Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 9.23.25

Good Tuesday morning.

Florida voters overwhelmingly support extending enhanced premium health care tax credits set to expire at the end of the year, according to new polling from the Associated Industries of Florida Center for Political Strategy.^[1]

The survey, conducted Aug. 25-27 by McLaughlin & Associates, found 79% of likely 2026 voters favor continuing the credits, which help small-business owners and individuals purchase coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. More than half (51%) said they “strongly approve.”

The support carries across party lines, with Democrats and Republicans equally supportive (83% and 81%, respectively) while third- and no-party voters lagged slightly at 70%. Additionally, enhanced credits had majority support among every demographic and within each of Florida’s dozen media markets, including 90% in the conservative Fort Myers media market and 86% of voters over 65.

“In today’s hyper-partisan political climate, there are very few things that both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris voters agree on: extending the enhanced premium health care tax credits to help Florida small-business owners is one of them,” AIF Vice President of Political Operations Jeremy Sheftel said in a news release.

While Republicans have long sought to repeal the Affordable Care Act, GOP lawmakers have recently signaled openness to extending enhanced premium tax credits. If the credits are allowed to expire, an estimated 5.7 million Americans would lose health care; millions more would see their costs spike. Florida is among the most affected states, with nearly 4.7 million enrollees.

The findings echo a Florida Chamber of Commerce poll released last month showing broad support for extending the credits, with voters backing the measure by a 4-to-1 margin. And a poll of the 28 most competitive U.S. House districts nationwide conducted by Trump pollster Tony Fabrizio found Republicans would lead Democrats on the generic ballot by about six percentage points if credits are extended. If they expire, Democrats rocket to a 15-point lead.^[2][3]

The AIF survey included 800 likely General Election voters and has a +/- 3.5% margin of error.

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“Want more Florida Politics in your Google News feed? There’s a new tool for that.” — Google News has launched a new “preferred sources” feature, allowing users to customize their “Top Stories” feed to display content from their favorite publications prominently.^[4]

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.^{[5][6][7][8][9]}

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@MViser: President Trump: “There’s a rumor — and I don’t know if it’s so or not — that Cuba, they don’t have Tylenol because they don’t have the money for Tylenol. And they have virtually no autism. Okay?”

—@ashishkjha: This from @bethanyshondark^[10] is exactly right: “Acetaminophen is the only widely recommended pain reliever considered safe in pregnancy. Scaring women away from it on shaky evidence isn’t responsible, it’s cruel.”

—@PiersMorgan: So, (Jimmy) Kimmel wasn’t cancelled by Trump or the FCC after all — but temporarily suspended by his employer because they thought what he said was ill-timed and insensitive.

—@JayCollinsFL: As Jewish communities here at home and around the world gather to mark Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, I want to extend my warmest wishes. This holiday is a time of reflection, renewal and hope — a chance to look back on the year that has passed and set intentions for the year ahead. Rosh Hashanah begins the Ten Days of Awe, leading to Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. It is a season that calls on us all to consider how we can do better — for ourselves, our families and our communities. To everyone celebrating, may this new year bring peace and good health. Shana Tova!

—@StastiKamoutsas: Today, I found probable cause to sanction a Clay County teacher who posted callous, unconscionable comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk. This teacher’s comments were grossly immoral, reduced her effectiveness in the classroom, failed to protect the health, safety and welfare of students, and did not distinguish her personal views from that of a public educational institution. Accordingly, I am seeking a permanent revocation of this teacher’s license. Thank you, @AGJamesUthmeier,^[11] for your support in ensuring Florida’s teachers who post vile, despicable comments celebrating and encouraging violence in schools will be held accountable.

Tweet, tweet:

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—@DanDaley: Congratulations and welcome to all the new members of @TheFlaBar^[12]

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— DAYS UNTIL —

Paul Thomas Anderson’s ’One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 3; Special Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 7; Taylor Swift’s new album ’The Life of a Showgirl’ drops — 10; Regular Session Committee Weeks begin — 13; Florida TaxWatch Annual Board Meeting — 13; ’Tron: Ares’ premieres — 17; ‘Six Kings Slam,’ featuring six of men’s tennis’ best players in the world, premieres on Netflix — 22; Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 27; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 28; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 33; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 34; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 42; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 54; ’Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 59; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 64; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 66; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 71; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 71; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 77; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 80; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 85; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 87; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 93; Legislative Session begins — 112; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 112; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 136; last day of the Regular Session — 171; MLB Opening Night matchup between the Giants and Yankees — 183; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 184; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 195; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 204; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 209; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 213; F1 Miami begins — 220; Untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 241; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 252; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 258; State Qualifying Period ends — 262; FIFA World Cup begins — 261; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 284; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 289; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 294; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 296; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 300; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 317; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 319; Primary Election Day 2026 — 329; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 353; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 357; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 361; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 366; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 373; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 377; Early Votion General Election Mandatory period begins — 396; 2026 General Election — 406; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 451; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 451; Tampa Mayoral Election — 525; Jacksonville First Election — 546; Jacksonville General Election — 602; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 620; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 682; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 738; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 815; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1025; U.S. Presidential Election — 1141; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1541; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2272.

— TOP STORY —

“Economists discuss possible impacts of eliminating property tax on governments large and small” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Florida lawmakers are scrutinizing the state’s complex property tax system, sparking a debate over local government fiscal management and the fairness of current laws. During a lengthy briefing, members of the House Select Committee on Property Taxes expressed frustration, with some, like Rep. Yvette Benarroch, suggesting tax terminology is misleading, while Chair Toby Overdorf highlighted inequities in exemptions.^[13]

This legislative review is propelled by DeSantis, who proposed exploring the complete elimination of property taxes on homesteaded properties as a priority for his final year in office. The Committee has now begun the complex task of understanding what such a monumental shift would mean for Florida’s homeowners and local governments.

Complicating any reform are existing protections like the “Save Our Homes” amendment, which caps annual increases in a property’s assessed value at 3%. According to state economists, this benefit, along with “portability,” allowing homeowners to transfer savings, applies to 4.65 million properties but creates vast disparities across the state.

The impact of these measures varies dramatically by location. For instance, the average reduction in a home’s taxable value is less than $17,000 in rural Union County but a staggering $580,000 in the high-value Florida Keys. This creates significant challenges for fiscally constrained counties when residents from wealthier areas move in and transfer their substantial tax breaks.

As Rep. Allison Tant noted, this portability can be a “huge hit” for smaller counties, potentially wiping out the entire taxable value of a property and straining local budgets. This revenue imbalance creates a critical point of concern for lawmakers representing Florida’s less affluent regions.

The issue also extends to school funding, where property taxes account for nearly half of all revenue statewide, though dependency ranges from 8% in Union County to over 81% in Collier. The Committee will continue its work, with lawmakers expected to craft a ballot referendum for voters to consider in 2026.

— STATEWIDE —

“Florida creates portal to report ‘violent extremism’ threats following Charlie Kirk death” via Martin E. Comas of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Monday his office has launched an online portal where people can report anyone making threats of political violence. “Lately, we’ve seen political violence more than ever,” Uthmeier said. “If you see something, say something. If there’s chatter out there that looks like a real threat, let us know, let us investigate, and let us try to save lives.” The “Combat Violent Extremism” portal can be accessed at myfloridalegal.com/CVE. People can report videos, images or text messages that reference “violent extremism,” he said. Uthmeier dismissed criticism that the portal could be used as a government tool to crack down on free speech.^[14]

“Government Gone Wild goes wilder” via Michelle DeMarco of the Florida Trident — A top state official spearheading the Governor’s much-touted mission of cutting local government spending is quietly seeking to bolster his own state agency’s spending and employee ranks. In a Legislative Budget Request, Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia is seeking more than $600,000 and six full-time employees to permanently establish a new “Florida Accountability and Fiscal Oversight Office,” with the provocative acronym “FAFO.” Its mission is to review local government data and “uncover the truth about how these government entities are using taxpayer funds, especially property taxes,” according to the budget request. The $617,797 request includes $587,000 for employees and benefits, along with $60,000 for travel and other expenses, according to the documents.^[15]

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Disney says Jimmy Kimmel will return to air on Tuesday” via Aaron Pellish of POLITICO — Disney announced “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will resume airing on Tuesday, ending Kimmel’s short-lived suspension following comments the host made about Kirk’s killing. Disney said it suspended Kimmel last week “to avoid inflaming a tense situation.” The company received intense pressure from Trump allies, including Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr, over Kimmel’s comments. “We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday,” Disney said in a statement.^[16]

“Donald Trump’s pressure on Pam Bondi to charge his political foes could backfire, legal experts say^[17]” via Peter Nicholas and Matt Dixon of NBC News — Trump’s insistence that his Attorney General bring charges against three perceived political opponents could backfire if any cases get to court, undermining his effort to see them punished, some legal experts said. In a social media post Saturday, Trump pressed Attorney General Bondi about three people who’ve raised his ire and who’ve not faced criminal charges to this point: Sen. Adam Schiff, New York state Attorney General Letitia James, and former FBI Director James Comey.

Ballard Partners-Bondi connection producing dividends — Ballard Partners has reached out to the DOJ on behalf of 10 clients in 2025, which is more than the lobbying firm’s tally for the first Trump administration and Joe Biden’s combined. The clients included the NFL, University of Michigan, Hillandale/Gettysburg and Walgreens. Bondi was a Ballard Partners lobbyist before her confirmation, deepening the firm’s close connections throughout the Trump administration. According to disclosure records, nine of the 10 clients for which Ballard has contacted the DOJ first retained the firm after Bondi was nominated for Attorney General.

“Supreme Court allows Trump to fire FTC Commissioner” via Abbie VanSickle and Ann E. Marimow of The New York Times — In an emergency order, a divided court announced that it would allow Trump, for now, to fire Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, a FTC Commissioner, and that it would hear argument in the case in December, a signal that a majority of the court is ready to revisit a landmark precedent limiting presidential authority. Trump had fired Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya, two Democratic members of the FTC, in March. The federal agency, which enforces consumer protection and antitrust laws, typically has five Commissioners — three from the President’s party and two from the opposing party.^[18]

“Trump made big gains with Black voters in 2024. Can Republicans hold them in the Midterms?” via Cheyanne M. Daniels of POLITICO — Trump made significant gains with Black voters in 2024. But Black conservative operatives are warning that Republicans shouldn’t take those voters for granted in the Midterms — and fall into the same trap they say has tripped up Democrats. While most Black voters still support Democrats, Black conservatives argue their community has a strong opportunity in 2026 to build off Trump’s momentum and redefine what conservatism means for an increasingly disgruntled generation of Black voters. “Republicans have no desire to pander to the Black community, but do I think they could be doing a little bit better of pandering? For sure,” said Harrison Fields, who was a surrogate on the Trump campaign and recently left the White House.^[19]

“Fed cuts rates by quarter point, nods to further reductions^[20]” via South Florida Agent Magazine — The cut to the federal funds rate from 4.25% to 4% does not directly affect mortgage rates; instead, it trickles through the financial sector and influences them indirectly. In fact, mortgage rates have already declined in anticipation of the announcement. Tim Weisheyer, 2025 Florida Realtors®^[21] president, cautioned home shoppers not to wait too long for the “perfect” rate, however. “My advice to consumers remains the same: don’t miss out on your opportunity to build equity,” Weisheyer said. “Focus on what you can control, like your financial readiness … The sooner you get in, the sooner you start building long-term wealth.”

“Nancy Mace and Cory Mills are still squabbling over censure vote” via Faith Wardwell of POLITICO — A failed effort to punish Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar for comments about Kirk led to more squabbling Monday among two Republicans. Rep. Mace attacked Rep. Mills for voting against the measure with a series of social media posts, calling attention to previous reports alleging that the Florida lawmaker has exaggerated his war record. “Cory Mills never spent over 20 years in the Iraq War or Middle East fighting terrorists,” Mace wrote. “This guy definitely has a screw loose and shouldn’t be on Foreign Affairs or the House Armed Services Committee.”^[22]

— ELECTIONS —

Save the date:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“‘Exactly what Miami needs’: another five former police officials back Emilio González for Mayor” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Five more former law enforcement officials are getting behind former City Manager González’s bid for Miami Mayor. They include Orlando Aguilera, Frank Fernandez, Louis Melancon, Tony Reguiera and Jeanette Said-Jinete. Each offered statements of glowing endorsement. Said-Jinete, who previously led the Medley Police Department as Chief, called González “a leader who understands public safety and has the integrity Miami can count on.” Aguilera, a retired Miami Deputy Police Chief, said González “brings a pedigree of service, integrity and commitment to our country and our community.” Fernandez, a former Deputy Miami Police Chief who led three law enforcement agencies, said González embodies leadership “grounded in integrity, service, and accountability.”^[23]

“Martin County forced to reapply for Brightline grant after Feds rescind opportunity” via Keith Burbank of Treasure Coast Newspapers — Martin County’s plan to build a $60 million Brightline station in Stuart is delayed about nine months, as it now has to reapply for much of the grant money needed, following a U.S. Department of Transportation decision announced. The decision forces applicants to reapply for the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant Program, rebranded as the National Railroad Partnership Program. “No selections were made,” Warren Flatau, a spokesperson for the Federal Railroad Administration, said regarding the grants Martin County and others applied for. The deadline for that application was December 2024. An announcement was expected in April. The county is revising and resubmitting its previous application using new data requested by the Federal Railroad Administration.^[24]

“Breakers Hotel wins discount on West Palm Beach land for temporary workers’ apartment complex” via Andrew Marra of the Palm Beach Post — West Palm Beach Commissioners agreed to give The Breakers hotel a cut-rate deal on city-owned land to build an apartment complex for its workers, calling the project an example they hope other area businesses follow. The unanimous Sept. 15 decision gave preliminary approval to the sale of 1.2 vacant acres on North Australian Avenue for use in the workforce housing community. The city agreed to sell for $660,000, $300,000 below its average appraised value. The lot will be combined with two adjacent properties to build an eight-story, 155-apartment complex that the hotel says will house about 270 temporary workers north of Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard and Gaines Park.^[25]

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Orange enrollment loss hits all elementary schools, prompting closure talks” via Steven Walker of the Orlando Sentinel — Orange County Public Schools took a big hit for elementary school enrollment, which is forcing school officials to start looking at tough choices, like closing schools. “Only 10 of the district’s 130-plus elementary schools gained more than 1% enrollment this year. The rest saw declines — losing 45 kids on average, or about two classrooms worth of students,” the Sentinel reported. The district has not committed to a plan yet, as school officials said they are in early discussions about what to do as more students take private school vouchers or are homeschooled and birth rates are declining.^[26]

“UCF says it is now a preeminent school, joining exclusive company” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The University of Central Florida announced it has cleared the last hurdle to become a “preeminent” state research university, joining the exclusive ranks of just a few universities in the state, including the University of Florida and Florida State University. “At a university of nearly 70,000 students, this accomplishment is truly remarkable and unprecedented at our scale,” UCF President Alexander Cartwright said in a statement. “Like every milestone before, it enables us to do even more to transform lives at scale, propel innovation and fuel Florida’s workforce.” The next step for UCF is for Trustees to verify the data in April before going to the Florida Board of Governors for certification and officially being named as preeminent in June.^[27]

“Epic Universe coaster ‘functioned as intended,’ according to Universal memo” via Skyler Swisher of the Orlando Sentinel — An Epic Universe roller coaster worked properly the day a man was found unresponsive on it and later died. Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died Wednesday night of “multiple blunt impact injuries” shortly after riding Stardust Racers. Universal’s internal review found that staff members correctly followed procedures, Karen Irwin, Universal’s president, wrote in a letter to employees addressing Zavala’s death. “Our internal findings to date confirm that the ride systems functioned as intended, equipment was intact at the ride’s start, throughout the duration of the ride and upon the ride vehicle’s return to the station, and our Team Members followed procedures,” she wrote.^[28]

Rest in peace — “UCF offensive line coach Shawn Clark dies at 50” via Matt Murschel of the Orlando Sentinel — UCF offensive line coach Clark has died at 50, the school announced. Clark died Sunday evening at a hospital with his wife by his side, according to a statement from the university. He had been hospitalized after suffering a medical emergency during the Knights’ bye week on Sept.9. At the time, Clark was in stable condition and seemed to be improving. “Shawn was so much more than a coach. He was a remarkable man, husband, and father who cared deeply about his players and staff,” UCF coach Scott Frost said in a statement.^[29]

Tweet, tweet:

— LOCAL: TB —

“Rays sale approved by MLB owners; Patrick Zalupski-led group ‘good to go’” via Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times — The group led by Jacksonville developer Zalupski went through an extensive process to get approved by Major League Baseball on Monday as the new owners of the Tampa Bay Rays. The sale, for roughly $1.7 billion, is expected to be formally completed later this week, which will include approval from the Federal Trade Commission and money transferred. “It’s good to go‚” MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said after the owners voted unanimously to approve Zalupski.^[30]

“As Tampa Pride cancels 2026 events, St. Pete Pride ‘isn’t going anywhere’” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Tampa Pride announced on social media that it was taking “a one-year hiatus” from its annual Pride Festival and Diversity Parade, citing “current political and economic climate.” The group posted a letter dated Aug. 1 to Carrie West, the group’s former president, saying it would not be renewing her contract after it expired at the end of August. The announced cancellation also cited “challenges with corporate sponsorships, reductions in county, state and federal grant funding, and the discontinuation of DEI programs.” “We recognize the festival and parade’s significant financial contribution to local businesses and its vital role to our LGBTQIA+ community. However, this pause is necessary for the organization to regroup, reassess our long-term strategy, and identify additional avenues of funding to secure the future stability of Tampa Pride events,” the group wrote.^[31]

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Florida moves to revoke Clay County teacher’s certificate over Kirk post” via Michelle Vecerina of Florida’s Voice — Florida Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas announced that he has found probable cause for disciplinary charges against a Clay County teacher who made controversial social media posts about Kirk, and will seek the revocation of the educator’s certificate. The Commissioner’s announcement comes after a memorandum was issued to school districts warning that educators who posted “despicable comments” about Kirk’s death would be investigated.^[32]

“FAMU Board addresses FSU, TMH ownership to ‘calm any fears’ before OKing budget wish list” via Tarah Jean of the Tallahassee Democrat — The FAMU Board met on campus Sept. 18 to approve a Legislative Budget Request of $76.7 million in recurring funds for next year, which includes a $12.5 million FAMU Health initiative and the creation of several hubs for student success, among other projects. But looking ahead, FSU’s likely acquisition of TMH is something trustees and FAMU officials — such as Executive Vice President for Health Sciences Enterprise and Research Innovation Donald Palm – are keeping a close eye on as the HBCU has a current partnership with the hospital. Discussions about the change on the horizon followed a presentation by FAMU’s recently appointed vice president of Government Relations, Michelle Robinson, on the university’s budget request.^[33]

—“Lee Corso, FSU, ESPN icon, plans to attend FSU vs. Miami game, Nugent’s Boys reunion” via Jim Henry of the Tallahassee Democrat^[34]

“Pickleball is growing and Pensacola can’t add courts fast enough” via Troy Moon of the Pensacola News Journal — As with any area experiencing growth, infrastructure is key, and many local players said that the current pickleball infrastructure hasn’t been able to keep up, with long waits at a limited number of courts, though they can be found in area rec centers, schools, churches, parks and now, commercial ventures such as Portside Pickle. “When you go to play around Pensacola, you’ll wait four games to play one,” area veteran Wilbur Matthews said. “People are always looking for places to play and there are so few courts that you’re almost always waiting.” UWF has become a pickleball hot spot … Derrick Racine, the UWF head tennis coach, is a pickleball convert who has helped build the sport at the university. His son, Luke Racine, is a former UWF tennis player and now head teaching pro at Portside Pickle.^[35]

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Fort Myers Beach temporary housing permits expire Sept. 23” via Mickenzie Hannon of the Naples Daily News — With the expiration of all temporary housing permits less than a week away, Fort Myers Beach is reminding residents and business owners that the town will soon enforce the end of the permits that allowed them to live in RVs and trailers after Hurricane Ian. In late August, the town mailed courtesy letters outlining the cutoff date and including an application for property owners who may qualify for hardship extensions. The letters stress that those who take no action before Sept. 23 could face code enforcement referrals, daily fines and other penalties. The Town Council also adopted a resolution establishing the hardship extension process, which allows property owners to request extra time under certain conditions.^[36]

“Sarasota County reflects on hurricane recovery, a year after historic evacuations^[37]” via Asha Patel of WTSP — Sarasota County is overhauling its storm preparedness strategy following the largest evacuation in its history during Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which displaced 9,400 people. An after-action report detailed key lessons, including the immense challenge of clearing 2.4 million cubic yards of debris. In response, the county has created a new debris management officer position to streamline future recovery efforts. Officials are also urgently advising residents to secure adequate homeowner’s and flood insurance as the “first line of defense” before the next disaster strikes. With the peak of the current hurricane season underway, leaders are issuing a stark warning to the community to remain vigilant and prepared for potential threats.

— TOP OPINION —

“Trump’s Kirk eulogy divided America^[38]” via David Litt for The New York Times — President Trump has never embraced the role of consoler in chief, a departure from his predecessors, who regularly used eulogies to unite the nation. While past Presidents have delivered, on average, more than one eulogy a year, Trump has largely avoided them.

His recent memorial address for conservative activist Kirk was a significant and revealing moment. The speech was skillfully constructed, but it was precisely this careful wording that made its break from tradition so alarming.

What the President said — and what he left unsaid — made clear his narrow definition of “all Americans.” Where past leaders used moments of tragedy to speak to everyone, Trump seemed to address only his supporters.

The essential task of a eulogy is to speak well of the dead and Trump did so effectively, painting a clear picture of Kirk’s formidable character. However, presidential eulogies after acts of violence are about more than just praise; they are about reaffirming national unity when it feels most fragile. Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, in similar moments, explicitly called for unity and empathy, not blame.

Trump, however, defined “we” as those who shared Kirk’s MAGA beliefs. He praised Kirk not for uniting the country, but for helping to “unite MAGA.” By stating the bullet that killed Kirk was “aimed at all of us,” he immediately clarified that “us” meant those who shared Kirk’s specific political vision, effectively erasing the millions of other Americans who were also appalled by the violence.

This approach blurs the line between patriotism and partisanship, suggesting that, for this administration, there may be no distinction. It’s a shame and perhaps a dangerous one, that in a moment requiring national grace, the President could not find it.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Trump might be losing his race against time” via David Frumm of The Atlantic — Trump’s push for Attorney General Bondi to prosecute his political rivals reflects his weakening authoritarian project, which faces declining public support amid a worsening economy and rising corruption perceptions. Bondi must weigh the immediate benefits of pleasing Trump against the future risks, including potential imprisonment like Richard Nixon’s Attorney General, if his power collapses. With increasing public disapproval, even among Republicans and growing economic anxieties, Trump’s leveraged political structure is vulnerable. His pressure on Bondi to act now highlights his own precarious position, forcing her to decide whether to risk her career and freedom for a President whose hold on power is rapidly deteriorating ahead of the 2026 Elections.^[39]

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Is the Rapture coming Tuesday? Why social media is talking about the end of the world” via C.A. Bridges of the Tallahassee Democrat — A South African pastor’s prophecy that the world will end on September 23, 2025, has gone viral, spawning a social media frenzy dubbed “RaptureTok.” The prediction has ignited a mix of reactions, with believers preparing for the event, non-believers posting satirical content and skeptics weighing in. Many other religious leaders have strongly disputed the claim, citing Christian scripture which states that no one but God knows the date of the end times. This latest doomsday forecast follows a long history of similar failed predictions, most notably from radio host Harold Camping, who repeatedly and incorrectly announced the world’s end, prompting some followers to give away their possessions.^[40]

What Anthony Pedicini is reading — “The boom of backyard beekeeping in Florida” via Gabriella Paul of WUSF — In Florida, you can keep bees in your backyard. That’s a good thing because honey bees are vital to food and wildlife in the state. Despite threats like disease, habitat loss and queen quality issues, bee populations are on the rise in Florida. Experts in the state say that it’s due in part to backyard beekeeping. There are around 5,000 registered beekeepers in the state. That number has doubled in the last decade since a 2012 Florida law made backyard beekeeping legal in the state.^[41]

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are former U.S. Rep. Al Lawson, Nicole Hagerty, John Fox, Jeff Frederick, Lisa Greer, and Hillsborough Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez.

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

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