Florida new unemployment claims increase for first time in 9 weeks, but not by much

HEADLINES Florida still had fewer than 6K first-time claims, a ceiling which hasn't been exceeded for several weeks.


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Jacksonville Bold for 9.17.25: Let’s go Brandon

Tracking the power plays and civic pulse of Northeast Florida. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises A candidate for Jacksonville City Council is holding one of his most significant early campaign events next week … and it's not too late for stakeholders to become part of the host committee. Adam Brandon's event is next Thursday, Sept. 25, and already signed on are many of the names Northeast Florida Republicans know and trust best, including House Speaker Pro Tempore Wyman Duggan, former Mayor Lenny Curry, City Council President Kevin Carrico, and Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters, who helms the all-star team of supporters. Adam Brandon's City Council campaign event features support from Wyman Duggan, Lenny Curry and T.K. Waters. Brandon hopes to succeed fellow Republican Michael Boylan on the Jacksonville City Council. Boylan will be term-limited out of the Southside seat in 2027, and Brandon is thus far the first candidate to file. He says he's "running to restore common sense to City Hall and protect our quality of life in District 6."

Based Bean   U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean has issues with mold in military housing. As The Floridian reports, the Fernandina Beach Republican wants "a full review of the Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI) amid numerous reports of unsafe housing conditions." Aaron Bean is demanding a full review of the MHPI amid unsafe conditions. He spotlights a family's example at an Alabama installation. "Mold, toxins, and neglect have no place in military housing. Congress must act swiftly to hold bad actors accountable and restore dignity to the families who serve alongside our troops. This is about readiness, responsibility, and doing right by those who sacrifice for us every day."

Who's there?   Deportation Depot is up and running in Baker County. But questions remain as to who exactly is incarcerated at the state prison being used for immigration detention. Questions surround Baker County's new state-run immigration detention facility, with no public inmate locator available. Image via Fresh Take Florida. "While the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is 'working with the state of Florida,' according to a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesperson, inmates at the facility cannot be found on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Online Detainee Locator System because it is a state-run facility," reports the Tallahassee Democrat. Whereas "Alligator Alcatraz" was the basis for several legal challenges in recent weeks, the Northeast Florida facility doesn't have the same issues, such as environmental concerns. However, there are still logistical questions to be answered.

Trying again   A bill meant to eliminate any question about whether someone can violently resist arrest is back for 2026 after failing inches from the finish line last Session, and its sponsor is confident it will see far less friction this time. Jacksonville Republican Rep. Jessica Baker has refiled the measure (HB 17), which cleared both chambers of the Legislature earlier this year before dying due to disagreements over arguably negligible language differences and procedural rules that limited the number of times it could cross the rotunda. Jessica Baker and Tom Leek refile the Officer Jason Raynor Act to increase penalties for resisting arrest. If passed, the bill would mandate life sentences without parole for defendants convicted of manslaughter in the death of a police officer. HB 17, like its unsuccessful legislative predecessors, is titled the "Officer Jason Raynor Act" after a Daytona Beach Police officer who was fatally shot in 2021 by a man who resisted arrest. In June, an appeals court affirmed the 30-year sentence of Raynor's killer, Othal Wallace. But Wallace's punishment wasn't enough, according to Baker and Ormond Beach Republican Sen. Tom Leek. The two carried versions of the legislation last Session and are teaming up to do so again, despite their differences that doomed the proposal earlier this year. HB 17, which Baker filed Monday, appears to be an amalgam of her and Leek's 2025 bills. That's no coincidence, Baker told Florida Politics. "I had a great conversation with Sen. Leek over the Summer, and we are committed to uniting our efforts to get the Jason Raynor Act across the finish line this Session," she said. "It's important to us to work together and do what's right for Floridians by ensuring this important bill becomes law." Aside from increasing sentencing levels to ensure harsher penalties for violent acts against officers, HB 17 clarifies that individuals can't use force to resist an officer during an arrest. It also expands the definition of who qualifies as a protected officer to include correctional, probation and auxiliary officers. It raises the offense severity for crimes such as assault, battery, aggravated assault and aggravated battery when the victim is an officer.

Room for improvement   Jacksonville's Kids Hope Alliance needs to tighten up its contract management, according to the city's Inspector General. Regarding a group of vendors, including The Jax Gents Inc., Fresh Word Ministries Inc., A Life For A Life International Inc., Tiphne Darshay Hollis Foundation Inc., Visionary Dreamers of Today Foundation Inc. and Made A Way Foundation Inc., the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) found that contractors did not abide by requirements to maintain and show maintenance of insurance. Jacksonville's Kids Hope Alliance needs to improve contract management, according to a recent Inspector General report. Image via WJCT. According to the Jacksonville Daily Record, "Investigators also said KHA and the contractors amended contracts without the contractors having the required insurance coverage via COIs. Additionally, contractors were unable to secure the necessary insurance coverage or provide the scope of services specified in the contracts and RFPs. KHA did not take any action to suspend or terminate the contracts."

Telework trouble   A report released by Jacksonville OIG urges Mayor Donna Deegan's Office to define better what is and isn't allowed for remote workers. The investigation was frustrated to some degree, as it was "initiated but not completed," partially due to a lack of unilateral adherence to the policy by the city of Jacksonville Departments and "that some departments had their own policy." An Inspector General report urges Donna Deegan's office to clarify the city's inconsistent telework policies. Yet improvements are on the way, as "the Mayor's Office was aware of the confusion surrounding this policy and had taken steps to draft a new policy that would provide a framework for employees to telecommute." The OIG notes that remote permission should be dedicated for "short-term work under circumstances such as an employee being unable to travel to work due to a mobility issue, which may include medical reasons," and that it should be reserved for two weeks at a time. However, extension is possible "on an intermittent basis for the benefit of the city." However, executive branch employees deviated in some cases from the intent, with 11 known examples spotlighted in the report. Public Works Director Nina Sickler had five employees in work-from-home status. Per the OIG report, she "did not respond to repeated requests for information," and OIG doesn't "know if Public Works is complying with the HR Directive." "The Jacksonville Ethics Code, Part 3, Section 602.303(H) requires all city officials to provide records upon request to the OIG. Since we chose to curtail this review, we did not seek to compel Director Sickler to provide the requested information." Finance Director Anna Brosche could only "provide one signed agreement for an employee who had a medical reason for intermittent telework," and she was able to telework herself since November 2024, despite not having a formal agreement since Deegan allowed her to do so for family reasons. The report states she did so from South Carolina and Virginia.

Guns a-go   Yet another Northeast Florida Sheriff is saying that a recent appellate ruling striking down a Florida law is a green light for gun rights. "On Sept. 10, 2025, the 1st District Court of Appeal, State of Florida, struck down Florida's general ban on the open carrying of firearms, declaring Section 790.053, Florida Statutes, unconstitutional … Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier supports the decision and is not expected to appeal. Essentially, this decision will become final once the deadline for filing an appeal expires, which will be in the next 30 days," says St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick on social media. St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick says deputies will honor a court ruling allowing open-carry firearms. Hardwick then outlined the rights and restrictions under his interpretation of the court decision. "SJSO Deputies have been informed of the court decision and will no longer consider the open carrying of a firearm unlawful in most circumstances. Other statutory restrictions concerning improper exhibition of a firearm and prohibiting the possession of firearms in certain locations remain in effect, including courthouses, other government buildings and schools (complete list attached). Additionally, private business owners still have the right to prohibit firearms on their property." Hardwick promises "first-class customer service to our citizens and visitors as we transition to an open-carry state, along with 46 other states that currently allow open-carry in some form." He also urges locals to "be patient and understanding of residents and visitors who may not understand or have knowledge of this court decision, as we must help educate and protect constitutional rights during a time that may be confusing for some." Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters issued a similar statement this week, and most sheriffs in Florida who have opined stand behind the AG's reading of the ruling.

Museum movement   Lawmakers and other dignitaries will convene next week to mark important milestones in St. Johns County's successful quest to host the Florida Museum of Black History in St. Augustine. The event is scheduled for 9 a.m. Thursday at the Collier-Blocker-Puryear Park Complex to "celebrate the $1 million state allocation for Phase I planning and design of the Florida Museum of Black History to be administered through the Florida Department of State," per a press release from the county. Tom Leek, Kiyan Michael, and Sarah Arnold celebrate funding for the Florida Museum of Black History. The funding request came from The Foundation for the Museum of Black History Executive Director Alesia Wilbekin. Legislators responsible for bringing home the money will be on hand, including Sen. Tom Leek and Rep. Kiyan Michael. Additionally, County Commissioner Sarah Arnold will offer remarks at the ceremony. The task force chose the location outside St. Augustine because it was the site of Fort Mose, the first Black settlement in the state of Florida. Other places in contention included Eatonville and Opa-locka. The museum plans to use the money for several purposes, including field trips for students, research opportunities and other educational efforts. "Exhibits will provide the opportunity for citizens to learn about Florida's rich history as it relates to African Americans," the project request stated. A prominent Jacksonville law firm is adding several veteran lawyers to its roster who will focus on transportation litigation.

Maritime mavens   GrayRobinson expanded its stable of legal eagles, especially in the areas of global maritime and transportation practice. The lawyers hired by the firm have extensive careers. The bevy of new legal practitioners joining Gray Robinson includes James "Jim" Moseley Jr., Shea M. Moser, Joni Poitier, Phillip A. "Phil" Buhler, Robert B. "Bob" Parrish, Charles M. "Charlie" Trippe Jr. and Carson E. Proctor. Mosely will take the firm's leadership role in admiralty and maritime law. The GrayRobinson law firm expands its maritime practice, led by veteran attorney James "Jim" Moseley Jr. "We are excited to expand our maritime and transportation practices with the addition of this superb team of attorneys," said GrayRobinson President and CEO Dean Cannon. "Under the guidance of Jim Moseley, this team is internationally known for its deep knowledge and proven capabilities in the admiralty and maritime industries. We are thrilled to have them at GrayRobinson and look forward to the expanded value they will bring to our clients in Florida and beyond." Moseley is a grizzled and well-versed litigator in the law surrounding admiralty and maritime issues. He's certified by the Florida Bar in admiralty and maritime law and has some 40 years of courtroom experience. He's also the former President of the Jacksonville Bar Association and is an active member of the Southeastern Admiralty Law Institute. He was also noted in Best Lawyers in America for admiralty and maritime law.

Coastal Cleanup   Those who care for the coast in Duval County will have their chance to pitch in this weekend and make sure it remains in pristine condition. The city of Jacksonville is holding its leg of the International Coastal Cleanup day on Saturday at local beaches. It's part of the Keep Jacksonville Beautiful campaign locally but extends to the world's largest volunteer event to protect oceans, rivers and lakes. In Jacksonville, the Coastal Cleanup takes place at oceanfront locations Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Jacksonville Beach public beach accesses at Eighth Avenue North, 16th Avenue South, Beach Boulevard and Seagate and 20th Avenue South. There'll also be a public beach cleanup at Atlantic Boulevard bordering both Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach. Jacksonville's leg of the International Coastal Cleanup invites volunteers to beautify local beaches and parks. Inland, parks will be the point of cleanups between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. at Boone Park South, Burnett Park, Charles Reese Park, Fishweir Park, Five Points, Hollybrook Park, Klutho Park, Abess Park, McCue Park and Boat Ramp, North Mandarin Park, Murray Hill Playground, Riverside Arts Market, Riverside Park, Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park, T.K. Stokes Boat Ramp, Westbrook Center & Park and Willow Branch Park. Other parks set for cleanups at various times include: Fort Caroline National Memorial from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Atlantic Beach Lonnie Wurn Boat Ramp from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., Reddie Point Preserve from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Riverview Community Senior Center & Park from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Books are still best   It's an old-school privilege that provides access to tactile reading and St. Johns County is out to remind residents of the value of having a library card. "Library Card Sign-up Month" is being celebrated by the St. Johns County Public Library System this month. The system will offer special discounts at local businesses across the county in an effort to encourage more people to obtain their library cards and check out more books from the library centers. Debra Rhodes Gibson promotes St. Johns County's Library Card Sign-up Month with local business discounts. Image via St. Johns County. "There are endless possibilities with a library card," said Debra Rhodes Gibson, Director of the St. Johns library system. "Whether you're a student or a business owner, our library staff can help you. We aim to build community and sustain relationships by keeping our patrons' needs top of mind. We have something for everyone at every branch or through our online services. And your library card can unlock all of it." Some 34 "partners" and more than 60 businesses are offering discounts to customers who show their library cards throughout the rest of the month. Just show your card and save money, and the list of those partners and deals can be seen at the library's website.

Will the real Jaguars please stand up?   The hallmark of a young team is inconsistency. The same can be said of a team led by first-time coaches. The Jaguars have a first-time head coach, Liam Coen, and first-time coordinators, Grant Udinksi and Anthony Campanile. Through two games, not only have the Jaguars' results been inconsistent, but the play within each game has been wildly inconsistent. So which version of the Jaguars' personality is closer to the truth of the team? Inconsistent Jacksonville Jaguars, led by Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne, face a defining game against Houston. Image via Jacksonville Jaguars. When the Jaguars were at their best, the offense relied on the running game. That truth must be embraced by the coaching staff, even more so than it has been so far. Until Trevor Lawrence can eliminate the errant throws and turnovers, the game plan should not be hoisted upon his shoulders. Through the first two games, Lawrence has thrown three interceptions. Only Geno Smith has thrown more. Fans have been waiting for Lawrence to put together a full season of outstanding play. At this point, he needs to start with a complete game. Lawrence's former college teammate, Travis Etienne, has started the season on a roll. Through two games, Etienne is second in the NFL in rushing, averaging 107 yards per game. The Jaguars are the top rushing team in the NFL and rank fourth in the league in yards per game overall. There is much to celebrate. But in the NFL, often the difference between a win and a loss is one or two plays. The Jaguars have made too many mistakes, particularly in Sunday's loss to Cincinnati. So, what will we see on the field on Sunday when the Houston Texans come to town? The answer could define how the early season plays out and whether the stretch run will be meaningful for the team. The Texans were the consensus pick to win the AFC South this season, but they have opened the campaign with a pair of losses, falling 14-9 in Los Angeles to the Rams and then coming up short on Monday Night Football against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-19. Houston should feel like a desperate team entering Sunday's game. Only six teams in NFL history have started the season 0-3 then made the playoffs (ironically, the last team to do so was the 2018 Texans). Sunday's game offers two significant opportunities. First, for the Jaguars, it's a chance to define what kind of team they are under Coen and Co. Second, it's a shot at crippling the chances of the defending divisional champions. If the best version of the Jaguars is on display on Sunday, the direction of the season will plot toward an interesting and potentially memorable track. If not, there will be voices around the league saying that things haven't changed in Jacksonville.

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LJ Holloway mulls new campaign, targets Michael Kirwan in CD 4 Democratic Primary

HEADLINES Don't call it a comeback. She's been here for years.


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Poll: Clean energy popular among everyone, even Republicans

HEADLINES 'Florida voters are ready to support leaders who protect their pocketbooks and peace of mind.'


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Poll: Nearly 2 in 3 Deerfield Beach voters support renewing contract with Broward Sheriff’s Office

HEADLINES Support jumped to 3 in 4 after voters heard pro-renewal statements and details about other options.


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