Good Tuesday morning.
Take a moment to look at The County Election by George Bingham.
Bingham painted a series of canvases celebrating elections in newly created states along the Western frontier.
Here, gathered around the polling place, is a crowd of characters, including the happy drunk whose vote has been bought with liquor and the downcast loyalist whose candidate has lost and who bows his head with more than a hangover. The sole African American, excluded from the voting process, stands at the left edge of the canvas, serving hard cider. Women are notably absent from the scene.
Bingham himself was a disappointed politician, denied election to the Missouri State House in 1846 due to crooked dealings. He swore never to get involved in politics again, but, in the end, he found himself addicted to the competition, was elected a legislator in 1848, and served as state treasurer during the Civil War.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@JeffreyBrandes: If you think Tallahassee will permanently fund Florida’s cities and counties for the next 20, 30 or 40 years if Amendment 3 passes, you haven’t spent much time in Tallahassee. I spent 12 years there. The Legislature may fully intend to backfill local governments today. I even believe them in the short term. But Governors change. Legislatures change. Recessions happen. Budgets tighten. Priorities shift. And inflation hits this promise from both directions: the homestead exemption grows with inflation, increasing the local revenue hole, while the cost of police, fire, roads, labor and everything else local governments buy rises too. So, the amount Tallahassee must send won’t stay flat. It permanently grows. Eventually, Tallahassee will ask the obvious question: Why are we permanently subsidizing local governments? And that’s when the trap closes. We will have permanently damaged the local tax base in the Constitution, while the promise to replace those dollars was never permanent at all. A permanent and growing obligation backed by a temporary political promise. What could possibly go wrong?
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—@JohnCardillo: People sure are hysterical about Jay (Collins) picking a running mate. Weird since they believe we’re doing so poorly.
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—@PresMcCullough: Congratulations to Jack Whaley on his U.S. Amateur Championship victory! Jack’s historic win marks a milestone for @FSUGolf and reflects the dedication and excellence he brings to the game. #GoNoles
—@RollingStone: “You have no idea how many times in my life I have wished and prayed — if I had wished to go back to any time in my life, it would be going back to ‘Remember the Titans.’” — Hayden Panettiere to ET in 2013
— DAYS UNTIL —
‘The Dog Stars,’ directed by Ridley Scott, premieres — 10; Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards — 14; NFL regular season kicks off — 22; Republican National Midterm Convention — 22; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in the first-ever NFL regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia — 23; Yankees host the Mets for the 9/11 anniversary — 24; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 28; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 32; Tampa Bay Buccaneers home opener against the Cleveland Browns — 33; General Election domestic ballot send window begins — 37; General Election domestic ballot send deadline — 44; ‘Digger,’ with Tom Cruise, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, premieres — 45; General Election voter registration deadline — 48; ‘The Social Network’ sequel, with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres — 52; ‘VisionQuest’ premieres — 57; Optional General early voting begins — 62; ‘Six Kings Slam’ on Netflix — 64; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins — 64; General Election ballot request deadline — 65; Mandatory General early voting begins — 67; General Election — 77; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 80; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 80; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 85; ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’ starring Johnny Depp premieres — 87; ‘Paper Tiger’ starring Adam Driver premieres — 87; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me,’ releases — 91; New legislator training sessions — 91; Senate convenes for general organization and selection of officers — 91; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 94; ‘The Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 99; ‘Madden’ premieres — 100; Committee Week #1 — 104; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 122; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 122; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 122; Committee Week #2 — 139; Committee Week #3 — 146; ‘Ahsoka’ season 2 premieres — 155; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas — 160; Committee Week #4 — 167; Grammys — 173; Committee Week #5 — 174; Super Bowl LXI — 180; Committee Week #6 — 181; Opening day of the 2027 Regular Legislative Session — 196; Tampa Mayoral Election — 196; ‘The Thomas Crown Affair,’ directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan premieres — 199; Oscars — 208; Jacksonville First Election — 217; Miami Marlins Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. New York Mets — 219; Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day/Home Opener — vs. Baltimore Orioles — 219; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins — 239; Jacksonville General Election — 273; ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ premieres — 283; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 291; Citrus Series — Tampa Bay Rays at Miami Marlins — 332; ‘The Bluey Movie’ premieres — 353; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 353; Citrus Series — Miami Marlins at Tampa Bay Rays — 388; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 486; 2028 South Carolina Presidential Primary — 522; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans — 524; 2028 Nevada Presidential Primary — 532; 2028 New Hampshire Presidential Primary — 539; 2028 New Mexico Presidential Primary — 546; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 549; 2028 Michigan Presidential Primary — 553; 2028 Virginia Presidential Primary — 560; Oscars — 565; ‘X-Men’ premieres — 626; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 647; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 668; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 696; ‘Ghost Rider’ premieres — 710; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 812; ‘Black Panther 3’ directed by Ryan Coogler premieres — 850; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa — 888; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,212; College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami — 1,252; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,943.
— TOP STORY —
“Donald Trump votes by mail again in Florida despite attacks on practice” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — President Trump voted by mail in Florida’s Republican Primary, using a method he continues to attack as vulnerable to fraud. Palm Beach County voting records show Trump requested his ballot in late July and returned it Aug. 13.
The vote comes as Trump presses Republicans to restrict mail voting. He has called mail ballots “inherently corrupt” and urged passage of the SAVE America Act, which would impose photo ID and documentary proof-of-citizenship requirements for federal elections.
Trump’s administration is also asking the U.S. Supreme Court to revive an executive order targeting mail voting before the Midterms after a federal appeals court blocked it. Trump says mail ballots should be limited to voters who are ill, disabled, traveling or serving in the military.
The White House dismissed Trump’s Florida ballot as a “non-story,” noting he is a Palm Beach resident who primarily lives in Washington. Spokesperson Olivia Wales said Trump’s preferred restrictions include exceptions that would permit mail voting for travel.
Trump has used Florida’s vote-by-mail system before, including in a Palm Beach County Special Election earlier this year. Florida law allows any eligible registered voter to request a mail ballot without providing a reason.
Florida Republicans have tightened the system without adopting Trump’s restrictions. Recent changes have limited ballot collection, required voters to renew mail-in ballot requests every two years, and imposed identification requirements. Trump’s ballot lands amid a crowded GOP Gubernatorial Primary featuring his endorsed candidate, Rep. Byron Donalds, against Lt. Gov. Collins, Paul Renner and James Fishback.
— 2026 —
“Byron Donalds says campaign is ‘exactly where it needs to be’” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — U.S. Rep. Donalds says his campaign is positioned for victory heading into Tuesday’s Republican Primary for Governor. At a packed Boca Raton rally, Donalds pledged to preserve Florida’s conservative direction while focusing on affordability, including lower insurance costs, property-tax relief, housing reforms and healthcare price transparency. He also proposed expanded career pathways for students and protections for agricultural land and water resources. Donalds, endorsed by Trump, repeatedly targeted likely Democratic nominee David Jolly, criticizing his positions on COVID-19 policies and transgender issues. Donalds predicted Republicans would reunite after the Primary, declaring that after Tuesday’s contest, “we are one party and we are one movement.”
“Donalds still expects Ron DeSantis to back him after Primary” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — It’s only a matter of time until Gov. DeSantis endorses Donalds. That’s the argument the Naples Congressman made regarding DeSantis’ eventual endorsement during a very friendly interview on Newsmax. Donalds noted that he has a lot of support from elsewhere, with Trump, MAGA MC Nicki Minaj and the vast majority of Sheriffs and legislators backing him, so he’s not sweating the DeSantis dither. Donalds previously predicted the current Governor would come around in the end, offering an “endorsement and being out there on the campaign trail with him.” “When the Primaries are over, I look forward to being able to count on the support of Gov. DeSantis,” Donalds said when asked about whether he thought a last-minute pre-Primary nod from the current Governor was in the cards.
“‘Math’ problem: Donalds narrows scope of prospective property-tax break if Amendment 3 fails” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Gubernatorial candidate Donalds is acknowledging that broad-based relief for homestead property taxes may be stonewalled if Amendment 3 doesn’t pass in November. The likely Republican nominee acknowledges that it might not pass, and that if it doesn’t, the second attempt at relief under a Donalds administration may be limited. “Whether this passes or fails this November, we are going to bring this back through the Tax and Budget Commission next year. We are going to study all taxes and fees in Florida. We’re going to set a goal of finally eliminating homestead property taxes in our state. And if we can’t get there, because the math has still got to math, then we are going to target that relief to seniors on fixed income and working families in our state.”
“Angie Nixon, Alex Vindman fight for the chance to challenge Ashley Moody in November” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — But first, party voters must decide between state Rep. Nixon, a lawmaker with a history of harnessing protest energy into legislating, and Vindman, a veteran who became a whistleblower whose testimony led to Trump’s first impeachment. The two face off in a Democratic Primary on Tuesday, with the winner likely advancing to face Republican U.S. Sen. Moody, a former Florida Attorney General tapped to fill the seat vacated by Secretary of State Marco Rubio in the Senate. If money plays a determining role, Vindman heads into the Primary with a massive advantage. “Floridians are tired of corporate-backed politics as usual. They want a proven working-class fighter who actually meets with them, listens to them, and understands the daily struggle of hardships like skyrocketing rent, medical debt and property insurance,” Nixon said.
“Jay Collins taps Kevin Guthrie as running mate for Governor” via WCTV — Collins has selected Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Guthrie as his running mate in the Governor’s race. Collins called Guthrie a proven crisis leader and pointed to their work together during evacuations of Americans stranded in the Middle East, with Guthrie managing logistics while Collins was on the ground. Guthrie previously spent more than two decades with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and later held emergency management roles in Flagler and Pasco counties before taking over the state emergency management agency in 2021. Guthrie described himself as an “operator” focused on solving problems. Republican rival Fishback previously chose Sean Lozano as his running mate, while Donalds has not yet announced his choice.
“Florida candidates draw $3 million in taxpayer matching funds” via Jim Turner of the News Service of Florida — Florida’s public campaign financing program has distributed about $3 million this election cycle, with gubernatorial front-runners Jolly and Donalds receiving the largest shares. Jolly collected roughly $1.66 million over five weeks, while Donalds has received nearly $823,000. Collins has drawn more than $177,000. The program matches contributions of $250 or less from Florida residents for qualifying statewide candidates. Attorney General James Uthmeier has received just over $147,000, while Democratic challenger Jose Javier Rodriguez has collected $265,000. Voters approved the system in 1998 to reduce reliance on large donors, though critics have long derided it as taxpayer-funded “welfare for politicians.”
“Florida GOP looks for unity after bruising Primary season” via Gary Fineout and Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Florida Republicans head into Tuesday’s Primary looking to move past months of intraparty fighting as the party prepares for a post-DeSantis era. Gubernatorial front-runner Donalds has faced attacks from Fishback, Collins and Renner, while DeSantis declined to endorse a successor. Republicans are also watching turnout, with one consultant warning GOP participation could fall below 30% in the first statewide election in more than a decade without DeSantis or Trump on the ballot. Donalds says Republicans are accustomed to “rough and tumble Primaries” and will refocus after Tuesday, while Fishback insists he would never support a Democrat.
“Feuding AI billionaires pour millions into Florida Governor’s race” via Emily Birnbaum of the Los Angeles Times — Rival artificial intelligence interests are spending millions to boost Donalds, despite sharply different views on regulating the technology. Leading the Future, backed by tech executives favoring lighter federal regulation, and safety-focused Public First Action have each spent more than $2 million supporting Donalds. The Republican gubernatorial front-runner has endorsed a light-touch federal standard while also supporting states’ ability to protect children from AI harms. The competing groups view Florida’s next Governor as potentially influential in determining AI policy after DeSantis pushed stronger safeguards. Donalds’ campaign rejects suggestions that the spending could sway him, insisting he answers only to Floridians.
“Florida progressives test whether insurgent left can break through red state” via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Florida’s Tuesday Primaries will test whether progressive candidates can gain traction in a state where Republicans have successfully wielded “socialism” as a political weapon. The marquee fight pits Vindman against state Rep. Angie Nixon, who recently joined the Democratic Socialists of America, for the Democratic U.S. Senate nomination. Nixon has prominent progressive backing, while Vindman has raised more than $20 million and emphasizes his family’s flight from Soviet communism. Elsewhere, DSA-backed Oliver Larkin is challenging U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, while progressive candidates are targeting other Democratic incumbents. Florida Democrats say the state’s electorate remains distinct because of voters who fled left-wing authoritarian regimes. Republicans, meanwhile, are preparing to make socialism a central attack again this Fall.
“Could the GOP lose Florida over data centers?” via Laura C. Morel of Mother Jones — Opposition to data centers is scrambling political loyalties in rural Florida, where some longtime Republicans say the issue could cost GOP candidates their votes. Donalds, the Republican gubernatorial front-runner, supports data centers with regulations and has received millions from developers, prompting some opponents to back GOP rivals in Tuesday’s Primary. Some say they could support Democrat Jolly in November if Donalds wins; Jolly has proposed a statewide construction moratorium. Political analyst Susan MacManus says Republicans risk losing voters in conservative communities hostile to the projects, even if those voters cannot bring themselves to vote Democratic: Staying home could be just as damaging.
— MORE ELECTIONS —
“Despite red tilt in CD 6, four Democrats spend thousands for chance to take on Randy Fine” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Marine Rob Cooper, brewery owner Steve Morgan, first responder Ronnie Murchinson-Rivera and retail manager Eric Yonce all qualified for a Democratic Primary in Florida’s 6th Congressional District. And even though nearly 65% of voters in the District backed Trump in the last Presidential Election, candidates have spent hundreds of thousands for the chance to take on Fine. “I’ve been knocked down, but I’ve never stopped fighting,” he posted on his campaign website. “Today, I’m ready to take that same fight to Washington. I know what it means to serve, to sacrifice, and to stand back up when life knocks you down. I am a Marine, a husband, a community leader, and a fighter.”
“Cory Mills’ political future on the line in CD 7 Primary” via Dara Kam of State Affairs Florida — U.S. Rep. Mills enters Tuesday’s Republican Primary facing perhaps his toughest political test yet, amid congressional and reported Justice Department investigations, misconduct allegations and eroding GOP support. Mills denies wrongdoing and is leaning on Trump’s previous endorsements and his conservative voting record. DeSantis, however, says he neither endorsed nor supports Mills. Former television anchor Ryan Elijah has emerged as Mills’ strongest challenger, backed by local Sheriffs and U.S. Reps. Mike Haridopolos and Anna Paulina Luna. Florida Atlantic University political scientist Kevin Wagner says polling showing Mills in the high 20s to low 30s underscores an unusually vulnerable incumbent, raising Republican concerns about holding the GOP-leaning District.
“Bale Dalton has the DCCC’s support, but will voters pick him over Alan Grayson and Marialana Kinter?” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Washington Democrats early in the election cycle saw Florida’s 7th Congressional District as ripe for a flip. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) has made clear that it wants Dalton to be the candidate to do it. Voters will ultimately decide if Dalton, former U.S. Rep. Grayson or Navy veteran Kinter tries to take back a seat that sophomore U.S. Rep. Mills brought under Republican control in 2022. Dalton holds a serious financial edge, outraising everyone in the Democratic Primary, as well as Mills. “As a Navy helicopter pilot and former NASA Chief of Staff, I’ve spent my career getting hard missions done — and am laser-focused on getting rid of the most corrupt member of Congress and making life affordable again,” Dalton said.
“Exit poll shows Sydney Gruters cruising toward CD 16 win” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Gruters appears headed for a decisive victory in the Republican Primary for Florida’s 16th Congressional District. An M3 Strategies exit poll shows nearly 67% backing Gruters, compared with almost 23% for Eddie Speir and just over 10% for Ed Pope. Nearly 98% of respondents had already voted, leading pollsters to call Gruters’ 44-point advantage effectively insurmountable. Gruters, who has Trump’s endorsement and is married to Republican National Committee Chair Joe Gruters, also holds a substantial fundraising advantage. She raised nearly $1.09 million through July 29, while Speir and Pope spent less than $14,000 and $27,000, respectively. Tuesday’s winner will compete to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan.
“Exit poll shows Catalina Lauf leading CD 19 field, but Jim Schwartzel a favorite of those who already voted” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — According to M3 Strategies, it’s Lauf who enjoys a bare edge as polls open on Tuesday. A poll of Republican Primary voters shows almost 29% supporting her, while under 28% are backing Schwartzel, president of Sun Broadcasting. But as an important caveat about any advantage claimed by Lauf, it is based only on those who say they are certain to vote but wait until Tuesday to do so. Among those who already cast their ballot by mail or through in-person early voting, almost 31% voted for Schwartzel, and only 26% voted for Lauf.
“Millions were spent in CD 19 GOP Primary, but will a late Trump endorsement decide the race?” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The race to succeed Donalds in Congress has drawn a wave of self-funded spending in its final month. Through July 29, former Illinois state Sen. Oberweis had spent nearly $3.1 million of the $5.3 million in his coffers, almost entirely from $4.9 million in self-funding. Former U.S. Rep. Chris Collins, who self-funded with a $3.4 million loan, had spent almost $2.5 million, while Sun Broadcasting President Jim Schwartzel had spent almost $1.9 million. Lauf, by comparison, spent under $1.6 million — still a seven-figure spend dwarfing most Primary campaigns outside Southwest Florida.
Happening today — Lauf will wave signs from 6-8:30 a.m. at Aveda Institute Fort Myers, 2040 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, before casting her Primary Election ballot at 10:30 a.m. at Gospel Baptist Church, 24861 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs.
“Lost a race for Congress? Try again in Florida” via Patricia Mazzei of The New York Times — The crowded Republican Primary to replace Donalds in CD 19 has become a battle of political second acts and Florida bona fides. Former U.S. Reps. Madison Cawthorn and Collins are attempting congressional comebacks after scandal-shortened tenures, while Lauf, Jim Oberweis and Ola Hawatmeh previously sought congressional seats in other states. Lauf has gained late momentum after Trump endorsed her, citing her service in his first administration. She dismisses criticism of her relatively recent move to Florida, arguing voters want an outsider rather than representatives of the GOP’s past. The 10-candidate contest will determine the Republican nominee in the solidly Republican Southwest Florida District.
“Poll: Shevrin Jones surges to 17-point lead in CD 24 as early votes pile up” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — State Sen. Jones has further broken away from the Democratic Primary field in Florida’s 24th Congressional District, where already-cast ballots are powering his lead, new polling shows. The results from a St. Peter Polls survey, commissioned by Florida Politics, show Jones at 39.3% support on the eve of Election Day. Miami-Dade County Commissioner Oliver Gilbert is in second place with 22% support, with lawyer Kendrick Meek Jr. just slightly behind him at 20.5%, a gap well inside the poll’s margin of error. About 18.2% of likely Democratic Primary voters are undecided.
“Jared Moskowitz: ‘Not just any Democrat can win CD 25’” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — Democratic U.S. Rep. Moskowitz faces one of the toughest re-election battles in Florida due to redistricting. Moskowitz currently represents Florida’s 23rd Congressional District. New lines mean he is now running in the redrawn Florida’s 25th Congressional District, which Trump won by 9 percentage points in 2024. Several well-funded Republican candidates are seeking to oust Moskowitz, with Scott Singer the GOP front-runner. Other Republicans in the race include Daniel Franzese, Raven Harrison, Joe Kaufman and George Moraitis. Moskowitz also must defeat Democratic Socialist Primary challenger Larkin. Libertarian Peter Jassenoff and write-in candidate Michaelangelo Hamilton have also qualified for the General Election.
“Eliott Rodriguez adds more labor muscle ahead of Democratic Primary vote in CD 27” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Former CBS Miami journalist Rodriguez’s campaign for Florida’s 27th Congressional District now has the backing of a statewide labor organization representing service-employee unions throughout the state. The SEIU Florida State Council — commonly known as SEIU Florida — endorsed Rodriguez just before the Democratic Primary for CD 27. SEIU Florida, which represents about 80,000 workers, joins two local chapters — 32BJ SEIU and SEIU Healthcare Florida Local 1991 — in throwing its support behind Rodriguez. Martha Baker, president of the SEIU Florida State Council and SEIU 1991, said her organizations believe Rodriguez “will be a strong voice for workers in Congress, and we are proud to stand with him in this race.” “As the son of union members, he understands firsthand the difference a strong union can make in the lives of working people.”
— EVEN MORE ELECTIONS —
“Trei McMullen hands off campaign-sign scandal investigation to FDLE” via Mollye Barrows of the Pensacola News-Journal — State House District 2 candidate McMullen, a Republican, filed two reports with the Sheriff’s office over concerns that his campaign signs and likeness were deliberately blocked by his opponent’s signs outside the Bellview Library on Aug. 8. He made the complaints after receiving pictures that he said appear to show West Florida Library Director Christal Bell-Rivera and her husband, Sheriff’s Office Community Relations Neighborhood Specialist Ronnie Rivera, putting up political signs for his opponent, Jon Fay. Sheriff Chip Simmons said his office is investigating McMullen’s second complaint against ECSO employee Ronnie Rivera for possible policy violations. “We took the criminal complaint, but because it involved one of our employees and because the Florida Department of Law Enforcement typically handles election-type complaints, we asked them to look at that one, and they have agreed,” Simmons said.
“Palm Beach candidate arrested after refusing to leave elections HQ” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Republican House candidate Jeff Buongiorno was arrested at Palm Beach County’s elections headquarters after refusing deputies’ orders to leave a campaign table he set up in a parking garage. Buongiorno, running in HD 89, faces trespassing and unlawful voter-solicitation charges and was released on bond Saturday. He argues he was legally campaigning more than 150 feet from the polling-site entrance and says Supervisor of Elections Wendy Link, whom he challenged in 2024, improperly expanded the no-solicitation zone using a secure ballot intake station. Buongiorno says he plans to seek an injunction against Link. He faces Cathy Higgins in Tuesday’s Republican Primary, with the winner advancing against Democratic Rep. Debra Tendrich in November.
Happening Thursday:
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— STATEWIDE —
“Florida employers scramble as Haitian workers lose protected status” via Arian Campo-Flores and Sanai Hadiya Rashid of The Wall Street Journal — Florida businesses are confronting abrupt labor shortages after the Trump administration ended Temporary Protected Status for Haitian immigrants, eliminating work authorization for thousands. Home-care agencies have closed, nursing homes are scrambling for workers and restaurants are cutting hours. Florida has about 93,000 Haitian TPS holders in its workforce, including thousands of cooks, servers and nursing assistants. South Florida’s direct-care industry is especially exposed, with Haitians comprising 28% of the state’s immigrant workforce in that sector. Two home-care agencies closed after each lost more than 80 workers, while Key West restaurants are shifting bartenders, servers and oyster shuckers into kitchens to cover vacancies.
“Morgan & Morgan sues Florida Bar over celebrity advertising ban” via Karen Sloan of Reuters — Morgan & Morgan is challenging The Florida Bar’s long-standing prohibition on using celebrities in lawyer advertisements, arguing the restriction violates attorneys’ First Amendment rights. The Orlando-based personal injury firm says Florida has the nation’s most restrictive attorney advertising rules and contends that the Bar’s definition of “celebrity” is too vague to enforce. Morgan & Morgan has developed campaigns featuring former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal, actor and race car driver Frankie Muniz and professional golfer John Daly, but says it cannot run them in Florida. The firm asked the Bar in April to amend the rule, but no action followed. The Florida Bar declined to comment on the federal lawsuit, which was filed in Tallahassee.
“Florida’s ‘coastal corridor’ aims to protect marine life, boost economy” via Richard Luscombe of The Guardian — Florida wildlife officials are creating a “coastal corridor” designed to connect and restore marine habitats along the state’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Modeled after Florida’s 18-million-acre wildlife corridor, the initiative will link artificial reefs, oyster beds, seagrass and mangroves while improving fisheries and coastal resilience. Nick Wiley, executive director of the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida, says the effort can unite existing conservation projects under a statewide strategy. The economic stakes are substantial: recreational fishing generates about $14 billion annually and supports 120,000 jobs. Early projects include a new artificial reef off Collier County, with additional reef work planned in Okaloosa and Duval counties and future efforts targeting oyster beds, mangroves and living shorelines.
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Trump threatens to ‘bomb the shit’ out of Oman” via Rachel Chason of The Washington Post — Trump threatened military action against Oman as it negotiates with Iran over control of the Strait of Hormuz. The warning came as a 60-day memorandum of understanding aimed at securing a durable peace with Iran formally expired after the ceasefire had already collapsed amid renewed airstrikes. Trump said the U.S. naval blockade of the strait is working and argued Iran is suffering economically. Asked about Oman’s role in negotiations, Trump said, “If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the shit out of them,” according to a Fox News correspondent who recounted the exchange. Trump also said Iran should “wave the white flag of surrender” but offered no timetable for ending the conflict.
“Facing Iran quagmire, Trump turns back to Kim Jong-un” via David E. Sanger and Anton Troianovski of The New York Times — Trump is signaling renewed interest in negotiations with North Korea as his administration struggles to resolve the war with Iran. Trump praised Kim Jong-un, ordered the Pentagon to reduce America’s role in annual military exercises with South Korea and declared on social media that the two leaders “get along GREAT!” The approach revives memories of Trump’s first-term diplomacy, when three meetings with Kim failed to dismantle North Korea’s nuclear program; Pyongyang now possesses an estimated 60 nuclear weapons. Analysts see a striking contrast between Trump’s willingness to negotiate with nuclear-armed North Korea and his hard-line approach toward Iran. Trump defended the strategy, saying he is “making it much safer” and that he and Kim understand each other.
“Trump calls White House ballroom critics ‘disloyal’ to country” via Julia Manchester of The Hill — Trump says opponents of his proposed White House ballroom are “very disloyal to our country,” defending the project as a gift for future Presidents. Trump told reporters the ballroom is ahead of schedule, under budget and includes significant security upgrades. The project faces a legal challenge, with an appeals court ordering work halted by Friday unless the U.S. Supreme Court intervenes. Attorney General Todd Blanche argues Congress has already granted sufficient authority for the construction and says additional legislative approval is unnecessary. Blanche also described the project as more than a ballroom, calling it a meaningful security upgrade for Washington, the President and his family.
“Even some Republican voters sour on Trump” via Mike Zapler and Ben Berkowitz of Axios — Trump’s support among Republicans is slipping as concerns grow over inflation, gas prices, the war in Iran and corruption. An Economist/YouGov poll put Trump’s GOP approval at 79%, down 12 points from shortly after he took office, while strong approval fell 20 points to 48%. Among non-MAGA Republicans, Trump stood at 51% approval and 47% disapproval. Republican consumer sentiment also dropped sharply in August. The erosion matters because Trump has historically relied on unusually strong loyalty within his party, averaging 88% Republican approval during his first term. With fewer than 80 days until the Midterms, even modest GOP defections or lower turnout could worsen Republican losses in Congress.
“Ten Commandments classroom fight heads to Supreme Court” via Justin Jouvenal and Laura Meckler of The Washington Post — Civil liberties groups are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review a Texas law requiring the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom, setting up a potentially major church-state showdown. A divided 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the law 9-8 after a lower court found it unconstitutional. More than a dozen families of multiple faiths argue the mandate violates the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause and improperly imposes Christianity on students. Texas counters that displaying the commandments does not compel students to engage in religious practice. The appeals court relied heavily on a 2022 Supreme Court ruling protecting a public high school football coach’s on-field prayer. Similar Ten Commandments laws have been enacted in Arkansas and Louisiana.
“Greg Steube wants federal review of nuisance alligator rules” via Thad Randazzo of WWSB — U.S. Rep. Steube introduced legislation requiring a federal study of whether long-standing species protections make it harder to remove nuisance alligators and invasive caimans near Florida homes and businesses. The GATOR Act would direct the U.S. comptroller general, working with the Interior Department and state wildlife agencies, to examine federal treatment of American alligators, common caimans and brown caimans as threatened species because of their resemblance to protected species. The study would consider whether those rules have affected state management programs, contributed to the alligator population’s recovery or allowed caimans to become invasive. The legislation would not immediately change Florida’s alligator management policies; instead, it would order a review of the existing federal framework.
“South Florida lawmakers urge patience on potential Cuba regime change” via Christina Vazquez of Local 10 News — U.S. Reps. Mario Diaz-Balart and Carlos Gimenez say pressure on Cuba’s communist government should continue, while cautioning that political change may take time. Diaz-Balart said the Trump administration is doing everything possible to pressure Havana and argued Trump should keep all options available, including military action. Gimenez said Cuba’s political system must change before its economy can. Both lawmakers view the island’s ties to U.S. adversaries as a national security concern. Cuba analyst Andy Gomez warned the window for change could close within months if the government remains entrenched, adding that even a transition away from communism could take a generation to produce a stable democracy.
— LOCAL: S. FL —
“Christina Romelus, John McGovern clear favorites to win open Palm Beach County School Board seats” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — Two open School Board seats are up for grabs in Palm Beach County, where Board member Marcia Andrews is retiring after 50 years in education and three-term incumbent Erica Whitfield is seeking a seat on the County Commission. The race for District 4, Whitfield’s seat, has drawn four candidates: Tiffany Bryant, Anthony Hamlet, Christina Romelus and Daniel Zapata. In the District 6 race, three candidates are seeking to succeed Andrews. Wellington Council member John McGovern, a registered Democrat, is taking on Republican Wanda Rosario-Schoenfeld and Widline Pierre, who is registered with no party affiliation. Whitfield has endorsed Romelus, a former Boynton Beach Commissioner who runs government affairs and leadership training firm PolitiCALM. Meanwhile, in District 6, McGovern enjoyed a sizable financial advantage throughout the race.
“Eileen Higgins parts ways with Maggie Fernandez” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami Mayor Higgins has parted ways with her Chief of Staff, Fernandez, a longtime public servant who has served as Higgins’ second-in-command since her 2018 upset election to the Miami-Dade County Commission. A Miami-born daughter of Cuban parents, Fernandez brought nearly three decades of government experience to the Chief of Staff role, including prior roles in the County Manager’s Office, in sustainability programs, and in her own public-sector consulting firm. “Maggie Fernandez has been by my side for nine years, and it is impossible to overstate the role she has played in my public service journey. From my time as County Commissioner to my first months as Mayor of Miami, Maggie has been a trusted adviser, a tireless public servant, and a driving force behind so much of what we have accomplished together,” Higgins said.
“Martin County Sheriff ready to fight impacts of Amendment 3” via Keith Burbank of Treasure Coast Newspapers — Deputy response times would suffer if property-tax reform, in the form of Amendment 3, is passed by voters Nov. 3, said Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek. Nearly $110 million of the Sheriff’s $128 million budget goes toward personnel, he said. He’ll fight to avoid even estimating how many employees would be laid off if Amendment 3 passes. “I’m going to fight not to reduce” personnel, he said. “I don’t think we can.” The Sheriff has been in touch with state representatives, he said, who can craft language to implement the amendment if it passes, to protect law enforcement from cuts.
“Immigrant groups urge Lake Worth to reject PBSO contract over ICE ties” via Chris Persaud of The Palm Beach Post — Upset at recent raids, advocates for immigrants and their U.S.-born families want the city to cut ties with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office if it keeps working with federal immigration law enforcement. The Lake Worth Beach-based nonprofit Guatemalan-Maya Center and its allies are demanding the city’s elected leaders reject a 10-year contract proposal increasing payments to the Sheriff’s Office being pitched at the City Commission meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 18. The renewal of the Sheriff’s contract comes amid the Trump administration’s efforts to enforce laws against immigrants who are in the U.S. illegally.
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Orange County TDT panel backs 12 projects, rejects Dreamers stadium” via Keith Landry of Spectrum News — An Orange County task force recommended funding 12 tourism-related projects but rejected a $975 million request from the Orlando Dreamers to help build a baseball stadium. The panel also declined a $523 million proposal for an 8,000-seat expansion at the Orange County Convention Center. Projects advancing include theater and parking improvements at the Dr. Phillips Center, $60 million for the Eatonville Museum of Culture and History, a Florida Citrus Sports parking garage, Ocoee training and conference facilities, eco-tourism grants, arts funding, the Immerse Festival, a Winter Garden children’s museum and a Lake Apopka nature center. Orange County Commissioners will make final decisions on how to spend up to $3 billion in tourist-development-tax revenue on Aug. 25.
“Orange County schools tighten e-bike, e-scooter rules after Labor Day” via Amy Russo of ClickOrlando — Orange County Public Schools will begin enforcing new restrictions on e-bikes and e-scooters after Labor Day, barring most younger students from riding them to campus. Only students with a learner’s permit or driver’s license will be allowed to bring devices to school, and they must also obtain a school-issued permit. That effectively excludes elementary and middle school students. OCPS says it is focusing first on education and outreach rather than discipline, and officials report fewer students are already showing up on electric devices. Scott Howat, the District’s chief communications officer, says violators will eventually face progressive warnings or discipline. The School Board is expected to consider a formal enforcement plan on Aug. 25.
“Oviedo weighs privacy concerns over Flock license plate cameras” via Mark Lehman of ClickOrlando — Oviedo officials are taking another look at the city’s automatic license plate readers as residents raise concerns about privacy and government surveillance. The City Council approved leasing eight cameras from Flock Group last year, placing them near the city’s entrances and exits. The system records license plates along with vehicle descriptions, locations, dates and times, giving police another tool to identify vehicles connected to crimes. But critics contend the technology can effectively create a network capable of tracking residents’ movements. John Powers, an Oviedo resident, called the cameras an “absolute invasion of privacy” and urged the city to reconsider the program. The City Council is expected to discuss policies governing the readers and safeguards designed to prevent misuse.
“Florida’s Space Coast lines up two major August launches” via Lianna Norman, Jennifer Sangalang, Rick Neale and Brooke Edwards of the USA Today Network-Florida — Florida’s Space Coast has logged 52 rocket launches so far in 2026, including NASA’s Artemis II lunar mission, with more high-profile flights scheduled this month. SpaceX plans to launch 29 Starlink satellites aboard a Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Thursday, with a four-hour window opening at 11:19 a.m. The bigger attraction comes Aug. 30, when a Falcon Heavy is scheduled to launch NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope from Kennedy Space Center. The observatory will have a field of view at least 100 times larger than Hubble’s. Florida set a record with 109 orbital launches in 2025.
— LOCAL: TB —
“Pinellas leads in vote-by-mail ahead of Primary Election Day” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Pinellas County voters are relying on vote-by-mail at a rate unmatched across Florida heading into Tuesday’s Primary, with the county reporting more returned mail ballots than anywhere else in the state. Nearly 1.1 million voters statewide have cast ballots by mail, while about 818,000 voted early in person. That amounts to roughly 57% of pre-Election Day ballots being mailed and 43% being cast through early voting. In Pinellas, the split remained about 90% mail and 10% early voting. Nearly 103,000 Pinellas voters had returned ballots by mail as of late Monday morning. Pinellas led the state’s earlier Monday report with more than 101,000 returned mail ballots, slightly ahead of Miami-Dade, which reported about 98,000. Overall turnout rate was also higher in Pinellas heading into Election Day.
“Charlie Crist’s campaign gets boost from utility-linked PACs” via Yacob Reyes of Axios — Former Gov. Crist leads the crowded St. Petersburg mayoral field in fundraising, bringing in about $2 million as the city considers whether to break from Duke Energy. More than $550,000 flowed into Crist’s committee from other political committees, with some funds linked to Duke Energy, Tampa Electric, and Florida Power & Light’s parent company. Crist, who built his reputation partly by challenging utilities as Attorney General, rejects suggestions that the contributions will influence him. He says donors support what he stands for and cannot buy his decisions. Michelle Todd Schorsch, Chair of Crist’s St. Pete Shines committee, likewise says she has never spoken with Duke Energy except to report a power outage.
“Haitian voters in Tampa weigh what matters most ahead of elections” via Juan Carlos Chavez and Henry Fernandez of the Tampa Bay Times — Ballot decisions are about more than party politics for Haitian American voters this year. The Primary Election comes in the wake of the Trump administration’s cancellation of Temporary Protected Status for Haitian immigrants in the United States. More than 500,000 Haitians live in Florida. Nerlande Joseph came from Haiti in 2006 and became a U.S. citizen a decade ago. Joseph, 45, is the vice president of the Haitian American Nurses Association of Tampa. She said there’s a lot of stress in the Haitian community. However, “people cannot just sit still and watch what’s going on,” she said. That’s why she’s ready to vote. “What matters most is putting our voices together and going out to vote; that’s mostly what we can do,” Joseph said.
“Amid privacy concerns, Temple Terrace taps the brakes on speed camera rollout” via John C. Cotey of the Tampa Bay Times — Temple Terrace will move forward with school-zone speed cameras, but after Council concerns over privacy and enforcement, the city will seek competitive bids instead of using its original vendor. Last month, the city planned to “piggyback” on an existing government contract between the city of Plantation and RedSpeed rather than seek competitive bids, as it was allowed because there was no cost to the city. “As a result, staff can no longer use this agreement for this project,” said police Chief Rob Staley. “We’re writing the RFP that will clearly establish the data retention period and require permanent deletion of all data once the period expires,” Staley said. “The vendor will also provide a survey and evaluation of the process and measure the program’s effectiveness at six months, one year, and annually thereafter.”
“Rays select ballpark contractor while eyeing August vote” via Emma Behrmann of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — The Tampa Bay Rays have selected a contractor for a ballpark district at Hillsborough College in the latest attempt to drum up support for the not-yet-finalized stadium deal. A team of AECOM Hunt and Turner, which replaced the hurricane-destroyed roof at Tropicana Field, is the Rays’ pick, the team’s selection committee decided at a public meeting held at Hillsborough College Monday morning. The city of Tampa and Hillsborough County had no input into the final selection because the request for qualifications was issued by the team before a final deal was reached. The announcement follows batches of rendering releases as part of their push for a stadium in Tampa. The $2.3 billion stadium deal, which includes $976 million of public funding, has not yet been put to a final vote by the Board of County Commissioners and Tampa City Council. The city, county and Rays are continuing to work on definitive documents as the team remains firm on its August deadline.
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“Tallahassee Republicans mobilize against Jeremy Matlow in closing days of mayoral campaign” via Fabrizio Gowdy of Florida Politics — Tallahassee’s next Mayor will almost certainly be a Democrat, but Republicans are campaigning against Matlow, a sitting City Commissioner who has spent the last several years sparring with incumbent Mayor John Dailey, a centrist Democrat. The Capital Young Republicans took to Instagram to highlight their canvassing efforts against Matlow, which include distributing mailers urging voters to “protect Tallahassee from (New York Mayor Zohran) Mamdani socialism.” The flyers also describe Matlow as a “radical socialist” and tie him to U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont and other left-wing national Democrats. Matlow responded by reposting the video for his followers.
—“Escambia and Santa Rosa County Primary voter guide” via the Pensacola News-Journal
“Pensacola’s 2027 budget shows city getting creative in face of threats” via Jim Little of the Pensacola News-Journal — Pensacola residents can expect not much of a change in Pensacola’s city operations compared to 2026, based on the proposed 2027 budget, which is decreasing by about 0.36%. Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves’ administration is proposing a $332.06 million budget for 2027 — a $1.2 million decrease compared to the current budget. The looming question over all of next year’s budget decisions is what happens if voters approve a statewide referendum that would dramatically raise property-tax exemptions, causing the city’s property-tax revenue to decline by more than 20%. “We’re being as resourceful and creative as we can in terms of (whether) we can use dollars to maintain buildings that were paid for with LOST; we’re going to use LOST to do it versus the general fund,” Reeves said.
“Federal civil rights probe targets 32 FSU scholarship programs” via Jasmine Baehr of Fox News — The Trump administration has opened a federal civil rights investigation into 32 Florida State University scholarships accused of discriminating based on race or sex. The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights is examining whether the programs violate Title VI or Title IX following a 2025 complaint from the Equal Protection Project. The group says 14 scholarships discriminate based on race, color, or national origin, 13 based on sex, and five based on both. FSU disputes the allegations, saying every student can apply and donor preferences are not eligibility requirements. The university says the scholarships are privately funded, and applicants are evaluated equally on merit. Federal officials stressed that opening an investigation does not mean they have determined FSU violated the law.
“Murder trial for accused FSU mass shooter pushed back to 2027” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — After repeated requests by the defense, the judge in the 2025 Florida State University mass shooting case agreed to push back the trial date, this time until well into 2027. According to court documents, Acting Circuit Judge Lance Neff issued an order Aug. 17 granting a defense motion for a continuance in the first-degree murder trial of Phoenix Ikner. Ikner, who turns 22 on Aug. 18, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder and seven counts of attempted first-degree murder in the April 17, 2025, mass shooting in and around the Student Union. “In that short period of time, counsel has observed serious mental health issues with Mr. Ikner that require considerable time and context to understand,” the motion says.
“Artificial reef honoring Charlie Kirk to be sunk off Destin” via Lawrence Specker of AL.com — An artificial reef memorializing conservative activist Kirk is scheduled to be sunk Wednesday off the coast of Destin, nearly a year after supporters began the project. Kirk was assassinated at a speaking event in September 2025. The roughly 15-foot-tall, 17-ton concrete reef was built by Walter Marine in Orange Beach and decorated with religious imagery, Turning Point USA’s logo and the phrase “prove me wrong.” Organizer Mike Parker said the project cost about $17,000 and was intended as a tribute to Kirk. The pyramid-shaped reef includes openings and internal structures designed to create habitat for fish. Charter operators are offering trips for people who want to watch the reef deployment.
— LOCAL: SW. FL —
—“SW Florida voters guide to the Primary Election. What to know” via Cindy McCurry-Ross of the Naples Daily News
“Lee Commissioner to consider growth plan changes — environmental groups oppose” via Charlie Whitehead of the Naples News-Press — Lee County Commissioners will consider a major amendment to the Southeast Lee Community Plan on Wednesday, Aug. 19, that could pave the way for development. At a July 27 presentation to the Local Planning Agency on the proposed changes, intended to address 11 developer-proposed amendments received since 2023, the Commissioner-appointed Board gave the amendments a unanimous 4-0 approval.
“Collaboratory welcomes Fort Myers, Sanibel business networks” via Vanessa Norris of the Fort Myers News-Press — Southwest Florida’s business network is expanding in a merger between the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce and the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce. On Aug. 11, the two entities celebrated their collaboration during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for their new office space at the Collaboratory in downtown Fort Myers.
— TOP OPINION —
“When Democrats hate Trump but don’t like their own candidate” via Byron York of the Washington Examiner — A Fox News poll suggests Michigan Democrats face a potentially dangerous problem: voters who strongly dislike Trump but remain unwilling to support Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed. Republican Mike Rogers leads El-Sayed 51% to 47%, though the race remains close.
The underlying numbers are more troubling for Democrats. Rogers receives support from 96% of Republicans, while El-Sayed draws 91% of Democrats. Among Black voters, 75% back El-Sayed while 22% support Rogers, a level of crossover that could prove devastating.
Trump remains deeply unpopular in Michigan, with 58% viewing him unfavorably. Yet only 74% of Trump’s detractors support El-Sayed, while 23% favor Rogers. That gap challenges Democrats’ assumption that anti-Trump sentiment will automatically translate into Democratic votes.
Another warning sign: 54% of Michigan voters believe El-Sayed’s positions are too extreme. Even among voters who view Trump unfavorably, 35% express concerns about El-Sayed’s ideology, creating a potentially decisive bloc of political “double haters.”
Analyst Ron Brownstein argues that those voters could determine the race. Historically, voters disliking both choices tend to punish the party controlling the White House, but Republicans believe El-Sayed may be sufficiently objectionable to disrupt that pattern.
El-Sayed’s progressive politics, alliances with democratic socialists and criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza could deepen those concerns. If Democrats cannot consolidate anti-Trump voters behind their nominee, Michigan could determine not merely one Senate seat, but control of the chamber next year.
— MORE OPINIONS —
“DeSantis faces a lonely exit from Tallahassee” via Marianna Sotomayor of Puck — DeSantis remains popular with Florida voters and appears interested in another presidential run, but his political relationships are badly frayed as his second term winds down. Once viewed as Trump’s MAGA heir, DeSantis has largely stayed out of Florida’s 2026 Republican Primaries, declining to endorse a successor or flex the political muscle he accumulated as Governor. Former aides, lawmakers and GOP operatives describe years of transactional relationships, grudges and demands for loyalty that intensified during his failed 2024 Presidential campaign. Legislative Republicans have increasingly pushed back against DeSantis, while former allies and donors remain alienated. DeSantis could still be a 2028 contender, but rebuilding a national organization may prove difficult: former staffers question whether he can attract the donors, consultants and political goodwill necessary for another White House campaign.
“James Uthmeier’s vaccine threat crosses line on religious freedom” via Thomas Wenski for the Miami Herald — Florida Attorney General Uthmeier is overstepping his authority by challenging Catholic schools’ refusal to offer religious exemptions from student vaccination requirements and suggesting their state scholarship funding could be jeopardized. The First Amendment protects churches from government officials imposing their own interpretation of religious doctrine, and Florida law expressly limits state interference with churches and their ministries. Catholic schools require vaccinations because existing vaccines do not violate Church teachings and because immunization protects students, teachers, families and children who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. Parents are not forced by the Church to vaccinate their children, nor are they required to enroll them in Catholic schools. With roughly 95,000 students statewide, Catholic schools will defend their policies, students and religious freedom while remaining open to dialogue with Uthmeier.
“Democrats, repeat after Pete Buttigieg and Abdul El-Sayed” via Frank Bruni of The New York Times — Democrats should stop surrendering ideas such as freedom, patriotism, capitalism and family values to Republicans and instead aggressively claim them as their own. Buttigieg argues Democrats can define freedom through economic security, personal choice and protection from government overreach. Michigan Senate nominee El-Sayed similarly calls himself a capitalist, arguing that regulation and taxing billionaires can preserve competition rather than undermine capitalism. Other Democrats are embracing traditionally conservative-coded themes: Ro Khanna stresses patriotism, while Iowa gubernatorial nominee Rob Sand opens town halls with “America the Beautiful.” The opportunity, Bruni argues, is for Democrats to redefine familiar American values rather than merely challenge Republicans’ commitment to them.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
Cousin. Help!
— ALOE —
“Disney reveals new attractions, updates across Walt Disney World” via Dewayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel — Disney unveiled a sweeping slate of additions and updates affecting all four Walt Disney World parks at D23. Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas will feature Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent and Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto, while Magic Kingdom is getting two “Cars” attractions and Villains Land, including a Maleficent-themed coaster. Hollywood Studios’ Monstropolis will open in 2027, and Epcot’s Spaceship Earth will be reimagined to focus on human connection. Disney also plans to revive two fan favorites: Expedition Everest’s long-static “Disco Yeti” animatronic and Dreamfinder, who will return alongside Figment for a new Journey into Imagination.
“Even Jeff Bezos can’t crack Miami’s most exclusive club” via Deborah Acosta of The Wall Street Journal — Bezos owns three properties worth about $234 million on Miami’s Indian Creek island, but that apparently isn’t enough to secure membership at its ultra-exclusive country club. Six months after Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sánchez Bezos, attended the club’s annual dock party, he still hasn’t received an invitation. The roughly 350-member club charges nearly $1 million to join and about $44,000 annually, and applicants need sponsors, recommendations, and approval from longtime members. Other billionaire residents remain outside the gates, including Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump and Mark Zuckerberg, while Tom Brady gained entry without trouble. Kushner and Trump, however, may be getting closer after cultivating relationships within the community.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Happy birthday to John Dowless, Bob Poe and our friend Noah Pransky.
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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.
