Good Tuesday morning.
Florida taxpayers paid $111,387.50 in bills tied to the Hope Florida grand jury investigation, according to invoices obtained by the Florida Trident. The Governor’s Office hired Continental PLLC to represent an unidentified person as investigators examined $10 million diverted into political committees.
The payments bring the taxpayer tab for two firms to $307,040. The other represented Katie Strickland, a former deputy Chief of Staff to Gov. Ron DeSantis whose testimony grand jurors questioned. Continental’s invoices identify the Executive Office of the Governor as payer but conceal its client.
Billing records show a lawyer contacting Leon County prosecutors. After the report was filed under seal in January, Continental attorneys drafted a motion and prepared a response as efforts to prevent the findings from becoming public moved through the courts.
Why did taxpayers finance the representation? An Attorney General opinion posted on AG James Uthmeier’s website states that public funds cannot cover an official’s defense in a criminal investigation. Redactions leave unanswered who received Continental’s services and what the state funded.
The grand jury concluded that $10 million from a Medicaid settlement was misappropriated through the Hope Florida Foundation for political activity. It found insufficient evidence to bring criminal charges. DeSantis called the payment a donation and dismissed the controversy as a hoax.
The Governor’s Office did not respond to the Trident’s requests for comment. The invoices add an accountability question to a case shadowing Tallahassee: Who was represented, and why were taxpayers paying to fight disclosure of the grand jury’s findings?
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@kaitlancollins: The CEO of Palantir Alex Karp is scheduled to also attend Tuesday’s meeting with President (Donald) Trump and other tech executives, according to a person familiar with the matter. Karp’s presence is notable because Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei will also be at the White House Tuesday following his private dinner with Trump over the weekend. Having both Amodei and Karp attend is notable, given Karp has strongly criticized Amodei and frontier labs in the past.
—@l_e_whyte: RFK Jr. said he met Sam Altman recently, and Altman told him HHS is using AI more than any other government agency. “That includes the CIA, but I doubt that. He probably doesn’t know what they’re doing,” Kennedy said today at a MAHA Institute event.
Tweet, tweet:
—@AndrewDesiderio: Spotted in the Senate: WH Chief of Staff Susie Wiles
—@Mtgreene: We have not seen a caravan headed to the U.S. southern border in several years; why now? Oh yeah, there is an election coming, and the GOP needs to scare you into voting because nothing else is working.
Tweet, tweet:
Tweet, tweet:
—@AngieNixon: Now @AshleyMoodyFL. Why would I want to abolish the police when I want you arrested and in jail for stealing $10 million from sick kids? BFFR
—@fineout: Fla @davidjollyfl today talked more about his plans for insurance, including battling what he calls a “corrupt” system protected by Fla Leg and would be kept in place by @ByronDonalds if elected. Vows to take executive action to curb the ability of insurers to shift profits
Tweet, tweet:
Tweet, tweet:
—@Finkd: We believe superintelligence will create significant new opportunities for all people and businesses. Meta already serves billions of people at scale and helps hundreds of millions of businesses reach customers. Today we are starting the next major pillar of our business, Meta Enterprise Platform, to help businesses use AI to grow and transform in new ways as well.
— DAYS UNTIL —
General Election domestic ballot send deadline — 2; ‘Digger,’ with Tom Cruise, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, premieres — 3; General Election voter registration deadline — 6; ‘The Social Reckoning,’ with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres — 10; Associated Industries of Florida one-on-one conversations with five top-of-ticket Republicans — 13; ‘VisionQuest’ premieres — 15; ‘The Diplomat’ season 4 premieres — 16; Optional General early voting begins — 20; ‘Six Kings Slam’ on Netflix — 22; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins — 22; General Election ballot request deadline — 23; Mandatory General early voting begins — 25; General Election — 35; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 38; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 38; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 43; ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’ starring Johnny Depp premieres — 45; ‘Paper Tiger’ starring Adam Driver premieres — 45; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me, America’ is released — 49; New legislator training sessions — 49; Senate convenes for general organization and selection of officers — 49; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 52; ‘The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 57; ‘Madden’ premieres — 58; Committee Week #1 — 62; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 80; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 80; Committee Week #2 — 97; Committee Week #3 — 104; ‘Ahsoka’ season 2 premieres — 113; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas — 118; Committee Week #4 — 125; Grammys — 131; Committee Week #5 — 132; ‘Remain,’ directed by M. Night Shyamalan, premieres — 138; Super Bowl LXI — 138; Committee Week #6 — 139; Opening day of the 2027 Regular Legislative Session — 154; Tampa Mayoral Election — 154; ‘The Thomas Crown Affair,’ directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan premieres — 157; Oscars — 166; Jacksonville First Election — 175; Miami Marlins Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. New York Mets — 177; Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. Baltimore Orioles — 177; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins — 197; Jacksonville General Election — 231; ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ premieres — 241; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 249; Citrus Series — Tampa Bay Rays at Miami Marlins — 290; ‘The Bluey Movie’ premieres — 311; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 311; Citrus Series — Miami Marlins at Tampa Bay Rays — 346; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 444; 2028 South Carolina Presidential Primary — 480; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans — 482; 2028 Nevada Presidential Primary — 490; 2028 New Hampshire Presidential Primary — 497; 2028 New Mexico Presidential Primary — 504; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 507; 2028 Michigan Presidential Primary — 511; 2028 Virginia Presidential Primary — 518; Oscars — 523; ‘X-Men’ premieres — 584; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 605; ‘Days of Thunder’ sequel with Cruise and Anne Hathaway premieres — 612; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 626; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 654; ‘Ghost Rider’ premieres — 668; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 770; ‘Black Panther 3’ directed by Ryan Coogler premieres — 808; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa — 846; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,170; College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami — 1,210; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,901.
— TOP STORY —
“Byron Donalds turns David Jolly’s 2016 criticism against him” via Andrew Mark Miller of Fox News — Donalds is reviving Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jolly’s criticism of party switching from their 2016 congressional race. Then a Republican, Jolly accused opponent Charlie Crist of changing his abortion position for political convenience. Donalds says the same criticism now applies to Jolly.
Jolly once backed abortion restrictions, including a ban after 20 weeks, and supported defunding Planned Parenthood. He now supports abortion rights and says he would veto state restrictions. Donalds calls the change a matter of political convenience; Jolly presents his position as part of his Democratic platform.
Donalds also highlights changes in Jolly’s immigration and healthcare positions. As a member of Congress, Jolly supported stricter refugee screening and opposed the Affordable Care Act. He now calls for broader access for workers and asylum seekers and supports expanding healthcare coverage.
The campaign is raising Jolly’s lobbying work involving offshore drilling. Jolly says he never lobbied for drilling, but PolitiFact previously rated that claim Mostly False after examining his firm’s work and his account of a meeting about legislation.
Jolly has focused on affordability, criticizing Donalds’ position on AI data centers and calling for relief from housing, insurance and healthcare costs. The campaigns have also traded accusations over debate scheduling, with Donalds saying Jolly is avoiding a confrontation.
Donalds won the Republican Primary; Jolly is seeking to become Florida’s first Democratic Governor since the 1990s. Fox News Digital sought comment from Jolly’s campaign. Donalds says he will continue pressing questions about Jolly’s shifting positions as the General Election approaches.
— 2026 —
Happening today — Donalds holds a student town hall at Florida A&M University: 7 p.m., Lee Hall, 1601 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee.
Eric Holder endorses Jolly for Governor — Former U.S. Attorney General Holder, Chair of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, is backing Jolly in the Governor’s race. The endorsement comes through the NDRC’s Democracy Defenders program, which supports candidates for state offices the group considers critical to protecting democracy. “For far too long, Florida Republicans have embraced an extreme anti-democracy agenda, including enacting egregious gerrymanders to secure unearned power for themselves. They don’t think they can win unless they cheat,” Holder said. “David is the responsible, balanced leader Floridians want and deserve. Throughout his career, David has put people over politics, fought for fair representation for all Floridians, and worked to end gerrymandering.” Holder also took aim at Donalds. “Byron is a self-centered, divisive extremist who has consistently chosen partisan politics over the people,” he said. “Changing a campaign ad and removing any mention of Trump doesn’t change who you are or what you’ll do if elected.”
“Jolly targets insurers’ payments to affiliates after profit report” via David Fleshler of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel and Skyler Swisher of the Orlando Sentinel — Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jolly says he would use executive action to limit what Florida insurers pay affiliated companies and seek legislation requiring disclosure of those payments. His proposal follows the newspaper’s publication of a state-commissioned analysis showing insurers reported $432 million in losses over three years while paying affiliates $1.3 billion. Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky calls the unfinished report unreliable, and industry representatives dispute its methods. Republican nominee Donalds has also called the hidden payments unacceptable and proposed an insurer scorecard. A House bill expanding scrutiny of affiliate transactions passed this year but died in the Senate.
“In the race for Governor, the fate of two sprawl-inducing state laws hangs in the balance” via Jason Garcia of Seeking Rents — St. Johns County is fighting back against Florida’s new “agricultural enclaves” law — an edict out of Tallahassee, pushed by lobbyists for developers, that makes it harder for local communities to slow suburban sprawl. On Sept. 15 — the very same day that St. Johns County Commissioners denied the Davis family and PARC Group agricultural enclave application — records show the development partners donated a combined $200,000 to Donalds, the Republican nominee for Governor. These particular campaign contributions are important because any effort to eliminate or modify the agricultural enclaves law must go through Florida’s next Governor, who can sign or veto any bill passed by the Legislature.
“Angie Nixon wants to co-sponsor Bernie Sanders’ federal moratorium on data centers” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — If elected to the U.S. Senate, Nixon would co-sponsor U.S. Sen. Sanders’ proposal for a federal moratorium on artificial intelligence data centers. Nixon compared the potential ramifications for the centers to polluted sites that caused illness among residents in poor communities for decades. “I am someone who was born and raised on a Superfund site,” Nixon said in a video call with the press. “They previously would burn trash and dump it in an area, and they happened to build my grandmother’s house on that with other people in the Black community in Jacksonville, Florida.”
“Conservative watchdog says Nixon wrongly omitted massive debt from financial disclosures” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A conservative watchdog group filed a complaint with the Justice Department about discrepancies in U.S. Senate candidate financial disclosures. The National Legal and Policy Center (NLPC) sent a complaint to both the Senate Ethics Committee and the U.S. Attorney for Northern Florida. It alleges that two debts totaling more than $10,000 were omitted from the Jacksonville Democrat’s federal disclosures, which she is required to file as a candidate for federal office. “Were these inadvertent omissions? Hardly,” reads the NLPC complaint. “It’s clear that Nixon’s failure to list the two liabilities was no mere oversight but constitutes a knowing and willful filing of false financial disclosure reports (both her original and her amended reports), which omitted two liabilities over $10,000.”
“José Javier Rodríguez vows to confront utilities and corruption” via Dara Kam of State Affairs Florida — Democratic Attorney General candidate Rodríguez says he would put public safety, consumer costs and corruption at the center of the office if he defeats Republican Uthmeier in November. Rodríguez pledged to challenge utility and insurance rate increases, address gun violence and synthetic drugs, and seek recovery of $10 million routed through the Hope Florida Foundation. A grand jury report criticized officials involved in the transfer but found insufficient evidence for criminal charges; Uthmeier denies wrongdoing. Rodríguez also questioned spending on the now-closed “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center. Recalling his 32-vote Senate loss in 2020, he said his fight against powerful utilities remains unfinished.
— MORE ELECTIONS —
“Republicans pour money into dozens of U.S. House races previously considered ‘safe’” via Dawn Kopecki and Nolan D. McCaskill of Reuters — Republicans are pouring money into more than three dozen U.S. House races previously considered “safe” after internal polling showed they could be vulnerable in the Nov. 3 election. Since Sept. 1, major Republican groups and megadonors have begun spending in at least 39 congressional races where they haven’t previously deployed money this cycle, a review of spending by some of the largest Republican political groups shows. “Republicans are playing defense in some of the strongholds that they’re used to not having to worry about,” said Republican strategist Ron Bonjean, a partner at bipartisan public affairs firm Rokk Solutions.
“Former Congressman Peter Deutsch crosses party lines to back Scott Singer in CD 25” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A former Democratic federal lawmaker is backing the Republican candidate in the race for Florida’s 25th Congressional District. Deutsch, who represented South Florida in Congress from 1993 to 2005, is endorsing former Boca Raton Mayor Singer over CD 25’s Democratic incumbent, U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz. Singer said he’s grateful to have Deutsch’s backing. “Congressman Deutsch is a lifelong Democrat who recognizes how radical and antisemitic today’s Democratic Party has become — and the threat its direction poses to Israel, its supporters, and Jewish Americans,” he added. Of note, Moskowitz is a staunch supporter of Israel and has made fighting antisemitism a cornerstone of his campaign.
— EVEN MORE ELECTIONS —
“Hispanic groups and local leaders back Debra Tendrich in HD 89” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Two Hispanic political organizations and seven local leaders have endorsed Democratic Rep. Tendrich for re-election in Palm Beach County’s House District 89. HISPAC and The Hispanic Vote joined a slate that includes Palm Beach County Commissioner Joel Flores and School Board Member Virginia Savietto. Republican community activist Brandon Cabrera and Helena Muñoz, Chair of the Palm Beach County Moms for Liberty chapter, also endorsed Tendrich; Muñoz cited their work helping families navigate services for students with disabilities. Tendrich faces Republican Cathy Higgins, a former Atlantis Mayor, in November. The District’s Hispanic population is about 54%, according to Tendrich’s campaign. She won the seat by 2 percentage points in 2024.
“Hillary Cassel faces voters after flipping from Democrat to Republican. Even if she loses, ‘no regrets.’” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Cassel stunned her colleagues and outraged her previous supporters when she quit the Democratic Party less than eight weeks after the 2024 Election. Now, running for re-election as a Republican, she’s still explaining the party switch. She’s campaigning to return to Tallahassee to represent the all-Broward House District 101, where Republicans are third in registered voters, behind Democrats and no-party affiliation/independents. “Hillary Cassel is a typical politician chasing political ambition, switching parties when it serves her, and putting her pursuit of power ahead of the people. She was a Republican, switched to Democrat to run for office, got reelected as a Democrat, then switched back to Republican weeks later,” said Todd Delmay, the Democratic candidate running against Cassel.
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— STATEWIDE —
“James Uthmeier seeks court order slowing OpenAI development” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Uthmeier wants a Florida court to impose temporary restrictions on OpenAI while the state’s lawsuit against the company proceeds. His proposed injunction would require independent safety safeguards before new model development, limit how ChatGPT handles children’s data, and regulate how it describes its reliability and presents itself to users. Uthmeier pointed to warnings from AI leaders and reports of agents accessing websites without authorization as reasons for urgent action. The state sued OpenAI and its founder, Sam Altman, in June, alleging that the company’s products put Floridians at risk. OpenAI has defended its safety protocols. The filing asks the court to act; no injunction has been granted.
“Florida TaxWatch puts a price on data center debate” via Peter Schorsch of FloridAI — Florida TaxWatch estimates a hypothetical 500-megawatt data center could generate more than $1 billion in taxes over eight years, with over 94% going to local governments and schools. For a fiscally constrained county, that could transform its tax base. I favor building these facilities, and this is the first Florida estimate I’ve seen that gives communities a revenue figure to weigh against the costs. It is a model, not a promise for every project. A campus of that size would also require substantial amounts of electricity and water. TaxWatch urges officials to plan infrastructure, charge large users for the costs they create and avoid building budgets around a single taxpayer. That is how this debate should proceed.
“How AI-powered bungling by Florida cops cost a father his freedom and $45K” via Kate Payne of The Florida Trib — An investigation by The Trib reveals the 38-year-old was arrested, detained and charged with heinous crimes — all because someone else pulled photos of him off the internet without his knowledge for the purpose of impersonating him and then messaged them to an undercover officer posing as a child during the sting operation. Relying on artificial intelligence-powered facial recognition tools, officers opted to arrest the man in the photos, Nick, and failed to do the basic investigative work that officers did routinely before AI came along — the digging that would have led them to the actual perpetrator. The Sheriff’s Office did not respond to a detailed list of questions for this story.
“Florida minimum wage reaches $15 as new laws take effect” via the News Service of Florida — Florida’s minimum wage rises by $1 to $15 an hour Wednesday, completing the scheduled increases voters approved in a 2020 constitutional amendment. The base wage for tipped workers rises to $11.98; future increases will track inflation. A separate group of state laws takes effect Thursday. One creates an annual registry for certain repeat violent offenders, while another changes how police may identify criminal gang members. Other measures increase penalties for involving minors in animal fighting, clarify which license plate frames drivers may use and impose new penalties for violating no-contact court orders. Broward County must also study and hold a public hearing before advancing plans to expand the Monarch Hill Landfill.
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Donald Trump offered to sell arms to China, U.S. Ambassador says” via Edward Wong of The New York Times — Trump has asked Xi Jinping, the leader of China, whether he would like to buy American weapons, David Perdue, the American ambassador to China, said in a television interview on Sunday. “President Trump continues to say, ‘Hey, we sell arms to other people around the world,’” Perdue said on “Fox News Sunday” while discussing Xi’s state visit to Washington last week. “He actually asked President Xi if he would like to buy some at one point.” Perdue did not provide further details or reveal Xi’s reply.
“Trump dined with the Anthropic CEO who called for AI slowdown” via Cat Zakrzewski of The Washington Post — Trump had a late dinner Sunday night with Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, after weeks of dismissing Amodei’s calls for the industry to slow down AI development. The dinner was the first one-on-one meeting between Trump and the head of Anthropic, one of the country’s leading AI firms, after months of tensions between the company and the administration. Amodei is one of the few major tech CEOs who has not sought time with the President during his second term, unlike others who attended his inauguration, made investment announcements at the White House, and regularly dined with Trump. At the time, Trump called Anthropic’s leaders “Leftwing nut jobs,” and the Pentagon blacklisted the firm.
“Trump turns on Maria Elvira Salazar after Florida Republican challenges his immigration crackdown” via Ben Johansen and Ali Banco of POLITICO — Trump escalated his criticism of Rep. Salazar, amplifying a series of social media posts attacking the Florida Republican and, in multiple instances, calling for her replacement ahead of her election in just over a month. Trump reposted more than a dozen messages criticizing Salazar on Truth Social, including one user’s post that read: “So we need a NEW Republican to Replace Salazar.” For months, several Trump loyalists, including Laura Loomer, have called on Trump to abandon his endorsement of her.
“John Thune: Taxpayer dollars shouldn’t fund Trump ads” via Jordain Carney of POLITICO — Thune took issue Monday with a new ad campaign featuring Trump that is being underwritten with federal funds. “It’s a great message. I like the message. But it shouldn’t be paid for with taxpayer dollars,” the top Senate Republican told reporters. One of the ads that has aired in recent days is virtually identical to a 2024 Trump campaign ad except that the new version states it is “paid for by the U.S. government.” Another shows images of Trump accompanied by a song titled “Love Me” and captions such as, “America will never be a communist country.”
“MAGA podcasters are tuning out Trump. We tracked what they are talking about now.” via Neil Mehta, Brian Whitton and Sabrina Rodríguez of The Wall Street Journal — Conservative podcasters appear to be losing interest in Trump. Instead, they are criticizing a Bible-quoting Democrat threatening to flip red Texas, and they can’t stop talking about a murder trial that divided a jury — and the country. The Wall Street Journal analyzed nearly 70,000 hours of podcasts to understand the topics that conservative podcasters — some of whom helped propel Trump to victory in 2024 — are talking about, and what has fallen out of the conversation. The analysis captures the political mood in key corners ahead of the crucial Midterm Elections in November. Mentions of Trump’s name per hour on conservative podcasts have fallen nearly 70% from their peak.
“Senate Republicans make a final legislative push ahead of the Midterms” via Theodoric Meyer of The Washington Post — Barely five weeks before November’s Midterm Elections, Senate Republicans are rushing to pass more legislation to run on, as polling shows Democrats within striking distance of retaking the chamber. The Senate is expected to vote this week on legislation aimed at protecting consumers from high electricity costs, driven in part by the data center building boom. Almost no Republican is in more danger of losing his seat than Sen. Jon Husted (Ohio), who introduced the data center bill that Republicans are set to take up. “If Senate Democrats want to be the lone obstacle to passage, then shame on them,” he told reporters.
“Embarrassing breach at FBI fuels fears of harm to its employees” via Dustin Volz, Alan Feuer, Charlie Savage and Adam Goldman of The New York Times — The theft by a criminal hacking group of reams of sensitive personal data involving potentially tens of thousands of former and current FBI employees is emerging as one of the worst breaches of sensitive government information, leaving the bureau rushing to protect its personnel as an uncertain deadline loomed. The hack appears to have swept up home addresses, Social Security numbers, secretive job assignments and much more. Some are already comparing it to China’s breach of more than 20 million records from the Office of Personnel Management over a decade ago, which was considered so catastrophic that officials and lawmakers vowed never to let something like it happen again.
“‘Delusional’ Senate forecast rattles Sea Island retreat” via Stef W. Kight of Axios — A pollster for Senate Republicans was met with disbelief on Saturday after telling GOP donors and operatives that they could grow their majority in November’s Midterm Elections. “Delusional,” one attendee at the National Republican Senatorial Committee’s Sea Island retreat in Georgia said after a presentation by pollster Erik Iverson. “The mood is not good,” said another. Iverson, a former Montana Republican Party Chair, suggested that Republicans could net a seat in the Senate after the Midterms, but did not provide a state-by-state explanation of how they would do so. “I told attendees that I think all incumbent Republican Senators will hold their seats because we have good candidates who are well-funded,” Iverson said.
“Andrew Bailey, a deputy director at the FBI, leaves his job” via Devlin Barrett, Alan Feuer, Glenn Thrush and Charlie Savage of The New York Times — Bailey, a deputy director of the FBI, said he would leave the job after a little more than a year, the second such departure amid the turbulence in federal law enforcement under the Trump administration. Bailey said on social media that he was stepping down from his post, part of an unusual three-person leadership arrangement, “to return to my family in Missouri.” He expressed confidence that the FBI, under Director Kash Patel, would continue to fight violent crime, “ensure strong organizational accountability, and restore public trust in this institution of excellence.” Patel in turn praised Bailey for making a “fantastic contribution instituting critical reforms” at the FBI.
— LOCAL: S. FL —
“Miami-Dade Republicans defend Amendment 3, calling warnings of weaker services ‘fear tactics’” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Floridians should ignore “fear tactics” around a proposed constitutional amendment that would significantly reduce homestead property taxes, because most of them are “lies,” according to several Republican officials in Miami-Dade County. The Revenue Estimating Conference projects the measure would reduce local non-school property tax collections by $11.86 billion a year once fully phased in. It includes no replacement revenue. Polling has consistently shown that the more voters learn about it, the less they like it. Hialeah Rep. Alex Rizo acknowledged that Amendment 3 is “not perfect,” but said it’s a step in the right direction.
“Rejected by Mayor, Miami-Dade Sheriff takes fight for more tax dollars to Ron DeSantis” via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — Miami-Dade’s Sheriff will ask DeSantis to force the county to spend $42 million more on the Sheriff’s Office, saying the $1.2 billion budget from the county’s Mayor fell short of what the agency needs. Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz announced the planned appeal Friday night to DeSantis and the state Cabinet, exercising a budget maneuver available to sheriffs under Florida law. “Miami-Dade County does not have to choose between public safety and higher taxes or fewer services,” Cordero-Stutz said.
“New ads blast Miami’s proposed Virginia Key marina lease as ’75-year giveaway’” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Opponents of a proposed Miami waterfront redevelopment on the November ballot are taking their fight to the airwaves. Preserve and Protect Miami is launching two 30-second ads this week urging voters to reject Referendum 3, which would authorize a long-term lease and roughly $80 million redevelopment of the Rickenbacker and Marine Stadium marinas. “Our public waterfront is vital to our community, but out-of-state developers are trying to take it from us,” the narrator says. “Even City Commissioners warned us this is a bad, outdated deal for Miami. It’s based on a 2017 economy while we pay 2026 prices.”
“South Florida pastor indicted in Jovenel Moïse’s assassination goes on trial” via Jacqueline Charles of the Miami Herald — Jury selection began Monday in the Miami federal trial of a South Florida pastor who prosecutors say wanted to become President of Haiti through the violent overthrow of President Moïse. Christian Emmanuel Sanon, who lived between Palm Beach County and Haiti, is accused of joining with others in a conspiracy prosecutors say took root in South Florida and involved other countries, including Colombia, Ecuador and the Dominican Republic. The plot culminated, prosecutors say, in the July 7, 2021, assassination of Moïse in Haiti, after a squad of Colombian former soldiers stormed his residence in the hills above Port-au-Prince in the middle of the night.
“Rickenbacker Marina tenant Gramps Getaway is delinquent on Miami-Dade tangible property taxes” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Gramps Getaway, the Virginia Key restaurant whose owner, Adam Gersten, is one of the most visible opponents of Miami’s Referendum 3, is delinquent on its 2025 tangible personal property taxes. The Tax Collector’s online account for “GRAMPS GETAWAY” at 3301 Rickenbacker Causeway showed $2,632.42 due as of Monday, with the 2025 bill listed as unpaid. At a rally at the restaurant on Sept. 21, Gersten told supporters, “We want people to vote no, because it’s a bad deal, and it’s an old deal,” the New Times reported.
“Broward Teachers Union backs ‘true partner’ Joshua Simmons for Coral Springs Mayor” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — Simmons is getting a little extra credit in his Coral Springs mayoral bid, with the Broward Teachers Union backing his campaign. Simmons, a former teacher at Coral Springs High School, currently serves as a Coral Springs City Commissioner. “Joshua Simmons has stood in front of a classroom in Coral Springs, and he has never forgotten what our teachers and students need,” said Anna Fusco, president of the Broward Teachers Union. “Broward’s teachers trust Joshua to be a true partner for public education as Mayor of Coral Springs.”
“Broward arts groups ‘rethinking our entire existence’ as state DEI funding ban looms” via Zoey Thomas of WLRN — Phil Dunlap spent seven years building a program to support Broward County arts organizations. He spent his last two months on the job watching it unravel. Dunlap left his position as director of the Broward County Cultural Division in August, two months after a sweeping state law changed the way his county, and others across the state, issued grants. “We spent so much time trying to create something that welcomed as many people into the tent as possible,” Dunlap said. “And now it’s the possibility of shrinking that opportunity or having to create a system that doesn’t allow organizations and artists to be proud of who they are.”
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Flagler’s emergency planner ready to roll at a moment’s notice” via Kairi Lowery of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Kelly Steffens is one of several people in Flagler County responsible for helping determine evacuation plans when a natural disaster threatens the area. With events like hurricanes, which are predictable enough to track days before they make landfall, she can begin preparing in advance. Other spur-of-the-moment events, such as tornadoes, flash floods, and hazardous material spills, require split-second decisions. As planning section chief for the county’s Emergency Management Division, Steffens’ job extends far beyond hurricane preparedness. She develops response plans and coordinates training exercises for a wide range of emergencies, including disasters that can strike with little warning.
“Daytona Commission balances tax relief against future budget risks” via Brenno Carillo of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Daytona Beach residents are trying to cope with higher grocery prices, skyrocketing gas expenses and other cost-of-living increases. Desperate for a little relief, many see property tax cuts proposed by Amendment 3 to catch a break. But local government officials also have another concern: if voters approve the constitutional amendment in November, continuing to fund services, projects, and other government expenses will be even more difficult. Weary of Amendment 3 and worried about residents’ cost of living, Daytona Beach City Commissioners Sept. 23 adopted a rolled-back property tax rate and a slightly smaller 2026-27 budget than the previously tentative $406 million figure.
— LOCAL: TB —
“Michele Rayner, Lisset Hanewicz endorse Gabriel Hament in St. Pete District 2 race” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Hament is announcing a fresh round of endorsements as he rolls out his first ad in the race for St. Petersburg City Council District 2. New backers include Rep. Rayner, St. Petersburg City Council Chair Hanewicz and former Rep. Ben Diamond, as well as Equality Florida Action PAC, the Suncoast Sierra Club and the Stonewall Democrats of Pinellas County. “Gabriel understands that public service is about people — and that’s what I appreciate most about him,” Rayner said. “As an assistant public defender, he shows up every day to serve people and make sure their voices are heard. He listens, he does the work, and he understands that leadership isn’t about a title — it’s about being present, being responsive.”
“Berny Jacques says Seminole crossed line on Amendment 3” via Matthew Reed of St Pete Catalyst — State Rep. Jacques, a vocal supporter of Amendment 3, is again challenging a Pinellas County city over how it is presenting the measure to residents. This time, Jacques is targeting Seminole, accusing the city of unlawfully campaigning against the amendment by posting information and external links on its website. In a letter sent Friday to Mayor Leslie Waters, Jacques demanded the material be removed and threatened to file a complaint with the Florida Elections Commission if the city does not act. “Consequently, the City of Seminole’s efforts likely constitute electioneering communication and are explicitly prohibited,” Jacques wrote.
“As Florida’s property tax vote looms, Tampa Bay’s Water District stands to lose millions” via Max Chesnes and Michaela Mulligan of the Tampa Bay Times — As Hurricane Helene barreled off the coast of Florida, water managers rushed to prevent flooding by lowering Lake Tarpon in northern Pinellas County. Now, the Southwest Florida Water Management District, which is responsible for managing water needs across 16 counties, could lose millions in annual revenue if voters approve an amendment to cut property taxes this Fall, sparking fears about the District’s ability to fight floods and oversee water supplies. While District staff have been quiet about the looming impacts, internal estimates show that more than $23 million in annual revenue could be at risk by 2028, rising to almost $54 million by 2032. “They’re basically taking the District to the point where they cannot do their statutory responsibilities,” said Sonny Vergara.
“Ashley Gantt endorses Ken Welch for re-election as St. Pete Mayor” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Rep. Gantt is backing Welch in his bid for another term as St. Petersburg Mayor, giving him fresh support after a string of high-profile endorsements for Crist. Gantt represents House District 109 in Miami-Dade County and is the Democratic nominee for Senate District 34 in the Nov. 3 General Election. “Ken Welch understands that leadership starts with showing up, listening and doing the work,” Gantt said. “He has kept the focus on the people who call St. Petersburg home and on the opportunities every family deserves. I’m proud to support his re-election because I know he will keep fighting for a city where progress reaches every neighborhood.”
“Harry Cohen’s head start keeps him ahead of Jackie Toledo in Hillsborough District 1 money race” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Republican Toledo has gained ground in the Hillsborough County Commission District 1 money race, but a head start and a well-funded political committee have helped Democratic incumbent Cohen maintain a sizable financial advantage. Over the past two reporting periods, Toledo’s campaign has raised about $42,000, compared with roughly $30,000 raised by Cohen. That brings Toledo’s total to about $113,000 since entering the race on the final day of qualifying, while Cohen’s campaign has raised about $155,000 since launching his re-election bid nearly a year earlier. “We cannot afford four more years of neglect,” Toledo said. “To me, the best politics is to do your job,” Cohen said.
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“Wyman Duggan renames committee as Jacksonville mayoral speculation grows” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — House Speaker Pro Tempore Duggan’s political committee is now the Better Jacksonville Committee, a name change that adds to speculation he will challenge Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan in 2027. Treasurer Noreen Fenner requested the change Sept. 11. Sources familiar with Duggan’s thinking say he could file as soon as October, ahead of the January qualifying deadline. The term-limited Republican has nearly $1.35 million in his committee, while Deegan has more than $2.2 million in hers and nearly $175,000 in her campaign account. A recent St. Pete Polls survey for Florida Politics put Deegan 20 points ahead in a hypothetical matchup, with 53% support. She hopes to win outright in March and avoid a May General Election.
“Jaheed Anthony Williams and accomplice sentenced for stealing mail, bank fraud” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — A former Tallahassee postal employee and an accomplice are headed to federal prison for using a stolen postal key to steal checks from the mail and commit bank fraud. Williams, 24, was sentenced to four years in federal prison, while Taija Avion Smith, 25, received a two-year sentence, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida announced. “Our citizens deserve to be able to rely upon the U.S. Postal Service to quickly, efficiently, and securely deliver the mail,” U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin said.
“State email prompts Blueprint to rethink Tallahassee’s Airport Gateway project” via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — Blueprint’s Board unanimously agreed to revisit the Airport Gateway project after County Commissioner Christian Caban produced a state email casting doubt on a land transfer needed for one segment. The Office of Cabinet Affairs said it has no plans to bring the project before the Governor and Cabinet and does not recommend approval because the proposed roadway conflicts with the land’s current use. Staff will verify the email and the state’s position. At its next meeting, the Board will consider returning to the project’s original three-segment scope. Caban and other Commissioners favor redirecting money from the disputed segment to Tharpe Street improvements, including safer routes for children walking to school.
— LOCAL: SW. FL —
“Uthmeier sought teacher’s firing after DeSantis appointee’s family complained” via Alice Herman of Suncoast Searchlight — Attorney General Uthmeier called for Pine View School teacher Elizabeth Ballard to be fired and lose her certificate if allegations that she mistreated an eighth-grader over his political views proved true. Records identify the student as the grandson of Lon Deckard, a DeSantis appointee to the State College of Florida Board of Trustees. The records do not show that Deckard filed the complaints or explain how the dispute reached Uthmeier. A District investigation found no clear evidence of ill intent, though it said the family could reasonably view Ballard’s handling as disproportionate. She received a three-day suspension in August. Uthmeier’s public intervention drew criticism from the teacher’s union.
“Collier voters to decide on sixth penny of tourist tax” via Laura Layden of the USA Today Network — Florida — Collier County voters will decide Nov. 3 whether to raise the tourist development tax from 5% to 6%. The additional penny on short-term lodging would generate nearly $10 million annually, with much of it expected to help complete the Paradise Coast Sports Complex. Commissioner Burt Saunders says the project needs another $40 million to $50 million for facilities that could attract more events and visitors. The county has already spent more than $114 million on the complex. Hospitality and business groups support the increase, while the Naples Area Board of Realtors questions its permanence and seeks clearer evidence of a return on investment. The county information meeting is on Wednesday on Marco Island.
“Debbie Jordan and Tony Beougher vie for Lee School Board seat” via Mike Walcher of WGCU — Incumbent Jordan faces businessperson Beougher for the nonpartisan District 4 seat, representing parts of Fort Myers, North Fort Myers and Cape Coral. Jordan, nearing the end of her second term, opposed the District’s next budget because she says too many cuts fell on instructional staff. Beougher says his supply-chain experience could help the District manage tight finances, and he wants families to learn about vocational options sooner. Jordan finished first in the August Primary with about 35% of the vote; Beougher drew about 28% and later gained the third-place candidate’s endorsement. Beougher has raised about $83,000 to Jordan’s $36,000. Both say students’ needs should guide Board decisions.
“Film chronicles New College students’ response to DeSantis overhaul” via Alana Nguyen of The Independent Florida Alligator — “First They Came for My College” follows students and faculty through the changes that began after DeSantis appointed new trustees to New College of Florida in 2023. Director Patrick Bresnan drew nearly two hours of film from 300 hours of footage, documenting protests, campus life and students finding joy amid upheaval. Producer and alum Harry William Hanbury says the school once gave him a welcoming place to come out as LGBTQ+, making the changes personal. The film also addresses the elimination of gender studies and the disposal of library books. Its Gainesville theatrical run ended Sept. 26, with viewers describing concern about students affected by the overhaul.
“Lilliana Baker becomes Fort Myers’ first Hispanic woman city clerk” via Dayna Harpster of WGCU — Baker, a Cuban American who served as deputy clerk, has been sworn in as Fort Myers City Clerk. She is the first Hispanic woman to hold the office and succeeds Mary Hagemann, who retired this month. Baker has worked for the city for eight years and says she uses Spanish several times a week to assist residents, answer questions and prepare election materials. She also wants to bring middle school students into City Hall for a hands-on civics lesson. Her plan would let students choose representatives, elect a Mayor and see how city decisions are made. Baker hopes the experience will make local government less intimidating and show students that their voices matter.
— TOP OPINION —
“Florida’s race preference defense tests Uthmeier’s consistency” via The Wall Street Journal editorial board — Florida has challenged racial preferences, yet it is defending its own race-conscious rules for federal homeowner relief. The contradiction deserves an answer from Uthmeier, who has criticized diversity policies elsewhere.
Congress created the Homeowner Assistance Fund during the pandemic to help people facing mortgage costs. Its statute directed most money to homeowners below the area median income and prioritized the remainder for people considered socially disadvantaged. Treasury guidance identified barriers to homeownership, including racial or ethnic prejudice.
Florida adopted eligibility language that explicitly listed racial and ethnic groups, as well as limited English proficiency and residence in certain disadvantaged areas. White homeowners sued, alleging that the approach violated the Equal Protection Clause and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.
According to their complaint, Florida received $676 million, and Black applicants made up 72% of approved homeowners, compared with 25% who were White. Those figures alone do not establish why applicants were approved or rejected, but the state’s written criteria are the issue in court.
Florida argues it cannot be sued under Title VI due to sovereign immunity and says federal law authorizes its approach. A federal judge ruled in February that accepting the money waived that immunity. That ruling did not establish that the plaintiffs proved discrimination.
In December 2025, the Treasury Department instructed participating states to stop unlawful discrimination. Uthmeier has objected to race-conscious practices at organizations, invoking equal treatment. Florida should publicly explain why its own homeowner program merits a different defense and whether it intends to keep defending the disputed criteria.
— MORE OPINIONS —
“Trump calls elections rigged, but only when he loses,” via Frank Bruni of The New York Times — Trump’s familiar complaint that elections are rigged is growing louder ahead of the Midterms. He has sought limits on mail voting, his administration has sued states over voter rolls, and FBI Director Patel has raised the prospect of agents at polling sites. But the story collapses under its own contradictions. Trump accepted his Electoral College victory in 2016 while calling the popular vote fraudulent. He still disputes his 2020 loss yet treats his 2024 win as proof the system worked. Democrats supposedly can steal elections but somehow let Republicans win Congress and the presidency. Repeating claims without evidence corrodes trust in voting and makes accepting defeat harder. If Republicans lose in November, expect another chorus of “rigged.”
“Marco Rubio wants to welcome Vladimir Putin to Miami. He should be ashamed” via Fernand R. Amandi of the Miami Herald — Rubio says the United States has invited Putin to December’s G20 summit in Miami. “We hope that’s an invitation he’ll accept,” Rubio said. He should be ashamed to say it in this community. Rubio has spent his career posing as a champion of people who flee dictators. Now, as America’s chief diplomat, he is extending a welcome to the ruler who ordered Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. A handshake, a motorcade and a seat among world leaders are political gifts. Putin has done nothing to earn them.
“The freedoms our families found are ours to protect” via Christian Ulvert for Florida Politics — My grandmother fled Nicaragua after Daniel Ortega stripped away the freedoms she knew. My husband’s family escaped Venezuela. Their journeys taught me that freedom is a promise we keep, not a birthright we inherit. Growing up in Miami-Dade, I saw families arrive with little more than hope that their voices and votes would matter. Faith asks me to love my neighbors. Family reminds me why every household deserves protection. My husband and I challenged Florida’s refusal to recognize marriages like ours because those principles must mean something in law. Freedom includes the right to worship, marry, speak and vote without fear. I want our children to inherit a community that protects those rights for everyone.
“Follow the money behind debt settlement’s promises to consumers” via Ed McFadden for Florida Politics — We should ask what happens after a debt settlement company tells a family to stop paying its bills. A TransUnion study found that 53% of customers were current on all accounts at enrollment; those with stable finances saw a median decline of 96 points in credit score. The industry’s own research shows the first settlement takes more than 14 months on average. Meanwhile, some firms use an “attorney model” to collect fees before settling debts. Florida has pursued companies accused of taking consumers’ money without delivering promised relief. Families deserve to know those risks, the costs and their alternatives, including lender hardship programs and nonprofit credit counseling. A proposed federal disclosure law would help them see the terms before enrolling.
“Coral Gables’ next century calls for growth and restraint” via Daniel Díaz Leyva for Florida Politics — Coral Gables has the financial strength to shape its next century without sacrificing what makes the City Beautiful special. We can build a walkable urban core filled with businesses, culture and public spaces while protecting residential neighborhoods from incompatible development. We can invest in infrastructure, public safety and parks while preserving our tree canopy and historic character. That work also requires respectful leadership at City Hall. I support Nestor Menendez and Nikki Whiting for the City Commission because I believe they will bring the judgment and energy this moment demands. I have contributed to both campaigns and am hosting an event for Whiting. The choices voters make now will help determine the Coral Gables our children inherit.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— AI —
“AI hurricane model offers forecasters another day of warning” via Ellyn Lapointe of Gizmodo — Google DeepMind’s WeatherNext Cyclones model gave forecasters the equivalent of an extra day of predictive accuracy in tests of hurricane tracks, intensity and wind structure, according to research published in Nature. The model learns from past storms and produces up to 1,000 possible scenarios, helping it assess rare but dangerous outcomes. Researchers developed it with input from the Miami-based National Hurricane Center, whose experts now use the tool alongside other forecast models. During the 2025 Atlantic season, it helped forecasters anticipate Hurricane Melissa’s rapid intensification and its landfall in Jamaica days in advance. The model is publicly available and requires less computing power than traditional forecasting systems. For Florida, earlier, more reliable forecasts could improve preparations before a storm threatens the coast.
“Why AI data center deals can stay hidden from the public,” via Maria Briceño of PolitiFact — As communities weigh the costs of AI data centers, residents may learn about proposed projects only after officials have spent months in private talks with developers. Nondisclosure agreements can shield early discussions about land use, utility demands and potential tax breaks. Companies say the agreements protect proprietary information, while critics warn they can impede public scrutiny. David Cuillier of the University of Florida’s Brechner Freedom of Information Project says some agreements force residents to fight for records they should be able to see. Local officials generally decide whether projects can proceed, though several Florida counties have paused approvals to study effects on water supplies and electricity rates. A moratorium pauses decisions; it does not necessarily end negotiations.
— ALOE —
“Florida gas prices climb as oil costs push higher” via Garfield Hylton of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida drivers faced higher prices at the pump last week as rising oil costs pushed gasoline up 18 cents before prices eased over the weekend. The statewide average stood at $4.37 a gallon Sunday, according to the report, 41 cents above last month and $1.42 higher than a year ago. Mark Jenkins of AAA said the increase followed gains in oil prices the previous week. West Palm Beach-Boca Raton, Naples and Gainesville had the highest metro averages; Pensacola, Panama City and Crestview-Fort Walton Beach had the lowest. Orlando’s average reached $4.34 Monday, while area diesel prices fell to $5.98 after hitting a record the week before. The national average for gasoline was about $4.48.
Florida Division of Blind Services marks 85 years with statewide celebration — The Florida Department of Education’s Division of Blind Services is celebrating its 85th anniversary with a five-city tour highlighting decades of work helping Floridians who are blind or visually impaired pursue education, employment and greater independence. The “85 Years of Impact and a Future Beyond Limits” tour kicks off Oct. 2 in Pensacola, followed by stops in Miami, Daytona Beach, Tallahassee and Fort Myers. A centerpiece comes Oct. 15 in Daytona Beach, where the Division will mark White Cane Day and reopen its newly rebranded Career, Technology & Training Center, which provides vocational training, technology and workforce skills. Florida is home to more than 538,000 residents with vision difficulty or blindness, according to the American Foundation for the Blind. The anniversary also spotlights programs including the nation’s first state agency-led Web Accessibility Specialist apprenticeship for blind individuals, the Business Enterprise Program, and the Braille and Talking Book Library.
“Spectrum’s Polk County expansion targets 10,000 homes and businesses” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Spectrum says the Beyond the Build initiative will extend fiber-optic internet to more than 10,000 homes and small businesses in Polk County, bringing mobile, television and voice services to customers. The work is part of a $7 billion rural broadband investment aimed at connecting more than 1.7 million locations nationwide. Spectrum also awarded $50,000 to Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay for digital education. The funding will support the Barnett Family JA Discovery Center under construction in Lakeland, where a five-year partnership is expected to provide career-readiness education to about 25,000 students annually from Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties. Lakeland Rep. Jennifer Canady, a former classroom teacher, said the center will give students hands-on opportunities to apply what they learn in school.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Happy birthday to Steve Schale of The Advocacy Partners, former U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, University of West Florida Board of Trustees Chair Rebecca Matthews, Brian Graham and Zach Thorn.
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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.
