The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 2.19.26 — Burnin’ today: Steele, Ingoglia, Casey DeSantis, Spar, ICE, Perez & U2

The latest in Florida politics — the policy & people who make things happen! ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Thursday morning. First in Sunburn — Kevin Steele drops out of CFO race, endorses Blaise Ingoglia — State Rep. Steele announced he will seek re-election to House District 55 rather than run for Florida Chief Financial Officer, citing family considerations after prayer and reflection. Steele said remaining close to home and present for his family is his top priority while continuing to serve his District with conservative leadership. He endorsed Ingoglia for CFO, pledging to support his campaign and work with him to keep Florida moving forward. Kevin Steele drops CFO bid, endorses Blaise Ingoglia while seeking re-election in House District 55. ___ A Florida "Make America Healthy Again" coalition says the movement doesn't want First Lady Casey DeSantis co-opting the message. And they have polling to prove it. MAHA Moms of Florida released polling showing the public considers her recent foray into health messaging disingenuous. "At first glance, her newfound passion for getting toxins out of the food supply through her Florida First Initiative could be seen as a sign that our push for a healthier state just got another key ally," a memo from the group reads. Casey DeSantis faces pushback from the Florida MAHA coalition as new polling questions her health care messaging credibility. "However, the distrust voters have for the First Lady on the issue, as well as the slapdash studies she is publicizing to try to repair her image with voters, could cause a major setback for the MAHA movement here in the Sunshine State." Polling results released found 34% of GOP Primary voters "do not believe the First Lady's claims at all when she discusses food safety," while 42% feel her sudden embrace serves "primarily a strategic distraction effort tied to her prior Hope Florida's controversy rather than a substantive policy commitment." Just 34% expressed comfort with DeSantis "making food decisions on their behalf." The memo noted recent controversy surrounding Hope Florida, a program championed by the First Lady. The foundation suffered allegations that it acted as a conduit converting a Medicare settlement into political contributions to an anti-pot and anti-abortion campaign; a Justice Department investigation concluded with no criminal charges. The polling showed the MAHA movement also believes it has a leader: President Donald Trump. About 67% see the President as the better "caretaker" of the MAHA agenda, while just 9% feel the same about DeSantis. Meanwhile, 58% believed DeSantis should "stop attempting to undermine President Trump" regarding the agenda. ___ Happening tonight:

Situational awareness   —@Atrupar: Trump: "Herschel Walker, speaking about loyal. How good a football player was Herschel? Now he's ambassador to the Bahamas. I don't know. Bahamas. Bermuda. Is he Bahamas? Whatever. It's a nice place." —@RepLuna: President Trump has unleashed American energy, and Floridians are now feeling the benefits at the pump. EIA data shows Florida's average regular gas price is down about 12% from January 2025 to January 2026. That is REAL savings for working families, commuters, and small businesses across our state. America First energy policy works Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: —@Roberttleusnik: 25% of all McDonald's Filet-O-Fish are sold during Lent. The sandwich only exists because Catholics in Cincinnati stopped buying burgers on Fridays in 1962. A 2,000-year-old fasting tradition forced the world's largest fast food chain to change its menu (Lent starts today)

Days until   'PARADISE' season two premieres on Hulu — 4; Netflix docuseries 'Drive to Survive' premieres — 8; 'Yellowstone' spinoff 'Y: Marshals' premieres — 10; World Baseball Classic begins — 14; F1 Season Opener — 15; Boca Raton Mayoral referendums and City Council Elections — 19; last day of the Regular Session — 22; The Oscars — 24; March Madness Opening Weekend — 28; 'Peaky Blinders' movie premieres on Netflix — 29; Special Election for SD 14, HD 87, HD 51 and HD 52 — 33; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix's first exclusive MLB stream — 34; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 34; new season of 'Your Friends And Neighbors' premieres on Apple+ — 43; NCAA Final Four begins — 44; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 46; 'Handmaid's Tale' sequel series 'The Testaments' premieres — 48; The Masters begin — 49; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 55; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 55; First Qualifying Period begins (Federal) — 60; 2026 Florida Housings Solutions Summit — 62; NFL Draft — 63; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 64; F1 Miami begins — 71; 'Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu' premieres — 92; new mission for 'Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run' premieres at Disney World — 92; Marvel's 'Spider-Noir' live-action series with Nicolas Cage arrives on Amazon Prime — 97; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 103; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 109; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 112; Steven Spielberg's 'Disclosure Day' premieres — 113; State Qualifying Period ends — 113; 'Toy Story 5' premieres in theaters — 120; Florida GOP's statewide debates for the Primary in its 'Sunshine State Showdown' — 127; Mexico will face live-action 'Moana' premieres — 132; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 135; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 140; MLB All-Star Game — 145; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 147; Primary Election: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 151; Primary Election: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 168; Primary Election: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 170; Primary Election Day — 180; Yankees host the Mets to mark the anniversary of 9/11 — 204; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 208; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 212; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 217; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 224; General Election: Deadline to register to vote — 228; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 247; General Election — 257; 'Godzilla Minus Zero' premieres — 260; 'Dune: Part 3' premieres — 302; 'Avengers: Doomsday' premieres — 302; untitled 'Star Wars' movie premieres — 302; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 340; Super Bowl LXI — 360; Tampa Mayoral Election — 376; Jacksonville First Election — 397; Jacksonville General Election — 453; 'Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse' premieres — 471; 'Bluey The Movie' premieres — 533; 'The Batman 2' premieres — 589; 'Avengers: Secret Wars' premieres — 666; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 704; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 876; U.S. Presidential Election — 992; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 1,068; 'Avatar 4' premieres — 1,392; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,432; 'Avatar 5' premieres — 2,123.

Top story   "'Let me be clear': Florida teachers union doesn't support student walk-outs" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The Florida Education Association is pushing back against claims that it supports student walk-outs over political issues, calling the accusations misinformation and a distraction from pending legislation. FEA President Andrew Spar said the union has never organized or encouraged students to miss class. He reiterated that position after activist Zander Moricz made comments at a prior news conference in which he defended student protests tied to Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids. Andrew Spar rebuts student walkout claims as Anastasios Kamoutsas warns protests won't be tolerated in Florida schools. Florida Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas responded by warning that walk-outs will not be tolerated under Gov. Ron DeSantis and urged parents to report any school officials who promote them. Spar said educators represent a wide range of political beliefs and have collaborated with lawmakers from both parties to strengthen public schools. He argued that a coordinated social media campaign is attempting to portray teachers negatively. He tied the controversy to House Bill 995 and Senate Bill 1296, which critics describe as union-busting measures. Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka shared a video of Moricz's remarks and called for greater accountability for unions. The union's news conference also featured registered Republicans who are public employees. They said collective bargaining is essential to securing fair pay and safe working conditions. Speakers included a municipal worker, a middle school teacher and a public hospital nurse, all urging lawmakers to protect worker voices rather than weaken unions.

Statewide   "In Florida and beyond, warehouses could soon serve as ICE detention centers" via Juan Carlos Chavez of the Tampa Bay Times — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement plans to build, buy and renovate warehouses, detention centers and processing facilities across the country under a $38.3 billion plan known as the "Detention Reengineering Initiative." Florida is on the list. A potential site in the southeast Orlando area is a 440,000-square-foot warehouse on Transport Drive. Under the expansion plan, ICE would acquire and renovate 16 existing buildings, including the Orlando facility, to serve as regional processing centers where immigrants would be held for up to seven days. Each site could house up to 1,500 people daily. ICE eyes Florida warehouse as part of $38.3B detention expansion that could house up to 1,500 people daily in Orlando. —"ICE deports 170 Cuban nationals, including Florida convict, on first flight of 2026" via Frank Kopylov of Florida's Voice "In Kentucky, Ron DeSantis downplays 2028 plans, disses Andy Beshear, doesn't stand by Thomas Massie" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis faced pointed political questions during a trip to Kentucky promoting a federal Balanced Budget Amendment, but offered little about his own future. Asked whether he plans another White House run after failing to win a single county against Trump in 2024, DeSantis declined to commit, saying he was focused solely on pushing for a constitutional convention. He also brushed off criticism from Democratic Gov. Beshear, responding sharply to remarks made about him on a talk show. When pressed on whether he would back U.S. Rep. Massie's re-election bid, DeSantis said he has not involved himself in congressional races, despite Massie's past support. —"DeSantis jabs back at Beshear while in KY to push balanced budget amendment" via McKenna Horsley of Florida Phoenix "Four more arrested in $1.7M state vehicle damage scam" via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Four additional suspects have been arrested in an alleged scheme that cost Florida more than $1.7 million through fraudulent vehicle damage claims. The case began with the January arrest of former Department of Financial Services employee Briana McCarthy, who was accused of approving 224 fraudulent claims while working in the Division of Risk Management between 2021 and 2024. Investigators say she recruited others to participate. The latest arrests include Shelton Allen, Latasha Belford, Cervantes Galloway and Ni'jah Johnson on grand theft and fraud-related charges. Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia vowed to root out waste and abuse of taxpayer funds. Authorities are still seeking Curtis McClendon in connection with the investigation. "FPL rate settlement heads to Florida Supreme Court" via Jim Saunders of State Affairs — The state Office of Public Counsel, which represents consumers in utility issues, is challenging approval of Florida Power & Light rate increases at the Supreme Court. Public Counsel Walt Trierweiler filed a notice Tuesday that his office is appealing a Jan. 22 order by the Florida Public Service Commission that gave final approval to an FPL base-rate settlement. The notice, as is common, did not detail arguments that the Office of Public Counsel will make at the Supreme Court. But it came after months of the office opposing the settlement and after Trierweiler and other consumer representatives requested that the Public Service Commission reconsider the order. That request remains pending. An online Commission docket indicated that the consumer group Floridians Against Increased Rates also filed a notice on Wednesday of an appeal to the Supreme Court, though the document was not immediately posted.

Big bill of the day   "Push to protect consumers against data centers hits snags" via Emily Mahoney and Lawrence Mower of the Tampa Bay Times — DeSantis vowed in December to crack down on the rapid growth of data centers, warning that unregulated expansion could strain Florida's power and water supplies, raise utility bills and displace jobs. He said the state must put Floridians first rather than allow a rush to build massive tech facilities tied to artificial intelligence. But turning that promise into law has proven difficult. Data center bills in the Florida House have yet to receive a single Committee hearing as the March 13 end of Session approaches. Without movement soon, their chances dim. Daniel Perez questions the state's role in AI regulation as the Florida data center crackdown stalls in the House. House Speaker Daniel Perez has voiced skepticism, arguing that artificial intelligence policy should be led by the federal government. His stance mirrors Trump, who has signaled opposition to aggressive state-level AI regulation. Meanwhile, the Senate is advancing Senate Bill 484, sponsored by Sen. Bryan Avila. The measure would require data centers to shoulder their own energy costs and restrict water use unless deemed in the public interest. The bill also bars nondisclosure agreements that block officials from sharing project details, though a related proposal would allow temporary public records exemptions. Despite divisions, lawmakers say negotiations continue. With weeks left in Session, supporters insist a deal remains possible. —"DeSantis' push for 'AI Bill of Rights' reaches Florida's K-12 schools" via Garrett Shanley of the Miami Herald

Legislative   "Jim Boyd amendment targets dredging to block Terra Ceia cruise port" via Max Chesnes of the Tampa Bay Times — Sen. Boyd filed an amendment to a coastal resiliency bill that would tighten dredging restrictions in the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, a move widely seen as an effort to derail a proposed cruise port near the Skyway Bridge. The preserve borders a 328-acre tract eyed by SSA Marine and Slip Knott LLC for development. Boyd's proposal would allow dredging only in limited cases that enhance water quality or public navigation. Local officials say the measure strengthens long-term environmental protections, while the landowner maintains the project will proceed through standard review. Environmental advocates have rallied against the port, warning that major channel dredging could damage sensitive coastal habitat. Jim Boyd files a dredging limits amendment aimed at slowing the proposed Terra Ceia cruise port near the Skyway Bridge. "House 'Blue Ribbon' projects land preservation bill takes next step toward passage" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — A measure that would encourage Florida's largest private landowners to serve as long-term stewards of the environment has cleared its second House Committee, leaving just one stop before it's teed up for a floor vote. The bill (HB 299) from Rep. Lauren Melo offers a framework supporters say better aligns growth, conservation and infrastructure planning. It would establish "Blue Ribbon" projects for landowners who control or own at least 10,000 contiguous acres. The language would require participating landowners to conserve at least 60% of the property. It cleared the House Commerce Committee on a bipartisan vote, with two Republicans — Reps. Erika Booth and Jason Shoaf — casting the only "no" votes. "Live Local Act fix exempting farmland, protected areas from preemption moves to House floor" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Legislation to narrow the types of land where developers can use state zoning preemptions to build affordable housing will next face a House floor vote after clearing its final Committee hurdle. Members of the House Commerce Committee voted unanimously for the bill (HB 837), which would amend Florida's Live Local Act, a sweeping law that has undergone significant changes since its original 2023 passage. Coral Gables Republican Rep. Demi Busatta, HB 837's sponsor, described her proposal as part of a yearslong effort to increase Florida's inventory of "attainable, affordable and workforce housing." "Bill revising eligibility for state condo-hardening grant program advances to Senate floor" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Legislation to make sure state funds meant for condo-hardening projects go to the unit owners who most need them is bound for a Senate floor vote after advancing through its final Committee stop. As it had at two prior panels, the bill (SB 1706) won unanimous support. Its sponsor, Hollywood independent Democratic Sen. Jason Pizzo, described the rollout of the My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot Program as faulty and ineffective. It launched in 2024 with a $30 million appropriation to provide free hurricane mitigation inspections and matching grants to eligible condominium associations. "Crackdown on illegal immigrant truckers rolls through final Senate Committee, but stalled out in House" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — The Florida Senate is poised to consider tougher penalties for undocumented immigrants who drive commercial trucks and the companies that employ them, after the Fiscal Policy Committee advanced SB 86 by Sen. Don Gaetz. A House companion bill has yet to receive a hearing. The proposal would allow law enforcement to arrest undocumented commercial drivers and transfer them to federal immigration authorities. Vehicles driven by unauthorized immigrants would be impounded, and perishable cargo would be destroyed if necessary. The measure also includes fines of up to $50,000 and potential business penalties for those who provide vehicles. Gaetz said the bill aims to remove safety hazards from highways following a deadly Turnpike crash involving an undocumented driver. Don Gaetz advances bill targeting undocumented truck drivers with impoundments and fines as House companion stalls. "Bill targets employers of undocumented workers after deadly probe" via Emily Mahoney of the Tampa Bay Times — Lawmakers have filed Senate Bill 1380 to penalize companies that knowingly hire undocumented immigrants who are injured on the job, requiring employers to pay medical costs directly and barring them from shifting expenses to insurers or state agencies. Violators could face fines up to $50,000 and loss of their business licenses. Sponsored by Sen. Jonathan Martin and backed by CFO Ingoglia, the measure would apply to state contractors. The proposal follows a Tampa Bay Times investigation detailing fatal and serious injuries involving undocumented workers at road-builder Archer Western, which has received nearly $1.6 billion in state contracts despite a fatality rate exceeding industry averages. "No argument here: Senate panel unanimously OKs Jason Brodeur's debate bill" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — There's no debate: The Senate Appropriations Committee on Pre-K-12 Education is fully behind a bill to infuse $2.4 million in recurring state dollars for the Florida Debate Initiative. The Committee unanimously approved the measure from Sen. Brodeur (SB 1062), which lawmakers praised for promoting civil discourse and critical thinking skills among public school students. "Florida is a true national leader in high school speech and debate," said Brodeur. But during the economic recession starting in 2008, the state's funding support for high school debate and speech took a financial hit and slipped. More recently, private funding and requests from lawmakers' local funding initiatives have helped fund the programs.

More legislative   "Amid debate in Congress, Florida's Republican Legislature pushes election law changes" via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — Florida lawmakers are advancing sweeping election legislation that would impose new proof-of-citizenship requirements and potentially eliminate recounts, reviving memories of the state's chaotic 2000 presidential recount. HB 991 and SB 1334 would require additional documentation to verify citizenship and expand the role of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, with supporters citing the federal SAVE America Act as justification. A House proposal would also create a "vote validation" system before certification and end recounts, though the Senate is divided on that provision. Democrats and voting advocates warn the changes could disenfranchise thousands, particularly elderly and minority voters lacking birth certificates or updated documents. Republicans argue the measures are necessary to prevent non-citizens from diluting lawful votes. Jenna Persons-Mulicka backs proof-of-citizenship voting overhaul as Florida GOP advances sweeping election changes. "GOP lawmakers push to ban climate actions in cities; Dems fight to preserve them" via Laura Cassels of the Florida Trident — Should local governments in Florida be free to pursue local net-zero goals that fight climate change, sea-level rise, extreme heat and worsening weather plaguing their residents? Republicans in the state Legislature are saying no. Three Republican lawmakers sponsored bills this Legislative Session to outlaw local net-zero efforts, citing business and tax motives but not addressing climate change. The bills have been approved by all three GOP-controlled legislative Committees that reviewed them at public hearings. Net-zero goals strive to reduce and offset carbon emissions so that the net effect is to stop adding them to the atmosphere, where they blanket the planet, warm the atmosphere and fuel climate change. "Bill overriding South Florida zoning for housing on contaminated land zips through second House stop" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Legislation to block local governments in South Florida from stopping the construction of dense housing on contaminated land is heading to its final stop in the House after breezing through its penultimate panel this week. Members of the House Commerce Committee advanced the measure (HB 979) on a mostly party-line vote, with Democrats on the dais voting "no." HB 979, dubbed the "Infill Redevelopment Act," is a two-birds-with-one-stone proposal. It would provide the state's three most populous counties with additional housing inventory while also enabling developers to make use of polluted tracts. "This bill helps to provide much-needed housing supply in communities by allowing property owners to administratively rezone properties that are environmentally damaged and are located in Palm Beach, Broward and Dade counties," the measure's sponsor, Rep. David Borrero, told the Committee Wednesday. "Special delivery: Broward delegation gets 1,800 letters opposing shared services agreement" via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — Opposition is mounting against HB 1047 and SB 1122, which would allow Florida hospital districts to merge or form joint ventures without voter approval. Advocacy group Taxpayers for Healthcare Accountability said more than 1,800 Broward residents sent letters to lawmakers urging them to reject the proposal, warning it could enable a "backdoor merger" of the North and South Broward Hospital Districts. The legislation, which applies statewide to 30 special districts, would authorize collaborative ventures, including for-profit entities and grant certain legal immunities. Critics argue it could expose taxpayers to shared liabilities and bypass referendum requirements. The House bill has not been heard, and the Senate version was temporarily postponed. "Vertiport bills are getting closer to landing in the Legislature" via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Florida lawmakers are moving to position the state for advanced air mobility, with House Bill 1093 and Senate Bill 1362 advancing after lawmakers stripped a controversial sovereign immunity provision for vertiport operators. The revised bills focus on infrastructure investment and public-private partnerships as vertiports — takeoff and landing hubs for electric air taxis — could arrive within two years. The legislation would allow the Florida Department of Transportation to fund up to 100% of a vertiport project without federal dollars, or up to 80% of the nonfederal share when federal funds are involved. Lawmakers say updating airport definitions to include vertiport facilities will help Florida capture investment and high-wage jobs in emerging aviation technology.

Leg. Sked.   Happening today — Health and nutrition advocates will hold a virtual mid-Session media briefing to discuss the potential impact of SB 1758 and HB 693 on Medicaid and SNAP access for working families. Groups including the Southern Poverty Law Center, Florida Health Justice Project, The AIDS Institute, 1199-SEIU and Florida Policy Institute say the bills would add eligibility checks and verification requirements that could increase administrative barriers to public assistance. Supporters say the measures align state policy with federal changes, while critics argue they could deepen affordability challenges for families facing rising health care, food, housing and insurance costs. 10 a.m., virtual via Zoom. 9 a.m. House Session, House Chamber. Senate Special Order Calendar Group, Room 401, Senate Office Building. 10 a.m. Senate Session, Senate Chamber. 11:30 a.m. Calling the Greatest Moments: Luncheon Honoring Gene Deckerhoff, Governor's Club 2nd Floor, Knott Building. 5 p.m. Putnam County Day 2026, 22nd Floor, House Office Building. UWF Capitol Days Reception, Historic Capitol Museum. 6:30 p.m. House Rules & Ethics Committee, Room 404, House Office Building. Lunch is served — The Governors Club buffet menu for Thursday: Chicken soup, Chef Pink's Jamaican ox tails, jerk chicken, rice and peas, steamed cabbage, fried plantains, salad bar, and Jamaican bread pudding and butter rum cake 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. New and renewed lobby registrations Slater Bayliss, The Advocacy Partners: Starbucks Corporation Douglas Bell, Metz Husband & Daughton: Connecticut Attorneys Title Insurance Company (CATIC) Matt Blair, Corcoran Partners: GFL Solid Waste Southeast Ron Book, Kelly Mallette, Ronald L. Book, PA: Deel Mike Crabb: Orange County Sheriff David Daniel, Steve Crisafulli, Teye Carmichael, SBM Partners: CRC Insurance Group, Via Science Candace DeMatties, Policy Breakthrough Services: Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease Matthew Herndon, Natalie King, RSA Consulting Group: Assist2Build Keith Hetrick, Ramba Consulting Group: Electric Utility Coalition Nick Iarossi, Kaley Flynn, Caroline Frasier, Chris Schoonover, Capital City Consulting: Anthropic Rick Kendust, Long Run Strategies: Home Again St. Johns Al Lawson, Lawson & Associates: Gadsden County Board of County Commissioners James McFaddin, Jared Torres, The Southern Group: Twenty Holdings Jonathan Steverson, Holland & Knight: Lennar Homes

D.C. matters   "Pete Hegseth's firing campaign reaches down into the ranks" via Nancy A. Youssef and Missy Ryan of The Atlantic — Hegseth, in a Pentagon meeting last year, passed a note to Army Secretary Dan Driscoll about one of Driscoll's top aides, asking, in effect: Why hasn't this guy been fired yet? The aide, Colonel Dave Butler, a former infantry officer, is a longtime leader in Army public affairs (not a specialty Hegseth embraces) who worked closely with the former Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley (whom Hegseth despises). On Thursday, Hegseth finally got his way: Butler was pushed out. Defense secretaries don't usually get involved in decisions about the careers of colonels and other mid-level commanders, given that the lead civilian in the Pentagon is supposed to oversee war planning, a department of 3 million people, and America's nuclear arsenal. Since World War I, when the United States established a large-scale standing force, individual branches have typically had a say in promotions and other personnel decisions. These choices are supposed to be based on merit. Pete Hegseth pressures Pentagon leadership as mid-level Army officer Dave Butler is pushed out.

Elections   "Darren McAuley rounds $400K mark in battle for CD 15" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — McAuley has raised more than $400,000 since entering the race for Florida's 15th Congressional District in July, his campaign announced. McAuley is running for the Democratic nomination to challenge incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee in the red-leaning District. His campaign announced a grassroots haul from more than 3,000 individual donors. McAuley is one of three Democrats who filed in the race. Federal Election Commission records only include reports covering financial activity through Dec. 31. As of that date, McAuley was already the top-funded Democrat in the race, with nearly $338,000 collected, including a $50,000 candidate loan. Kimberly Overman, a former Hillsborough County Commissioner, trailed with nearly $76,000, including $9,000 in loans. Robert People had raised just $21,000 as of the end of 2025. Darren McAuley tops $400K in CD 15 bid, leading Democratic field against Laurel Lee. "Super PAC slams Chris Collins as a convict — and worse, a liberal" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The first negative campaign ads in a heated Southwest Florida congressional race are taking former U.S. Rep. Collins of New York to task. "Convict Chris Collins is a New York Liberal," declares an ad from Southwest Florida First. The ad both slams Collins for a conviction for insider trading and rails against him for having a voting record of a moderate while running to represent one of Florida's most reliably conservative districts. He is part of a wide field of candidates running to succeed U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds. "The New York liberal resigned after he got busted for insider trading and went to prison," the 60-second version of the ad states. "Now, he's here, along with a bunch of other carpetbaggers trying to buy our seat in Congress. Worse, Chris Collins claims he's conservative." Monica Matteo-Salinas backs Richard Lamondin in CD 27 — Miami Beach Commissioner Matteo-Salinas is endorsing Democratic candidate Lamondin for Florida's 27th Congressional District. "Richard knows what it means to start with nothing and build something real. He grew up here. He built a business here," Matteo-Salinas said. "He's raising his family here. When he talks about rising costs, it's not theory — it's his life. That matters to me." Matteo-Salinas joins Sen. Shevrin Jones, Rep. Kevin Chambliss, Miami-Dade County School Board member Luisa Santos and fellow Miami Beach Commissioners Laura Dominguez and Alex Fernandez in endorsing Lamondin. Kurt Hoffman endorses Nick Pachota for HD 74 — Venice Mayor Pachota's campaign for House District 74 picked up an endorsement from two-term Sarasota County Sheriff Hoffman. "Nick Pachota is the conservative I trust to fight for Sarasota County in Tallahassee," Hoffman said. "Whether it's fighting illegal immigration, equipping law enforcement to protect our community, or protecting our Second Amendment rights, I trust Nick Pachota's conservative values, leadership skills, and proven track record to do what's best for Sarasota County. I hope my neighbors in House District 74 will join me in supporting Nick's campaign for State House." Pachota is one of five Republicans running for HD 74, which covers most of inland Sarasota County.

Local: S. FL   "South Florida leaders push crackdown on Cuba-linked firms, a lifeline for thousands of families" via Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — For decades, Miami-Dade's Cuban American community has sent money, food and medicine to relatives on the island, providing a lifeline to loved ones living under Cuba's communist government. But as Washington intensifies pressure on Havana and South Florida leaders call for stricter enforcement of sanctions, those long-standing connections are coming under new political scrutiny. In cities like Hialeah, local officials are pushing to investigate and potentially suspend or revoke the business licenses of companies they say maintain ties to the Cuban government. The effort marks a shift in a region where economic and family links to Cuba have historically been deeply embedded in daily life. South Florida officials move to scrutinize Cuba-linked businesses amid renewed push for stricter sanctions enforcement. "Veto fight: Miami-Dade Mayor blocks Kelly HQ project, for now. New vote coming" via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — Miami-Dade's Mayor has blocked — for now — a proposed commercial complex on wetlands off State Road 836, a project that was approved by County Commissioners last month and then vetoed by the Mayor. Rather than try to override Mayor Daniella Levine Cava's Feb. 1 veto, Commissioners backing the development plan opted to use a procedural maneuver Wednesday to reset the process. Commissioners instead voted to reconsider their Jan. 22 approval of the proposed Kelly Tractor headquarters on wetlands outside the county's Urban Development Boundary, a plan opposed by environmental groups. "Miami-Dade says state budget derails funding for commuter train on Brightline tracks" via Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald — A planned commuter train between Miami and Fort Lauderdale saw its funding plan derailed Monday by Florida's new state budget, which defunds a key source of transit dollars for the $927 million project. If funded, the Northeast Corridor project — also known as the Coastal Link — would bring a version of Tri-Rail commuter trains to the heart of the Miami area's urban corridor, east of Interstate 95. Miami-Dade has been planning stations in Wynwood, Little Haiti, North Miami and other neighborhoods along the route, which would eventually stretch north to Palm Beach County. "Miami Beach Commission uniformly urges state leaders to kill sweeping anti-DEI bill" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Every member of the Miami Beach Commission is urging Florida lawmakers to reject legislation that would sharply curtail local diversity-related programs, warning it could dismantle routine public services and expose cities to lawsuits. In a letter to DeSantis and legislative leaders, Mayor Steven Meiner and all six Commissioners opposed SB 1134 and its House companion (HB 1001), describing them as amorphous measures that would undermine local governance and threaten community programs. The bills are sponsored by Sen. Clay Yarborough and Rep. Dean Black. The legislation would prohibit counties and cities from funding or promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including offices, programming or training tied to demographic characteristics such as race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity or sexual orientation. "No means no: Fort Lauderdale again rebuffs offer to buy office tower for City Hall" via Susannah Bryan of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Fort Lauderdale is forging ahead with plans to build a $200 million City Hall despite concerns there will be no money to build it should voters across the state approve property tax reform. Commissioners are expected to vote in April on an interim agreement with FTL City Hall Partners, a development team chosen last year. A comprehensive agreement would likely come to the Commission for approval in November. If all goes well, the developer will break ground in January 2027. The Commission chambers would open as soon as the Summer of 2028. The City Hall tower would open by spring 2029. But on Tuesday, Vice Mayor John Herbst said he's worried Fort Lauderdale might have to terminate the deal if property tax reform passes. Mayor Dean Trantalis and Commissioners Steve Glassman and Pamela Beasley-Pittman objected to buying a 25-year-old office tower that would require extensive renovations to accommodate 700 city employees, along with a modern Commission chambers. "Palm Beach County students stage walk-outs to protest ICE detentions" via Valentina Palm of The Palm Beach Post — Students across multiple Palm Beach County high schools staged walk-outs on Feb. 16 to protests detentions by federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents both in Florida and across the U.S. Students at Lake Worth, John I. Leonard in Greenacres, Dr. Joaquin Garcia in suburban Lake Worth, Palm Beach Lakes and the Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach were among those taking part in the Presidents Day demonstrations against policies put in place when Trump began his second term in 2025. Palm Beach County students walk out across multiple high schools to protest ICE detentions under Trump administration policies. "Customers in Stuart weren't told of contaminated water for six months" via Keith Burbank of Treasure Coast Newspapers — Water contaminated with potentially harmful "forever chemicals" went to all Stuart water customers for two months in late 2024, but it took the city months to tell the public, city officials now admit. "We collected the samples (of water) in October 2024," Mike Woodside, superintendent of the city water-treatment plant, told TCPalm. "We got the results back in December 2024. So, for those two months, yes, the short-chain PFAS left the plant." The city had 5,274 water customers in late 2024, with 873 outside the city limits, city officials said. The largest area outside the city limits that gets Stuart water is located near Witham Field.

Local: C. FL   "Apopka mayoral candidate dispute set for 2027 court date – more than a year after election" via Mike Valente of the Orlando Sentinel — Amid a legal dispute between two Apopka candidates for Mayor, a circuit judge in Orange County has set a trial date for July 2027 — more than a year after next month's municipal elections. Judge Brian Sandor issued an order Tuesday setting a non-jury trial date of July 26, 2027, for Apopka Mayor Bryan Nelson's lawsuit against one of his opponents, current Orange County Commissioner Christine Moore. News + reported last month that Nelson filed a lawsuit against Moore, alleging that she had not lived in the city long enough to meet residency requirements as a candidate. Nelson is arguing that Moore should be disqualified as a candidate and removed from the ballot. Moore has pushed back on Nelson's claims, calling them "false and misleading." Bryan Nelson's lawsuit challenging Christine Moore's residency heads to a July 2027 trial, long after the Apopka Mayoral Election. "Volusia Sheriff's email says he would be fired if he doesn't help ICE" via Patricio G. Balona of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood revealed in an email to a citizen that he would lose his job if he didn't cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and catch undocumented immigrants in Volusia County. The News-Journal submitted an information and records request seeking details on how much funding the Sheriff's immigration task force is receiving for its efforts to assist ICE. His spokesperson classified the newspaper's request as a public records request and provided only a memorandum and a general order. The documents from Chitwood notified deputies they were required to participate in the new data collection process in cooperation with the State Immigration Enforcement Council and the State Board of Immigration Enforcement. "Kissimmee Commissioners vote to extend their term limits, but voters will get final say" via Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel — Kissimmee Commissioners voted to extend term limits, allowing them to serve up to 12 years in office. But voters will still have their say in an August referendum. Commissioner Janette Martinez cast the sole dissenting vote against the ordinance, which passed 4-1 and will allow Commissioners to run for three consecutive four-year terms instead of the current two consecutive terms. "I would ask this question to my Board, to my fellow Commissioners: What would benefit us to have four more years on the Board?" said Martinez, who is up for re-election to her second term this year. "Moffitt Cancer Center to build first Polk County facility with 2029 opening" via Anjelica Rubin of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — Moffitt Cancer Center will open a new outpatient facility in Polk County, the cancer center's first location in the county. The facility, which will be built on 34 acres on Bartow Road in Lakeland, is supported in part by a $10 million donation from Wesley and Ashley Bell Barnett, along with a partial land donation from Steve, Dane and Tom Rogers and family to bring cancer care closer to patients in Polk County and Orlando. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the outpatient center scheduled to open in 2029. "At Moffitt, we are laser-focused on saving more lives. But we must bring world-class cancer care closer to those who need it," said Dr. Patrick Hwu, president and CEO of Moffitt, in a statement. "We are incredibly grateful for the impactful support of the Barnett and Rogers families, who are helping us to realize this vision."

Local: TB   "Cabinet to consider giving 22 acres to college for Rays stadium in Tampa" via Nina Moske of the Tampa Bay Times — DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet will consider conveying 22 acres of nonconservation land to Hillsborough College for a Tampa Bay Rays baseball stadium, according to an agenda item released this week for a meeting on Tuesday. DeSantis has previously said he supports the Rays' quest to build a ballpark at the 113-acre Dale Mabry campus of Hillsborough College. A decision next week would solidify his commitment to the project. "Baseball belongs in Tampa Bay," he said. "Baseball can succeed in Tampa Bay." "Components" of the ballpark — or construction on the stadium and the surrounding development — must exist within five years of the transfer, the document says. Otherwise, the state could take back the land. DeSantis and Cabinet to weigh transfer of 22 acres to Hillsborough College for proposed Tampa Bay Rays stadium. "Ken Welch pushes $600M infrastructure bond, vows progress on Gas Plant District during State of the City address" via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Welch outlined an ambitious 2026 agenda centered on a proposed $600 million infrastructure bond and renewed momentum for redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District during his State of the City address. Framing the coming year as a test of resolve in the face of election-year distractions, Welch said the city is preparing to ask voters to approve a general obligation bond to fund approximately $600 million in sewer upgrades, stormwater improvements and neighborhood infrastructure projects. Welch said the bond would complement projects already accelerated under the city's St. Pete Agile Resilience Plan (SPAR) and a $160 million federal Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery partnership called "Sunrise St. Pete." "Like the debris after Helene, the St. Pete Beach mayoral race attacks are piling up" via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — A website backed by the group Restore St. Pete Beach includes a roundup of news clippings, a trove of opposition research, and an advertisement released last week slamming the St. Pete Beach Mayor for having "Perks for (Adrian) Petrila" to the detriment of beach residents. The ad features a resident video, first reported last month, showing workers at Petrila's home using blowers to dry flood-damaged areas. At the time that the workers — and, the video shows, Petrila — were present at the home, access to the beach was still prohibited. The ad opens with a female narrator declaring that "politician Adrian Petrila's motto" is "public service, private perks." "TGH Innovation Week spotlights Tampa as health tech hub" via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Tampa General Hospital and USF Health drew leaders in medicine, finance and technology to Tampa for TGH Innovation Week, a 62-event series focused on embedding innovation into everyday clinical practice. More than 5,000 attendees participated in workshops, simulations and panels, including a Shark Tank-style competition and a fireside chat with former Gov. Jeb Bush. A ribbon-cutting unveiled the 32,000-square-foot TGH Innovation Center in Ybor City, home to TGH Ventures, analytics teams and the Tampa Medical and Research District, with partners such as Palantir Technologies. Speakers included Cathie Wood, Catherine Estrampes and William McKeon. Organizers said the gathering reflects Tampa's emergence as a national leader in health care, life sciences and applied technology.

Local: N. FL   "Council president got a big raise. Then he did his boss a 'big favor'" Mark Woods of The Florida Times-Union — Jacksonville City Council President Kevin Carrico is facing scrutiny after text messages revealed he replaced a JEA Board member because he "owed a big favor to a friend." Carrico proposed swapping Arthur Adams for Paul Martinez, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida, where Carrico also works. The texts surfaced days before the legislation formalizing the appointment was enacted. Carrico said Martinez was chosen for his qualifications but did not answer follow-up questions about the "favor" or whether it related to his nonprofit role. The controversy revives concerns about governance at JEA, the city-owned utility restructured after a failed privatization effort. The appointment still requires full City Council approval. Paul Martinez's JEA nomination draws scrutiny after Kevin Carrico cites 'big favor' in Board shake-up. "Appeals court says 2025 beach access law change ends dispute over Walton County actions since 2018" via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — A state appeals court ruled Wednesday that legislation signed last Summer by DeSantis effectively ended legal disputes over Walton County's efforts to guarantee public beach access. The 1st District Court of Appeal said a 2024 law repealing a 2018 beach access statute eliminated any legal harm tied to prior rulings, leaving "no harm to be remedied." The decision does not address whether Florida's "customary use" doctrine is constitutional. An attorney for beachfront landowners agreed with the outcome, saying more than 1,100 parcels are no longer subject to customary use restrictions after years of litigation costing the county over $8 million. Another 67 owners reached settlements allowing limited public access. Broader challenges to customary use continue in state and federal courts. "Woman arrested in alleged battery of Tallahassee City Commissioner" via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — A woman was arrested on a charge of battery after allegedly attacking Tallahassee City Commissioner Jack Porter ― putting her in a headlock and pulling her hair ― in a dispute over cats in the middle of the street. The woman was arrested Feb. 12 on a charge of misdemeanor battery and taken to the Leon County Detention Facility. The Democrat does not typically name people charged with misdemeanors. Leon County Judge Nina Ashenafi-Richardson placed her on pretrial release during her first court appearance the next day. She also ordered her to have no contact with Porter and witnesses. The defendant was appointed a public defender and later pleaded not guilty. "FAMU president has less than five months to meet goals for $86,000 bonus" via Tarah Jean of the Tallahassee Democrat — Florida A&M University President Marva Johnson has a little less than five months to work toward goals that were recently approved by FAMU's Board – following a delayed process – before being evaluated for a possible $86,000 bonus. "I just want to make sure you guys all appreciate that we did not wait for goals to be approved to get to work to make sure we're delivering outcomes that we know will advance this institution," Johnson told FAMU's Board of Trustees during a Feb. 12 meeting on campus. That's where her proposed goals for the remainder of the 2025-26 fiscal year were approved. The goals were initially up for a vote in December. "That said, we have about 140 days remaining to make impacts with these outcomes," Johnson added. Good! — "FAMU president attends White House Black History Month event" via Tarah Jean of the Tallahassee Democrat — Johnson traveled to Washington on Feb. 18 to attend Trump's Black History Month reception, which included a pre-meeting with HBCU leaders. Johnson said she represented FAMU's mission and students in every room she enters. During the event, Trump praised historically Black colleges and universities and highlighted funding secured during his first term, though he did not name individual presidents. The reception drew prominent Black leaders from across government and advocacy circles. FAMU said Johnson's participation reflects a strategic effort to advocate for HBCUs and ensure continued investment and national recognition for institutions like the Tallahassee-based university.

Local: SW. FL   "Urban Meyer clears New College confirmation hurdle in Senate Committee" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Meyer is one step closer to joining the Board of Trustees at New College of Florida after the Senate Higher Education Appropriations Committee advanced his nomination. The former University of Florida and Ohio State national championship coach, who later had a brief and troubled tenure with the Jacksonville Jaguars, would replace outgoing Trustee Christopher Rufo pending full Senate confirmation. Meyer told lawmakers he sees an opportunity to help elevate the Sarasota-based school, citing decades of experience on college campuses as a student, coach and professor. New College President Richard Corcoran praised Meyer's leadership background. Meyer said he hopes to help transform the institution into an elite liberal arts college. Urban Meyer advances toward New College trustee seat after Senate Committee approval.

Top opinion   "How Stephen Colbert could end up impacting the Midterms" via Damian Paletta of The Wall Street Journal — Colbert plans to tape the final episode of "The Late Show" on May 21, just months before the 2026 Midterm Elections. But he signaled this week that he won't exit quietly — or without weighing in on politics. On Monday night, Colbert accused CBS and the Federal Communications Commission of effectively censoring him by blocking an interview with Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico. CBS has denied the claim. Colbert sharply criticized both Trump and his own network, warning that giving ground to what he described as authoritarian pressure sets a dangerous precedent. The clash highlights renewed scrutiny of the FCC's equal-time rules and whether broadcast networks will grow more cautious about giving candidates airtime during campaign season. It also raises questions about FCC Chair Brendan Carr's posture toward media companies, particularly those seeking regulatory approvals for mergers or other business deals. At the same time, the dispute underscores how media power has shifted. Even if broadcast networks pull back, viral clips on social media platforms can still shape political narratives in the run-up to November.

More opinions   "Is Florida's Attorney General a genius? He's being paid like one" via the Miami Herald editorial board — Attorney General James Uthmeier has been hired by the University of Florida's Levin College of Law to teach two courses for $100,000, making him the highest-paid adjunct there in at least 25 years. The compensation is reportedly eight times the median pay for law school adjuncts and far exceeds what Uthmeier previously earned teaching at Florida State University. UF did not publicly announce the hire until after media inquiries. While it is legal for a sitting Attorney General to teach, critics question the unusually high pay at a public university, especially as state leaders call for tighter spending oversight. Uthmeier will also support UF's Program in Law and Government in addition to teaching one course per semester. "Randy Fine called 'racist slob' for tweets, but his tactics win in Florida" via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — In today's tribal politics, bipartisan agreement is rare, but condemnation of U.S. Rep. Fine briefly bridged the divide after he posted inflammatory remarks about Palestinians and Muslims. Critics across the spectrum blasted him, yet the outrage is unlikely to carry consequences. Voters knew Fine's record from his time in the Legislature, where he made crude and provocative comments, and still sent him to Congress with strong margins after earning Trump's backing. The pattern isn't confined to one party. Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick faces a federal indictment for alleged misuse of disaster funds, yet party leaders have offered their support. In safe, heavily partisan districts, accountability fades. Without competitive races, lawmakers have little incentive to change. "In DeSantis' power grab, the Legislature helped" via John Hill of the Tampa Bay Times — Three recent reports have intensified criticism of DeSantis, spotlighting spending from a state emergency fund, the use of opioid settlement money to oppose a marijuana amendment and planned changes to Florida's AIDS Drug Assistance Program. Reporting found hundreds of millions spent under an immigration "emergency," including restaurant, travel and legal costs from a fund typically reserved for disasters. The administration also acknowledged directing $4 million in opioid settlement funds toward ads opposing recreational marijuana. Separately, up to 12,000 patients could lose state-paid health coverage for HIV medications under proposed changes. Critics argue the moves reflect limited transparency and legislative oversight, while some House lawmakers have begun questioning the emergency fund spending as broader political and legal debates continue.

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Olympics   "Swiss TV commentary of Israeli Olympic bobsled run fuels fierce reaction" via Graham Dunbar of The Associated Press — Switzerland's public broadcaster has taken down a Winter Olympics clip from its website after a journalist's commentary during an Israeli bobsled team's run was criticized. The commentator quoted and referred to past social media posts by bobsled pilot AJ Edelman supporting the conflict in Gaza. Stefan Renna also cited International Olympic Committee eligibility rules that require Russian athletes not to have publicly backed the war in Ukraine. The two-minute commentary on Monday also noted a report commissioned by the United Nations Human Rights Council, which concluded last year that Israel committed genocide. Israel disputed those findings as "distorted and false." AJ Edelman's Olympic run sparks backlash after a Swiss broadcaster pulls commentary citing remarks on the Gaza conflict. "At the Olympics and beyond, women's sports media outlets are writing their own playbooks" via Claire Savage and Alyce Brown of The Associated Press — Veteran sports columnist Christine Brennan remembers when male colleagues used to laugh at her for insisting on covering women's sports back in the 1990s. "It was absolutely infuriating to me," said Brennan, a bestselling author who served as the first president of the Association for Women in Sports Media. Now? Entire media outlets dedicated to centering women's sports are springing up, growing rapidly and tackling coverage themselves, including in the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics. Alongside the historic growth of women's sports, the women's sports media ecosystem is likewise flourishing, and outlets like TOGETHXR, The GIST, Just Women's Sports, The IX Sports, GOALS and Good Game with Sarah Spain are expanding their reach. "How did Mikaela Shiffrin finally end Olympic woes? She met her standard" via Barry Svrluga of The Washington Post — The performance Shiffrin delivered Wednesday both stood out as extraordinary and faded into the background as mundane and routine. That is her dichotomy in slalom racing. She is the best to ever do it, and she routinely beats the field by margins best measured by a sundial. That standard, though, can be damning and burdensome. The expectation to win becomes suffocating. Appreciate, then, what Shiffrin did in seizing a gold medal with two splendid runs, each worthy of an Olympic-size exhale. Under postcard-blue skies, Shiffrin summoned not some superpower, something outside of herself. In the final Alpine skiing event of the Milan Cortina Olympics, she simply skied like Mikaela Shiffrin. "How Olympic skier Hunter Hess gets his superhuman balance" via Gretchen Reynolds of The Washington Post — "He trains like a maniac." That's Mark Dyer, the athletic development coordinator for the U.S. freeski team, fondly describing Hess. In the Summer, Hess runs, uses inline skates and lifts for hours to prepare for the Winter season. But the foundation of his training — the building block for his podium finishes, rather than tumbling crashes — is balance and proprioception practice. Well-honed balance and proprioception are equally essential "to any athlete," Dyer said, "and really, to everybody in everyday life." But because Hess's sport involves inversion, rotation and moving at high speed through space, often upside-down, for him it's "key," Dyer said. "When just skiing downhill isn't enough: Meet Skimo, the newest Olympic sport" via Patricia Mazzei of The New York Times — Ski mountaineering, which makes its debut as an Olympic event on Thursday in some of the same mountains where the sport was born. In skimo, as it is known to its devotees, competitors climb uphill on skis and then on foot before racing downhill. It is a punishing exercise that requires strength, technique and endurance, which is exactly why ski mountaineers love it. "You have to be powerful, explosive, fast, and also be able to repeat these climbs over and over again," said Cameron Smith, who is the most decorated American ski mountaineer and one of two U.S. athletes competing this week at the Winter Games in Northern Italy. "So, it's a super physically demanding sport."

Aloe   "U2 releases Renee Good tribute song 'American Obituary'" via Corky Siemaszko of NBC News — U2 released a surprise six-song EP, "Days of Ash," condemning federal immigration raids and broader global conflicts, marking its first new studio material since 2017. The project opens with "American Obituary," a pointed tribute to slain Minneapolis protester Good, in which lead singer Bono sharply criticizes the crackdown in its lyrics. Released on Ash Wednesday, the EP also includes "Wildpeace," based on a poem by Israeli writer Yehuda Amichai, and tracks addressing unrest in Gaza, Iran and Ukraine. "Yours Eternally" features Ed Sheeran and Ukrainian musician Taras Topolia and will be paired with a short documentary. Bono said a more "joyful" full-length album is coming, but these songs were too urgent to delay. To listen, please click the image below:

Happy birthday   Celebrating today are Rep. Bill Conerly, Michael Williams, Brian McManus, Andy Abboud, Ryan Boyett, and Emily Mahoney of the Tampa Bay Times. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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