Jacksonville Bold for 4.29.26: Ballard boost

Jacksonville leaders shape politics, business, and community impact regionally. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises U.S. Rep. John Rutherford will get some help from Jacksonville friends at a D.C. fundraiser. The Ballard Partners event includes Brian Ballard, Jacksonville-based Jordan Elsbury, Lenny Curry, seven members of the City Council and a former staffer for Jacksonville’s current Democratic Mayor (among many other roles), Karen Bowling. “It’s shaping up to be a nice event,” Curry shared. Brian Ballard backs John Rutherford at Washington fundraiser amid strong fundraising lead. Rutherford, a former three-term Jacksonville Sheriff, seeks his fifth term in Congress representing Florida’s 5th Congressional District. He is by far leading the fundraising race. As of the first quarterly report of the year, Rutherford has raised nearly $530,000. He has eclipsed the $400,000 cash-on-hand mark, with nearly $180,000 brought in during the first three months of 2026. Political action committees related to business groups and corporations contributed $116,000 during the period. Though the District, which includes portions of Duval and St. Johns Counties, is drawn with a Republican advantage, one Democrat is making a decent showing on her own. Rachel Grage, who previously ran for state House, closed the quarter with more than $180,000 raised and retained more than $95,000 cash on hand as of the filing. Other candidates are struggling to keep pace. Democrat Mark Heggestad has raised a little more than $25,000 during the campaign. Republican media personality Mark Kaye has raised nearly $22,000. Rutherford has never lost an election. And his network wants to ensure it continues in 2026.

Tweet, tweet

The way we were   While the congressional map being considered in Tallahassee this week makes no material changes to Northeast Florida’s configuration, the process in 2022 that ended a minority-access seat running from Jacksonville to the Tallahassee area was on the Governor’s Office’s mind when they sent their proposed product to the Senate. Northeast Florida sees no changes for seats held by Republicans Aaron Bean, Kat Cammack, Randy Fine and John Rutherford. Image via EOG. The executive branch argued that Florida districts historically have been “distorted by considerations of race” because of the Fair Districts Amendments (FDA) to the Florida Constitution, which superseded “the requirement to maintain compactness and to utilize existing political and geographical boundaries” with racial considerations. “This requires the use of race in redistricting — something that the U.S. Supreme Court has signaled is unconstitutional,” the Governor’s Office opined, before recalling the Legislature’s proposal that would have “packed the Black population of Duval County into one district.” “Even though the Black voting-age population was diminished relative to the benchmark district, the Legislature nevertheless believed that the Black population was large enough that Black voters could still elect candidates of their choice,” the recollection continued, saying the district “stretched over two hundred miles across the Florida/Georgia border to encompass the Black populations in Duval County in the east and Lean and Gadsden Counties in the west.” The Governor vetoed that map, along with a more status-quo legislative attempt, invoking the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. “The Legislature eventually enacted, and the Governor signed, the current congressional map with a race-neutral version of Congressional District 5,” the narrative concluded. The proposed map would create just four Democratic seats, including one that packs Orlando and surrounding areas into a district, and three South Florida districts. In Senate Rules on Tuesday, Northeast Florida legislators questioned the process and the product. Democratic Leader-designate Tracie Davis peppered representatives of the Governor’s Office about the process by which the map was drawn. Republican Jenn Bradley took issue with the lack of changes north of I-4, which contradicted the argument for reapportionment to reflect population changes in fast-growing areas. Ultimately, both voted against the proposal, but it is moving forward anyway.

Tweet, tweet

Challenger emerges   With just over a year until the next countywide General Election in Jacksonville, a first-time Democratic candidate is launching a challenge to incumbent Mayor Donna Deegan. Marquita Valencia, a 42-year-old third-generation native of Duval County who grew up in Brentwood, who still goes to Mt. Moriah Church, and who attended Mandarin High School, opened her campaign account Friday. Valencia has been a mortgage loan processor for Deutsche Bank for the last five years and has spent her entire career in financial services, so she keeps an eye on the bottom line in all aspects of her campaign, including ballot qualification. A new candidate for Jacksonville Mayor emerges. She tells Florida Politics she intends to do so by petition, which requires 7,500 signatures, to save on the filing fee. Valencia learned frugality growing up, noting that her mother sometimes struggled with the cost of food, and those early struggles and the ongoing issues in her old neighborhood inspired her to run in part. While she acknowledges progress has occurred in parts of the city, it hasn’t reached places like Brentwood, which suffer from a lack of grocery stores and from infrastructure that gets overlooked as investment goes to other parts of town, many of which she has lived in over the years. “I don’t see any progress in those areas,” Valencia said. Places like the Northside and Eastside need “change and progress to lower crime, to lower homelessness,” Valencia said. But city leaders prioritize Downtown over the neighborhoods that border it. She questions one of Deegan’s signature projects specifically. Valencia doesn’t believe the city’s $775 million investment into refurbishing the Jaguars‘ stadium, which comes at the expense of deferring paying off a now-closed pension plan five more years until sometime in the 2050s, benefits the Northside or the Eastside by bringing “healthy food” to those areas or making it “safe to walk” the streets. To be sure, this first-time candidate will face a challenge in trying to make Deegan a one-term Mayor, as the former newscaster launched her campaign last week to become the first Democratic Jacksonville Mayor re-elected since Jake Godbold in 1983. Though the formal re-election campaign is just beginning, Deegan has already begun fundraising. The aligned Duval for All political committee has raised more than $1.62 million and has spent less than $177,000.

Link, link

Numbers racket   Jacksonville’s Inspector General says the city’s Housing Authority allowed nine workers to double dip, collecting full salaries and benefits while also drawing tax-free workers’ comp payments. Jacksonville Housing Authority overpays workers due to payroll error, triggering Inspector General probe and ongoing recovery of misallocated public funds. “The issue stemmed from a misclassified payroll code that treated ‘workers comp’ entries as a payout code, causing the system to issue full salary regardless of an employee’s work status. Based on JHA records, the OIG identified overpayments totaling $73,204.51. JHA was unable to locate documentation showing that any indemnity checks were submitted to payroll as required by its Standard Operating Procedures,” the OIG explained. One person got nearly $19,000 in overpayment due to the error. JHA axed its HR team and is now working to recover funds, with more than $10,000 clawed back as of last week.

Tweet, tweet

Brothers in arms   You’ll be in Dire Straits if you break a new law and pass stopped school buses starting May 1. And it won’t be Money for Nothing. You’ll be fined $225 if you decide to drive around one of them with its stop arm extended, the Duval County School District warns. Jacksonville Housing Authority overpays workers due to payroll error, triggering Inspector General probe and ongoing recovery of misallocated public funds. Jacksonville Housing Authority overpays workers due to payroll error, triggering Inspector General probe and ongoing recovery of misallocated public funds. Duval schools warn drivers: ‘Dire Straits’ fines hit $225 for illegally passing stopped school buses starting May 1. “Earlier this month, the District announced the launch of this safety initiative, which is aimed at protecting students as they enter and exit the bus. District buses are now equipped with stop-arm camera technology that captures the license plate information of vehicles that violate Florida law by passing a stopped school bus,” the District notes. We assume most of our readers are already following this law.

Tweet, tweet

Word is bond   The Jacksonville Aviation Authority is celebrating solid bond ratings for its $230 million Concourse B construction project. Moody’s Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC (KBRA), assigned JAA ratings of A1, A+ and AA. All three rated the independent Authority’s finances as stable. Jacksonville Aviation Authority earns strong bond ratings, advancing $230M Concourse B expansion at Jacksonville International Airport. Image via Jacksonville Business Journal. “These ratings signify the strong financial position of the JAA,” JAA CEO Mark VanLoh said. “This allows us to finance projects that matter to the Northeast Florida community, such as the construction of Concourse B. Not only will it bring additional gates which are desperately needed, but new customer service amenities and great dining options for travelers.” “The strength of management, the current status of the Concourse B project and the Authority’s strong financial metrics are likely factors these agencies considered while issuing their guidance. We look forward to going out to the bond market and securing financing for the completion of our largest construction project in the last 20 years,” said JAA Chief Financial Officer Ross Jones.

Tweet, tweet

JAXPORT pickup   Earth Day for JAXPORT employees was very productive, as they helped clean up a major thoroughfare near some of the port’s more prominent operations. Those workers focused on a 2-mile stretch of Heckscher Drive on April 24, the official Earth Day celebration. The roadway runs along the northern shore of the St. Johns River in Jacksonville. The workers focused on that stretch of Heckscher because JAXPORT adopted that area four years ago through the Florida Department of Transportation’s Adopt-A-Highway program. The roadway is near the organization’s Blount Island Marine Terminal. JAXPORT employees remove more than 2,200 pounds of debris during Earth Day cleanup along Heckscher Drive near the Blount Island terminal. JAXPORT employees gathered an estimated 2,260 pounds of refuse from the areas along the road. Those workers were able to collect trash, tires, large signs, metal debris, house siding and various car parts among the refuse. “Our annual Earth Day cleanup reflects our ongoing commitment to being a good neighbor and responsible steward of the environment,” said JAXPORT CEO Eric Green. “As the main thoroughfare to two of our major cargo terminals, this corridor is vital to our operations. Each year, our employees help keep it clean while protecting natural resources and preventing debris from reaching nearby waterways.”

Biz boom   Florida’s large cities are the best in the nation to start a business. That’s according to a new study published by WalletHub, which found that the Sunshine State’s biggest cities are so business-friendly that there’s little room for any other states in the top tier. Jacksonville ranks among top U.S. cities for startups, driven by low taxes, strong growth and a thriving small business environment. The firm compared 100 large cities across the country using 19 factors, including the five-year business survival rate, labor costs and the affordability of office space. Jacksonville was among the best, coming in third in the nation behind Orlando. Jacksonville’s startup business score was 62.08. WalletHub analysts raved about Jacksonville’s business environment. “The city has some of the lowest corporate taxes in the country, which can provide a boost to new businesses by allowing them to reinvest more of their capital. Businesses that are currently in Jacksonville are thriving, as the city has a very high number of startup firms per capita, indicating a strong environment for launching new businesses,” the analysis said. “It also has some of the highest rates of growth in business revenues in the country, which suggests that companies in the city have strong potential to expand and succeed.”

Hall of Famers   Junior Achievement of North Florida will host its Hall of Fame event on May 13 at the University of North Florida. The ceremony runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Adam W. Herbert University Center, recognizing leaders in business, education and community service. Andy Allen, founder and CEO of Corner Lot Development, will receive the Thompson S. Baker Award, the organization’s top honor for impact and leadership. Other honorees include Pam Coleman as Educator of the Year, FIS as Company of the Year, and Evan Satterwhite of Bank OZK as Volunteer of the Year, highlighting contributions across sectors.

MOCA maven   Jacksonville hometown artist is being celebrated at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) beginning Thursday. MOCA is featuring an exhibit of Amer Kobaslija, a Jacksonville-based painter whose work has gained international recognition. “Outside Looking In: The Paintings of Amer Kobaslija” begins its run at MOCA with a free Community Opening Celebration from 8 to 9 p.m. Thursday. The exhibit will run through Sept. 20. MOCA Jacksonville debuts Amer Kobaslija exhibit, showcasing internationally recognized paintings and Florida landscapes through September. Image via The Florida Times-Union. Kobaslija’s work focuses on his surroundings “with virtuosity and wit,” according to a MOCA news release. The Outside Looking In exhibit will highlight his work from early in his career. That will also include works featuring his elements from The Florida Diaries, a continuing series of paintings detailing Florida landscapes. Kobaslija was born in Bosnia and Herzegovina and became a refugee fleeing to Germany in 1993 amid the Serbo-Croatian war. He eventually moved to Jacksonville in 1997, where his career took off.

Tweet, tweet

Draft doubts   The Jaguars’ draft has not been well-received around the league. ESPN’s Mel Kiper gave the Jaguars a C (tied with the lowest grade he gave any team), CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco rated the Jaguars a C+, and The Athletic’s Dane Brugler ranked the Jaguars’ draft last out of 32 teams in the NFL. Why? For starters, the Jaguars did not have a first-round pick. They dealt this year’s No. 1 away in last year’s deal that brought Travis Hunter to town. But beyond that, many draft analysts believe that the Jaguars reached for players, selecting them higher than was warranted. In the second round, the Jaguars selected Texas A&M tight end Nate Boerkircher, a blocking tight end with only 38 receptions in five college seasons (he played his first four years at Nebraska). While the Jaguars have a particularly good pass-catching tight end, Brenton Strange, they also have a pair of blocking tight ends on the roster, Hunter Long and Quintin Morris. Perhaps the pick will make more sense in the long run, but right now, it seems like a luxury pick that could have been spent on a big body, like Iowa’s Logan Jones, considered the top center in the draft, who the Chicago Bears selected with the next pick. Jacksonville Jaguars draft draws league criticism, with analysts questioning picks, strategy and overall roster value despite potential long-term upside. In the third round, the Jaguars held three picks. With the 81st draft pick, they selected another Texas A&M product, defensive tackle Albert Regis. While the interior defensive line was an area of need, Regis initially projected as a backup. He was projected as a later pick by most draft analysts. Perhaps the Jaguars’ best pick came next. Oregon guard Emmanuel Pregnon began his career at Wyoming, then transferred to USC before finishing his college career by earning All-America honors at Oregon. In his 51 college starts, he allowed only one sack. He will likely compete for the left guard spot with incumbent Ezra Cleveland. The final third-round pick, No. 100 overall, was Maryland defensive back Jalen Huskey. The Jaguars list Huskey as a safety. Some analysts had Huskey as a long shot to be drafted at all, much less in the third round. The Jaguars drafted six more players, using all but one of the 11 draft choices they held to start the draft. Among the highlights, another tight end, Houston’s Tanner Koziol, who is projected to be more of a pass catcher, Baylor wide receiver Josh Cameron, a big (6-foot-2, 220 pounds), strong wide out, and Stanford’s CJ Williams, who played at USC and Wisconsin before that. That’s a lot of pass catchers. Fun fact: One of the Jaguars’ seventh-round picks, Washington Edge Zach Durfee, was a bit of a cult favorite among Husky fans. They gave him the Chuck Norris treatment, saying that when Durfee lifts, the weights get in shape, and that Durfee didn’t get drafted by the Jaguars, he told them he was coming to Florida. Perhaps Jaguars general manager James Gladstone knows better, and this draft will prove to be one that will launch the team to new heights, but that’s not the opinion of most of the draft analysts around the league. We’ll see how the rookies do as the team’s offseason practices progress.

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

‘Continuing the good work’: Laurel Lee to seek re-election in CD 15

HEADLINES Under a newly passed map, the district picks up Citrus and Hernando counties but loses parts of Hillsborough and Polk.


The post ‘Continuing the good work’: Laurel Lee to seek re-election in CD 15 appeared first on Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.. For More Florida Politics - CLICK HERE:


http://dlvr.it/TSJN4H

Disney World releases dates for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Epcot Food and Wine Festival

HEADLINES The Magic Kingdom party starts a week earlier this year.


The post Disney World releases dates for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Epcot Food and Wine Festival appeared first on Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.. For More Florida Politics - CLICK HERE:


http://dlvr.it/TSJMty

The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 4.30.26 — Burnin’ today: Stop Sabatini, Book, Boyle, redistricting, Nixon & F1

Your first scoop on the Sunshine State ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Thursday morning. We filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission on Wednesday to create a super PAC with the sole purpose of preventing Anthony Sabatini from winning a seat in the U.S. Congress. The FEC has already provided a committee number, C00948729. Aiming for Congress, missing the point — Anthony Sabatini finds himself in the crosshairs of a brand-new super PAC. Any and all funds raised for the Stop Sabatini super PAC will be dedicated to ensuring he either drops out of the race or is defeated in the GOP Primary. That includes advertising, events, fundraising, and legal fees. It will not include consulting fees. If you are interested in a donor packet for wire transfers, please let me know. We should have a link for online contributions in a couple of days. ___ Lauren Book is on the move! Today, Lauren prepares for the final day of her 1,500-mile journey with a school visit in Tallahassee with Superintendent of Leon County Public Schools Rocky Hanna, State Attorney Jack Campbell, continuing prevention education before tomorrow’s Final Miles and Downtown Tallahassee Block Party to celebrate. If you’re in town and want to join Lauren and her crew tomorrow, do so here: LaurensKidsWalk.org! Lauren Book wraps Tallahassee stop, continuing prevention outreach ahead of final miles and downtown celebration. ___ Mercury Public Affairs is expanding its Tallahassee operation by adding Dan Boyle. The bipartisan public strategy firm said Boyle, who brings national campaign and White House experience, is joining the firm as a senior vice president. Boyle most recently served as Special Assistant to President Donald Trump and Director of Research in the White House Communications Office, where he worked across a wide policy portfolio that included economic policy, immigration, public safety, foreign affairs and trade. Mercury Public Affairs taps Dan Boyle to bolster Tallahassee team with White House and campaign experience. Boyle has previously worked on presidential campaigns and transitions, advised senior officials on messaging strategy, prepared briefing materials for high-profile media engagements and coordinated rapid-response efforts during pivotal policy and political moments. “Dan brings a unique combination of strategic instinct and real-world experience at the highest levels of government,” Mercury Partner Ashley Walker said. “He understands how policy, politics, and communication intersect, and how to operate effectively when the stakes are high. Mercury will benefit tremendously from his ability to anticipate challenges and deliver results.” Boyle added, “I’m proud to join Mercury, a team known for winning in complex and high-stakes environments. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on turning strategy into results in moments where clarity and execution matter most.” ___ Happening today: A Race to Education Freedom Benefiting the Education Freedom Foundation 11 a.m. Faena Theater, Miami Beach

Situational awareness   —@RealDonaldTrump: Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal. They better get smart soon! Tweet, tweet: —@BRyvkin: An (Samuel) Alito majority opinion with a (Clarence) Thomas concurrence is for constitutionalist SCOTUS watchers like Mariano Rivera closing a game for Sandy Koufax in his prime. —@Parscale: This is huge. Right now, this only applies to Louisiana, but states can challenge their congressional maps and, with precedent, pick up Republican seats. If states are aggressive, we could see a healthy majority in the House perpetually. Tweet, tweet: —@JacobOgles: @TinaPolsky: “Why is the map so red, especially the one that was sent to Fox News?” @SenDonGaetz: “The map that was sent to Fox was not sent by me when we asked the Governor's representatives ... They said they didn’t send it.” —@AGGancarski: The thing about criticizing both sides equally is that you’re set up for sucker punches from the left and right depending on the day and the mood. There’s a reason so many people are more comfortable being cheerleaders than analysts. More money and security in the former role.

Days until   F1 Miami begins — 2; ‘The Punisher: One Last Kill’ premieres on Disney+ — 12; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Dutton Ranch’ premieres — 15; French Open begins — 21; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 22; new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ premieres at Disney World — 22; Marvel’s ‘Spider-Noir’ arrives on Amazon Prime — 27; Rafa Nadal documentary ‘Rafa’ premieres on Netflix — 29; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 33; Florida Tech & Innovation Summit — 34; ‘Masters of the Universe’ premieres — 36; ‘Cape Fear’ series premieres on Apple TV — 36; 2026 Florida Chamber Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 39; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 39; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 42; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 43; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices — 43; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 — 45; Flag Day — 45; Trump’s 80th birthday — 45; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres — 50; ‘Supergirl’ premieres — 57; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 57; live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 62; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 65; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 70; MLB All-Star Game — 75; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 77; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 81; ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 92; ‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 97; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 98; Early voting period begins — 100; Primary Election Day — 110; NFL regular season kicks off — 132; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 133; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 134; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 138; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 142; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 147; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 154; General Election voter registration deadline — 158; Early Voting General Election begins — 177; General Election — 187; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 190; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 204; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 232; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 232; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 232; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 270; Super Bowl LXI — 290; Tampa Mayoral Election — 306; 2027 Oscars — 318; Jacksonville First Election — 327; Jacksonville General Election — 383; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 401; ‘MIAMI VICE’ reboot premieres — 463; ‘Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 463; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 519; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 596; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 634; 2028 Oscars — 675; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 757; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 778; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 806; U.S. Presidential Election — 922; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 998; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,322; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,362; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,053.

Top story   "Supreme Court further weakens Voting Rights Act, igniting political scramble" via The New York Times — The Supreme Court’s decision to strike down a Louisiana congressional map has intensified a national debate over voting rights, redistricting and the future of the Voting Rights Act. The 6-3 ruling found the map unconstitutional, concluding that race had been used improperly in drawing district lines. The decision is expected to reverberate across the South, where several states are now weighing new maps. Lawmakers in multiple states signaled they could move quickly to redraw districts ahead of upcoming elections, potentially reshaping political power for years. Supreme Court ruling shakes Voting Rights Act, triggering swift redistricting moves across Florida and the South. In Florida, the impact was immediate. State lawmakers approved a new congressional map within hours of the ruling, a move that could shift several seats and alter the state’s political balance. The rapid response underscored how consequential the decision may be nationwide. Supporters of the ruling argue it reinforces constitutional protections by limiting the role of race in redistricting. Critics, however, say it weakens a cornerstone civil rights law that has protected minority voting power for decades. Democrats, civil rights leaders and advocacy groups warned that the decision could make it harder for minority communities to challenge maps that dilute their influence. They view the ruling as part of a broader erosion of federal voting protections. The suggestion that the South has improved enough to justify scaling back those protections drew sharp criticism. “I want to be crystal clear — that is not the experience that most people of color have in the South,” said state Sen. Raumesh Akbari, citing disparities across multiple sectors. She called the argument “misguided and incorrect,” adding that it reflects “a Supreme Court that is completely out of touch with the average American.”

Special Session   “Legislature passes Ron DeSantis’ Republican-friendly congressional map” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The Legislature has passed a new congressional map proposed by Gov. DeSantis. The decision came within hours of a Supreme Court decision that upends the role of race in redistricting nationwide. By a 21-17 vote, with Republican Sens. Jenn Bradley, Alexis Calatayud, Ileana Garcia and Erin Grall breaking from their own party to vote with Democrats, the Senate approved the map, following the House’s approval. The upper chamber debated the cartography more rigorously than the House, which rushed the map through without Republicans advocating for the product before voting for it. Speaker Daniel Perez applauds as the House passes the congressional redistricting bill, with Wyman Duggan managing proceedings. —“‘Clearly deliberate’: DeSantis cuts Florida’s Hispanic-majority Democratic Congressional District” via Jeffrey Schweers and Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel —”DeSantis' map targets Darren Soto, changes other Polk districts” via Gary White of the Lakeland Ledger —”Pols, groups react to SCOTUS redistricting ruling, passage of new GOP map” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics —“House passes Florida redistricting map despite gerrymandering claims” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida —“Redistricting plan could get quick OK amid legal questions” via Jim Saunders of State Affairs “Darryl Rouson warns redistricting maps could ‘fracture’ south St. Petersburg representation” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Sen. Rouson warned on the Senate floor that a proposed redistricting map, now adopted by the Legislature, would fracture south St. Petersburg representation. Rouson said the map will pull the city into a sprawling, multicounty district that could dilute the political voice of some of Pinellas County’s most vulnerable communities. Rouson highlighted how maps proposed by the Governor’s Office could disenfranchise south St. Petersburg residents by tethering the blue-leaning community to the entirety of Manatee County and other communities as far away as Hardee, Polk and south Sarasota counties. “I have a lot of concern about this map, procedurally, substantively, and in terms of its impact on the people of the State of Florida — particularly the way the lines split and crack some of the communities I represent in Tampa Bay and how St. Petersburg gets tied to Hardee County.” DLCC says Republicans rushed through a ‘rigged’ map — The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee criticized Florida Republicans, saying they “rushed gerrymandered maps through the Legislature today to rig their maps and dodge accountability as voters reject the GOP agenda that’s raising costs and gutting the economy.” It added, “As Republicans cheat voters to protect their slipping U.S. House majority, the DLCC is driving the national strategy to expand Democratic power in state legislatures. The DLCC’s ambitious 2026 Target Map, which includes breaking GOP supermajorities in Florida, represents the best path to put Democrats on offense around redistricting battles moving forward.” All Voting is Local Action says map seals DeSantis’ ‘anti-voting legacy’ — All Voting is Local Action Florida State Director Brad Ashwell said the map is “an attempt by leaders to pick their voters so that they can skew election outcomes in their favor.” He added, “DeSantis’s legacy will always be tied to the erosion of voting rights in Florida. The ridiculous creation of an election police force, the laws that attacked popular voting methods like voting by mail and early voting, and now mid-decade redistricting — all have been used to keep voters from the ballot box and control the results of our elections. … Despite what DeSantis and his cronies on the ground in Florida say, this redistricting push wasn’t about political lines. This was about whether all voters—including Black, Brown, and those from other historically excluded communities—can have a chance at representation in a system that’s supposed to serve everyone, and it was an opportunity those who voted for this new map failed to take.” NDRC blasts ‘DeSantis’ mid-decade gerrymander’ — National Democratic Redistricting Committee President John Bisognano said, “DeSantis’s extreme new gerrymander was drawn behind closed doors because he knows the voters overwhelmingly oppose this partisan power grab. Instead of standing up for their constituents, Florida Republicans have just voted to silence millions of Floridians in service of Trump’s plot to steal the 2026 Midterm Elections. If they think they can get away with trampling over the will of voters and ignoring the state constitution’s ban on partisan gerrymandering, they are sorely mistaken. This fight is not over, and Florida Republicans can expect fierce legal challenges against this new gerrymander.” Common Cause ‘exploring legal challenges’ to new map — Common Cause Florida says considering challenging the new map, which it says violates the state constitution, in court. “Florida’s mid-decade redistricting process has been partisan from start to finish, and that’s illegal in Florida,” Common Cause Florida Executive Director Amy Keith said. “Florida voters banned partisan gerrymandering in the Constitution. That didn’t change with today’s Callais decision. The Governor and the Legislature have gone against the law and against the will of the people. Common Cause will fight to defend voters’ will to end partisan gerrymandering.” “Two House members switch votes on GOP map redraw. One blamed ‘commotion’ over a bullhorn” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Confusion on the House floor ahead of the map vote led two Democrats — Reps. Allison Tant of Tallahassee and Marie Woodson of Hollywood — to initially cast “yes” votes on the measure. Woodson, who said she voted “yes” for herself and Tant, thinking it was a quorum call, blamed Jacksonville Democratic Rep. Angie Nixon for the confusion. Nixon briefly preempted the vote with a small, hot-pink megaphone, shouting, “This is a violation of the Constitution.” “I inadvertently voted yes because of the commotion with the bullhorn on the floor; I thought it was a quorum call,” she said in a statement on the House website. She told Florida Politics she also pushed the “yea” button for Tant, who had briefly left the floor, to ensure she wasn’t listed as absent. Woodson noted that she had just debated against the bill, arguing that Floridians had not had “a fair opportunity to be heard. Angie Nixon uses a megaphone to protest the redistricting map the House was preparing to pass. "DeSantis says property tax repeal Special Session will wait until at least June, with ‘phased’ approach planned" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis is pushing a proposal to eliminate homestead property taxes in Florida, signaling lawmakers could return to Tallahassee this Summer for a Special Session to place the measure on the ballot. The plan would require 60% approval from both the Legislature and voters to amend the state constitution, with DeSantis suggesting a phased approach and potentially using state surplus funds to ease the transition. Supporters frame the idea as major tax relief for homeowners, but critics warn it could strain state and local budgets, reducing funding for infrastructure, public safety and services. Legislative negotiations are expected to be contentious, though early polling shows strong voter support for the concept if it reaches the ballot.

Salt shaking   Top pollster Steve Vancore looked at the latest poll of Florida’s statewide races: When a legitimate academic poll surfaces, it deserves a fair read. The Stetson University Center for Public Opinion Research Spring 2026 survey is one of those. The poll gets the sample right. Eight hundred and forty-eight respondents is a solid number for a statewide Florida survey. The weighting schema is also serious. They’re balancing on gender, education, race, Hispanic identification, and designated market area. The likely voter model is where Stetson really earns points. Rather than relying on a simple self-report — “Do you plan to vote?” — they built a logistic regression model using 2022 vote history, 2024 Presidential turnout, self-reported voting frequency, mail ballot experience, and declared 2026 intention. That is real modeling, not wishful thinking. Now for the grains of salt. Steve Vancore breaks down the new Stetson poll — credible numbers, with a few grains of salt on methodology and timing. The survey uses a non-probability online panel through Qualtrics. That is not disqualifying — it is the industry direction — but it does mean the respondents chose to participate in surveys rather than being randomly selected. Stetson weighs aggressively to correct for this, and they are transparent about it. Still, the inherent limits of non-probability sampling should temper how precisely anyone reads these numbers. The three-week field window — March 25 through April 13 — is also worth noting. A lot can happen — and has happened — in three weeks. Respondents interviewed at the start and end of that window may be reacting to different news cycles. This is a practical reality of academic survey timing, not a fatal flaw, but it introduces variance that a tighter field window would avoid. Strip away the methodology, and the headline findings are both predictable and genuinely interesting. Predictable: Republicans lead. Byron Donalds leads both tested Democratic opponents by single digits. Ashley Moody leads her Senate challengers by 7 to 13 points. Party loyalty ranges from 85% to 91% across all matchups. Florida remains a Republican-leaning state. None of that will surprise anyone who has been paying attention. Genuinely interesting: The gender gap is significant and persistent. In the Governor’s race, men favor Donalds by 17 points while women split nearly evenly or break for the Democrat. In the Senate race, Moody leads by 19 points among men, while the margin among women is single digits. Any Democratic path to competitiveness runs directly through female voters — specifically, suburban women who are dissatisfied with where the state is headed. This is a credible poll.

2026   AIF lines up behind Wilton Simpson — The Associated Industries of Florida is endorsing Simpson’s re-election bid. “Wilton Simpson has consistently demonstrated a clear commitment to making Florida a place where businesses can grow and families can thrive,” AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis said in a news release. “Throughout his time in office, he has worked tirelessly to bolster Florida’s agricultural sector, lower costs for Florida families, encourage job creation, and promote the long-term economic stability of our state. We are proud to support his re-election and confident in his ability to keep Florida moving forward.” Simpson, who was first elected Agriculture Commissioner in 2022, is also endorsed by 61 county sheriffs, Florida FarmPAC and Trump. Wilton Simpson racks up AIF backing, adding to growing list of heavy-hitting endorsements.

More elections   “Sydney Gruters makes clear she will run in CD 16 under proposed congressional map” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Republican congressional candidate Gruters plans to run in Florida’s 16th Congressional District under a map proposed by DeSantis. While she technically lives outside the current CD 16, she would reside within the lines on the new map. Under the proposed lines, 47% of CD 16 is made up of communities not currently in that District. “My career has been built around serving the people of Southwest Florida,” Gruters said. “I have worked with families, seniors, veterans, small business owners, agricultural communities, and local leaders across this region. I know the challenges they face because I have spent years helping them solve problems.” Sydney Gruters signals CD 16 run, banking on DeSantis map reshaping Southwest Florida district lines. “Gus Bilirakis to seek re-election to 11th term in Congress, will run in CD 12” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Bilirakis will seek an 11th term in Congress, seeking to remain in the race for the newly drawn Florida’s 12th Congressional District after Florida approved a new congressional map. “I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished for Florida families this term, and I look forward to building on that success, which is why I’m running for re-election in 2026,” Bilirakis said. “We’ve made real progress on affordability through policies like no tax on tips and overtime, and a new senior tax deduction, but there is still more work ahead to expand opportunity and ease the burden on workers, families, seniors, and small businesses.” First elected in 2006, succeeding his father and former U.S. Rep. Mike Bilirakis, the younger Bilirakis already has key support in his race from Trump. Trump offered his support in November, calling Bilirakis a “Tremendous Champion” for the District. Brian Mast announces re-election bid in CD 21 — U.S. Rep. Mast announced he is running for another term in Florida’s 21st Congressional District. “Since my first day in Congress, my focus has been simple: serve the Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches with the same grit and dedication I gave to our country in the Army. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to swing the bat for you every day. … The radical left in Washington is already threatening “maximum warfare” because they are terrified of a Florida that accurately reflects our conservative values — values rooted in the Constitution, individual liberty, and the conservation of Florida’s natural beauty. Whether the District is shaped one way or another, I will never stop fighting for clean water, my fellow veterans and all families who call our community home.” Ryan Gill snags AIF endorsement in HD 68 — AIF announced its backing of Republican Ryan Gill for House District 68. “AIF is proud to endorse Ryan Gill, a sixth-generation Floridian, cattle rancher, and proven community leader who truly understands what it takes to run a business in Florida,” said Bevis, AIF’s president and CEO. “From managing a multi-generational family ranch to his leadership on local Boards and conservation efforts, Ryan will bring real-world experience to the Legislature. He knows firsthand how smart policies—not burdensome regulations—help businesses grow, create jobs, and strengthen communities across our state.” HD 68 is currently represented by term-limited Rep. Lawrence McClure, who is also backing Gill. HD 68 covers a swath of northeastern Hillsborough County, including Plant City. John Brodie backs Mery Lopez-Palma for HD 102 — Republican Lopez-Palma’s campaign announced it has picked up an endorsement from Coconut Creek City Commissioner Brodie. “I’m so happy Mery Lopez-Palma is running for the State House because we need a conservative leader just like her representing us in Tallahassee,” Brodie said in a news release. “She has an impressive background and a true knowledge of each municipality in the District. She will work well with all stakeholders, and Mery will never cave in to outside pressure.” Brodie joins Southwest Ranches Mayor Steve Breitkreuz and Weston Mayor Peggy Brown in backing Lopez-Palma. She seeks to replace term-limited Davie Democratic Rep. Mike Gottlieb in the seat covering an inland portion of Broward County that includes all or parts of Davie, Plantation and Sunrise.

Statewide   “AARP lobbies for data center bill to protect Floridians from rising utility costs” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — AARP leaders are backing a bill that would require AI data center companies to pay for their own utilities instead of passing costs to customers. The group warns that consumers are getting stuck with the costs of large-scale data centers, as some people’s utility bills have skyrocketed by 30%-50% over the past five years. “Everyday households should not be asked to subsidize the private infrastructure costs of data centers,” said Jenn Jones, AARP’s vice president of Financial Security and Livable Communities. “Those costs should be paid by the companies that create them — not quietly shifted onto residential utility bills.” AARP said it supported SB 484, which is awaiting DeSantis’ signature. AARP pushes data center bill to shield Floridians from rising utility costs tied to AI infrastructure. “Florida’s electricity bill problem has a solution. Voters just don’t know it yet” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — Ask a Floridian how the economy is doing, and you probably won’t hear about the Dow. You’ll hear about the power bill. A new statewide survey of 1,000 Florida voters shows rising electricity costs are becoming a kitchen-table problem across the state, with 57% of voters saying their electric bill has added financial stress to their household over the past year. Among voters under 45, that figure climbs to 64%. Floridians may not agree on much, but they appear to agree on this: If there is a cheaper way to keep the lights on, utilities should be using more of it. And one of those solutions could be more solar energy. New and renewed lobby registrations James Card, Continental Strategy: Chapters Health System Andrew Ketchel, Capital City Consulting: Miami-Dade Family Learning Partnership

D.C. matters   “Ashley Moody pushing Senate bill to stem student loan fraud, reduce ‘ghost students’” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Moody is backing a bill that seeks to limit student loan fraud and eliminate “ghost students.” The No Aid for Ghost Students Act is now being considered in the Senate. Moody said the bill targets fraudsters who pose as students to bilk government and financial institutions out of money meant for real students who need the funds to pay for higher education. Ghost students are those who use fake or stolen identification, such as driver’s licenses or Social Security cards, to submit bogus applications to the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). They get the funding and then use it for purchases that have nothing to do with college. “Taxpayer-funded student aid should go to students — not fraudsters gaming the system. This legislation takes common sense steps to verify identity, strengthen oversight, and ensure federal dollars are not wasted,” Moody said. ‘Ghost students’ caught red-handed — even the keyboard’s haunted by FAFSA fraud. "Mike Haridopolos guides more than $20M for Port Canaveral upgrades and repairs" via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Haridopolos secured $20.21 million in federal funding to upgrade cargo infrastructure at Port Canaveral, part of a broader $37 million expansion effort by the Canaveral Port Authority. The grant, awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Port Infrastructure Development Program, will fund rehabilitation of north cargo berths, including bulkhead walls, pier decks and critical equipment. Port officials say the improvements will enhance safety, efficiency and long-term capacity at one of Florida’s key economic hubs, which supports cargo movement across Central Florida and hosts major cruise lines. Leaders emphasized the investment’s role in job creation, fuel transport reliability and maintaining the port’s competitiveness in global commerce.

Local: S. FL   “U.S. citizen’s husband living in U.S. for nearly 30 years released from ICE” via Churchill Ndonwie of the Miami Herald — After eight months of being ping-ponged across a dozen immigration detention centers, Carlos Della Valle, married to an American citizen who committed no crimes in his nearly 30 years in the U.S. except for entering the country illegally, was released Tuesday night from a Louisiana ICE facility. “When we thought that we had come to the end, there was hope in a person, in people we didn’t necessarily expect,” Angela Della Valle said to celebrate his release. Angela has been crisscrossing the country for months trying to get her husband and the father of their college-age son, Alessandro, released. Carlos Della Valle reunites with family after months in ICE detention, ending long fight for release. Image via Miami Herald. “Donald Trump to headline Forum Club of the Palm Beaches 50th anniversary dinner” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Trump has accepted an invitation to serve as the keynote speaker for the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches annual event, headlining the group’s 50th Anniversary Dinner on May 1. The event will be held at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. The event starts promptly at 6:15 p.m., and late entries will not be permitted. Tickets are $225 but are already sold out. Trump follows a long tradition of high-profile speakers at the annual event in his now-hometown, including the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches’ inaugural speaker, the late former President Jimmy Carter. The Forum Club of the Palm Beaches is a nonprofit, nonpartisan political and public affairs organization. It launched in 1976 and has since hosted U.S. Supreme Court Justices, along with a variety of thought leaders whose work has had a global impact.

Local: C. FL   “Kissimmee Commissioner slams second ethics complaint as politically motivated” via Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel — Kissimmee Commissioner Janette Martinez proclaimed her innocence against two ethics complaints against her, claiming they are politically motivated as elections loom. During a news conference on Tuesday in downtown Kissimmee, Martinez held up printed copies of social media posts, websites and mass texts sent to Osceola County residents accusing her of being corrupt, calling them a coordinated smear campaign. “The coordinated activity, the fake social media pages … they’re confusing people only because we’re in the middle of an election,” Martinez said. The claims that she misused her position to help business associates and friends obtain city permits and grant funding were “false allegations and coordinated misinformation,” she said, “and should not be allowed to damage someone’s reputation without them being challenged.” Janette Martinez fires back, calling ethics complaints a campaign-season smear amid the Kissimmee race. "Brevard's School Board cuts off multiple speakers at tense meeting" via Finch Walker of Florida Today — A contentious Brevard County School Board meeting saw multiple public speakers cut off as tensions escalated over controversial issues, including student protests, discipline and District policies. Residents voiced frustration during public comment, but several were interrupted or ruled out of order, drawing criticism about transparency and limits on free expression. Board members defended enforcing time limits and decorum rules, while critics argued the actions silenced community voices. The heated exchanges reflect ongoing divisions between the Board and segments of the public, with debates over governance, student rights and accountability continuing to intensify. The meeting underscored broader friction in the district as disputes over policy decisions and leadership remain unresolved.

Local: TB   “Jane Castor endorses Ken Welch in high-stakes St. Pete Mayor’s race” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Castor is backing St. Petersburg Mayor Welch for re-election, delivering a high-profile regional endorsement. The support comes days after former Gov. Charlie Crist filed to challenge Welch, as he and several other candidates vie for the mayoral seat during this year’s city election. Castor said she has worked closely with Welch on key issues impacting the Tampa Bay region for years and praised his steady leadership and commitment to the community. “Mayor Ken Welch has been a thoughtful, collaborative leader for St. Petersburg and a strong partner for our entire region,” Castor said. “He leads with integrity, puts people first, and understands how to bring communities together to get things done. St. Petersburg is stronger because of his leadership, and I’m proud to support his re-election.” Jane Castor backs Ken Welch, adding regional muscle to St. Pete Mayor’s re-election bid. “‘Tension’ and ‘animus’ preceded Tampa Assistant Police Chief’s ouster, records show” via San Sullivan of the Tampa Bay Times — Why did Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw suddenly fire one of his Assistant Chiefs last month, less than a year after he had praised her leadership in a glowing performance evaluation? Records the city released offer a glimpse at a fraught relationship between Bercaw and former Assistant Chief Ruth Cate. In a complaint to the city’s human resources department, Cate alleged that her ouster was retaliation for her support of a female sergeant. The city alleged Cate had confided to the sergeant that the department’s staff was a “boys club.” A memo Bercaw wrote earlier this month detailed a litany of grievances.

Local: N. FL   “Council Committee turns to complaints of ‘racism' at JEA” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — A special City Council Committee investigating JEA turned to allegations of racism and a toxic workplace culture when City Council member Ju’Coby Pittman read letters from JEA employees who said JEA’s senior leadership is less diverse under CEO Vickie Cavey and has a top-down approach to running the utility. “When I read these, I was horrified," Pittman said at a meeting of the Special Investigatory Committee on JEA Matters. JEA Chief Human Resources Officer Diane Moser told the Council Committee that it is focusing on disgruntled employees and the utility makes its personnel decisions based on merit. City Council President Kevin Carrico formed the special Committee to investigate various matters. Ju’Coby Pittman spotlights JEA workplace complaints as Council probe digs into culture and leadership. "A tax cut versus spending cuts sparks debate at the Leon County School Board" via Tom Flanigan of WFSU — Tensions flared during a Leon County School Board meeting as officials grappled with a potential $30 million budget shortfall, with debate centering on whether to ask voters to approve a one-mill property tax increase. The proposed hike would generate about $26 million annually to support teacher and staff salaries, but Board members Alva Smith and Laurie Lawson Cox argued the District should cut spending before seeking new revenue. Superintendent Rocky Hanna pushed back, defending the District’s fiscal management and rejecting claims of wasteful spending. The Board ultimately directed Hanna to return with proposed ballot language by the end of May, setting up a possible November vote on the tax increase.

Local: SW. FL   "Lee County voters divided over DeSantis’ controversial redistricting map" via Zoe Warner of WINK — DeSantis’ redistricting proposal rapidly cleared the Florida Legislature in 48 hours and now awaits his signature, with major implications for Southwest Florida. The new map would shift areas like Fort Myers into a district with Charlotte and southern Sarasota counties, altering representation. Democrats, including local party leaders, argue the plan is an unconstitutional partisan gerrymander designed to boost Republican seats and vow immediate legal challenges. Republicans counter that the map better reflects Florida’s population growth and political makeup. Residents expressed mixed reactions, with some warning of broader impacts on communities. The outcome now hinges on legal battles expected to follow the measure’s enactment. "Sarasota County Schools sue Tax Collector over multi-million-dollar funding dispute” via Derek Gilliam of WWSB — The Sarasota County School Board has filed a lawsuit against Tax Collector Mike Moran, alleging an unlawful diversion of funds from a voter-approved property tax meant to support local schools. The dispute centers on Moran’s decision to deduct collection fees from school revenues rather than having the county cover those costs, a practice that had been in place for more than 20 years. School officials say the change has already redirected more than $2 million away from classrooms, exacerbating budget pressures and contributing to staff cuts. Moran disputes the figures and maintains the move complies with state law, setting up a legal battle over millions in future funding. Mike Moran faces a lawsuit as Sarasota schools fight over millions diverted from classroom funding. “Why is it taking Manatee County so long to distribute hurricane relief funds?” via Ryan Ballogg of the Bradenton Herald — More than a year after Manatee County received $252 million in federal disaster relief tied to Florida’s 2024 hurricanes, none of the funds have reached residents, raising concerns about delays. County officials say the rollout has been slowed because this is the first time Manatee is directly administering a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recovery grant, requiring new systems, staff and compliance processes. A $75 million Home Recovery Program will soon open for pre-applications, but repairs are not expected to begin until 2027. Meanwhile, neighboring counties like Sarasota and Pinellas have already started rebuilding. Officials say future responses will be faster, but residents and Commissioners remain frustrated with the pace.

Top opinion   "Trashing Florida’s Constitution for partisan gain" via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — Florida lawmakers approved a new congressional map backed by DeSantis, intensifying a high-stakes battle over redistricting, political power and the integrity of elections in the state. The Legislature passed the plan largely along party lines, with the House voting 83-28 and the Senate 21-17. Supporters of the proposal argue it reflects recent legal shifts, including a Supreme Court ruling that limited the role of race in drawing districts. They say the new map complies with constitutional standards and modern redistricting practices. Critics, however, contend the map is an aggressively partisan effort designed to benefit Republicans at the expense of fair representation. The proposal could allow Republicans to control as many as 24 of Florida’s 28 congressional seats, a share opponents say is disproportionate to the state’s electorate. Not all Republicans supported the measure. State Sen. Jennifer Bradley opposed the plan, citing concerns about upholding the Florida Constitution and the Fair Districts amendments, which prohibit drawing maps to favor a political party. Democrats and voting rights advocates argue that the redistricting weakens minority representation and reduces the number of competitive districts. They also criticize the process, saying it was rushed, lacked transparency and offered limited opportunities for public input. The political and legal fallout is expected to be significant. The map reshapes key regions, including Tampa Bay, Orlando and South Florida, potentially unseating Democratic incumbents and altering the state’s delegation for years. Court challenges are anticipated as opponents argue the plan violates constitutional protections and undermines voters’ ability to choose their representatives.

More opinions   “Charlie Gray left legacy of influence, independence and encouragement” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — Gray was best known as the founder of the powerhouse law firm, GrayRobinson, and has been appropriately feted for his long list of civic accomplishments. But I wanted to recognize that back in 2018, after a shooter slaughtered and maimed dozens of students and faculty at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Gray wanted to do more than offer thoughts and prayers. So, he decided to take a stand. Though Gray was a proud gun owner and longtime member of the NRA, the Republican attorney said he could no longer sit idly by and watch the gun group lobby for the world to have more high-capacity weapons meant for human slaughter. So, he marched down to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and not only surrendered his own AR-15, but also his membership in the NRA. “I am returning my membership card, and you can consider this letter my resignation from the NRA,” Gray wrote. “Your organization is a major stumbling block to passing reasonable legislation to stop the killing of innocent people by military assault weapons.” "The YOLO presidency" via Ashley Parker and Michael Scherer of The Atlantic — Trump has increasingly framed his second term through a lens of personal legacy and historical significance, with aides describing a shift toward seeing himself as a transformative, “world-historical” figure. Drawing loosely on comparisons to leaders like Alexander the Great and Napoleon, Trump has focused on bold, often controversial actions — including military interventions, global power plays and sweeping domestic changes — while showing less concern for political consequences or public opinion. Allies portray this as freedom from electoral pressure, but critics argue it has led to destabilizing decisions, economic strain and weakened alliances. His emphasis on monuments, branding and lasting symbols reflects a desire to cement his place in history, even as political risks mount.

Instagram of the day

Aloe   "Florida housing market turns a corner as sales, prices rise in March” via Clayton Park of The Palm Beach Post — After a so-so year in 2025, Realtors in Florida ended this year’s first quarter on a roll with an uptick in both sale prices for homes as well as the number sold. The $420,000 median sale price for existing single-family homes sold in March was the highest in 21 months, according to the latest numbers from the Florida Realtors Association. The 24,497 closed sales of homes for the month were up 5.9% from 23,128 a year ago, and the most sold in 10 months. “We’re not back to 2018-2019 levels, but we turned a corner midway last year, and we haven’t looked back yet," said Brad O’Connor, chief economist for the statewide Florida Realtors Association. "A Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix Week fan guide if you’re going (or wish you were)" via David Neal of the Miami Herald — Formula 1 returns to Florida with the Miami Grand Prix, bringing a weeklong mix of racing, fan events and heavy traffic across Miami. A new U.S.-based Cadillac team joins the grid alongside Audi’s entry, while Formula 2 races debut in North America after schedule changes tied to global conflicts. Off the track, multiple fan festivals in Miami Beach and Wynwood offer free access to simulators, driver appearances, music and watch parties. Tickets for race weekend at Hard Rock Stadium are sold out, pushing fans to secondary markets. Organizers warn of major congestion, road closures and overlapping events, including a PGA tournament, while park-and-ride shuttles and transit options aim to ease transportation challenges. F1 roars back to Miami — fast cars, packed fan fests and traffic to match.

Happy birthday   Best wishes to Jennifer Green of Liberty Partners of Tallahassee, former Portuguese Ambassador Allan Katz, Lauren Schenone, Amanda Colon, and our friend, political consultant April Schiff. ___ 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