Iran strikes the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia as war expands yet again

HEADLINES Strikes continue as Washington moves staff out of offices throughout the Middle East.


The post Iran strikes the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia as war expands yet again appeared first on Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.. For More Florida Politics - CLICK HERE:


http://dlvr.it/TRGZjB

The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 3.3.26 — Burnin’ today: Eclipse, Donalds, Petrirena, Iran, Trump, DeSantis & bald eagles

Before the second cup — Florida's first read ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Tuesday morning. If you're reading this in the early morning, step outside for a minute. The moon is slipping into Earth's shadow, flushing red as a total lunar eclipse hits totality just after 6 a.m. Eastern. On the East Coast, sunrise will try to steal the show — so look up before the light does. A total lunar eclipse turns the moon red just after 6 a.m. Eastern as Earth's shadow falls, with sunrise poised to overtake the sky. ___ A pro-Byron Donalds group is rolling out a new television ad this week highlighting President Donald Trump's endorsement of the Naples Republican in Florida's race for Governor. The 30-second spot, titled Leading the Future, is paid for by American Mission Florida and will air as part of an initial $2 million first wave of advertising backing Donalds' campaign. The ad is slated to run on cable, broadcast and streaming platforms statewide. "In Florida's race for Governor, only one candidate has President Trump's support," a narrator says as footage of Trump and Donalds plays onscreen. The ad then features news clips referencing Trump's endorsement, followed by footage of Trump praising Donalds as "hot as a pistol." "Oh, boy, he has a future, and he's a great friend of mine," Trump says. American Mission Florida is the second committee to launch a major ad buy supporting Donalds' campaign, following Friends of Byron Donalds, which last month debuted a pair of ads highlighting the Trump endorsement and touting the Congressman's commitment to "America First" policies. To watch the ad, please click the image below: ___ Continental Strategy is expanding its South Florida footprint with the addition of Francisco Petrirena as vice president, the firm announced Monday. Petrirena joins the government relations firm after serving as Chief of Staff to the Miami City Manager, where he oversaw policy development, strategic planning and interdepartmental coordination for a $3 billion-plus municipal budget. He previously served as Director of Government Relations for the City of Miami, securing millions of dollars in state and federal appropriations and advancing key legislative priorities. Francisco Petrirena joins Continental Strategy as vice president in Miami, expanding the firm's South Florida presence after serving in senior roles at Miami City Hall. In his new role as vice president (Miami), Petrirena will lead high-level government relations strategy, drawing on experience at the local, state and federal levels to guide clients through complex regulatory and policy environments. "Francisco brings a rare combination of public-sector leadership, strategic vision, and deep community relationships that will immediately strengthen the team at Continental Strategy," Rep. Mike Redondo said in a statement. Former Miami Mayor Francis Suarez also praised Petrirena's tenure at City Hall, noting his work first as Director of Government Relations and later as Chief of Staff to the City Manager. A native of Havana, Cuba, Petrirena earned a bachelor's degree in accounting and finance from the University of Havana and later worked at the Holy See Embassy in Cuba, assisting with preparations for Pope Francis' 2015 visit to Havana. After relocating to Miami in 2017, he worked at Doctors Healthcare Plans before transitioning to public service in 2023.

Situational awareness   —@CENTCOM: As of 4 p.m. ET, March 2, six U.S. service members have been killed in action. U.S. forces recently recovered the remains of two previously unaccounted-for service members from a facility that was struck during Iran's initial attacks in the region. Major combat operations continue. The identities of the fallen are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification. Tweet, tweet: —@CENTCOM: Two days ago, the Iranian regime had 11 ships in the Gulf of Oman; today, they have ZERO. The Iranian regime has harassed and attacked international shipping in the Gulf of Oman for decades. Those days are over. Freedom of maritime navigation has underpinned American and global economic prosperity for more than 80 years. U.S. forces will continue to defend it. —@Fineout: For those outside of Capitol Circle... The 2026 Session has entered the point of no return... or as the late John Thrasher used to say... "bills are dying." ... —@Fineout: Fla. Senate budget chief Ed Hooper told reporters this p.m. that the House & Senate continue to make allocation offers - the top-line spending levels hashed out behind closed doors - He said there were positive signs but "we still have a ways to go" ... Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: —@SteveSchale: Now that @GwenGraham has made her decision, thought I'd share some numbers from poll I saw when she was thinking about the race. Trump won CD 2 by 18 points in 2024. Poll showed a few interesting nuggets about just how wide the map could be. Despite the poll being weighted at 2024 vote: Trump approval was under 50 at 47-45 (+2), and the generic vote was only +7 R — an 11-point shift from 24 results Tweet, tweet:

Days until   World Baseball Classic begins — 2; F1 Season Opener — 3; Boca Raton Mayoral referendums and City Council Elections — 7; last day of the Regular Session — 10; The Oscars — 12; March Madness Opening Weekend — 16; 'Peaky Blinders' movie premieres on Netflix — 17; Special Election for SD 14, HD 87, HD 51 and HD 52 — 21; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix's first exclusive MLB stream — 22; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 22; new season of 'Your Friends And Neighbors' premieres on Apple+ — 31; NCAA Final Four begins — 32; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 34; 'Handmaid's Tale' sequel series 'The Testaments' premieres — 36; The Masters begin — 37; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 43; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 43; First Qualifying Period begins (U.S. Senate) — 48; 2026 Florida Housings Solutions Summit — 50; NFL Draft — 51; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 52; F1 Miami begins — 59; 'Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu' premieres — 80; new mission for 'Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run' premieres at Disney World — 80; Marvel's 'Spider-Noir' live-action series with Nicolas Cage arrives on Amazon Prime — 85; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 91; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 97; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 100; Steven Spielberg's 'Disclosure Day' premieres — 101; Qualifying Period ends for Federal (U.S. Reps. in Congress), Governor, Cabinet Offices (Attorney General, Commissioner of Agriculture & Chief Financial Officer), State Sens. (even numbered districts), State Reps., County Offices and Special District Offices — 101; 'Toy Story 5' premieres in theaters — 108; Florida GOP's statewide debates for the Primary in its 'Sunshine State Showdown' — 115; Mexico will face live-action 'Moana' premieres — 120; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 123; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 128; MLB All-Star Game — 133; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 135; Primary Election: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 139; Primary Election: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 156; Primary Election: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 158; Primary Election Day — 168; Yankees host the Mets to mark the anniversary of 9/11 — 192; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 196; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 200; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 205; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 212; General Election: Deadline to register to vote — 216; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 235; General Election — 245; 'Godzilla Minus Zero' premieres — 248; 'Dune: Part 3' premieres — 290; 'Avengers: Doomsday' premieres — 290; untitled 'Star Wars' movie premieres — 290; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 328; Super Bowl LXI — 348; Tampa Mayoral Election — 364; Jacksonville First Election — 385; Jacksonville General Election — 441; 'Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse' premieres — 459; 'Bluey The Movie' premieres — 521; 'The Batman 2' premieres — 577; 'Avengers: Secret Wars' premieres — 654; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 692; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 864; U.S. Presidential Election — 980; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 1,056; 'Avatar 4' premieres — 1,380; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,420; 'Avatar 5' premieres — 2,111.

War   Breaking overnight — "Iran war live updates: U.S. embassy in Riyadh hit by drones" via Justin Papp, Pippa Stevens, Dan Mangan, Kevin Breuninger, Lee Ying Shan and Vinay Dwivedi of CNBC — The war between the United States and Iran intensified Tuesday as drones struck the U.S. embassy in Riyadh, causing minor damage but no injuries, Saudi officials said. Trump called the campaign America's "last, best chance to strike," projecting it could last four to five weeks or longer. Six U.S. service members have been killed, and three U.S. F-15 jets crashed over Kuwait in an apparent friendly fire incident with no casualties. The State Department urged Americans in 14 Middle East countries to depart immediately. Iran-backed militias launched additional drone attacks, and Saudi Arabian Oil Co. facilities were hit. Oil and gold prices surged, global markets fell, and thousands of flights were canceled as Congress prepared to consider a war powers resolution. "U.S. sending more forces to Middle East as Iran war widens" via Helene Cooper and Eric Schmitt via The New York Times — Trump and his top advisers said Monday that the U.S. military offensive against Iran is set to escalate and could continue for weeks, as violence intensifies across the Middle East. Trump said operations may extend beyond the initially projected four to five weeks, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that the "hardest hits are yet to come" as Washington works to dismantle Iran's ballistic missile program. The United States and Israel have conducted thousands of airstrikes, killing hundreds, including senior Iranian officials such as Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has responded with drone and missile attacks on Israel, U.S. bases and regional allies. Six American service members have been killed. Defense leaders cautioned that additional casualties are likely but rejected comparisons to past prolonged wars. U.S. forces deploy across the Middle East as Trump signals an expanded campaign against Iran, with fighting intensifying and casualties mounting on both sides. —"Donald Trump awards Medal of Honor to three heroes amid Iran operations" via Frank Kopylov of Florida's Voice —"Inside the plan to kill Ayatollah Ali Khamenei" via Financial Times "Pete Hegseth insists the Iran conflict is 'not endless' while warning more casualties are likely" via Michelle Price and Konstantin Toropin of The Associated Press — Defense Secretary Hegseth said Monday that U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran are not intended to become "endless," rejecting comparisons to Iraq while acknowledging more American casualties are likely. Appearing with Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. Dan Caine, Hegseth said the mission aims to eliminate Iran's ballistic missile threat, dismantle key military assets and ensure "no nukes," not pursue regime change or nation-building. Four U.S. troops have been killed, and additional losses are expected. The conflict has widened across the region, including a friendly fire incident in which Kuwait mistakenly shot down three U.S. jets, with all six crew members surviving. Trump said operations could last four to five weeks, but left open the possibility of further escalation. —"Iran's missile math: $20,000 drones take on $4 million Patriots" via Gerry Doyle and Golnar Motevalli of Bloomberg "Congress will debate an Iran conflict that is well underway" via Lisa Mascaro of The Associated Press — Congress is preparing a war powers debate over Trump's authority to strike Iran, even as Operation Epic Fury is already underway and U.S. forces are engaged. At least four American service members have been killed, and Trump has warned that more casualties are likely as air and naval operations continue with no defined end. Lawmakers from both parties question whether the President should have sought a declaration of war or authorization for use of military force, as required under the Constitution. While Congress can attempt to curb the action through a war powers resolution or by restricting funding, a Republican majority and the likelihood of a veto make limits uncertain as briefings begin behind closed doors. "Videos appear to show the moments U.S. fighter jets were shot down over Kuwait" via Imogen Piper of The Washington Post — Videos verified by The Washington Post appear to show three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles crashing over Kuwait on Monday in what U.S. Central Command described as an apparent friendly fire incident. The jets, involved in operations against Iran, were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses, according to CentCom. Footage shows bright orange parachutes descending from a flaming aircraft and crew members on the ground as thick black smoke rises near Kuwait International Airport. All six crew members ejected safely, recovered and are in stable condition. Kuwait acknowledged the incident and said it is coordinating with U.S. officials to investigate. Military analysts said crowded airspace and coordination challenges between allied forces can increase the risk of friendly fire during combat operations. "Operation Epic Fury was built in Tampa" via Katelyn Ferral of the Tampa Bay Times — When Trump launched strikes on Iran, he relied on Operation Epic Fury, a U.S. Central Command plan executed from MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. CentCom, led by Adm. Brad Cooper since August, directs military operations across 21 countries in the Middle East, Northeast Africa and Central and South Asia. While many planning details remain classified, the command has shared updates on social media, including strike summaries and casualty reports, leaving formal briefings to Pentagon leaders. Beyond active combat, CentCom oversees postwar coordination, including monitoring the Gaza cease-fire. The command has managed conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan and operations against ISIS. Created after the 1979 Iranian revolution and hostage crisis, CentCom was designed to counter threats in the Persian Gulf region. "Kathy Castor warns against another 'forever war' in Iran" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Castor is calling for transparency and a clear endgame following the attack in Iran, warning that American citizens should not have to bear the burden of another "forever war" in the Middle East. "Americans have made clear that they do not want to be drawn into another open-ended, costly conflict in the Middle East," Castor said. "They deserve full honesty about the financial, strategic, and human consequences of a major military escalation — especially at a time when families are struggling with rising grocery prices, health‑care costs, and rent. Any mission undertaken in their name must be grounded in law, guided by a coherent strategy, and built around a clear endgame. It cannot be an open-ended commitment that risks American lives and diverts billions of taxpayer dollars away from urgent needs here at home." Kathy Castor calls for transparency and a defined endgame in Iran, warning Americans should not shoulder another costly, open-ended Middle East conflict. "How Middle East conflict is disrupting flights at Miami airport" via Vinod Sreeharsha of the Miami Herald — U.S. and Israeli bombing of Iran has quickly disrupted international travel through Miami International Airport, where service to Israel and Gulf nations has expanded in recent years. Before the Feb. 28 strikes, El Al operated five weekly flights between Miami and Tel Aviv, while Emirates flew daily to Dubai and Qatar Airways to Doha. Those routes are now suspended, leaving travelers stranded. El Al canceled departures from Miami through March 4 and said plans remain fluid. Qatar Airways halted flights amid Qatari airspace closures but is allowing free changes or refunds for certain bookings. Emirates canceled its March 2 flight to Miami after suspending weekend service, offering limited public details about its further operations. —"Iran war could add pressure to Florida gas pump prices" via the Tampa Bay Times

Top Fla. story   "With Iran and Venezuela leaders down, Florida prepares for end to Cuban regime" via Alexandra Glorioso and Claire Heddles of the Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau — Florida Republicans are openly discussing regime change in Cuba as U.S. military actions reshape global politics and tensions rise abroad. Two days after U.S. and Israeli forces killed Iran's supreme leader, several Florida leaders pivoted their focus closer to home — just 90 miles south. Florida leaders discuss economic readiness and democratic transition in Cuba as global tensions shift and calls for regime change grow closer to home. In Miami, Donalds said it is time for "the Cuban regime to come to an end." The Naples Republican, now running for Governor, voiced full support for democratic change on the island. At the same time, state Sen. Erin Grall filed an amendment to SB 1178, preparing Florida for free trade with Cuba if the federal government topples the current regime. The proposal would allow the Governor to begin lawful trade by executive order if diplomatic relations shift, then submit policy recommendations to legislative leaders for formal action. House Speaker Daniel Perez said Florida should be ready to engage economically if Cuba adopts democratic principles and free markets. He expressed confidence in Trump and Rubio. Rubio recently signaled the United States could ease economic pressure if Cuba enacts reforms. Trump, however, has said he does not expect to use force against the island. With legislative support building and foreign policy shifting, Florida leaders are positioning the state for rapid economic engagement should political change come to Cuba. —"Attacks on Iran heighten fears in Cuba, already under U.S. pressure" via Ed Augustin, Frances Robles and David Adams of The New York Times

Statewide   "Ron DeSantis isn't quite full" via Colin Wolf of Creative Loafing Tampa Bay — With his term winding down, DeSantis has launched a social media series dubbed "Diners, Drive-ins & DeSantis," highlighting restaurant stops across Florida while drawing praise from owners for his handling of COVID-19 and other policies. The three- to four-minute videos, posted on his X and Meta accounts, open with a country-style theme song and highlight favorite dishes before mapping his next stop. Recent visits featured meals in Bartow, Steinhatchee, Tampa, Sarasota and Marathon. In one episode, DeSantis sampled chocolate cake at Yoder's Amish Restaurant; in another, he rated tuna poke nachos in the Keys "10 out of 10," blending food promotion with political messaging. Ron DeSantis spotlights Florida restaurants in his 'Diners, Drive-ins & DeSantis' social media series as his term nears its end. —"DeSantis elevates two judges, appoints five others to the bench" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics "New records show Florida officials burned more than $1.2M per day on 'Alligator Alcatraz'" via Kate Payne of the Florida Trib — DeSantis' administration planned to spend more than a billion dollars on the makeshift immigration detention facility in the Everglades known as "Alligator Alcatraz," according to records released under a judge's order and obtained by The Florida Trib. In an application signed Aug. 7, 2025, the Division of Emergency Management formally requested a $1.49 billion grant from the federal government, underscoring the staggering scale of taxpayer dollars spent on federal immigration enforcement — largely out of public view and with little oversight by state lawmakers. The documents show the state was spending more than $1 million per day to run the facility, with the "daily burn" rate topping $3 million in its earliest weeks. "Senate panel confirms early Hope Florida chief to lead child welfare agency" via Arek Sarkissian of POLITICO — The Senate Ethics and Elections Committee approved confirmation of Department of Children and Families Secretary Taylor Hatch after she pledged better communication with lawmakers and continued use of informed consent principles in child welfare cases. Hatch, appointed by DeSantis last year, faced questions about oversight of community-based care groups and controversy surrounding Hope Florida, including a $10 million donation tied to a failed 2024 ballot measure. She said additional audits are planned and promised improved legislative engagement, which helped win over Grall. The panel approved Hatch 6-1, with Sen. Tina Polsky opposing. The Committee also narrowly advanced John Littell to the Board of Medicine despite concerns over his views on abortion, vaccines and federal health guidelines. "Senate rejects UWF trustee picked by DeSantis" via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Senators on Monday effectively rejected Adam Kissel's confirmation as a University of West Florida trustee after he declined to appear before the Senate Ethics Committee for a final vote. The panel took no action during its last meeting of the Session, marking the second straight year Kissel failed to secure approval and causing his term to expire at sine die. DeSantis had appointed Kissel as part of a broader effort to steer UWF toward a classical academic curriculum. Lawmakers previously rejected or saw the resignation of several of the Governor's picks. Kissel, a visiting fellow with The Heritage Foundation, drew criticism over past writings supporting university privatization. Meanwhile, four other DeSantis appointees advanced, including UWF, which recently installed Manny Diaz Jr. as president. "Medical school experts chief among H-1B visa pause concerns" via Jay Waagmeester of Florida Phoenix — University system decision-makers expressed a willingness to be nimble as they voted to pause H-1B visas at state universities until next year. The move followed DeSantis' call for universities to eliminate visas that allow foreign nationals in specialty occupations to temporarily work in the United States. Board of Governors Chair Alan Levine, during a virtual meeting on Monday, pointed to medical schools that rely on the visas. "[University of Florida] uniquely has a lot of faculty that rely on the H-1B visa currently," Levine, also CEO of a hospital system headquartered in Tennessee, said. "I've asked the chancellor to continue working with the university presidents so that we can, on a real-time basis, as we're collecting this data, to focus first on health and wellness, collect the data we need on health and wellness," Levine said.

Big bill of the day   "Florida Chamber unhappy about decoupling from Trump tax cuts" via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Florida lawmakers are weighing whether to fully decouple the state's corporate income tax from Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill," a sweeping federal tax package enacted last year. An attorney for the Florida Chamber of Commerce warned the move would go further than any other state. Trump signs the 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' leading Florida lawmakers to debate whether to decouple state corporate taxes from the federal package. Tallahassee lobbyist French Brown told the House Ways and Means Committee that no state has proposed stripping away every benefit tied to the Trump tax cuts. He argued that full decoupling would impose heavy administrative burdens on Florida businesses. The federal law includes $4.5 trillion in tax cuts over 10 years, including deductions for tips and overtime, expanded state and local tax caps, and generous business write-offs for equipment and research. House leaders say Florida cannot afford to mirror those changes. Chair Wyman Duggan cited a mixed long-range financial outlook and warned that adopting all five federal tax provisions retroactively would cost the state $3.1 billion. Brown countered that lawmakers have options short of full decoupling and urged flexibility as budget talks continue. The Committee unanimously approved a $251-million tax package that includes targeted sales tax exemptions and holidays. Supporters say rejecting the federal cuts protects Florida's fiscal stability, while critics argue it denies businesses relief and creates compliance challenges.

Legislative   —"Daniel Perez on the budget process, Special Sessions and more" via Dara Kam of State Affairs 50th Day Rule — Today is the 50th Day of Session, which is the last day for regularly scheduled Committee meetings in the Senate. The rule effectively closes off the Committee funnel on most remaining bills. The Senate Rules Committee meets all day today, while both chambers have daily floor Sessions scheduled for the rest of the week. A clock ticks toward the 50th Day of Session, the final day for regularly scheduled Senate Committee meetings, as the Rules Committee convenes and floor action accelerates. Happening today — While Trump urges Republicans nationally to tone down anti-vax rhetoric heading into the Midterms, the Florida Senate is moving in the opposite direction. SB 1756, the high-profile bill to expand non-medical exemptions and scale back school-entry vaccine safeguards, is up today in Senate Rules — even as Florida reports one of the nation's largest measles surges. Advocates and pediatric providers, many of whom testified at last week's Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, where SB 1756 passed 10-7, are expected back at the Capitol today. During that hearing, pediatricians described treating children before modern vaccines were common and warned that weakening safeguards would lead to more preventable outbreaks. Advocates also raised alarms about Florida's growing measles clusters, risks to medically vulnerable students, and shared personal stories from survivors and parents who lost loved ones to vaccine-preventable disease. Polling from Trump's "favorite pollster," Jim McLaughlin, shows 79% of Florida voters, including majorities of Republicans, conservatives, evangelicals and Trump voters, support keeping existing school-entry vaccine requirements. And for lawmakers in swing districts, the Republican pollster warns the issue is politically volatile. —"As Trump urges GOP to retreat from anti-vax rhetoric, DeSantis doubles down on exemption bill amid rising measles cases" via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics "Senate panel primes third Live Local Act update for full floor vote" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A third update to the Live Local Act aimed at expanding where counties and cities must allow multifamily or mixed-use housing developments with affordable units is now prepped for a Senate floor vote. The measure (SB 1548) — sponsored by Miami Republican Sen. Alexis Calatayud, who also carried the original legislation three years ago — cleared its final Committee hurdle this week with uniform support and limited discussion. "This particular iteration continues our commitment to increase the attainable housing stock across the state," Calatayud said of her bill. "It strengthens fair housing protections, clarifying the prohibition against discrimination in land-use decisions involving affordable housing." Alexis Calatayud advances a third update to the Live Local Act, positioning the affordable housing expansion measure for a full Senate floor vote. "Senators scale back labor organization bill amid union outcry" via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Senators on Monday scaled back a proposal that critics warned could create the nation's strictest organized labor law, amending a measure aimed at teachers' unions long targeted by DeSantis. The bill initially required public-sector unions to win support from a majority of all eligible employees for certification or recertification. An adopted amendment instead requires at least 25% of union members to participate in votes, setting up negotiations with the House. The legislation builds on a 2023 law raising membership thresholds to 60%, though teachers' unions have survived recent recertification efforts. Supporters call the bill pro-worker and say it strengthens accountability. Opponents argue it is anti-union, excludes police and fire unions and risks constitutional challenges by creating unequal classes of public employees. "Gayle Harrell leads move to strip USF Sarasota-Manatee transfer to New College from higher ed bill" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — The Senate is pumping the brakes on an effort that would transfer the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus to New College of Florida, along with other education matters. The Senate Appropriations Committee adopted a "delete everything" amendment to HB 5601 proposed by Sen. Harrell — stripping the bill of all substantive language before reporting it favorably. "This amendment, as with others, deletes everything and inserts nothing," Harrell told Committee members Monday. The campus transfer proposal has been a central flashpoint in budget negotiations, with the House backing a plan aligned with DeSantis to transfer all USF Sarasota-Manatee property and facilities to New College by July 1, but added a proposal to also shift an additional $22.47 million in recurring funding from USF to New College to the plan.

More legislative   "Senate advances work rules for Medicaid beneficiaries" via Jim Saunders of State Affairs — Senators moved forward with a proposal to revamp public assistance programs, including placing work requirements on Medicaid beneficiaries and trying to reduce errors in the food stamp program that could cost the state $1 billion a year. The Appropriations Committee approved SB1758, which is now positioned to go to the full Senate. The House is scheduled to take up HB 693 on Tuesday, which addresses issues such as curbing errors in the food stamp program, formally the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. Opponents of the Senate bill primarily focused on the proposed work requirement for Medicaid beneficiaries, contending it could lead to people losing health coverage. Senate Minority Leader Lori Berman expressed concern that people would be kicked out of the program "because they can't deal with the bureaucracy." Lori Berman raises concerns as the Senate advances a proposal adding work requirements for Medicaid beneficiaries and tightening SNAP oversight. "Senate panel sends bill strengthening protections, penalties against domestic violence to floor" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Legislation bolstering domestic violence laws by increasing penalties for repeat offenders, expanding electronic monitoring requirements, and enhancing protections and assistance for victims is now two votes from becoming law. A Senate version of the proposal (SB 682) by Calatayud just cleared its final Committee stop with uniform support. Its House companion (HB 277) did the same last week. SB 682, if passed, would revise multiple Florida statutes to strengthen enforcement and victim protections in domestic violence cases. It would establish enhanced criminal penalties for individuals convicted of a second or subsequent domestic violence offense, allowing courts to elevate misdemeanor and felony charges to higher penalty levels when a prior conviction exists. "Senate panel preps bill to delay child separation in questionable abuse case for floor vote" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A bill to require a second doctor's opinion and other safeguards in cases of potentially false child abuse claims is heading to the Senate floor after undergoing changes to align its language with its House counterpart. The Senate Fiscal Policy Committee voted unanimously to amend and advance the measure (SB 42) by Sen. Barbara Sharief, who last year carried a similar measure to passage before it ultimately died due to delays in the lower chamber. Those issues appear to have since been addressed, as both this year's Senate bill and House version (HB 47) by Rep. Robin Bartleman and Rep. Patt Maney now await floor votes. The House bill is scheduled for a floor vote Tuesday. Like its Senate analogue, it received only "yes" votes in Committee stops. "Bill creating teacher mentorship program heads to Senate floor after its House companion falters" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A bill to create a new teacher training and mentorship program for public and charter schools across Florida is now one vote from passing in the Legislature's upper chamber. The measure (SB 182), sponsored by Miami Gardens Democratic Sen. Shevrin Jones, cleared its final Committee hurdle this week — with unanimous support, the same as it got from two prior panels — and is now en route to the Senate floor. But there's a complication: Its House companion (HB 157) by Gainesville Democratic Rep. Yvonne Hinson faltered in its last Committee stop after clearing two prior hearings with only "yes" votes. That narrows the path for the legislation to become law this year.

Sked.   8:30 a.m. Ringing of the Bell Ceremony to honor fallen firefighters, Capitol Courtyard. 9 a.m. Senate Rules, Room 412, Knott Building. Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse leadership presentation, Historic Capitol Front Steps. 9:30 a.m. Public Service Commission, Betty Easley Conference Center, Joseph P. Cresse Hearing Room 148, 4075 Esplanade Way, Tallahassee. 10 a.m. House Session, House Chamber. 2 p.m. Joint Legislative Auditing Committee, Room G-01, Claude Pepper Building. 6:15 p.m. House Rules and Ethics Committee, Room 404, House Office Building. Senate Special Order Calendar Group, Room 412, Knott Building. Lunch is served — The Governors Club buffet menu for Tuesday: Fried chicken, mojo pork loin, California vegetable medley, Alfredo mashed potatoes, Caesar salad, and Michelle's sweet treats for dessert. Buffets include a deluxe salad bar and chef's daily soup. A full buffet is $18; soup and salad are $14. Both prices include a beverage, a choice of coffee, tea and soda.

D.C. matters   "Trump to attend White House Correspondents' Dinner" via Julianna Bragg of Axios — Trump confirmed Monday that he will attend this year's White House Correspondents' Dinner, marking a departure from his previous terms in office when he declined to participate. The annual event, hosted by the White House Correspondents' Association, is known for its tradition of political satire and pointed jokes aimed at Presidents and their administrations. Trump announced his decision on social media, calling it a "great honor" to be the honoree while again criticizing members of the press as "fake news." His attendance signals a notable shift in tone toward an event he long dismissed and avoided and sets up a high-profile appearance at a gathering that often features sharp criticism delivered directly to the President. Trump announces he will attend this year's White House Correspondents' Dinner, reversing his past decisions to skip the annual event. "Republicans use Iran strikes to pressure Dems in DHS funding fight" via POLITICO — Republicans on Capitol Hill are capitalizing on the strike against Iran to pressure their colleagues into funding the Department of Homeland Security — without any of the policy changes Democrats have been demanding. They argue that Saturday's military action increases the threat of retaliatory terror attacks on the U.S. mainland and that fully restoring DHS operations should be prioritized over partisan squabbles. DHS funding lapsed over a fight over the administration's immigration enforcement tactics following the killing of two American citizens in Minneapolis by federal agents. Republicans and the White House have been trading offers with Democrats on a compromise bill, but so far, Democrats haven't been satisfied. "Mike Johnson tells GOP donors that Neal Dunn may be terminally ill" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Speaker Johnson reportedly told donors in Florida that U.S. Rep. Dunn may be terminally ill. Punchbowl News' Jake Sherman reported that several donors at a retreat shared news from the event. Multiple sources said Johnson told "a room of GOP donors" that the Panama City Republican "may have a terminal diagnosis." Dunn announced in January that he would not run for re-election. Within weeks of his announcement, rumors began to swirl that the 73-year-old might leave office early, potentially triggering a Special Election and leaving his seat vacant. But Dunn's office just this week tried to put a stop to those rumors, telling Florida Politics that he had no intention of leaving office early. Happening today — U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack will take part Tuesday in the House Agriculture Committee's markup of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 — the first comprehensive farm bill since 2018. Cammack, the only Florida delegation member on the panel, said the eight-year gap left producers navigating hurricanes, freezes, flooding, citrus disease and supply chain disruptions without an updated federal safety net. "Florida agriculture cannot afford to be an afterthought in a bill that determines the future of America's food supply," Cammack said. "… Eight years is long enough. Our producers need certainty, flexibility, and fairness. Food security is national security." "Mike Haridopolos joins Tobacco Harm Reduction Caucus" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Haridopolos is the latest member of the Florida delegation to join the House Tobacco Harm Reduction Caucus, a bipartisan coalition aimed at adopting harm reduction methods and innovation as part of a comprehensive approach to tobacco control. Haridopolos' inclusion follows Republican U.S. Reps. Laurel Lee and Dunn, who joined in October, and Donalds and Aaron Bean, who joined in August. U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a Democrat, also previously joined the caucus. Rather than solely pushing for a quit-only approach — the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that only about 10% of adult smokers successfully quit each year — the caucus pushes for policy that emphasizes harm reduction, such as vapor, nicotine pouches or heat-not-burn products.

Elections   Happening today — Gubernatorial candidate Jay Collins will tour agricultural businesses and meet with law enforcement and supporters across Central Florida. Collins is scheduled to visit Bridlewood Farm from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at 8318 NW 90th Ter, Ocala; Etheridge Cattle Company from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 14193 NE 20th St, Williston; and Williston Peanuts, Inc. from 11:15 a.m. to noon at 1309 SW 7 St, Williston. He will tour the Marion County Sheriff's Office with Billy Woods from 2 p.m. to 2:40 p.m. at 692 NW 30th Ave., Ocala, and host a meet and greet from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 5156 E County Rd 462, Wildwood. "Earle Ford hits $500K raised in quest to challenge Anna Paulina Luna" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Ford, a Democratic candidate for Florida's 13th Congressional District, announced has raised more than $500,000. Ford said the haul represents "an extraordinary outpouring of grassroots support," with donations from more than 16,000 unique donors totaling more than 21,000 individual contributions. Ford further said 500 of the donors have signed up for recurring contributions. He also announced support from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. "From day one, this campaign has been about people, not politics," Ford said. "To see more than 16,000 individuals step up and invest in this campaign is incredibly humbling. It tells me that people across this District are ready for leadership that listens, shows up, and fights to do the right thing for them every single day." Earle Ford reports raising more than $500,000 in his bid to challenge Anna Paulina Luna in Florida's 13th Congressional District. "'Grateful to every voter': Ashley Perez-Biliskov qualifies for HD 116 by petition" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — House District 116 candidate Perez-Biliskov just notched a rare achievement in state-level politics: qualifying for the ballot by petition. Perez-Biliskov, who is running to succeed her brother, House Speaker Perez, turned in 1,069 verified petition signatures, 11 more than necessary for the race. Ikay Reeve, Chief of the Bureau of Election Records, confirmed she met the qualifying standard this week. The signatures were turned into the Miami-Dade Supervisor of Elections Office late last month, state records show. "There is nothing more rewarding than having your neighbors and community members use the power of their signature to place your name on the ballot. This accomplishment is in no small part due to the robust and engaged campaign that has had thousands upon thousands of conversations with voters across District 116. Their message is clear — keep Florida Free and bring real, meaningful relief to working families," Perez-Biliskov said. "'Experience, integrity': Former Miami Beach Mayor backs Ashley Litwin Diego for HD 106" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Litwin Diego's campaign to flip House District 106 back to blue just landed an endorsement from a former federal prosecutor, state lawmaker and Mayor of Miami Beach. Dan Gelber, who led Miami Beach from 2017 to 2023 after serving in both chambers of the Legislature, said he's getting behind Litwin Diego because "Tallahassee has fully lost sight of the issues that matter to us." "Families here are being squeezed by rising insurance costs, crushing condo assessments, affordability challenges, and real concerns about climate and public safety. Ashley understands these issues firsthand and has the legal skill and practical mindset to deliver real solutions," he said. "Ashley Litwin Diego brings the experience, integrity, and determination our community needs in the Florida House." Happening Thursday:

Local: S. FL   "Road near Trump's Mar-a-Lago to close indefinitely amid Iran war" via Kristina Webb of The Palm Beach Daily News — The road next to Trump's Palm Beach home is set to close indefinitely, as security concerns mount while tensions in the Middle East continue to rise following U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran. South Ocean Boulevard between the Southern Boulevard traffic circle and South County Road will be shut down to traffic beginning at 5 a.m. March 3 and remain closed until further notice, Palm Beach officials said in an alert sent about 2:15 p.m. March 2. "In light of recent events in Iran, and as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety, road closures will be implemented beginning tomorrow morning at South Ocean Boulevard and Southern Boulevard," Palm Beach Chief of Police Nicholas Caristo wrote in an email to the Mayor and Town Council. "These closures will remain in effect until further notice, regardless of whether (Trump) is in residence." South Ocean Boulevard near Trump's Mar-a-Lago closes indefinitely as security tightens amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. "Key vote coming Tuesday on Fort Lauderdale's new Swimming Hall of Fame" via Susannah Bryan of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A key vote is coming Tuesday on plans for a long-awaited $220 million redesign of Fort Lauderdale's International Swimming Hall of Fame. The project is slated to rise on city-owned land next to the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center and its iconic dive tower, one of the tallest in the world at nearly 9 stories. Developer Mario Caprini plans to transform the two Hall of Fame towers on the east and west ends of the peninsula at 501 Seabreeze Blvd. Commissioners are expected to approve the latest design plan for the west building during a City Hall meeting that begins at 6 p.m. A nod from the Commission will pave the way for the groundbreaking of the six-story building in June or July, said Caprini, CEO of Capital Group P3 of Florida and a partner in the project with Hensel Phelps Construction.

Local: C. FL   "Orange County explores tax option for green space, roads and other needs" via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — It's clear Orange County has a tangled transportation network. It's also clear the community is not wild about higher sales tax. County voters, after all, defeated a proposed 1% sales tax hike in 2022 that would have raised money for transportation projects. But Commissioner Nicole Wilson now thinks the Board should consider putting a different kind of sales tax on the ballot. Some funds would be used for land acquisition and conservation — issues that county voters have generally supported — and some would be set aside for infrastructure. Infrastructure would include transportation-related projects. Commissioners have not decided whether to put a measure on the ballot or, if they do, how large it would be. Nicole Wilson urges Orange County leaders to consider a new sales tax proposal to fund land conservation and infrastructure improvements. "Seminole leaders blast Orange County over McCulloch Road project" via Martin E. Comas of the Orlando Sentinel — A plan by Orange County to widen a two-lane road near the environmentally sensitive Econlockhatchee River has riled officials in neighboring Seminole County who said they were kept in the dark about the project, though the thoroughfare sits partially in their county. "For them to just assume that they are going to be building a road in Seminole County without us even weighing in on it, is kind of preposterous, in my opinion," Seminole Commissioner Bob Dallari said at a Commission meeting. "I don't think the road needs to be widened. They want us to help pay for it. But it's not in our plans, and they need to go through the proper channels to do this." "In 'State of the County,' Volusia Chair pleads for local control" via Sheldon Gardner of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Volusia County Council Chair Jeff Brower used his State of the County address in Deltona to push back against state pre-emption and defend home rule as lawmakers debate water policy and property tax cuts. Brower said proposed Senate Bill 718 and House Bill 479 would have stripped local authority over water quality, wetlands and pollution control, though recent amendments have stalled or softened the measures. He argued water decisions should be made locally, not through one-size-fits-all mandates. Brower also warned that a proposal to eliminate non-school property taxes on homesteads could cost the county more than $109.86 million from key funds if approved by 60% of voters. County officials are reviewing the budget for cuts, focusing on core services.

Local: TB   "Taryn Sabia joins increasingly crowded Tampa mayoral race" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Sabia, a local urban designer, educator and community advocate, is running for Tampa Mayor after filing paperwork alongside family and friends. She's the ninth candidate to enter the race, with others expected to join. Sabia said she's running to deliver a fresh, people-first vision to tackle affordability, transportation and neighborhood planning. "I'm running for Tampa Mayor because I believe Tampa deserves leadership that plans for the future, not just reacts to it," Sabia said. "The same challenges we talked about 20 years ago are still here, and Tampa can't afford another decade of the same conversations without solutions. We don't need the same politicians with the same playbook. We need a new vision." Taryn Sabia enters the Tampa Mayor's race, pledging a people-first approach to affordability, transportation and long-term neighborhood planning. "The race to replace Brandi Gabbard is beginning, as 2 candidates enter City Council, District 2 contest" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — With St. Petersburg City Council member Gabbard leaving office due to term limits, the race to replace her remained dormant in January and most of February. That changed Friday when two people filed for the District 2 seat, which covers parts of northeast St. Pete roughly from Bayou Grande to Feather Sound, from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to Tampa Bay. The entrants include Courtney Bermudez, a local Community Association Manager for Resource Property Management, and Gabriel Hament, an Assistant Public Defender for Florida's 13th Judicial Circuit. Hament moved to St. Pete after completing law school at the University of Florida. As an assistant public defender, Hament provides legal counsel and defense for those charged with a crime who are deemed indigent, meaning they cannot afford to hire a private attorney.

Local: N. FL   "Lance Neff, judge in Phoenix Ikner case, elevated to appellate court" via Jim Rosica of USA Today Network — Neff is the newest judge on the state's 1st District Court of Appeal (DCA) based in Tallahassee, DeSantis' office announced March 2. Neff, who was also the general counsel for the Florida Department of Corrections, replaces Adam Tanenbaum, who was tapped by DeSantis to be the newest justice of the Florida Supreme Court. Neff has been a circuit judge since 2023, when he was appointed by DeSantis. He beat out 12 other applicants; the District's Judicial Nomination Commission had selected Neff and five others as finalists on Feb. 24. Lance Neff is appointed to the 1st DCA, replacing Adam Tanenbaum following his elevation to the Florida Supreme Court. "James Uthmeier moves to sue Jacksonville over 'illegal' gun registry, overriding local prosecutor" via Michelle Vecerina of Florida's Voice — Uthmeier announced the state will pursue civil enforcement against the City of Jacksonville for maintaining what he characterized as an illegal firearm registry, overriding a local prosecutor's decision to decline criminal charges. In a letter addressed to State Attorney Melissa Nelson, Uthmeier formally corrected her office's interpretation of state law, asserting that the city's collection of gun owners' personal data at public buildings constituted a clear violation of Florida statutes. "Jacksonville's firearm registry exposed law-abiding firearm owners to the very dangers that the prohibition was meant to prevent," Uthmeier stated. "Florida's property tax proposal leaves Pensacola with $9M shortfall" via Jim Little of the Pensacola News-Journal — Pensacola officials warn the city would face a nearly 27% shortfall in its non-public safety general fund if a proposed constitutional amendment eliminating homestead property taxes takes effect in 2027. The Florida House approved the measure, which would also bar local governments from reducing police and fire budgets below 2026 levels, leaving other services to absorb cuts. If enacted today, Pensacola would lose $9.1 million, a 26.7% reduction to the remaining general fund. Property taxes generate $28.2 million of the city's $80.8 million general fund, which supports parks, government operations and economic programs. City leaders say the proposal threatens core services and shifts control from local governments to Tallahassee without a clear replacement revenue source.

Local: SW. FL   "National Fire at Big Cypress National Preserve grows to 35,000 acres" via Tomas Rodriguez of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — A National Fire at Big Cypress National Preserve has grown in size eight days after it ignited, with officials saying more than one-third of it is contained. Erika Hoopes, spokesperson for the Big Cypress National Preserve, said a fire that ignited on Feb. 22 had grown to just over 35,000 acres and was 38% contained as of Monday, March 2. On Feb. 25, Hoopes explained that the fire grew from about 15,000 acres to 24,000 acres as fire crews began their defensive operations. She said there had not been any property damage, and they did not expect any. Big Cypress National Preserve cuts a swath of 729,000 acres across South Florida. It is one of the largest preserves in the nation, home to more than 350 species of birds and 40 species of mammals, including the black bear and Florida panther. The National Fire at Big Cypress National Preserve expands to 35,000 acres and is 38% contained as crews continue defensive operations. "State audit sets 45-day deadline for Lee County schools" via Mickenzie Hannon of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — A state audit puts the Lee County School Board on the clock to address misconduct delays, payroll and safety issues. The Lee School Board now has 45 days to finalize its formal response to the state audit that flagged delayed employee misconduct reporting and a $78,110 severance payment made without proper authorization. District officials say internal changes are already underway, while the Board has not yet decided whether to pursue financial recovery or additional corrective actions. One of the most prominent findings in the Auditor General's report involved a $78,110 payment made to a former Superintendent who voluntarily resigned in April 2024. "Broken pipe spills 14K gallons of sewage into Sarasota Bay, city says" via Amaia Gavica of the Bradenton Herald — A broken pipe spilled about 14,000 gallons of wastewater into Bradenton-area waters, the city of Sarasota said in a report filed with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The spill impacted Sarasota Bay, part of the Intracoastal Waterway that borders Manatee and Sarasota counties. It's also one of only 28 U.S. water bodies recognized as an "Estuary of National Significance" under the Environmental Protection Agency's National Estuary Program. City of Sarasota staffers received a report that water was coming up from the ground at West John Ringling Causeway Park, according to a pollution report the city filed with DEP. "Document shows Centerstone of Florida knew home was unlicensed" via Chris Anderson of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Centerstone of Florida knowingly sent mentally ill clients to an unlicensed assisted living facility operated by an 80-year-old felon, an employee confirmed in a deposition tied to a double-murder case, an indication the taxpayer-funded behavioral health hospital violated state law. Mary Jennings, a convicted drug and welfare fraud felon with no formal training in the mental health field, had been running the unlicensed assisted living facility in Bradenton. Jennings, who was the focus of a monthslong investigation recently published by the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, said on Friday that her home had recently been shut down but did not say by which state agency. It is a third-degree felony to run an unlicensed assisted living facility.

Top opinion   "How to think about Trump's war with Iran" via Thomas Friedman of The New York Times — The war in Iran demands holding competing truths at once. The clerical regime has long destabilized the region, crushed dissent and squandered Iran's potential. Its removal could open space for a more inclusive Middle East led by Iranians with a real voice in their future. Yet regime change will not come easily. Airstrikes alone rarely topple entrenched systems, and outcomes could range from reform within the Islamic Republic to dangerous fragmentation of the state. Economic forces will shape the conflict's duration as much as battlefield gains. Iran's fragile economy, global oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, and inflation risks at home will pressure leaders in Washington and Tehran to limit escalation. At the same time, promoting democracy abroad cannot obscure concerns about democratic norms in the United States and Israel. Political consequences for Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remain uncertain. Iran has wielded influence through proxies in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen. Recent blows to Tehran have weakened that network, reshaping regional power balances. Some analysts foresee an "Islamic Republic 2.0" negotiating limits on nuclear and missile programs in exchange for sanctions relief and regime survival. But history shows collapsed autocracies can implode or explode. Iran's ethnic mosaic raises the risk of territorial breakup. Energy markets, China's calculations and looming elections in 2026 add further unpredictability to a conflict whose end remains undefined.

More opinions   "Trump may come to regret this" via Ben Rhodes of The New York Times — Trump's decision to wage war on Iran marks a dramatic expansion of America's post-9/11 conflicts, undertaken without congressional authorization, broad public support or a clear endgame. The strike, framed as regime change, raises urgent questions about Iran's stability, regional retaliation and global economic fallout, including rising energy prices. Critics warn the weakened but intact Iranian regime could respond with cyberattacks, terrorism or proxy violence, while internal unrest could spiral into civil war or refugee crises. The move signals a shift toward personalized military power, unsettling allies and reinforcing perceptions that U.S. foreign policy now operates through disruption and force. Beyond foreign consequences, concerns grow that normalized military action abroad could erode democratic guardrails at home, deepening fears of unchecked executive authority and perpetual war. "Dental therapists— a practical solution to expand access to dental care" via Doug Wheeler for Florida Politics — Florida faces a deepening oral health crisis, with 66 of 67 counties designated as dental health professional shortage areas and nearly 6 million residents living in limited-access "dental deserts." Untreated oral disease costs the U.S. about $45 billion annually in lost productivity, with Florida spending nearly $1 billion in 2024 on preventable emergency room visits that offer only temporary relief. Advocates urge lawmakers to authorize dental therapists to expand access to basic services such as exams, fillings and simple extractions under dentist supervision. Dental therapists, used in more than 50 countries and authorized in 15 states, are accredited and licensed for the procedures they perform. Supporters say the move would reduce costs, improve health outcomes and expand care in underserved communities. "The Miami-Dade Urban Development Boundary is a Florida issue, not a county one" via Armando Codina of the Miami Herald — House Bill 399 and Senate Bill 208 would eliminate Miami-Dade County's Urban Development Boundary, a planning tool created in the 1980s to curb sprawl, protect drinking water and shield the Everglades from unchecked growth. Supporters of the boundary argue that it forces disciplined decision-making by requiring a supermajority vote to move the line and by requiring careful review of environmental impacts. The author, who previously secured limited expansions for Beacon Lakes and Countyline Corporate Park, said those changes required broad community support and rigorous scrutiny. The proposed legislation would lower approval thresholds and allow governance without a boundary, raising concerns about flooding, water quality and ecosystem damage. Critics warn removing the UDB would set a lasting precedent, weaken safeguards and risk irreversible consequences for South Florida's environment and future growth.

Instagram of the day

Aloe   "'Breathtaking': Tallahassee resident spots bald eagle on Apalachee Parkway" via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — Strength, courage and freedom were on full display in Florida's state capital Wednesday morning when one of the country's most recognized symbols made a brief pit stop on one of Tallahassee's main thoroughfares. Kendra Kingston said she couldn't believe her eyes when she spotted a bald eagle in the middle of Apalachee Parkway. "It was breathtaking," Kingston said. She said she was driving near the town's newest dog park when she noticed the bird and a few other drivers who had pulled over to help shoo it to safety. The group managed to get the bird into the median, and from there the eagle flew over to the Apalachee Regional Dog Park. A bald eagle makes a surprise landing on Apalachee Parkway, apparently unimpressed with traffic and scouting Tallahassee's newest dog park. "Florida history series 'A Land Remembered' is close to shouting 'action'" via Rosanne Dunkelberger of Florida Politics — What a difference a year — and a $500,000 appropriation — makes. Organizers and supporters seeking to turn the quintessential historical novel "A Land Remembered" into a television series gathered at the Historic Capitol to celebrate the project, which begins filming in March, with premieres of the first two episodes set for this Summer. Independent filmmaker Todd Wiseman Jr. is a native Floridian who spent several years in New York City and California honing his production, writing and directing talents before returning to his Tampa hometown. He bought the rights to the story and then pitched the idea to Film Tampa Bay.

Happy birthday   Celebrating today are Rep. Fentrice Driskell, Bradley Bean, Dan Conston, Lisa Kauffman, and Sean Stafford. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

Unsubscribe Having trouble viewing this email? View in browser © 2026 Extensive Enterprises Media 204 37th Avenue North, #182 St. Petersburg, FL 33704