, the latest high-profile criminal case the Trump administration is using to double down on its mass deportation efforts. Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, 37, admitted to killing Chandra Nagamallaiah with a machete at the Downtown Suites motel in Dallas on the morning of Sept. 10. Nagamallaiah was cleaning a room with another worker when he told Cobos-Martinez that he could not use a broken washing machine. Cobos-Martinez got angry that Nagamallaiah was using a witness to translate and attacked him, according to the document. The killing took place in front of Nagamallaiah’s wife and child, who tried to get Cobos-Martinez to stop, but he pushed them away.^[22]

“Trump administration says it’s reached ‘framework’ deal to keep TikTok running in U.S.” via Daniel Desrochers of POLITICO — Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the U.S. and China have reached a “framework” for a deal with the Chinese government to keep TikTok, the popular Chinese-owned social media company, available in the U.S. “We have a framework for a TikTok deal,” Bessent told reporters Monday in Madrid, where he was meeting with Chinese trade officials. “The two leaders, President Trump and Party Chair Xi (Jinping), will speak on Friday to complete the deal, but we do have a framework for a deal with TikTok.”^[23]

—”Washington Post columnist says she was fired for social media posts after Kirk was killed” via Cheyanne M. Daniels of POLITICO^[24]

“Marco Rubio, in Israel, says a diplomatic solution to Gaza war may not be possible” via Michael Crowley of The New York Times — Rubio cast doubt on the chances of negotiating the surrender of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, saying during a visit to Israel on Monday that a diplomatic deal to end the war in Gaza might not be possible. Rubio spoke at a news conference alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel after the two men met for several hours. His comments struck a more pessimistic tone than that of President Trump, who earlier this month said that a deal to stop the fighting in Gaza could come “very soon.” While making clear that the United States would still pursue a peace settlement, Rubio said Hamas is “a terrorist group, a barbaric group, whose stated mission is the destruction of the Jewish state. So, we’re not counting on that happening.”^[25]

Continental Strategy launches PAC to support Trump-aligned candidates —The Florida-based lobbying shop founded by former Amb. Carlos Trujillo has launched a PAC, according to federal filings. The move underscores the firm’s deep ties to the Trump administration following Trujillo’s role bolstering the President’s 2024 Latino outreach and fundraising efforts. Those familiar with the goals of the new PAC say its prime directive is helping congressional candidates aligned with the President in the 2026 Elections. Founded by Trujillo, a former Florida lawmaker who was appointed to an Ambassadorship during the first Trump administration, Continental Strategy has been among the Florida firms seeing a boom in business following Trump’s inauguration in January, reporting more than $10 million in revenue in the first half of the year. It also has a burgeoning state-level practice, landing at No. 13 on the Q2 leaderboard with $1.5 million in Florida lobbying revenues.

— ELECTIONS —

“Democrats launch college voter registration push. Florida is included” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has launched a nationwide “Voter Registration Week of Action,” aiming to increase its voter rolls by targeting key demographics, particularly young people on college campuses like Florida State University. Stating they are “building the infrastructure needed to win everywhere,” the initiative will host 50 events across 27 states and territories. This push is especially critical in states like Florida, where the Democratic party faces a significant disadvantage, trailing Republicans by over 1.3 million registered voters. The campaign follows a Summer organizing program and represents a concentrated effort to engage new voters and challenge the growing Republican advantage in key battleground areas ahead of upcoming elections.^[26]

“Miami Beach Commission candidate Robert Novo ends campaign after residency challenge” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Just a week after Miami Beach Commissioner Laura Dominguez accused him in court of being ineligible to challenge her because he doesn’t meet the city’s residency requirement, first-time candidate Novo is out of the race. A Miami-Dade Circuit judge ordered Novo removed from the ballot in the upcoming Miami Beach election after he chose not to fight Dominguez’s claim that he hasn’t lived in the city for the one year required of candidates seeking local office. “Robert Novo III has testified in open court that he is a resident of the City of Miami Beach in accordance with the City of Miami Beach Charter, but does NOT contest the allegations in the Complaint and Motion,” Judge Jason Dimitris wrote in his order.^[27]

“Inn their corner: Hotel group backs Jim Gray, Roger Chapin and Shan Rose for Orlando races” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — An influential Orlando hospitality association is endorsing three candidates in the upcoming Orlando City Council races. The Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association (CFHLA) recommends incumbent Gray for District 1, Chapin in District 3 and incumbent Rose in District 5. “Commissioners Gray and Rose have been steadfast allies of the hospitality and tourism industry throughout their service on the Orlando City Council,” said Jay Leonard, Complex General Manager of the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista-Disney Springs Resort Area and Chair of the CFHLA PAC and PC, in a statement. “Additionally, Roger Chapin brings decades of experience within the public and private sectors, leadership in serving our community and fostering economic development.”^[28]

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Former Miami-Dade Commissioner gets prison time but allowed to remain free for now” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — Former Miami-Dade Commissioner Joe Martinez received a nearly three-year prison sentence on Monday for what a jury concluded was accepting money in exchange for sponsoring legislation to help a business owner. While Martinez faces prison time, Judge Miguel de la O said he thought the 34-month minimum sentence called for under state guidelines was too harsh. He is allowing the former Commissioner and retired police lieutenant to remain free during the appeals process, which is expected to take at least a year. “Sir, I’m sorry it’s come to this,” de la O said to Martinez on the second floor of the Richard E. Gerstein criminal courthouse, as the former Commissioner’s wife and three adult daughters sat in the second row. “My hands are tied.”^[29]

“‘The leader Miami needs’: 5 more former Police Chiefs back Emilio González for Miami Mayor” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Just days after unionized workers at Miami-Dade County’s biggest economic engine backed him, former City Manager González is adding support from five former Police Chiefs to his bid for Miami Mayor. That includes former Miami-Dade Police Director Juan Perez and three former Chiefs of the Miami Police Department. Perez, whose last local endorsement went to since-elected Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero Stutz a year and a half ago, said only González “has the vision, integrity, and courage to lead Miami forward.” “In Miami’s Mayor’s race, it is not a matter of who we want, it is a matter of who we need,” he said in a statement. “Unequivocally, that is Emilio González.” Former Miami Police Chiefs Rodolfo Llanes and Manuel Oroza expressed similar sentiments.^[30]

“Fort Lauderdale argues to save its colorful crosswalks at Orlando hearing” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Fort Lauderdale officials argued in Orlando that the city should be able to keep the artistic crosswalks and markings targeted for removal by state transportation officials. The hearing was the latest “informal” meeting granted by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) as it seeks to have rainbow and artistic markings wiped from streets and crosswalks across the state. FDOT initially identified four colored intersections in Fort Lauderdale as targeted for removal and then widened its crackdown to 11. However, one of those — at Las Olas Boulevard and Southeast Third Avenue — was paved over earlier this year as part of a road improvement project.^[31]

“FAU professor put on leave after social media comments about Kirk assassination” via James Coleman of The Palm Beach Post — Florida Atlantic University has placed a tenured professor on administrative leave pending an investigation into social media posts made following the assassination of conservative activist Kirk. In a statement, FAU President Adam Hasner condemned the professor’s online comments, stating they do not align with the university’s mission of promoting civil discourse and academic excellence. While the professor was not named, the move underscores a widening fallout from the killing, which has also seen a University of Miami neurologist fired and a Martin County union president reassigned for their own online remarks about the high-profile slaying. The action at FAU comes just days after the university held a campus vigil to honor Kirk.^[32]

“School Board wants to stop WLRN management group from buying Palm Beach County radio station” via David Lyons of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — In the wake of losing more than $3 million in federal and state funding, WLRN-FM, the venerable public radio station that serves a significant chunk of Southeast Florida, launched one of its most critical fundraising drives last week. But while the South Florida Public Media Group, which manages the Miami-based National Public Radio-affiliated station, opened its Fall campaign, it also finds itself in an abrasive legal dispute with the Miami-Dade County School Board, which owns WLRN’s operating license. Acting on a long-stated desire to expand public radio news coverage into northern Palm Beach County and beyond, the Media Group entered into a purchase agreement last Spring to buy WFLM-FM for a reported $6.45 million.^[33]

“Fort Pierce preliminary tax rate same as last year; property taxes would go up for most” via Wicker Perlis of Treasure Coast Newspapers — The city is to soon finalize its budget and tax plans for the coming budget year, with preliminary plans approved at a Sept. 8 meeting showing property taxes will go up for most property owners. The city’s tax rate is to remain unchanged at 6.9 mills, but that rate is projected to lead to an increase in taxes because of increased property values. The rate would exceed the rollback rate — the rate that would bring in the same revenue as the previous year — by 4.37%. The rollback rate is 6.6019. The increase is likely to be less than in past years, with property values still going up, but at a slower rate than in years past.^[34]

Prayers — “Dolphins legend Dan Marino reveals liver disease diagnosis” via David Furones of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Marino, the Miami Dolphins‘ Hall of Fame quarterback who now works with the team as a special adviser, revealed Monday morning that he had been diagnosed with a liver disease. Marino, who turned 64 on Monday, told People magazine he has metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, or MASH. It was formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. He received the diagnosis in 2007 when he went in for a routine checkup without experiencing any symptoms, outside of being “a little fatigued,” he said in his interview with People. MASH occurs when excess fat cells accumulate in the liver, which can cause chronic inflammation that leads to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Marino said he’s doing better by fixing his diet and returning to consistent exercise. He believes getting away from both contributed to his diagnosis. Doctors told him it was reversible, but he had to lose weight.^[35]

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Four Osceola teachers face investigation as uproar over Kirk posts continues” via Steven Walker of the Orlando Sentinel — Four public school teachers in Osceola County face an investigation over social media posts following Florida’s warning that teachers could be punished for publicly making “disgusting comments” about the killing of right-wing activist Kirk. A spokesperson for the Osceola School District confirmed the investigations but did not provide information on the teachers involved or the content of their posts. The investigations come as Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas warned teachers that “vile” public comments about the “horrific assassination” of Kirk could get them reprimanded. “We have four teachers currently under investigation regarding the memo from Commissioner Kamoutsas,” spokesperson Dana Schafer said in an email.^[36]

“Orange County has indulged in nearly $200 million of ‘wasteful spending,’ Florida CFO asserts” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia today said that, based on calculations by his DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) auditors, the Orange County government over the past five years has OK’d more than $190 million in “excessive and wasteful spending.” Speaking in Orlando, Ingoglia said the general fund budget for Orange County had increased by more than $559 million — a nearly 54% boost — in that time, as he continues to make the case along with DeSantis that local government spending is out of control and is the reason why Floridians deserve property tax relief.^[37]

— LOCAL: TB —

“Berny Jacques urges firing of Pinellas JROTC instructor for allegedly justifying Kirk’s murder” via Amber Jo Cooper of Florida’s Voice — State Rep. Jacques asked Pinellas County Schools Superintendent Kevin Hendrick to terminate Boca Ciega High Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps instructor Jay Jackson over alleged comments following the murder of Kirk. “Today I sent a letter to the Pinellas County Schools Superintendent about a Boca Ciega High JROTC Instructor who justified the murder of Charlie Kirk. Sadly, this man is entrusted with young minds and our future service members. Unfit! Enough is enough! Everyone last one of these so-called educators celebrating this heinous act must be purged from our schools,” Jacques wrote.^[38]

“FBI arrests two after incendiary device left under FOX 13 News vehicle” via Jeff Tavss of Fox 13 — Two men have been arrested after allegedly leaving an incendiary device underneath a FOX 13 News vehicle and then forcing an evacuation of a Magna neighborhood when the FBI served an overnight warrant on their home. The men, Adeeb Ahamed Nasir, 58, and Adil Justice Ahmed Nasir, 31, were booked into jail and face multiple charges, including Threat of Terrorism, Possessing Weapons of Mass Destruction, and Possessing Explosive Devices. The device underneath the FOX 13 News vehicle was initially located on Friday and determined to be real. According to officials, the device had been lit but “failed to function.”^[39]

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Florida Education Commissioner slams Leon Schools’ delays in teacher pay raises” via Alaijah Brown of the Tallahassee Democrat — Florida Education Commissioner Kamoutsas has publicly escalated a local dispute over teacher pay, blaming Leon County Superintendent Rocky Hanna and the teachers’ union for delaying state-funded raises. In a letter addressed pointedly to the School Board’s lone Republican member, Kamoutsas accused Hanna of repeatedly failing to distribute funds and summoned the Chair to a state meeting. Hanna fired back, calling the letter a political stunt meant to “embarrass” him and citing chronic state underfunding. The teachers’ union confirmed that it is holding out for a better offer, arguing that the state’s allocation is insufficient to meet the rising cost of living. They are negotiating with the district for more money before accepting the state’s portion.^[40]

“Commotion at the Capitol: Power loss, smoke sends state workers home early” via the Tallahassee Democrat — Firefighters and law enforcement responded to Florida’s Historic Capitol in downtown Tallahassee Sept. 15 after reports of a fire that turned out to be an overheating generator. An FDLE agent on the grounds of the Capitol Complex told a Tallahassee Democrat reporter that electricity to the complex had been lost after a power line had been cut due to nearby construction. But it was smoke from the overheated generator in the old Capitol, as it’s known in town, that drew two Tallahassee Fire Department trucks.^[41]

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Collier Co. lawmakers on board with Adam Botana’s restructure plan for Naples Airport Authority” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Collier County lawmakers have advanced legislation to change the course of Naples airport oversight. Rep. Botana presented a local bill to the Collier County legislative delegation that would restructure the Naples Airport Authority (NAA) as an elected body rather than having Naples City Council members appoint its members. “This is the homiest of home rule because it gives it to the people,” Botana said. The delegation voted 4-0 to advance the legislation. It will now be filed as a bill and directed to the appropriate Committees during the Regular Session.^[42]

“Manatee County deputies arrest student after high school shooting threat” via Michael Moore Jr. of the Bradenton Herald — Deputies arrested a 14-year-old Braden River High School student who threatened a mass shooting on social media, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office said it began investigating after learning about threats shared on Snapchat. In the message, the ninth grader stated he was going to shoot multiple people at the school, deputies said in a news release. Deputies said they had enough evidence to charge the student with making written or electronic threats to kill, do bodily injury, or conduct a mass shooting or an act of terrorism, a second-degree felony. Detectives said they arrested him and transported him to the Juvenile Detention Center.^[43]

“Florida radio station triples ratings after ‘Trump Country’ rebrand” via Brian Flood of Fox News — A Florida radio station has found success after rebranding as “Trump Country” 93.7 FM and embracing MAGA with Trump as the face and voice of the operation. WHEL radio, a country station located in Fort Myers, Florida, uses the slogan “Make Country Great Again,” features signage that mirrors a Trump campaign ad, airs comedic promotions read by a Trump impersonator, and even uses an AI-generated cowboy-hat-clad Trump in its logo. “We made the rebrand decision shortly after President Donald Trump’s election landslide and witnessed all of the support in our area for Trump in boat parades and rallies. So, we made the decision that we would also celebrate Trump’s win by rebranding on inauguration day,” WHEL President and General Manager Jim Schwartzel told Fox News Digital.^[44]

— TOP OPINION —

“The moment that never changes everything” via David Catanese of Too Close To Call — The ghastly slaying of Kirk presented an unlikely opportunity for Trump to heal a divided nation. Instead of lowering the temperature and calling for empathy, he immediately assigned blame to the ‘radical left,’ squandering the moment.^[45]

This reaction confirms that an era of national unity, like the one following 9/11, is likely gone forever.

Tragedy no longer brings us together; it serves as fuel for our political wars. The hypocrisy is stunning, with figures like Rubio — who once warned against this very partisan blame game — now leading the charge.

With the right thirsting for vengeance and the left celebrating, the President is fanning the flames, leaving the nation teetering on a dangerous precipice.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Even in mourning, Trump drives our country closer to the brink” via Frank Bruni of The New York Times — After the assassination of Kirk, I hoped against hope that Trump’s Oval Office address would offer a healing message. Instead, his condemnation of “radical left political violence” was a recklessly opportunistic and dangerously one-sided attack. While listing supposed left-wing acts, he ignored the reality of right-wing violence, conveniently omitting recent attacks on prominent Democrats. His call to end demonization is profoundly hypocritical, coming from a man who routinely calls his opponents “vermin” and “demonic forces.” He pledges to protect law enforcement while celebrating the Jan. 6 rioters who attacked them. This response doesn’t honor the truth or seek unity; it’s a partisan weapon that will only drive us farther apart.^[46]

“NFL’s Kirk tributes show that sticking to sports never made sense” via Candace Buckner of The Washington Post — Goodbye to the delusion of sticking to sports; that fantasy is dead. The lie was exposed as powerful sports franchises and leagues openly mourned the killing of conservative activist Kirk, a polarizing political figure with no connection to sports. This stands in stark contrast to the “shut up and play” edicts issued to athletes who knelt to protest social injustice. The hypocrisy reveals a simple truth: we bring our whole selves to the game. From players to owners to fans, our deepest convictions can no longer be checked at the stadium door. Sports have finally stopped pretending to be separate from the world, becoming a more truthful, if complicated, reflection of who we really are.^[47]

“Migrant crime and the Dallas beheading” via Byron York of the Washington Examiner — In a Dallas hotel, Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, an illegal immigrant from Cuba with a long criminal history, allegedly murdered and beheaded his manager, Chandra Nagamallaiah, with a machete. The horrific attack was caught on video. Despite prior arrests for violent crimes in multiple states, Cobos-Martinez was released from ICE custody this year when Cuba refused his deportation. This tragedy echoes the Laken Riley murder, fueling the political fight over migrant crime. The case highlights how lenient policies allowed a dangerous criminal to remain on American streets, leading to a preventable killing. Critics now point to politicians who previously opposed stricter detention laws but now decry this latest outrage, exposing a glaring inconsistency in their approach to violent non-citizens.^[48]

“Florida should embrace, not regulate, AI innovation” via John Snyder for Florida Politics — Artificial intelligence holds the potential to revolutionize our lives, much like the internet did. However, this transformative technology may never reach its full potential if policymakers rush to regulate what they don’t fully understand. Just as America led the digital revolution through a light-touch approach, we must give AI room to grow, innovate, and scale. Unfortunately, some states are already erecting unnecessary regulatory barriers that risk ceding our strategic advantage to global competitors. Florida must resist the urge to overregulate and instead align with national efforts that prioritize innovation. By fostering a responsible and forward-looking environment, we can ensure that AI becomes a powerful force for economic opportunity and the public good.^[49]

“College football is violent and ugly. Just like we are.” via Diane Roberts of Florida Phoenix — We barbarians, defenders of the indefensible, rationalizers of blown knees and brain damage, know college football season is the most wonderful time of the year, four months when it’s perfectly OK to make animal noises and behave like seventh graders on meth, display irrational hatreds, eat appalling food, and shout at people on television to whom we have not been introduced. Look at the injuries. Look at the money: For all you anti-education dolts out there whining that college professors get paid too much, the average faculty salary in Florida is around $75,000 a year. And the coaches? The University of Florida’s Billy Napier makes $7.4 million a year. However, the poor bugger may soon be sacked. His Gators have now lost two in a row, first to USF, then to LSU. But don’t feel too bad for Napier.^[50]

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“UCF turns focus to North Carolina with thoughts on ailing coach” via Matt Murschel of the Orlando Sentinel — As UCF began preparations for its much-anticipated contest with North Carolina and six-time Super Bowl champion coach Bill Belichick on Saturday, the Knights did so under somber conditions. Offensive line coach Shawn Clark remains hospitalized and in stable condition after suffering a medical emergency last Wednesday. “I can’t say enough good about him,” a somber coach Scott Frost said during Monday’s news conference. “You enjoy this sport, and you want to do it with people you like and care about. There aren’t many people I’ve been around who I enjoy being around as much as Coach Clark. He’s not just a great coach, but a really good man.” Clark, 50, is in his first season with the Knights, having been hired by Frost in January.^[51]

“Universal: Work planned for Lost Continent area of Islands of Adventure” via Dewayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel — Universal Orlando has confirmed that construction work is moving forward in the Lost Continent area of its Islands of Adventure theme park. Details about what might go there and in what specific timeframe remain unrevealed. “In the coming months, there will be construction activity in Lost Continent as part of site planning to ensure the area is ready for any future developments,” is the official stance from the company. Lost Continent is one of the original lands of IOA, which opened in 1999. Two of its primary attractions were “The Eighth Voyage of Sindbad,” a stunt and stage show that closed in 2018, and “Poseidon’s Fury,” a walk-through experience with special effects, which closed in 2023.^[52]

“A 3-year-old who beat Leukemia made a Disney wish; Heritage Insurance delivered” via Florida Politics — A little girl who slayed cancer is about to have her wish come true with a visit to the happiest place on earth. And it’s a local insurer making it possible. Heritage Insurance has sponsored a trip to Disney and revealed the memorable trip to the girl, Shelby, and her family with a “Mickey’s Not-So-Spooky Halloween” theme. Heritage raised $20,000 from employee contributions and a company match for Make-A-Wish, which is facilitating the family’s trip to Orlando later this month. The funding will pay for more than two wishes. “We are deeply honored to host Shelby and her family today for this very special Wish Reveal. Shelby’s journey is a true testament to strength, resilience, and hope, and it inspires all of us at Heritage,” Heritage Insurance CEO Ernie Garateix said.^[53]

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are former U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy, Alan Cohn, former journo-turned-spox Chris Heath, Ghada Skaff Lieser, Wayne Mineo, former Rep. David Rivera, Paul Seago, and Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey.

___

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

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