Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 8.6.26 — Burnin’ today: Vote by mail, Amendment 3, Primrose, Fishback, Donalds & python mission

Sunburn: Your first look into the power and players of Florida politics ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

From: Extensive Media Enterprises Good Thursday morning. Sunburn readers undoubtedly know this already, but today is the deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot for the Aug. 18 Primary. Requests must be in by 5 p.m. Mail ballots are arriving. Procrastination is not a voting strategy. Nearly 600,000 of the 1.3 million mail ballots sent out had been returned as of Aug. 4, with Democrats holding a slight edge, according to Division of Elections data. Nearly 20,000 people have cast ballots at early voting sites that opened on Monday in some counties. The mandatory early voting period begins statewide Aug. 8. ___ Despite a growing bipartisan coalition of critics who’ve cast their lot with the Vote No campaign, new James Madison Institute polling indicates Amendment 3 is very much alive. The survey found nearly three-quarters of the electorate support the amendment, under which current homestead exemptions would quintuple from $50,000 to $250,000 and, according to critics and simple arithmetic, force local governments to reevaluate whether fighting fires or maintaining public infrastructure are core services government should provide. Just 17% of respondents oppose the plan. Property tax relief sounds great — until the fine print starts talking. JMI’s poll paints a rosier picture than most, however, with surveys released in recent weeks showing the plan hovering around the 60% threshold needed to pass with about one in seven voters still on the fence — enough to tilt the plan toward victory assuming even a handful break toward a “yes” vote. Yet that margin inverts to 40%-53%, advantage “no,” once low-info voters are briefed on the expected impact. Whether that’s evidence of genuine movement, methodological differences or simply the power of asking voters — 94% of whom say costs in Florida are rising and 62% who say they are increasing “a lot” — whether they’d like to see at least one bill decrease after a half-decade of inflationary pressure. The poll, conducted by Targoz Market Research, found support cutting across party lines, with 89% of Republicans, 64% of independents and 59% of Democrats backing the proposal. It also found that 55% of voters would accept reductions in local government spending or alternative revenue sources to finance the tax relief. Notably, the survey was conducted July 20-26 — a week before a Circuit Court judge ruled the ballot language was “more akin to a political slogan” than a forthright description. The order, handed down Tuesday, gave Attorney General James Uthmeier’s office until the end of next week to draft a new ballot summary. Other measures in the poll largely aligned with conventional perceptions of the major Primary and General Election battles on the ballot this year — President Donald Trump-backed Republican U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds is expected to cruise to a November battle against Democratic former U.S. Rep. David Jolly, though it does indicate a surge in support for Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, who now sits at 18% among GOP voters after months of jostling with James Fishback for the No. 2 spot in the nominating contest. The survey of 1,400 Florida registered voters has a margin of error of +/- 2.62%. ___ Jones Walker is expanding its Florida government relations bench with the addition of Nick Primrose, a former Deputy General Counsel to two Florida Governors and former chief of regulatory compliance at the Jacksonville Port Authority. Primrose joins the firm’s Government Relations Practice Group as Special Counsel, based in Ponte Vedra and working alongside Director of Business Advisory and Management Consulting Chris Moya. In the role, he’ll advise businesses, public agencies and industry organizations on government relations, regulatory strategy and public policy. Nick Primrose returns to private practice after another tour through Florida government. Primrose brings experience spanning state government and the maritime sector. Most recently, he served as JAXPORT’s first chief of regulatory compliance. Before joining the port authority, Primrose served in the Executive Office of the Governor under two administrations, ultimately becoming Deputy General Counsel to each. He also served as General Counsel for the Florida Division of Emergency Management, providing legal guidance during major hurricanes, the COVID-19 pandemic and other statewide emergencies. “Nick is one of Florida’s most respected government affairs and legal professionals, and we’re excited to welcome him to Jones Walker,” Moya said. “He has built an exceptional career at the intersection of law, public policy, and business. Whether advising Governors, leading legal strategy for one of Florida’s largest seaports, or helping organizations navigate complex regulatory issues, Nick has earned a reputation as a trusted adviser who delivers results.” Rep. Wyman Duggan also praised the hire, calling Primrose “one of Florida’s most trusted legal and government affairs professionals.” Duggan added, “He has earned the respect of leaders across the public and private sectors through his work in state government and at JAXPORT. Jones Walker is gaining an experienced adviser with strong judgment, deep relationships, and a proven ability.”

Situational awareness   Tweet, tweet: —@MegforFlorida: This speaks to my heart. ❤️ Every child learns differently, and every parent deserves to choose the path that helps their child thrive. I’ve seen & experienced firsthand what happens when families are empowered instead of limited by a one-size-fits-all system. Our kids should always come first. Thank you @ErikaDonalds. Florida’s future is so bright 🌟 Tweet, tweet: Tweet, tweet: —@LivCaputo: New email! Add me to your press lists, reach out, gossip, etc at lcaputo@tampabay.com. First day — very excited :) —@joecarlsonshow: The fact that BMW thinks it’s acceptable to push a Spider-Man ad onto the dashboard of their car is enough for me to never consider buying one in the future. There are some places that ads don’t belong, and your car dashboard is one of them. Tweet, tweet:

Days until   Mandatory Primary early voting begins — 2; ‘Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 10; Primary Election Day — 12; ‘The Dog Stars,’ directed by Ridley Scott, premieres — 22; Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards — 26; NFL regular season kicks off — 34; Republican National Midterm Convention — 34; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in the first-ever NFL regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia — 35; Yankees host the Mets for the 9/11 anniversary — 36; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 40; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 44; Tampa Bay Buccaneers home opener against the Cleveland Browns — 45; General Election domestic ballot send window begins — 49; General Election domestic ballot send deadline — 56; ‘Digger,’ with Tom Cruise, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, premieres — 57; General Election voter registration deadline — 60; ‘The Social Network’ sequel, with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres — 64; Optional General early voting begins — 74; 'Six Kings Slam' on Netflix — 76; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins — 76; General Election ballot request deadline — 77; Mandatory General early voting begins — 79; General Election — 89; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 92; ‘Wild Horse Nine’ premieres — 92; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 97; 'Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol' starring Johnny Depp premieres — 99; Joe Biden’s memoir, ‘Promise Me,’ releases — 103; New legislator training sessions — 103; Senate convenes for general organization and selection of officers — 103; ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 106; ‘The Adventures of Cliff Booth,’ with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres — 111; ‘Madden’ premieres — 112; Committee Week #1 — 116; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 134; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 134; ‘Dune: Part 3,’ directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres — 134; Committee Week #2 — 151; Committee Week #3 — 158; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas — 172; Grammys — 185; Committee Week #5 — 186; Super Bowl LXI — 192; Committee Week #6 — 193; Opening day of the 2027 Regular Legislative Session — 208; Tampa Mayoral Election — 208; ‘The Thomas Crown Affair,’ directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan premieres — 211; Oscars — 220; Jacksonville First Election — 229; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins — 251; Jacksonville General Election — 285; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 303; ‘Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 365; ‘Miami Vice’ reboot premieres — 365; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 498; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans — 536; ‘The Batman Part II’ premieres — 561; Oscars — 577; ‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 659; ‘Incredibles 3’ premieres — 680; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 708; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 824; ‘Black Panther 3’ directed by Ryan Coogler premieres — 862; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa — 900; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,224; College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami — 1,264; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 1,955.

Top story   "Judge orders James Fishback to pay his former hedge fund employer $1.3M" via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Fishback owes his former hedge fund employer, Greenlight Capital, more than $1.3 million, a federal judge has ruled. U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer entered a final judgment ordering the Florida gubernatorial candidate to pay Greenlight and its affiliate, DME Capital Management, more than $1.31 million in attorneys' fees and costs, closing out a long-running fee dispute stemming from Fishback's contentious split from the firm. The figure does not include post-judgment interest, which Greenlight is separately entitled to collect. James Fishback's legal tab just got even more expensive. The judgment, filed Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, includes $1,198,464.02 in fees and $120,052.01 in costs. It formalizes a June 23 order in which Engelmayer sided largely with Greenlight after the firm sought roughly $1.9 million and Fishback's attorneys argued the request was excessive. Engelmayer trimmed the total but said Fishback's conduct in dragging out the litigation partly justified the bulk of the award. He called Fishback's claim that he would have settled earlier "legally and factually meritless," adding that while the case was "relatively complex," it "did not present novel or cutting-edge issues." The ruling is the latest financial blow in Greenlight's yearslong legal fight with Fishback, a former research analyst at the firm. Greenlight sued him after his 2023 departure, accusing him of misrepresenting his role there — he claimed the title "head of macro," which Greenlight says never existed — while secretly building his own investment firm, Azoria Capital, using confidential Greenlight portfolio information. Fishback has since admitted to sharing that data.

2026   Happening today — Save Our Services – No On 3 holds a virtual news conference with Rob Long, RaShon Young, Rhonda Thomas, Se’Adoreia Brown and coalition partners: 10 a.m., via Zoom. "Byron Donalds becomes Amendment 3’s loudest advocate" via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — As support and opposition to Florida’s property tax overhaul harden ahead of November, Donalds has emerged as the amendment’s most visible political champion. While Gov. Ron DeSantis has declined to actively campaign for the measure after lawmakers reshaped his original proposal, Donalds has made Amendment 3 a centerpiece of his affordability message, promising to implement it if voters approve it or pursue broader reforms if they reject it. His campaign has reinforced that message with millions of dollars in television advertising focused on cutting property taxes. The amendment faces growing headwinds, including a court ruling requiring ballot language to be rewritten, criticism from local government leaders and the Florida Sheriffs Association, and warnings that reduced local revenues could affect public services. Byron Donalds keeps Amendment 3 front and center on the campaign trail. Happening today — U.S. Rep. Donalds will make an announcement with the Hispanic Police Officers Association: noon, 1470 NW 107th Ave., Suite P, Miami. "Fishback’s running mate faces criminal investigation" via Carlton Gillespie and Jake Shore of WLRN Public Media, in the Orlando Sentinel — Sean Lozano, Fishback’s Republican Lieutenant Governor running mate, is under criminal investigation by the Broward State Attorney’s Office over his conduct as a Lauderhill police officer, according to WLRN. Prosecutors are reviewing a 2025 incident in which Lozano allegedly used excessive force against an elderly woman experiencing a mental health crisis before giving supervisors an account investigators said was contradicted by surveillance video. Lozano was later fired after being deemed permanently unfit for duty, while previous reporting also highlighted offensive social media posts attributed to him. Fishback’s campaign defended Lozano, calling the investigation an unfair attack on law enforcement and noting he remains certified as a Florida police officer. "David Jolly defends Pennsylvania move during COVID" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jolly is pushing back on attacks over his temporary move to Pennsylvania during the COVID-19 pandemic, arguing the decision reflected his responsibilities as a parent rather than political calculation. Speaking to Democrats in Clay County, Jolly said concerns about public health, education and Florida’s culture wars motivated the relocation to his wife’s home state. He also criticized rhetoric targeting LGBTQ+ youth, calling it divisive and harmful, while expressing skepticism about Amendment 3, saying decisions on property tax exemptions should remain with local governments. Jolly predicted public safety unions would oppose the measure and dismissed campaign attacks from likely Republican opponent Donalds as distractions from broader concerns over the economy and quality of life. Happening tonight — Collins holds a Broward County campaign rally with Joe McHugh: 6:30 p.m., Wings Plus, 9880 W. Sample Road, Coral Springs. “‘Champion of the people’: Jamie Raskin backs Alex Vindman in Senate Democratic Primary” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Raskin became the latest high-profile national Democrat to line up behind Vindman’s U.S. Senate campaign. The Maryland Democrat praised Vindman, a whistleblower in the first Trump administration and a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel. “Alex Vindman is a 21-year combat veteran who has proven his determination to fight corruption before and is ready to challenge the debilitating corruption we’re fighting in Washington every day, including by banning individual stock trading in Congress,” Raskin said. “Republicans in Congress have been acting as a rubber stamp for plundering political elites and their self-dealing billionaire buddies. But Alex Vindman is a champion of the people who will put working families and democracy first. I enthusiastically endorse his surging campaign.”

More elections   “Embattled Cory Mills leads the GOP field in CD 7, but the margin suggests a lane for Ryan Elijah” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Mills, facing myriad negative headlines and an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation, isn't doing as great in the polls as a GOP incumbent in a red District should expect. A new poll from St. Pete Polls taken this week found Mills leading with 27% support in a four-way GOP Primary among respondents who say they plan to vote. Elijah, Mills' top opposition in the race, is at 14% overall. While that's a commanding 13-point lead, it's not as wide a margin as incumbents typically enjoy. That suggests that in the final days of campaigning, there could be a lane for Elijah to take. Earlier Wednesday, Republican U.S. Reps. Mike Haridopolos and Anna Paulina Luna joined the opposition to Mills and backed Elijah, giving a sharp rebuke to the incumbent from his colleagues in the House. Cory Mills remains a lightning rod as endorsements and criticism arrive in equal measure. “‘A critical member’: Brian Mast throws his support to Mills’ re-election” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — That includes one of the most powerful Floridians in Congress. U.S. Rep. Mast, a Stuart Republican who heads the House Foreign Affairs Committee, announced his support for the New Smyrna Beach Republican’s return to Congress. “As fellow combat veterans, we know what it means to answer the call to serve. Cory Mills has gone into the fight in combat to rescue nearly 400 Americans, and fighting alongside Trump to put America First, he will never stop working to protect our nation and deliver results,” Mast said. “He’s a critical member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Chair of my Oversight and Intelligence Subcommittee. He doesn’t run from a fight; he goes to the fight to help all in need.” —“Paul Renner becomes latest GOP leader to back Elijah over Mills in CD 7” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics “Air support: Jim Jordan, Mike Haridopolos back Dan Green in CD 9” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Jordan of Ohio, who chairs the House Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Rep. Haridopolos, the Space Coast Republican and former Florida Senate President, are endorsing Green, a Trump Pentagon appointee, in the Republican Primary for the redrawn Florida’s 9th Congressional District. “Dan Green honorably served America both here and around the world, and his dedication to our nation is without question,” Jordan said. Haridopolos put it in terms of the President’s agenda. “President Trump and I need proven conservatives willing to fight with us for the American people,” he said. “DCCC adds 12 Republican-held seats to its target list” via Daniela Altimari of rollcall.com — House Democrats are zeroing in on 12 additional Republican targets in deep-red districts, nearly all of which Trump carried by double digits in 2024. The new additions bring the total number of House seats targeted by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee to 58. Among them is Florida’s 12th Congressional District, where Air Force veteran Darren McAuley and former Hillsborough County Commissioner Kimberly Overman are competing in the Aug. 18 Primary to take on Rep. Gus Bilirakis. “House Democrats are expanding the battlefield deep into Trump terrain because we have a winning message focused on fighting for an Affordable America,” DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene of Washington said in a statement. For Our Children Florida PAC launches 'This Isn't Normal' ad backing David Burck — For Our Children Florida PAC is out with a new ad supporting David Burck in CD 22, set to air across television, digital, streaming and social media platforms. "This Isn't Normal" focuses on the rising cost of living and how the bad decisions of elites and Washington ultimately land on the kitchen tables of South Florida families. The spot arrives on the heels of Burck's surge in prediction markets and his victory in a CD 22 straw poll last week. "We don't need another out-of-touch elite in Washington," said PAC Chair Raymond Carapella. "We need a small-business owner who is a Marine and former police officer. David understands what our families are all going through." Watch the ad here: David Burck's supporters are making sure voters know the Marine, detective and family man behind the campaign.  "Google takedown campaign targets Michael Carbonara coverage" via Daniel Rivero of WLRN — A coordinated wave of fraudulent copyright complaints temporarily buried reporting on Republican congressional candidate Carbonara and his ties to a controversial Michigan data center, according to WLRN. The outlet found that multiple obscure entities filed bogus Digital Millennium Copyright Act claims with Google, falsely alleging that WLRN, Florida Politics and other news organizations had copied copyrighted material. Google initially removed the articles from search results before restoring many of them, only for additional complaints to follow. Carbonara’s campaign did not respond to questions about the takedown requests. First Amendment attorney Corey Silverstein called the effort “absolute censorship,” warning that abusing copyright law to suppress election-related reporting undermines voters’ access to information and threatens the democratic process. “'A proven track record': Anna Eskamani, Carlos Guillermo Smith back Shevrin Jones for CD 24” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Two of state Sen. Jones' colleagues in the Legislature are throwing their support behind his bid for Florida's 24th Congressional District, citing the legislative and advocacy work they witnessed firsthand. State Rep. Eskamani, who is running for Orlando Mayor, emphasized Jones' experience and tenacity. "We need someone with a proven track record who doesn't back down from a fight and always stands up for what's right," she said. In February, Senate Democrats elected him Democratic Leader-elect. State Sen. Smith, who also represents parts of Orange County and made history as the first openly LGBTQ Latino elected to the Legislature, praised Jones' commitment to affordability and willingness to stand up for regular Floridians. "Shevrin doesn't just talk about fighting for everyday people — he listens and shows up to get tangible results," he said. Shevrin Jones adds more backing as the Primary clock keeps ticking. “GOP poll shows Scott Singer with strong lead in CD 25 Republican Primary” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Singer tops a field of five Republicans vying for the nomination in Florida’s 25th Congressional District, according to 1892 Polling. About 21% of likely Primary voters support Singer, a former Boca Raton Mayor, compared to 14% who back business owner Dan Franzese and 13% who support former state Rep. George Moraitis. The poll, taken July 28 through July 31, found 7% support for Joe Kaufman while 3% back Raven Harrison. Pollsters report a 4.9-percentage-point margin of error. The results run counter to an internal poll released by Franzese’s campaign that shows him with a strong lead, but both polls show the same three top contenders for the GOP nomination. “'Elect a fighter': Linda Sánchez endorses Robin Peguero for CD 27” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A California Congresswoman and Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus' (CHC) campaign arm is endorsing Peguero ahead of the Democratic Primary in Florida's 27th Congressional District. U.S. Rep. Sánchez, who represents California's 38th Congressional District and chairs CHC BOLD PAC — which announced its support of Peguero in March — is backing Peguero as the right person to represent Miami in Congress. "It's time to elect a fighter to represent Miami in Congress, and Robin is that fighter," said Sánchez, the first woman of color elected to a leadership position in U.S. Congress history. "A public servant who has dedicated his life's work to standing up for our families, Robin represents a new generation of energetic leadership that we need to flip this seat and hold onto it for years to come. He is ready to be Congressman on day one, and I am thrilled to support him."

Even more elections   “PC fueled by Republican-aligned money boosts Luis Salazar in HD 64 Democratic Primary” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — A political committee fueled by Republican-aligned money has entered the Democratic Primary for House District 64, sending mail that promotes Salazar as a progressive champion while portraying opponent Mike Suarez as a puppet of the insurance industry. The mailers were paid for by Social Justice PAC, which received $100,000 from Greater Florida Foundation on July 16. Michael Womack, Suarez's General Consultant, alleged to Florida Politics that Republican interests are promoting Salazar because they consider him the easier Democrat to defeat in November. "Mike Suarez has been fighting for Florida families his entire career; he has a track record, and Luis Salazar is a deeply flawed candidate, and they would much prefer to run against him in the General Election," Womack said. "He has a lengthy criminal history that includes trying to evade police, and I don't think it's right for this District." Luis Salazar's campaign finds itself at the center of another political crosscurrent. "Four Republicans are facing off in Primary for HD 100" via Susannah Bryan of South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Four rivals intent on representing House District 100 are vying to win a highly competitive Republican Primary. Rep. Chip LaMarca, a former County Commissioner who currently holds the seat, is prohibited from seeking re-election due to term limits. The four Republican candidates battling to take his place are: Yoni Anijar, 35, a lawyer and small-business owner who also serves as an Army Reserve Judge Advocate General captain representing soldiers in military legal matters. Raul Gallon, 54, an insurance adjuster. Eric "Doc" Stelnicki, 59, a pediatric plastic surgeon. Chris Vincent, 68, a building contractor and former elected official in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea who has served as Mayor, Vice Mayor and Commissioner. Doctor's orders: FMA PAC backs John Taylor in HD 109 — The Florida Medical Association PAC (FMA PAC), Florida's leading advocate for electing pro-medicine candidates, is endorsing Democrat John Taylor, the Opa-locka Mayor, in his bid for HD 109. "The FMA PAC endorses John Taylor for the Florida House," said FMA PAC President Dr. Andrew Borom. "Mayor Taylor is a local leader whose commitment to his community through the issue of healthcare affordability and accessibility allows him to hit the ground running once elected to office." Taylor said he's honored to earn the physicians' support: "Access to quality, affordable healthcare is one of the most important issues facing families in our community and across our state, and that starts with leaders who will listen to the medical professionals on the front lines." Happening Saturday:

Statewide   "James Uthmeier expands Anthony Fauci investigation" via Arek Sarkissian of POLITICO — Uthmeier is widening Florida’s investigation into former White House COVID-19 adviser Fauci, announcing that Louisiana and West Virginia have joined the effort and issued a subpoena seeking records tied to grants, book deals, Board positions and other financial opportunities. The inquiry follows the release of Fauci’s personal diary and centers on whether he personally benefited from advice he gave during the pandemic. Uthmeier said investigators are examining a $900,000 grant awarded to the University of Florida Scripps Biomedical Research program, along with other professional opportunities outlined in the subpoena. The move escalates a Republican-led effort to scrutinize Fauci’s pandemic-era decisions and public messaging, while critics continue to challenge the safety and effectiveness of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. James Uthmeier expands Florida’s investigation of Anthony Fauci, bringing Louisiana and West Virginia along for the inquiry. “Updated hurricane forecast calls for only seven more named storms” via Kimberly Miller of Naples News — Whether the remaining months of the 2026 hurricane season will stay similarly composed is unknown, but a forecast update released Aug. 5 points to a continuance of tropical activity that is well below normal. Colorado State University’s regular August refresh to its forecast maintains its July prediction of a total of nine named storms, including four hurricanes. Of those four hurricanes, one is forecast to become a major Category 3 storm or higher. That means seven more named storms through Nov. 30. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, but most of the activity happens from about mid-August through mid-October. "New law revives major farmland developments statewide" via Jason Garcia of Seeking Rents — Florida’s new agricultural enclave law is already reshaping growth across the state, with developers moving to revive or advance projects covering more than 10,000 acres of farmland and timberland. The measure expands the types of properties eligible for enclave status, limiting local governments’ ability to block residential development once applications are approved. Public records obtained by Seeking Rents show lawmakers worked closely with lobbyists representing major development interests while crafting the legislation. Among the projects now moving forward are large subdivisions near Jacksonville, Orlando, Stuart and St. Augustine, including proposals previously rejected by local officials. Several developers and affiliated organizations also made substantial campaign contributions to key lawmakers sponsoring or supporting the legislation. “Florida’s invasive lizards just met their match: AI” via Laurie Mermet of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — South Florida’s invasive species problem has become what some experts call an ecological disaster. Burmese pythons have wiped out 87% to 99% of native mammal populations in parts of the Everglades, and green iguanas tear up landscaping and burrow into seawalls, weakening infrastructure. Now scientists are fighting back with AI, including building tools to catch an aggressive 5-foot lizard that’s been known to wander into backyards and chase down family pets. The tegu lizard, a South American transplant that roams roadsides and canal banks near the Everglades, can easily wander into any of the backyards bordering the 1.5-million-acre wetland. The solution, according to U.S. Geological Survey researchers, is AI-connected $300 cameras that spot the lizards automatically and alert scientists the moment one shows up; from there, researchers set traps where the animals were seen.

D.C. matters   “TPS ends for 350,000 Haitians: Federal judge lifts stay after Supreme Court ruling” via Jacqueline Charles and Jay Weaver of the Miami Herald — Hundreds of thousands of Haitian immigrants shielded from deportation lost that official protection on Wednesday when a federal judge in Washington, D.C., lifted her stay that had blocked the Trump administration from carrying out its policy to end it. U.S. District Judge Ana C. Reyes was forced to undo her stay preserving Temporary Protected Status for Haitian immigrants in Florida and other states when the Supreme Court ruled in June that the administration’s decision ending the protections was not subject to judicial review. The judge had been awaiting the official Supreme Court mandate, which was sent on Monday, July 27, to the federal appeals court in Washington before being forwarded on Tuesday to her. With her lifting of the stay, about 350,000 Haitian immigrants with TPS in the United States now lose their protection against deportation. Haitian TPS changes carry major consequences for thousands of Florida families. Image via Miami Herald. “Marco Rubio leads JD Vance by 36 points in new 2028 GOP straw poll” via thehill.com — Secretary of State Rubio captured a strong majority of conservatives participating in a 2028 GOP presidential straw poll over the weekend, finishing 36 points ahead of Vice President Vance. The survey of attendees at the Western Conservative Summit in Colorado found that 57% of 500-plus respondents backed Rubio — who led a group of 27 Republican and Democratic candidates. Vance, in second, received support from 21% of attendees. Former Vice President Mike Pence, libertarian Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky and DeSantis rounded out the top five. Regarding whom attendees approved of heading into 2028, just three Republicans received support from a majority — Rubio at 85%, Vance at 71% and DeSantis at 55%. “Kirsten Gillibrand, Rick Scott press FDA on shortage of cancer drugs” via News Report of Sun Community News — Sens. Gillibrand and Scott, ranking member and Chair of the Senate Aging Committee, are pressing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on what actions it is taking to alleviate the shortage of critical cancer medications. “We must do everything we can to make sure no cancer patient goes without life-saving chemotherapy drugs,” said Gillibrand. “However, addressing this crisis cannot come at the expense of patient safety or a secure supply chain. Sen. Scott and I are pressing the FDA to develop a plan to fix the drug shortage while also ensuring that imported drugs are up to American regulatory standards.” “When older Americans are battling cancer, a delay or shortage in treatment availability is a matter of life and death,” said Scott. “Scott calls on Senate to pass CLARITY Act, citing need for crypto rules” via CryptoNews of Crypto News — Scott is pressing his colleagues to advance the CLARITY Act, a piece of legislation aimed at establishing a clearer regulatory framework for digital assets. In a recent interview with Fox Business, Scott emphasized his commitment to the bill and urged fellow Senators to continue negotiations to secure its passage. The CLARITY Act, which stands for Clear Legislation for Authorization and Regulation of Digital Assets, is designed to address the fragmented regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies in the United States. The bill seeks to define which federal agencies have jurisdiction over digital assets, a point of contention that has left many market participants uncertain about compliance requirements. While the full text of the current version has not been publicly released, previous iterations have focused on delineating the roles of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). “CIA sets up secret Cuba task force as Donald Trump pressures Havana” via Adam Entous of The New York Times — The CIA has secretly established a Cuba task force, setting in motion plans for a more concerted campaign to pressure the Cuban government to make the economic, political and leadership changes demanded by Trump, according to people briefed on the action. The creation of the task force will allow the agency to quickly direct more financial, human and technical resources at Cuba, they said. The task force has begun adding case officers who recruit and manage spies, intelligence analysts, officers who conduct cyberoperations and officers who specialize in covert influence operations, the people said. In 1960, the CIA established an earlier Cuba task force, whose members oversaw the failed, agency-backed invasion of Cuba the next year known as the Bay of Pigs. “Jason Fischer to depart as Randy Fine Chief of Staff” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics —Fischer will soon leave his position as Chief of Staff to U.S. Rep. Fine. The former state lawmaker wants to turn his attention away from Washington and back toward Florida. The Jacksonville Republican confirmed his impending departure from Florida politics and said he wanted to focus on critical races in state government. That includes helping U.S. Rep. Donalds win his campaign for Governor, Fischer said. “I’m grateful for my time in D.C. fighting to implement the America First agenda, but for me, it is Florida First always. My family needs me and so does my state,” Fischer said. “This November is too important — Byron Donalds is going to be Florida’s next Governor, and I want to be here fighting alongside him to make sure that happens.”

Local: S. FL   "Hialeah race to fill Council seat pits veteran politician vs. young newcomer" via Verónica Egui Brito of Miami Herald — Hialeah voters will choose a new Council member in a Special Election in November to fill the remainder of a term left vacant after former Council member Jesus Tundidor resigned to run for Mayor last year. The race pits interim Council member Luis González, 55, against Mariana Chavez, a 21-year-old former candidate who is seeking the seat after running as the youngest person for Council last November. González, a former Council member, was selected by the City Council in January to temporarily fill the vacant seat after receiving Mayor Bryan Calvo's support. The race has drawn attention because both candidates have connections to Calvo. Luis González and Mariana Chavez are competing to turn a temporary opportunity into a permanent seat on the Hialeah City Council. "Voters in St. Lucie County to vote on tax that generated $56 million" via Timothy O'Hara of Treasure Coast Newspapers — The County Commission initially was deadlocked, voting 2-2 on whether to put extension of the half-percent sales tax before voters, but Commissioner Larry Leet was absent. The Commission voted again and approved placing it on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot. The tax is set to expire in 2028. The sales tax is estimated to generate an additional $45 million countywide in the next 10 years. Commissioners Cathy Townsend and Jamie Fowler were in favor of going back to the voters this year, but James Clasby and Erin Lowry were opposed, citing concerns about the impact of state Amendment 3. Leet broke the tie, voting in favor. “Democrats warn of 'misleading' ballot slates being sent to Miami-Dade voters” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Another election season, another warning from the Miami-Dade Democratic Party about "misleading" ballot slates being distributed to voters. Party Chair Laura Kelley raised concerns, saying her organization was "aware of several pieces of campaign literature being distributed that either imply, or otherwise state, that the Miami-Dade Democratic Party supports candidates that it either hasn't endorsed or outright opposes." Kelley blamed "political operatives who gouge their candidate clients" as being behind the allegedly deceptive materials, adding that she's "directed the party's legal team to collect and analyze the worst of these slate cards." Howard's name appears on mailers flagged on social media last week by House District 108 candidate Dinah Escarment and historian Marvin Dunn. "Use of the word 'official' or stating Miami-Dade Democrats support is a clear attempt to mislead voters," she said. "Our democracy depends on trust, and that trust begins with voters receiving honest, accurate information, not calculated deception disguised as guidance." “Man pleads guilty to posting online threat that Rubio, Kristi Noem ‘will be executed’” via Angie DiMichele of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A South Florida man has pleaded guilty to federal charges after he posted online threats against Trump administration officials Rubio and Noem, including one in which he wrote, “Both of you will be executed,” court records show. Jon Christopher Enriquez, 47, of Miami, entered an agreement with federal prosecutors on Friday, pleading guilty to three counts of transmitting threats through interstate communications, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida announced Wednesday. On May 27, the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service was alerted to one of Enriquez’s posts on X directed at Secretary of State Rubio and Department of State Special Envoy Noem, according to a factual proffer statement, the facts agreed on by the prosecution and defense. "Medical emergencies see sharp rise at Miramar ICE facility in midst of overcrowding" via Vera Lucia Pappaterra of Miami Herald — When Alexander Iván Aguilar Borjas called his wife from inside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office in Miramar, he told her he needed his daily HIV medication, but he could not get at it, even though it was nearby. The medication was inside the backpack ICE officials had taken from him when they detained him days earlier. Records requested by the Miami Herald show that 911 medical calls to the southwest Broward facility's address rose sharply during the 12 months ending July 1. Families say relatives held at the facility have become ill, go without regular medications and are forced to sleep on the floor while awaiting release or transfer to formal detention centers. “ICE: Released Venezuelan detainee is an ‘illegal alien’ who overstayed her visa” via David Lyons of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The U.S. Immigration and Customs Service said Wednesday a Venezuelan woman and Broward County resident who was arrested in July and recently released after gaining support from a South Florida congresswoman had overstayed her visa since 2017 and was not entitled to stay in the country. “On July 17, 2026, ICE arrested Claudia Carolina Rodriguez Caglianone, an illegal alien from Venezuela, during a targeted operation at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport,” an agency spokesperson in Miami told the South Florida Sun-Sentinel via email. “She entered the United States on January 25, 2017, on a visa that would allow her to stay in the country until July 24, 2017,” the spokesperson added. “In violation of our nation’s laws, she overstayed her visa. Work authorization or a pending application does NOT confer legal status in the United States.” “An immigration judge granted her bond Aug. 3, and she was subsequently released from ICE custody,” the spokesperson said. Claudia Carolina Rodriguez Caglianone is back home after her release from ICE custody, but her immigration case is far from over. Image via Debbie Wasserman Schultz's office. "Broward schools may soon have a new weapon against school shooters: drones" via Amanda Rosa of Miami Herald — The drones zip through school hallways, buzzing loudly like a swarm of bees. They can shoot puffs of pepper spray, flash dizzying lights and hurl themselves at 60 miles per hour at their target: a school shooter. Soon, they'll be available in a Broward County high school — though it's not clear when. Over the last two years, Florida has invested over $1 million into a pilot program that installs the Campus Guardian Angel drones in schools. Boyd H. Anderson High in Lauderdale Lakes is poised to be the first Broward school to have the drones, but the pilot program is "still in the planning stages, and implementation has not begun," said BCPS spokesperson Keyla Concepción. "Indian River County's back-to-school prep means moving, closing schools" via Colleen Wixon of Treasure Coast Newspapers — Thousands of students returning to school in August might feel like the new kids, even if they're attending the same school. That's because seven schools here are changing locations, as magnets transition to K-8 facilities, schools merge, and all Vero Beach High School students will move to the main campus. The $3.5 million transition, paid for from the School District's capital budget, was put in place to prepare for the first day of classes Aug. 10. The numerous moving pieces were necessary partly to give the two most popular magnet schools, which had students on waiting lists, room to accommodate more children, Superintendent David Moore said. "We're competing for the right to educate our community's children," Moore explained.

Local: C. FL   "Imprisoned Joel Greenberg, who stole Seminole taxpayer funds, asks Trump to free him" via Martin E. Comas of Orlando Sentinel — Greenberg — the disgraced Seminole County Tax Collector convicted of using taxpayer funds to pay for sex, steal identities, stalk a political rival and traffic a minor in one of Florida's most stunning cases of political corruption — is asking Trump to free him. Greenberg, who pleaded guilty in May 2021 in federal court, is currently serving an 11-year sentence at a low-security prison in Miami, including time served since his arrest. He's scheduled to be released in August 2030, according to the U.S. Federal Bureau of Prisons. "Whatever wrongs I've done, I have more than paid for in the nearly 6 years of incarceration," Greenberg said in a message to the Orlando Sentinel sent through the federal prison system. Joel Greenberg is asking Trump for clemency as he continues serving his prison sentence for a sweeping public corruption case. Image via The New York Times. “‘Our School Board is the front line of democracy’: Maxwell Frost rallies voters ahead of local races” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Frost rallied University of Central Florida students to get out the vote and keep canvassing as Democrats turned their attention to the Orange County School Board races that will be decided in the Aug. 18 Primary. “Right now, our School Board is the front line of democracy in the state of Florida,” said Frost, an Orlando Democrat, drawing cheers from a crowd of mostly young people at Spirit of Joy Church near the University of Central Florida’s main campus. “This is where they are trying to test all their extremist policies.” Frost is supporting Angie Gallo for Orange County School Board Chair, Melissa Marantes in District 1, Gloria Reina O’Neal in District 2 and Susanne Peña in District 3. School Board races are nonpartisan. "Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando Dreamers, UCF make case for TDT money" via Ryan Gillespie of Orlando Sentinel — Some of the largest proposals seeking chunks of Orange County's lucrative bed tax got the final crack at convincing a task force to advance their ideas, which combined would cost billions of dollars. The pitches included nearly $1 billion toward a professional baseball stadium — a proposal coupled with a reveal of new renderings of a stadium in the tourism corridor — a $750 million expansion of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and substantial enhancements to the University of Central Florida's athletics facilities. President Kathy Ramsberger said a $750 million infusion of TDT would jumpstart the performing arts center's $1.4 billion expansion master plan. "DOJ: Orlando 'porn fraud' scammers stole over $2M from elderly" via Silas Morgan of Orlando Sentinel — Three Chinese citizens living in the United States illegally are accused of operating a fraud ring out of Orlando that stole over $2 million by targeting elderly people in as many as 17 states — including by telling the marks they had been victims of "porn fraud." Yongbo Li, 36, Huashan Lu, 62, and Yuxiang Zhao, 60, were arrested on charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud in the scheme. Authorities are still seeking to apprehend three others in China after a monthslong investigation by the Orlando Police Department and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. "Elderly people losing several hundred thousand dollars is life-changing, life-threatening," said U.S. Attorney Gregory Kehoe, Central Florida's top federal prosecutor. "Kissimmee residents split over Mayor's ethics case" via Sara-James Ranta of Orlando Sentinel — Residents weighed in on the ethics case against Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa, with some demanding she resign and others urging the Commission to let voters decide her fate. Espinosa did not attend the meeting due to a previously planned vacation, according to the City Manager. The report was only a recommendation. The Commission will hear the findings at a special meeting on Aug. 18 and then later decide whether to file Articles of Impeachment against Espinosa. Espinosa's attorney has said, "impeachment is neither legally justified nor supported by the evidence." Jimmy Torres, executive director of Iniciativa APM Florida, told the Commission the ethics complaint against Espinosa has discouraged Puerto Rican voters in Kissimmee ahead of the Primary. Jackie Espinosa's ethics case is dividing Kissimmee, with residents split between demanding her resignation and letting voters have the final say. "Flagler County Administrator candidate pool down to final six" via Brenno Carillo of Daytona Beach News-Journal — Since former County Administrator Heidi Petito's departure in April, Flagler County has been searching for a permanent replacement. Adam Mengel, the county's growth management director, has been serving as interim County Administrator since then, but the County Commission took the next steps in the search for an official replacement. During a workshop meeting, Commissioners reviewed a report from the Florida Association of County Managers (FACM), the agency assisting the county in the search, which includes background and qualifications for the six final applicants. The Commissioners decided to schedule virtual interviews with each candidate next week. "Florida property tax plan faces scrutiny in Brevard County over cuts" via Tyler Vazquez of Florida Today — County Manager Jim Liesenfelt said that although many county services would be protected under the law, nearly all facets of government operations would be impacted by Amendment 3 if it passes. "Just because a service is defined as a core service does not mean it's going to be held harmless," Liesenfelt said. According to figures from Brevard County, the following government services would face steep cuts: $7.3 million for law enforcement, $6 million for fire rescue, $18.6 million for parks and recreation, $2.1 million for road and bridge infrastructure, $6.2 million for libraries, $1.4 million for environmentally endangered lands and $2.5 million for mosquito control. Non-core services would see deeper impacts, Liesenfelt said, and it's likely library branches would be closed. “Disney says theme park attendance is up” via Dewayne Bevil of Orlando Sentinel — Walt Disney Co. reported an uptick in attendance at its theme parks, particularly at Walt Disney World, on Wednesday, bucking recent reports of declines in Central Florida tourism. For the third financial quarter, attendance was up 3%, and guest spending was up 4% across the parks in Florida and California, the company reported. Executives pointed to the Cool Kids Summer promotions at Disney World for driving growth as well as the re-opening of attractions like Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Overall, Walt Disney Co. had revenue of $25.2 billion in the quarter, an increase of 7%. "It's important, I think, to highlight that we're performing significantly better than our competition, and in doing that, delivering strong volume and per-cap spending results," Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro said.

Local: TB   Breaking late Wednesday — "Hillsborough fires emergency management chief" via Michaela Mulligan and Bethany Barnes of the Tampa Bay Times — Timothy Dudley Jr., Hillsborough County’s emergency management director, has been fired after a nearly 10-month internal investigation found leadership failures, retaliation concerns and unusually high employee turnover within the department. The inquiry began with a complaint over denied leave but expanded after investigators concluded Dudley interfered with the human resources review. Records describe a workplace where employees feared retaliation and documented 21 departures from the roughly 20-person office between 2020 and 2025. Dudley denied creating a hostile work environment, attributing staff stress to the demands of the pandemic and multiple hurricanes. Fire Rescue Chief Jason Dougherty, who has served as interim director since the Spring, will continue leading the department as hurricane season continues. “Hillsborough County moves toward moratorium on AI data centers” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Hillsborough County Commissioners voted unanimously to draft a moratorium on artificial intelligence data centers and begin developing land-use rules that could bar future facilities from using county drinking water for cooling. Commissioner Donna Cameron Cepeda said she initially wanted the county to adopt an immediate five-year moratorium, but that she revised the proposal after receiving a briefing from the County Attorney's Office about the restrictions imposed by SB 180 and the law's provision allowing affected parties to sue. Commissioner Joshua Wostal asked staff to consider closed-loop water and power systems, noise, vibrations and engineering requirements intended to isolate the facilities from surrounding communities. "AI data centers are rapidly expanding and may have significant impacts on infrastructure, utilities and land use," Cameron Cepeda said. "Therefore, the county needs to be ready to address the impacts of such developments with well-thought-out and defensible regulations." Donna Cameron Cepeda is leading Hillsborough County's push to pump the brakes on AI data centers. Image via the Tampa Bay Times. “Hillsborough moves toward registry for short-term vacation rentals” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Short-term vacation rental owners in unincorporated Hillsborough County could soon be required to register each property, pay an annual fee and keep a local representative available around the clock to respond to neighborhood complaints. Hillsborough County Commissioners voted unanimously to advance an ordinance aimed at giving code enforcement officers and law enforcement a clearer way to address noise, parking, trash and other problems tied to vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods. Commissioners’ vote did not enact the new requirements, but it authorized county staff to advertise the proposal and bring it back for final consideration at a Sept. 2 public hearing. “This is an issue that has been coming up repeatedly in many communities across Hillsborough County,” Commissioner Harry Cohen said. “Veterans Treatment Court program looks to expand to federal cases” via Matt Lackritz of Bay News 9 — A Veterans Treatment Court program is working toward an expansion that would assist veterans facing federal offenses, after years of serving veterans with state-level misdemeanor and felony cases. Tampa’s Veterans Treatment Court started in 2013 and is among over 600 Veterans Treatment Courts across the United States that handle state-level cases. DJ Reyes, founder of the Tampa VTC Veteran Mentor Program, said the court is focused on treatment and rehabilitation for veterans involved in the justice system. “This court is not one of punishment,” Reyes said. “It really is identifying and treating and rehabilitating certain conditions that many of our veterans have suffered.” Reyes said the success of Tampa’s Veterans Treatment Court helped lead to a pilot program for federal offenses that began in 2023. He said the program is now in the final stages of approval for the U.S. Middle District of Florida. “Hernando County School District celebrating grand opening of new joint facility for schools” via Calvin Lewis of Bay News 9 — Hernando County Schools is celebrating the completion of a brand-new building. A joint building facility has been built between Weeki Wachee High School and Winding Waters K-8. Students from both schools will attend classes at the new facility at the start of the new school year next week. To celebrate, a special ribbon-cutting will be taking place later this morning. This two-story building is home to 30 different classrooms for students in sixth through twelfth grade, placed smack dab in the middle of Winding Waters K-8 Elementary and Weeki Wachee High School. Students from both schools will be learning here. Superintendent Ray Pinder says this new facility is meant to be a flex space between the two schools for when one school needs more space than the other.

Local: N. FL   "Ideological fault lines emerge in Tallahassee’s city races" via Steve Stewart of Tallahassee Reports — Tallahassee’s officially nonpartisan City Commission elections present voters with clear ideological distinctions that extend well beyond party registration. Candidates fall along a spectrum ranging from democratic socialist to moderate based on their public statements, policy positions and governing records. Jeremy Matlow, Max Herrle, P.J. Perez and Dot Inman-Johnson align most closely with the democratic socialist wing, reflecting positions on policing, government and progressive activism. Loranne Ausley, Tifany Hill, Darryl Alfred and Talethia Edwards fit within the traditional liberal camp, while Daryl Parks and Dianne Williams-Cox occupy a liberal-moderate space due to their emphasis on economic growth and public safety. Michael Foust, Tom Derzypolski and Norm Roche round out the field as moderates, with Roche taking comparatively more conservative positions on taxes and law enforcement. Jeremy Matlow, Max Herrle, P.J. Perez and Dot Inman-Johnson are grouped on one end of Tallahassee's ideological spectrum as the city election debate sharpens. Image via Tallahassee Reports. “Before mayoral run, Michael Foust faced multiple DUI-related arrests” via Jeff Burlew of the Tallahassee Democrat — Foust, a first-time candidate making a long-shot bid for Tallahassee Mayor, hasn’t run from his history of arrests on mostly DUI-related charges. He’s made references to his issues with alcohol in campaign forums, telling one group of conservative voters in June about his serious work in recovery circles while also quipping that he “minored in drinking” during his college years. More recently, he posted a “Mike’s Sexiest Mugshot Contest” on his Facebook page, asking people to pick their favorite from among six jailhouse photos of the candidate. “What is the next Mayor’s sexiest?” he asked in the post. “Vote in the comments.” In an interview with the Tallahassee Democrat, Foust acknowledged that his arrests are “not something you lead with” as a candidate and that broaching the topic has been “kind of hard.” “That’s why I’ve been so open and kind of irreverent and funny about it,” he said. "Leon County readies for start of early voting" via Tom Flanigan of WFSU — Leon County election officials are ramping up preparations ahead of the start of early voting Saturday for the Aug. 18 Primary Election. The county’s Canvassing Board, composed of local elected officials, has begun reviewing vote-by-mail ballots already received and is overseeing the steps required before votes are officially counted. The Board reviewed incoming mail ballots this week and is supervising the scanning of accepted ballots into the election audit system. Bryan Welch, a member of the Canvassing Board and the Leon County Commission, said the process is designed to ensure every aspect of the election is conducted properly while maintaining transparency. All Canvassing Board meetings and activities remain open to public observation. “Leon County seeks to host 2029 world athletics meet” via TaMaryn Waters of the Tallahassee Democrat — Two Leon County officials are in Oregon in hopes of making sure Tallahassee will once again host the World Athletics Cross Country Championships. Leon County Commission Chair Christian Caban and County Administrator Vince Long are on the three-day trip, on the heels of January's competition in the state capital that drew more than 15,260 attendees, including 10,000 from outside the county. It was the first time the World Cross Country Championships have been on U.S. soil since Boston in 1992 and the county's first-ever world championship sporting event. They're aiming to snag the next competition, set for 2029. That, coupled with the sold-out Savannah Bananas games in February, and the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) "Unleash the Beast" event at Doak Campbell Stadium in March, is stoking a local appetite for more big tourism draws. “Donna Deegan hails ‘strong and steady’ Jax bond rating as budget season, re-election campaign ramp up” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Fitch is recognizing the city of Jacksonville’s prudent money management, and Mayor Deegan wants to ensure locals recognize that. The timing couldn’t be better for what the city calls a “top tier ‘AA+’ rating for our 2026 special revenue bonds … underpinned by the city’s solid operating track record and Fitch’s expectation that available reserves will continue to exceed 10% of spending” even as Jacksonville remains “an anchor of the northeast Florida economy.” These special revenue bonds are covered by non-ad valorem revenues, insulating them from the potential revenue impact of increased homestead exemptions starting as early as next year if Amendment 3 passes statewide. “Quest for Laura Street Trio restoration in downtown gets new owner” via David Bauerlein of the Florida Times-Union — The historic Laura Street Trio in downtown Jacksonville has a new owner and potentially a fresh path for redevelopment of the long-vacant buildings that a City Council member compares to the epic sea chase for Moby Dick. BMG Trio LLC, which is affiliated with Becovic Companies, took ownership of the three buildings after submitting the high bid in an Aug. 5 foreclosure auction. The historic buildings date back to the decade after the Great Fire of 1901. Famed architect Henry Klutho designed the two taller buildings in the Trio. "These landmark buildings hold a special place in the city's history and represent an important opportunity for the future of downtown Jacksonville," company owner and President Muhamed Becovic said after the foreclosure auction. “Jacksonville Transportation Board moves to replace departing CEO” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) has voted to move forward with finding an interim CEO to fill the post until a permanent candidate can be found. Nat Ford formally announced in July that he’ll be stepping down as JTA CEO. He’s moving on to the CEO post at the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system in Texas. He’ll formally leave the First Coast for Dallas in October. A JTA news release said the JTA Board of Directors reviewed the procedures for finding an interim CEO. The Board made it clear they’ll only consider internal candidates from within the transit organization for the temporary job, which will be further explored at their scheduled Aug. 26 meeting. Even before that meeting, the JTA statement said the Board will consider candidates and will likely conduct interviews. The panel may make the final decision for an interim CEO at that Aug. 26 session. "JTA names veteran finance executive as CFO" via Joe Lister of the Jacksonville Daily Record — Randall Barnes has returned to Jacksonville as the Jacksonville Transportation Authority’s new chief financial officer, taking over as the agency confronts mounting fiscal challenges and a looming leadership transition. Barnes, a former Jacksonville city treasurer and JEA executive who most recently worked for Georgia Transmission, succeeds Raj Srinath, who departed last year. He assumes oversight of JTA’s finances after the authority posted a $14.2 million deficit in fiscal 2026 and projected another shortfall for fiscal 2027, prompting service cuts, fare increases and administrative reductions. Barnes also joins as JTA works to address more than $15 million in delinquent bills and prepares for CEO Ford’s departure later this year. Randall Barnes returns to Jacksonville with a full ledger — and a long list of financial challenges awaiting him at JTA. Image via the Jacksonville Daily Record. "Pensacola teen curfew heads to City Council" via Aria Surka of WEAR — Pensacola officials are moving forward with a proposed juvenile curfew aimed at improving public safety following months of concern about unsupervised minors downtown. The ordinance, which receives its first reading Thursday, would prohibit anyone 17 and younger from being out without adult supervision after 11 p.m. on weekdays and midnight on weekends, with exceptions for work, school, religious activities and emergencies. Mayor D.C. Reeves said the proposal is not a reaction to the July 4 downtown shooting but part of a broader effort to address recurring public safety issues. First-time violations would result in warnings, while repeat offenses could bring fines for both minors and their parents or guardians. A final vote is scheduled for Aug. 13.

Local: SW. FL   “Collier County gets $8 million boost for early learning. From where?” via Liz Freeman of naplesnews.com — Parents can expect improved availability to early learning programs in Collier County through $8 million invested by the Naples Children Foundation. The three-year initiative aims to improve the quality of early learning programs and boost school readiness before children enter kindergarten. A more visible element will be the launch of an accredited early learning program at Naples Park Elementary School in January 2027. The project will be a joint undertaking between NCF, Grace Place for Children and Families and the Collier County School District. It also will mark the first time that NCF has partnered directly with the Collier School District to establish and operate an early learning program on a public-school campus. "Cape Coral rejects 80% parks fee hike after youth sports outcry" via Mickenzie Hannon of Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Something has to give in Cape Coral's budget, but residents made clear they don't want youth sports to pay the price. During a budget workshop, City Council members reached a consensus to reject a proposed 80% increase in parks and recreation fees that drew strong opposition from youth sports groups and parents. City staff removed the proposal from the Council agenda after every Council member voiced concerns during the workshop. The increase had been presented as one option to help address a projected $1.7 million funding gap in the parks and recreation budget for Fiscal Year 2027. Mayor John Gunter said he planned to vote against any increase at this time. John Gunter helped bench a proposed 80% parks fee increase after parents and youth sports groups made their voices impossible to ignore. “Estero man faces terrorist threat charge after targeting Lee Sheriff” via Tayeba Hussein of naplesnews.com — An Estero man has been arrested after making violent threats against the Sheriff of Lee County, the state attorney and a local law firm. Adam Jeffrey Vaughn, 37, was arrested on Tuesday, Aug. 4, after the Lee County Sheriff's Office's public information office received an email containing "explicit threats of violence" and links to online content that "raised significant public safety concerns," Sheriff Carmine Marceno said at a news conference on Wednesday, Aug. 5. "When someone threatens to murder public officials, threatens to cause havoc and threatens to terrorize this community, we will not dismiss it," Marceno said. The content of the links sent to the Sheriff's office included a video of the suspect threatening to burn down the Fort Myers law firm Farah & Farah, and to harm Marceno and the state attorney Amira Fox. "FBI investigating developer advising Fort Myers about sports complex" via Charlie Whitehead of Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — The man Fort Myers hired to advise the city what to do with the midtown City of Palms Park property is the same Indiana-based developer under investigation by the FBI for money laundering. James Andrew "Andy" Card, president of Indianapolis-based Card & Associates, is accused in federal filings of defrauding the city of Mishawaka, Indiana, where his company had been hired to build an indoor athletic facility much like the one the consultants he hired recommended to the Fort Myers City Council back in May. So far, Fort Myers has paid Card $66,237.50. The scoping agreement calls for the city to pay Card a total of $356,180 should the company remain engaged through the process. “Another Hurricane Ian scar erased on Fort Myers Beach” via Mark H. Bickel of naplesnews.com — Nearly four years after Hurricane Ian slammed Southwest Florida, lingering reminders of the catastrophic storm − big and small −are still being addressed. The traffic signal near Times Square on Fort Myers Beach at Old San Carlos Boulevard and Estero Boulevard became fully operational again on July 28, another significant step in the ongoing efforts to fix what Hurricane Ian broke on Sept. 28, 2022. Fort Myers Beach was ground zero when the powerful Category 4 Ian clobbered the coast, bringing with it up to 15 feet of storm surge. The Lee County Department of Transportation announced the completion of the project, which finished ahead of schedule. The estimated completion and re-signalization of the intersection was slated for completion in early Fall. Nearly four years after Hurricane Ian, Fort Myers Beach has one less reminder of the storm with the return of a key traffic signal. Image via Naples Daily News. "Marco Island needs money for roads and bridges, but tax rate stays even" via J. Kyle Foster of Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Marco Island City Council members disagree on property taxes and how to pay for needed city infrastructure improvements. With a $23 million bond referendum on the Aug. 18 ballot that would pay for some but not all the city's infrastructure needs, two City Council members — Vice Chair Rene Champagne and Councilor Kevin Dohm — supported a higher preliminary tax rate as budget discussions continue for the new tax year that starts Oct. 1. The Council eventually held two votes — one to increase the millage rate to 1.3000 per $1,000 assessed value and one to keep it at the current rate of 1.2670. Millage neutral won out despite Champagne, Dohm and one resident's arguments.

Top opinion   "Parents, not systems, should direct education dollars" via Erika Donalds of Florida Politics — Florida’s education revolution began when parents demanded better options for their children, and the next step is ensuring education funding follows every student. Families, not government systems, should decide whether traditional public schools, charter schools, microschools, homeschooling or specialized programs best meet a child’s needs. The case for expanding education freedom rests on giving parents authority over the classroom, curriculum and values shaping their children’s futures. Public dollars, the argument goes, belong to students and should follow them to the learning environment where they can succeed. Supporters contend greater transparency and accountability naturally follow when parents have meaningful choices. Rather than weakening public education, competition encourages innovation and responsiveness across all school models. Experience has shown persistence matters. Efforts to increase oversight of school spending, weather political resistance and expand educational opportunities have gradually reshaped Florida’s education landscape while opening new pathways for families seeking alternatives. That work has also extended beyond traditional schools, with charter schools, online academies and nonprofit initiatives designed to reach students whose needs are not being met through conventional systems. The ultimate goal is broader than school governance. Every child, regardless of ZIP code or family income, should have access to an education that prepares them for college, military service, skilled trades or entrepreneurship, strengthening both individual opportunity and Florida’s future.

More opinions   “The Fauci hearing shows how little we’ve learned about COVID” via David Wallace-Wells of The New York Times — When Fauci categorically refused to answer any questions at a Senate Committee hearing last week, he inadvertently showcased a throwback scene of irreconcilable pandemic partisanship. On one side were Republican ideologues boiling over with grievances familiar from 2020 and 2021. On the other side, Democrats nominally committed to the principle of defending science against partisan attacks but unsure exactly what that meant beyond lip service — or what lessons they were supposed to have learned from the COVID-19 emergency. Both sides seemed frozen in time, looking backward rather than forward. And in the middle, there was a mute embodiment of the scientific establishment, refusing to engage in the partisan debate in the hope of staying above the fray. Or at least out of jail. “The complicated case of democratic socialists and the Black vote” via Theodore R. Johnson of The Washington Post — The word in some places is that democratic socialists are winning over Black voters, most recently seen in the Democratic Primary for Mayor of the nation’s capital. Elsewhere, though, pundits contend that these voters are rejecting socialism and its candidates, as in last year’s party Primary for New York City Mayor, when then-candidate Zohran Mamdani lost Black communities by wide margins. Polls add no clarity, finding that most Black voters either have no opinion of democratic socialism or are unsure about it. These competing realities are part of the current contest in the Democratic Party over its coalition and future. In a Midterm Election year, resolving the tension is especially pressing for an establishment hoping to harness — and, at times, contain — the growing wave of democratic socialist Mayors and legislators. “Gas prices rose because of Trump’s Iran war, not oil company greed” via The Washington Post editorial board — That economic law is as fundamental as they come, but not for the first time, Trump is acting like he’s above the law. Trump ripped into energy giants Chevron and ExxonMobil this week for windfall profits amid the Iran war: Chevron reported a quarterly record of $12.1 billion, and ExxonMobil’s $14.5 billion nearly doubled last year’s second quarter profit. “They’re making too much money based on a shortage,” the President complained in the Oval Office. “They ought to give some of that back to the public, and they better cut the retail price.” Oil prices fluctuate constantly. Relatively minor changes to demand can cause big price moves. Major changes, like a pandemic or war, have a far more substantial impact. Exxon reported a record loss of $22.4 billion in 2020 as demand for its product plummeted. Chevron reported a loss of $5.5 billion. The Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for 20% of the world’s oil trade, remains largely shut down, driving up the global price. “Can Trump wriggle out one last time?” via Ross Douthat of The New York Times — But a true Trumpian “wriggles his way out” resolution requires Republicans to avoid catastrophe in November, to keep the Senate as they did in the 2018 Midterms, and thereby preserve a certain freedom of movement for the President in the second half of his second term. It also requires him to remain popular enough — 40% approval would do it, 30% would not — to make people believe and behave as though an anointed heir might actually succeed him in the White House. There’s no room for even a modest Trumpian comeback if the entire political world spends the next two years positioning itself for an age of certain Democratic power and revenge. So, what might improve Trump’s position now? The obvious answer is the deal with the Iranians that the administration has been seeking and promising for months. (As of this writing, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is the latest administration official to suggest that it might be just a day or two away.) “I’m begging you: Never write with AI” via Bret Stephens of The New York Times — This column isn’t so much an argument as it is a plea: Don’t use artificial intelligence to help you write. Never let AI do your writing for you. Don’t use it for school papers, work briefs, letters to your in-laws, speeches at your company gathering or emails (however perfunctory) to your colleagues or friends. Don’t let it organize your notes. Don’t let it suggest an opening sentence, a segue or a closing paragraph. Don’t ask it to write a first draft and pretend that editing that draft somehow makes it your own. Do none of these things not because they are unethical. Writing with AI is unethical when it’s a deception: when you pass off words, ideas and information as your own when they aren’t. An acknowledgment can largely address the problem. Do none of these things, either, because you might be able to learn to write better than an AI can. "California tax warning fuels Amendment 3 opposition" via David Wolfe of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida has a chance to avoid repeating California’s costly mistake. Large constitutional property tax cuts may sound appealing, but without a credible replacement revenue plan, the costs shift elsewhere. California’s Proposition 13 ultimately led to higher sales taxes, rigid ballot-box budgeting and a proliferation of regressive parcel taxes that burden homeowners regardless of property value. Amendment 3 risks producing similar results, with longtime homeowners benefiting most. At the same time, renters, small businesses and newer residents shoulder a larger share of the tax burden through higher fees and indirect costs. Rather than shrinking government, the proposal could reduce budget flexibility, strain funding for essential services such as public safety, and leave future lawmakers scrambling to fill an increasingly expensive fiscal hole. "Christopher Nolan has rebuked the spirit of the age" via David French of The New York Times — His retelling of the "Odyssey" is an admonition: Moral transgressions always carry a consequence. His version of Odysseus is a haunted man. After 10 years of war and 10 long years of suffering on the journey home, he seems broken. He can be ruthless. He can be vicious. But he is also suffering from a profound moral injury; only confession and penance provide pathways to peace. One of the most vivid promotional posters for Nolan's film features the broken, severed head from a statue of Athena and the exact quote I began with: "Defy the Gods."

Instagram of the day

Aloe   “Florida Python Challenge winner claims 96 snakes, $10,000 grand prize” via Mark H. Bickel of naplesnews.com — Tom Rahill said he was on a mission. Rahill, the ultimate grand prize winner for the 2026 Florida Python Challenge, was recognized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) today (Aug. 5) at a Commission meeting in Panama City. He was awarded $10,000 for harvesting the most snakes during the July 10-19 competition that took place across eight designated hunting areas in and around the Everglades where pythons are a significant threat to native species. Rahill, who founded an organization called SwampApes in Broward County that takes veterans who have PTSD on python hunts, eliminated 96 pythons. A total of $25,000 was distributed in three categories −professional, novice and military − for hunters who participated. Tom Rahill turned python hunting into prize-winning work, removing 96 invasive snakes to claim the Florida Python Challenge's $10,000 top award. Image via Naples Daily News. “Behind the anger and scientific brawl over Atlantic red snapper season” via Nicolás Rivero of The Florida Trib — Bedlam broke out before sunrise on May 22 alongside the Canaveral Princess, a 90-foot charter boat that runs offshore fishing trips for groups of up to 75 anglers out of Port Canaveral. It was supposed to be the first day of Florida's biggest Atlantic red snapper season in years. But around 10 p.m. the night before the snapper bonanza was set to start, the NOAA Marine Fisheries Service announced the season was canceled, citing a last-minute injunction from a federal judge in a lawsuit brought by commercial fishing companies. At 5 a.m. the next morning, Christine Shaffer, who manages the Canaveral Princess, stood on the darkened dock to face her customers. "It was a riot," she said. "We had people screaming at us and acting like we knew this was going to happen." "Florida’s regular spiny lobster season opens statewide" via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Florida’s eight-month recreational and commercial spiny lobster season opens Thursday and runs through March 31, following last week’s two-day mini-season. The FWC requires recreational harvesters to hold a saltwater fishing license and lobster permit, with a daily limit of six lobsters per person. Harvesters must keep lobsters whole, return any egg-bearing females to the water and observe the 3-inch minimum carapace size requirement. Commercial operators face separate licensing rules, may use traps and have a 250-lobster daily limit for divers using nets, while trap harvests are uncapped. Harvesting remains prohibited in several protected areas, including Everglades and Dry Tortugas national parks and designated Florida Keys marine sanctuaries. "‘Ted Lasso’ returns with optimism intact" via Monica Hesse of The Washington Post — Three years after its original run ended, “Ted Lasso” returns with much of the warmth, humor and relentless optimism that made it a cultural phenomenon during the pandemic. The new season shifts its focus to AFC Richmond’s women’s team, exploring the challenges female athletes face, from limited resources to uneven public attention, while preserving the show’s signature blend of kindness and comedy. The familiar cast reunites alongside a slate of new characters, delivering storylines that balance earnest emotion with sharper observations about sports and society. The result may not carry the same cultural urgency it did in 2020, but its hopeful message and familiar charm remain as appealing as ever. “Disney predicts ‘Spider-Man’ record opening “bodes well” for ‘Avengers: Doomsday’” via James Hibberd of hollywoodreporter.com — 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' Matthew Towers/Sony Pictures Does the extraordinary box office launch of Spider-Man: Brand New Day signal good news for Avengers: Doomsday? Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro thinks so. On the company’s quarterly earnings call early Wednesday, the executive made a case for Spidey being a positive omen for Marvel's big team-up movie in December. “I’d be remiss not to acknowledge and congratulate everyone on this past weekend’s record-breaking opening for Spider-Man,” D’Amaro said. “Congratulations to Sony, Kevin Feige, and the Marvel Studios team. It’s an unbelievable result, and it’s one more example that audiences will turn out in force for great theatrical experiences. And it goes without saying that the success of Spider-Man bodes well for our upcoming and highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday film...” Of course, Avengers: Doomsday — which opens Dec. 18 — was already predicted to be huge. "Jacksonville lands among America’s most romantic cities" via Rory Thompson of News4JAX — Jacksonville has earned a new distinction, ranking fifth among the nation’s most romantic cities in a report from the dating app Agilis. The rankings are based on the number of romance-related online searches per 100,000 residents. New York City topped the list, followed by Nashville, Austin and Chicago, with Jacksonville recording 187.9 romance-related searches per 100,000 residents. The recognition marks a notable shift in perception for the city, which was labeled the nation’s “most boring city” just over two years ago. While the report doesn’t measure successful relationships, it suggests Jacksonville residents are searching for romance at one of the highest rates in the country.

Happy birthday   Best wishes to Mercer Fearington of The Southern Group. ___ Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.

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