Peter Schorsch
Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics.
By Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel McAuliffe, Jim Rosica, and Drew Wilson.
We know, we know, it’s Inauguration Day.
However, you’re probably up to your eyeballs in pomp and circumstance. So here are a couple of tidbits to get your day started:
Congratulations to Rep. Jay Trumbull and his wife Brittany on the birth this past weekend of their son Jay Norbert Trumbull III. He weighed in at seven pounds, six ounces. “Merritt loves her little brother,” Rep. Trumbull updates.
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Congrats to Stephanie McClung, a top lieutenant to Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried, and Reggie Cardozo, the ace who helped Democrats pick up several seats in the Florida House, on the news that they are expecting their first child together in July.
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What a weekend wedding for Amanda Taylor and Derek Houston, two prominent attorneys from St. Petersburg who are both involved in civic affairs in the ‘burg. The intimate ceremony was held Saturday at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
#FloridaMan leaves graffiti at workplace as he departs job… https://t.co/7LDG7MRyoe
— George Bennett (@gbennettpost) January 7, 2019
—@Fineout: So many news releases celebrating legacies, so little time to dissect them all and fact-check them
—@MDixon55: Thought for sure I was going to wake up to a press release announcing @FLGovScott’s Florida Supreme Court picks
—@KeithPerryFL: #Amendment4 is a historic step in the right direction. Floridian’s who’ve paid their debt to society deserve to exercise their right to vote. Tomorrow, that will become a long-awaited reality.
—@MattGaetz: I’m aghast that @SodaStreamUSA has chosen to participate in an absurd boycott of @TuckerCarlson. Soda Stream itself was the target of an unfair boycott due to operations in Israel. Do they not see the parallels of these “PC Police” driven efforts?
—@HBarber17: I don’t understand why every single FSU social media account isn’t just a 24/7 Barry Jenkins hype machine. The most impressive thing the school has produced this decade and it’s not even close
—@AaronPBean: I like to cheer for the underdog but I don’t know what to do with Clemson and Alabama, it’s like the patriots are playing the patriots
— DAYS UNTIL —
Office of Insurance Regulation’s OIR Summit begins — 10; MLK Day — 13; State of the Union address — 21; Super Bowl LIII — 26; Scott Maddox trial begins — 34; ‘Hamilton’ comes to the Straz Center — 35; Pitchers and catchers begin reporting for MLB Spring Training — 35; Valentine’s Day — 37; 2019 Legislative Session starts — 56; Tampa mayoral election — 56; ‘Captain Marvel’ release — 59; St. Patrick’s Day — 68; 2019 Major League Baseball season begins — 71; Easter — 103; 2019 Legislative Session ends (maybe) — 115; 2020 Democratic presidential primary debates begin — 150; Iowa Caucuses — 388; 2020 General Election — 665.
— INAUGURATION —
—“Ron DeSantis followed Rick Scott’s campaign path, but he’ll find his own way as Governor” via David Smiley of the Miami Herald
“DeSantis already Governor when ceremony begins” via the News Service of Florida — The public oath-taking is only ceremonial. The actual passage of power will occur at a much quieter time. When midnight Monday turns into Tuesday, DeSantis will be fully vested as Florida’s new Governor. The reason for the middle-of-night transfer of power is that DeSantis filed his official oath of office well before Inauguration Day. The Secretary of State’s Office received it at 2:10 p.m. on Dec. 13 and will take effect after midnight Monday, state records show. Lt. Governor-elect Jeanette Nuñez also filed her official oath on Dec. 13, meaning she will become Florida’s new lieutenant governor and the state’s highest-ranking Hispanic woman as Monday turns into Tuesday.
— “Now that he’s Florida governor, where is Ron DeSantis on the issues” via Elizabeth Koh and Emily Majoney of the Times/Herald
Inauguration happenings
A prayer breakfast will be held at Florida A&M University as part of the inauguration events for Governor-elect DeSantis and Lt. Governor-elect Nuñez, 8 a.m., Florida A&M University, 1601 South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee.
The swearing-in ceremony for DeSantis, Nunez, and Cabinet members Jimmy Patronis, Ashley Moody and Fried, 11 a.m., steps of The Old Capitol.
Gov. DeSantis will address legislative leaders and Cabinet members during a luncheon event joined by Nuñez, Senate President Bill Galvano and House Speaker Jose Oliva, 1 p.m., fourth floor, The Capitol.
New Attorney General Moody plans an open house, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Attorney General’s Office, first floor, The Capitol.
An inaugural ball will be held to celebrate DeSantis and Nunez taking office, 7 p.m., Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, 505 West Pensacola St., Tallahassee.
— INAUGURATION — PART 2 —
“Jeanette Nuñez, Casey DeSantis vow to take active roles in DeSantis administration” via Ana Ceballos of the Naples Daily News — “Certainly women were a key component of our campaign and our success, and we want to keep honing in on that,” incoming First Lady Casey DeSantis said during a breakfast meeting with about 100 women who helped the campaign. DeSantis joined Nuñez, Ron DeSantis’ lieutenant governor, to celebrate the role the women played in his victory and to outline their roles in helping the new governor succeed. “We had, in fact, more women than men working in this campaign, working in leadership roles and I think that really says a lot,” Casey DeSantis said. “I think given my background as a legislator I will certainly be involved in bridging the gap with the legislative process,” Nunez said in an interview after the breakfast.
“Nuñez: Big moment for always-civically-engaged Cubans in Florida” via Nancy Smith of the Sunshine State News — Certainly for the past four decades Cuban-Americans from Florida have flexed impressive political muscle. But today is different. Today we’ve reached a time and a place where no state in the country, at any point in history, has had more Cuban-American leaders in top political positions at home and Washington than Florida has right now. It’s worth some reflection. At an inaugural week breakfast, Women Transforming Florida at the Goodwood Museum, Nuñez was announced to a cheering crowd and a standing ovation as the first Cuban American woman to be elected lieutenant governor in Florida, in fact, the highest-ranking Hispanic woman in state history. Nuñez said she thought long and hard whether to take the step to run. She was going to give politics a break. “It seems like my plans have changed,” said Nuñez, 46. “I couldn’t have been more proud to stand alongside (Governor-elect DeSantis) and tour our extraordinary state. …”
DeSantis-Nuñez Inaugural Committee donates $150,000 to Operation 300 — DeSantis said the 2019 Inaugural Committee is giving $150,000 to Operation 300, a nonprofit organization that provides aid to military families who have lost loved ones in combat. Operation 300 was founded in the memory of Navy Seal Aaron Carson Vaughn, who was killed in the Tangi River Valley of Afghanistan. “To honor his memory, Vaughn’s family chose to give back to the families of those who lost their loved ones in service to our country. Parents Billy and Karen Vaughn, along with Aaron’s widow, Tara Vaughn Baldwin, continue to run Operation 300 in his memory,” a news release said. DeSantis added: “Thanks to our dedicated Inaugural Committee and sponsors, Operation 300 will be able to further their mission to honor the memory of our fallen heroes and brighten the lives of those they have left behind.”
Tweet, tweet:
From black Suburbans to secret agent earpieces & elaborate staging, @GovRonDeSantis inaugural chief of protocol @EdMiyagishima is on it. pic.twitter.com/9ege9MuaBU
— Troy Kinsey (@TroyKinsey) January 7, 2019
“Nikki Fried visits Second Harvest Food Bank to highlight region’s food insecurity” via James Call of the Tallahassee Democrat — Fried was 14 years old when Hurricane Andrew ravaged South Florida in 1992, and she remembers being hungry and going without food. Second Harvest serves 11 counties from Calhoun, west of Tallahassee, to Taylor, along the Big Bend. In that region, an estimated 105,000 people are living with food insecurity. That includes nearly a quarter of the residents of Gadsden (11,000 individuals) and a fifth of Leon residents (60,000 individuals). The Second Harvest Food Bank distributes typically about 800,000 pounds a month. But in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael, Second Harvest distributed 3 million pounds in October. Fried said she wanted to start her time in Tallahassee at Second Harvest to draw attention to the work it does and the issue of families who worry about their next meal.
“Glitzy inaugural ball welcomes Fried to Tallahassee” via Danny McAuliffe of Florida Politics — Fried celebrated her last night before she drops the hyphenated portion of her title alongside the people who helped her get to Tallahassee. She waged a campaign that began with an ad embracing the idea of expanding medical marijuana, touting her opposition to assault weapons and making quick work of her Republican soon-to-be predecessor Adam Putnam’s misstep. Along the way, Fried promised to address water quality issues like red tide and blue-green algae. She’d later vow to “audit” the way the state doles out concealed-weapons permits. Giving brief remarks to her inaugural audience, Fried credited these campaign talking points for her victory, no small feat given the red makeup of the other two Cabinet posts and DeSantis.
“Fried’s historic swearing in and its link to 1661” via Adam Smith of the Tampa Bay Times — Fried … will be sworn in using the University of Florida’s copy of the first Hebrew Bible published in the United States. Master printer Thomas Dobson published the two-volume edition published in 1814 in Philadelphia, using text prepared by Jonathan Horowitz, a Jewish printer who had recently arrived to America from Amsterdam. It was based on a famous Hebrew Bible produced in 1661 by the Jewish printer, Joseph b. Abraham Athias.
Ashley Moody invites public to tour her new office — Moody, the Hillsborough County Republican who will be sworn in as the state’s next Attorney General on Tuesday, plans an open house for the public following her swearing-in ceremony. “As a special part of the Inaugural festivities, following the ceremony, Moody will welcome members of the public to tour the Attorney General’s Office within Florida’s Capitol beginning at 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.,” spokeswoman Lauren Schenone said. In a statement, Moody added: “I am looking forward to taking the oath of office and welcoming Floridians from across our state to their Attorney General’s Office, (and to) getting to work to tackle tough issues head-on. I am grateful for the trust placed in me.”
— THE NEW ADMINISTRATION —
“DeSantis plans swift action once in office” via Gary Fineout of The Associated Press — DeSantis is not expected to be a carbon copy of past GOP governors when he assumes office. In an interview, he said he is eager to jump into a job that he contends will have more impact than what he tried to do in Washington as a Republican congressman from northeast Florida. After the inauguration events are over, he plans to act swiftly on everything from pending appointments to Florida’s Supreme Court to deciding the fate of the sheriff whose deputies were assigned to protect the school where 17 died in a February massacre. “The pomp and circumstance is fine, but ultimately this is about putting the pedal to the metal,” DeSantis said. “So, I’ll be raring to go on Day One.”
“DeSantis hints he’s weighing replacements for Scott Israel” via Skyler Swisher of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — DeSantis didn’t reveal his plans for the embattled sheriff during a news conference ahead of his inauguration, but he promised there would be “executive actions on potentially a number of local officials” shortly after he takes office. “As you look at different folks who have been mentioned as people who could potentially be suspended, the goal is not to [be] like, oh this person is politically different,” DeSantis said when asked if he is going to suspend Israel. “If you are going to do it, get somebody in there who is going to do a good job. That second part kind of gets lost. Who are you going to put in?”
Transition team considered allowing agency heads to accept outside pay — DeSantis’ transition team thought about allowing top government employees to receive outside compensation, a practice that has caused issues in states where it is allowed. “We spoke about researching the legality of a loaned executive arrangement or an agency head,” transition chairwoman Susie Wiles wrote in a Nov. 23 email obtained by POLITICO. “Please advise and let me know where you are with that.” The transition team has since dropped the idea.
Incoming AHCA head Mary Mayhew known as ‘Mary Mayhem’ — DeSantis’ pick to lead AHCA, Mary Mayhew, is known for taking a red pen to health care budgets, and that has some Florida lobbyists hunkering down to defend safety-net programs. As reported by Alexandra Glorioso of POLITICO Florida, Mayhew earned the nickname “Mary Mayhem” during her six-year stint leading Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services. Her tenure was marked by dwindling Medicaid enrollment and spikes in infant mortality and diabetes. By the time she left office in 2017, Maine’s health ranking had sunk from the 10th to the 23rd in the nation. Still, DeSantis transition head Susie Wiles said Mayhew would be “but one voice in the policy conversation that will include the governor and the Legislature.”
“Florida’s new prison chief seen as friendly to reform” via Ben Conarck of the Florida Times-Union — A retired U.S. Army major general, incoming corrections secretary Mark Inch was previously appointed by President Donald Trump to run the Federal Bureau of Prisons. He resigned abruptly in May amid national media reports that painted him as opposed to the First Step Act, a federal criminal justice reform effort led by Jared Kushner. But in recent media interviews and in his own op-ed leading up to the First Step Act’s passing through Congress in December, Inch espoused his support for reform and outlined his own vision of corrections. That caught the attention of state Sen. Jeff Brandes, who chairs the Senate’s criminal justice appropriations committee and frequently calls attention to the challenges facing Florida prisons. “We have a great opportunity over the next four years to create the best prison system in the country,” Brandes said.
“Dana Young approved as next VISIT FLORIDA CEO” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — In a unanimous vote, VISIT FLORIDA’s board of directors approved Young as its next CEO. The appointment, recommended by DeSantis, was met with praise by the board. The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Carol Dover, Florida Retail Federation CEO Scott Shalley and Visit Sarasota County vice chair Virginia Haley were effusive, with Dover saying Young had a “100 percent voting record” on tourism issues during her time as a lawmaker. … Shortly after the board voted, Young joined the meeting. “I can’t tell you how honored I am to have your trust and support,” she said. “I can’t tell you how honored I am to have this opportunity and I won’t let you down.” … Young’s is replacing Ken Lawson, whom DeSantis recommended to lead the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. He had held the position since January 2017.
— JUNIOR LEAGUES HONORS LEADING WOMEN —
The Junior Leagues of Florida State Public Affairs Committee (SPAC) is hosting the first-ever Leading Ladies Luncheon on the heels of Florida’s inaugural celebrations Jan. 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Governors Club in Tallahassee.
Keynoting is Attorney General-elect Moody. Several other legislators will also participate.
“This event celebrates Floridian women who lead the way in making this a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family,” said SPAC chair Traci Deen. “We look forward to celebrating the women leaders who embody our core values: promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through effective action and leadership.”
During the event, SPAC will also announce its 2019 legislative platform and recognize outstanding Leagues and Members. The League has been a strong advocate for women and children, with past legislative successes including strengthening child safety seat laws, the elimination of the “pink tax,” and preventing child brides. They have also been loud supporters of addressing food insecurity, human trafficking, and the opioid crisis statewide.
Tickets are available online until Jan. 7, at noon.
— ROAD TO SESSION —
“Marsy’s Law amendment leaves plenty for Legislature to figure out” via Scott Powers of Florida Politics — Voters overwhelming approval of Amendment 6 to put broad guarantees of crime victims’ rights into the Florida Constitution means the Florida Legislature has a lot of clarifying to do, from defining who notifies victims to what victims’ information might be shielded from public disclosure. “I am not by any means suggesting that we will not give full faith and credit to the requirements this now law, but it is not going to be easy. And I think you’ve already heard enough here to understand the logistics alone are going to be difficult and potentially expensive,” State Attorney Bill Cervone of Florida’s 8th Judicial Circuit told the Florida Senate Criminal Justice Committee.
“Rob Bradley expects changes in pot policy” via Dara Kam of the News Service of Florida — DeSantis “is going to embrace issues of access and patient care,” according to the Senate budget chief. “I think it’s going to be a priority to have the Office of Medical Marijuana Use have a culture of excellence that focuses on patient access and safety,” Bradley said in a lengthy interview. “I think that’s one of the first things that needs to happen for our system to evolve to where it needs to be, and I’m convinced that he’s committed to making that happen.” A new administration headed by DeSantis seemingly presents a friendlier stance toward medical pot than the administration of outgoing Gov. Scott. DeSantis has indicated he wants to drop an appeal of a court decision that found the state’s ban on smoking medical marijuana violated the 2016 constitutional amendment. A hearing in that case at the 1st District Court of Appeal remains scheduled for the same day DeSantis takes office.
“Dennis Baxley wants to make it tougher to change Constitution” via the News Service of Florida — Ocala Republican Baxley‘s proposal (SJR 232) would require support from two-thirds of voters for passage of constitutional amendments. That would be up from the current 60 percent threshold. Republican Rep. Rick Roth of Loxahatchee filed an identical proposal (HJR 57) in November.
“Joe Gruters wants to de-weaponize complaints lodged at candidates” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Gruters wants to stop ethics complaints from being used as political cudgels. Now the Republican state senator from Sarasota is proposing a solution that could add a layer of secrecy to the process. His bill (SB 228) would prohibit the Florida Ethics Commission from making public ethics complaints made against a candidate within 60 days of an election. It could also double the period before an election when elections complaints could be made public. “Far too often, we see these complaints being weaponized for the sole purpose of campaigning,” he said.
‘New Senate Insurance chairman sets sights on ‘one-way’ attorney fees’ via Michael Moline of Florida Politics — The new chairman of the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee identified his primary legislative target as the so-called “one-way” attorney fee system, which critics in the insurance and wider business community blame for escalating premiums. “If we deal with that, I think we’ll be dealing with the core issue that has been driving the rates up,” said Doug Broxson, a Gulf Breeze Republican. The issue has arisen at least during the last two Legislative Sessions in unsuccessful attempts to pass bills attacking abuse of assignment of benefits, or AOB, agreements and Florida’s no-fault, or PIP, insurance and workers’ compensation systems. Broxson discussed his priorities following the new committee’s first hearing, which centered on the response by regulators and the industry to Hurricane Michael. That picture was mostly positive — Michael has generated nearly 144,000 claims worth nearly 4$4.9 billion as of Friday, but the industry controls enough resources to cope, regulators said.
“Senate panel clears bill to exempt diapers from sales tax” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — A bill filed by Sen. Lauren Book to create a tax exemption for purchases of diapers and incontinence products cleared its first hurdle. It emerged from the Senate Committee on Commerce and Tourism with unanimous approval. Committee Chair Joe Gruters and Vice Chair Victor Torres joined members Linda Stewart, Travis Hutson and Tom Wright for the vote. All five Senators agreed to advance the measure (SB 60) without debate. Book, who represents Senate District 32 in Broward County, has introduced a version of the bill in previous sessions, though it has so far failed to pass.
On this week’s edition of “The Rotunda” — Book discusses policy changes in the Florida Senate to prohibit sexual harassment of employees. Book also talks about her efforts to shift oversight of the state’s concealed firearms program to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The Rotunda podcast is available via iTunes, Stitcher or SoundCloud.
Spotted — Brandes at the Consumer Electronics Show, “the global stage for innovation,” in Las Vegas.
“Mike Hill files bill to make it illegal to remove Confederate monuments” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — “The Heroes’ Monuments and Memorials Protection Act” has been introduced by state Rep. Hill, who represents the Pensacola area. The legislation would make it a third-degree felony for anyone who “willfully and maliciously” damages, defaces, injures or removes Confederate memorials, flags and other symbols, as well as street and school names honoring Confederate soldiers. “This is simply a small battle in the entire war for the soul of this nation,” Hill told Fox News last weekend. Hill is African-American, an Air Force veteran and hard-line conservative supporter of President Trump.
“Bill would allow needle exchanges outside Miami-Dade” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — A bipartisan push is behind legislation that would allow for the expansion of Miami-Dade County’s needle exchange program throughout the rest of the state. The bill (HB 171) for the 2019 Legislative Session was filed by state Reps. Shevrin Jones, a West Park Democrat, and Rene Plasencia, an Orlando Republican. In 2016, the Infectious Disease Elimination Act (IDEA) created the needle exchange program at the University of Miami. The pilot program was slated to last for five years but was limited to Miami-Dade County. Now, Jones and Plasencia want to give the state’s other 66 counties the option to create a similar program. “Our country has suffered the loss of 70,237 people due to overdoses in 2017,” Jones said. “It is time to acknowledge this irreversible damage to our communities, rural and urban, rich and poor.”
House Democrats put Amendment 4 on the board — The Florida House Democratic Caucus is asserting that no legislative action is needed to give voting rights back to some Florida felons who’ve completed their sentences. The Caucus unanimously voted to support that stance as lawmakers met in Tallahassee for committee meetings. The measure, Amendment 4, takes effect today. “Over 60 percent of Florida voters from all backgrounds and party affiliations took this enormous step to move our state forward,” House Democratic Leader Kionne McGhee said. “Any action meant to stall the full implementation of Amendment 4 is nothing more than voter suppression.”
Legislative happenings
The House Appropriations Committee will receive a presentation about an annual report known as the Long Range Financial Outlook, which details issues such as projected revenues and expenses in the coming years, 9:30 a.m., 212 Knott Building, The Capitol.
The Senate Education Committee will receive an update on school safety and security issues, 2:30 p.m., 412 Knott Building, The Capitol.
The Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee will receive an overview, 2:30 p.m., 301 Senate Office Building, The Capitol.
The House Education Committee will receive an overview of the governance structure for the kindergarten through 12th-grade system, 3 p.m., Reed Hall, House Office Building, The Capitol.
The House Health & Human Services Committee will receive a presentation from the Agency for Health Care Administration about the Medicaid managed-care program, 3 p.m., Morris Hall, House Office Building, The Capitol.
The House Judiciary Committee, the House Public Integrity & Ethics Committee and the House State Affairs Committee will receive overviews about their jurisdictions. Judiciary, 3 p.m., 404 House Office Building, The Capitol. Also, Public Integrity & Ethics, 4:30 p.m., 404 House Office Building, The Capitol. Also, State Affairs, 4:30 p.m., Morris Hall, House Office Building, The Capitol.
The Senate Community Affairs Committee will take up SB 82, filed by Sen. Bradley of Fleming Island, that would largely bar local regulations on vegetable gardens on residential property, 4:30 p.m., 301 Senate Office Building, The Capitol.
The Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee will discuss the environmental impacts of Hurricane Michael, 4:30 p.m., 37 Senate Office Building, The Capitol.
The Senate Ethics and Elections Committee will receive presentations from the Florida Commission on Ethics and the Florida Elections Commission, 4:30 p.m., 412 Knott Building, The Capitol.
The House Commerce Committee will receive a Florida economic overview, 4:30 p.m., 212 Knott Building, The Capitol.
— STATEWIDE —
Assignment editors — The U.S. Senate is set to swear in former Gov. Scott at 4 p.m.
“Scott holds party during government shut down” via Adam Smith of the Tampa Bay Times — The gala party at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium comes in the midst of a federal government shut down. Thousands of federal workers are going unpaid, while Scott donors will pay at least $25,000 for a photo opportunity with Florida’s new senator. The 7 p.m. Sunshine Ball also conflicts with The Governor’s Inaugural Ball for Ron DeSantis at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee. Donors and supporters of both will have to choose which bash to attend.
“Scott approves a bunch of grants on his last day on the job” via the News Service of Florida — In his final day in office, Scott effectively tapped the remaining dollars from a jobs fund by allocating $18.3 million to six regional projects. The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund was created with an initial $85 million in 2017 after a legislative battle about Scott’s request for economic-development money that could go directly to businesses. Lawmakers during the 2018 session replenished the fund with $85 million for the current fiscal year, which began July 1. With the allocations Monday, Scott has used the fund for 56 projects across the state totaling $170 million, a news release from the governor’s office said.
“Scott makes final judicial appointments” via Jim Rosica of Florida Politics — Scott on Monday evening — just hours before his successor takes office — announced his final judicial appointments as governor. They include naming Meredith Sasso, his chief deputy general counsel, to the 5th District Court of Appeal in Daytona Beach. Monday’s announcement follows four other appointments Monday, and appointments late Friday of two circuit judges, one county judge and five Judges of Compensation Claims, who resolve disputed workers’ compensation claims. Before that, Scott’s office last week dropped a list of 76 appointments to “multiple state boards,” called “a rebuke to incoming GOP Gov. Ron DeSantis.”
Appointed — Wesley Davis as Indian River Property Appraiser; Jeffrey Novotny to the Florida Transportation Commission; Enrique Ginzburg to the Board of Medicine; Leigh Giunta to the Early Coalition of Indian River, Martin and Okeechobee Counties.
“Nuñez: No definitive plans on Scott appointments yet” via Gray Rohrer of the Orlando Sentinel — DeSantis has no “definitive plans” on the 76 appointments made by outgoing Gov. Scott to a slew of state boards and panels, DeSantis’ Lt. Gov. Nuñez said. “I suspect we’ll take a look at it, but I don’t know that we have a definitive plan on that,” Nuñez told reporters. DeSantis has the power to rescind any appointment subject to confirmation by the state Senate. The Scott appointments include Andrew Pollack, whose daughter was killed in the Parkland school shooting last February, to the state board of Education
“Jimmy Patronis finalizes senior leadership” via Florida Politics — Chief Financial Officer Patronis announced his senior leadership team for his first four-year term as the elected CFO. Among the staff: Ryan West, Chief of Staff — West has served as Chief of Staff for CFO Patronis since August 2017, helping navigate his first year in office. Peter Penrod, General Counsel — Penrod will serve as General Counsel, providing legal counsel and representation for CFO Patronis. Jay Etheridge, Deputy Chief Financial Officer over Law Enforcement — Etheridge has served as Deputy CFO over law enforcement operations since September 2012. Anna Alexopoulos Farrar, Deputy Chief Financial Officer over Communications and External Affairs — Alexopoulos Farrar has served as CFO Patronis’ Communications Director since November 2017. Scott Fennell, Deputy Chief Financial Officer over Operations — Fennell has served as Deputy CFO over operations since September 2017. Meredith Brock Stanfield, Director of Legislative and Cabinet Affairs — In this new role, Stanfield will oversee all legislative and cabinet strategy and actions. “I’m proud of the experience this incredible group of professionals brings to the table, and I know they will help the office fully transition,” Patronis said in a statement.
For new voters affected by Amendment 4, it’s register and wait as state debates” via David Smiley of the Miami Herald — It’s what will happen after they register that remains unclear. Despite assertions from Amendment 4 advocates that the changes are self-implementing, incoming Gov. DeSantis reiterated his belief that the Legislature must pass a bill to help guide the Division of Elections as it verifies the eligibility of newly registered voters. An estimated 1.2 million people are expected to regain the right to vote as the amendment takes effect, and it’s up to the state to verify whether any of those newly registered voters are ineligible due to a disqualifying criminal offense. It could be weeks or even months before the state notifies any of those new voters if they’ve been deemed ineligible. And it would potentially compound any controversy should the Legislature take a restrictive interpretation of the amendment.
League of Women Voters of Florida to help ex-cons register to vote — The League announced it would deploy volunteers across the state on Tuesday to help more than a million ex-felons register to vote. Most of Florida’s Supervisors of Elections have agreed to accept registrations starting Jan. 8 when Amendment 4 goes into effect. The amendment approved by voters last year with 64 percent of the vote is considered to be one of the most significant voting rights acts in Florida’s history. It allows former felons — except those convicted of murder or felony sex offenses — to register to vote. Previously, returning citizens seeking to vote had to ask the state’s clemency board, made up of the governor and three Cabinet members, which has a backlog of more than 10,000 restoration-of-rights requests. As few as 400 a year are approved.
“Desmond Meade calls on felons to register, celebrate as ‘returning citizens’” via Scott Powers of Florida Politics — “When returning citizens across the state will be going to their local supervisors of elections to register to vote, what we’ll be seeing is a celebration of democracy, what we’re seeing is a celebration of love,” Meade said. Meade, president of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, who pushed Amendment 4 onto Florida’s ballot and led the campaign to approve it, said he recognizes roadblocks may lay down the road, but for Florida’s felons should register to vote and rejoice as “returning citizens.” Throughout the state, county supervisors of elections have indicated they are prepared to accept the registrations Tuesday, as the law requires. Meade and his group insist there is nothing to clarify. They can register to vote, and that’s going to start happening Tuesday.
Tweet, tweet:
Miami-Dade State Attorney @KathyFndzRundle's office says it will not prosecute any convicted felons who erroneously register to vote tomorrow, as Amendment 4 goes into effect pic.twitter.com/9HTM47T09F
— Danny Rivero (@TooMuchMe) January 7, 2019
Happening today — The Florida Public Service Commission will take up a series of issues related to electric utilities, telecommunications and water and wastewater service. Following a regular meeting, the commission will consider Duke Energy Florida’s tax impacts from a federal tax overhaul passed in December 2017, 9:30 a.m., Betty Easley Conference Center, 4075 Esplanade Way, Tallahassee.
Happening today — A panel of the 1st District Court of Appeal will hear arguments in a legal battle about whether a ban on smoking medical marijuana violates a 2016 constitutional amendment, 9 a.m., 1st District Court of Appeal, 2000 Drayton Dr., Tallahassee.
Spotted — Marc Dunbar in “With federal sports betting laws all but dead, what’s next?” via Gambling.com — At a meeting of state legislators, gambling stakeholders and other industry officials, a collection of the more than 200 attendees audibly laughed when a panelist asked for their thoughts on federal sports betting legislation. The bill introduced last month in Congress alarmed stakeholders in the fledgling industry, but in the weeks since the bill arrived on Capitol Hill, it’s becoming increasingly apparent the legislation has little traction … In the scramble to pass laws, the stakes for the state-by-state legalization process of a longtime black-market industry estimated at more than $150 billion annually are high for gaming stakeholders as well as would-be gamblers. ”If you get it wrong,” said gaming law expert Dunbar, “especially with this product, they’re going to find it elsewhere.”
— LOCAL —
ICYMI — “Shevrin Jones announces run for Senate District 35” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — State Rep. Jones formally declared his candidacy for 2020. “I have been honored to work in a bipartisan manner to improve the lives of all Floridians, but there is still work to be done,” Jones said in a statement announcing the run. Among the work Jones touted was his effort on a 2016 law requiring police departments that utilize body cameras to have in place procedures regarding the use of those cameras. Jones also emphasized his ties to SD 35, having been raised in Miami Gardens before moving to West Park in 2001. SD 35 covers portions of Broward and Miami-Dade counties including Miramar, West Park, Miami Gardens and Opa-locka. Oscar Braynon currently represents the district; he will be vacating the seat in 2020 due to term limits.
Brenda Snipes asks judge for her job back” via Gray Rohrer of the Orlando Sentinel — An attorney for former Broward County Supervisor of Elections Snipes asked a federal court judge to reinstate Snipes, accusing Scott of trying to “tar her” with false allegations of incompetence. Burnadette Norris-Weeks disputed Scott’s list of alleged misdeeds in his executive order suspending Snipes, including that she released election results before polls closed and repeatedly failed to follow state election laws. “We believe it was a targeted action on behalf of the governor to tar her and embarrass her,” Norris-Weeks said. “She’s respected throughout the state … she’s somebody that other supervisors come to seek guidance.” Judge Mark Walker did not immediately issue a ruling, but during a two-hour hearing pressed attorneys for both sides to defend their positions.
“Ken Russell appointed new chairman of Miami commission; mayor hires new chief of staff” via Joey Flechas of the Miami Herald — fresh off his first year in office, which featured a mix of legislative and political wins and losses that included a failed bid to expand his powers by becoming a “strong mayor,” Mayor Francis Suarez has used one of his few powers to name Commissioner Russell as the new commission chairman. Russell represents District 2 along Miami’s coast stretching from Morningside to Coconut Grove. His vice chairman will be Commissioner Willy Gort, who is entering his final year in office representing District 1, which includes Allapattah and Grapeland Heights. This mean Russell, considered a Suarez ally who is running for re-election this year, will control the flow of legislation for Miami’s decision-making body and run commission meetings. Suarez also named a new chief of staff: Jeremy Schwarz, an attorney at K&L Gates, Harvard Law graduate and Navy veteran.
“In aftermath of viral McDonald’s fight, workers plan strike to demand training, protection from violence” via Sara DiNatale of the Tampa Bay Times — Dozens of fast-food workers are expected to gather outside of the McDonald’s that employs 20-year-old Yasmine James, the cashier in the video who fended off her attacker with swift punches as he gripped her uniform. Workers say they’re leaving their posts behind grills, drive-thrus and cash registers at 11 a.m. in a strike to demand the chain and others like it provide training for employees and managers on how to handle violence in the workplace. Millions have seen the video of James and customer Daniel Willis Taylor, 40, inside the McDonald’s at 4595 34th St. S on New Year’s Eve. Taylor was agitated after he found no straws in the restaurant’s lobby — part of St. Petersburg’s new plastic straw ban. After the fight began, several seconds passed before another employee stepped in to help. Through her attorney, James said that black women are too often left to fight for themselves. Taylor, who is accused of kicking another employee off camera, was arrested on assault charges.
“Police: Florida substitute teacher purposely put human fecal matter in Sarasota park pavilion to ruin girl’s birthday party” via ABC 7 — Police say a substitute teacher, angry over a complaint with the school she was working at, sabotaged a little girl’s birthday party by putting human fecal matter on tables and grills at a Sarasota park. Police first learned of the incident on December 1, when a call came in from a witness who had seen a woman in rubber gloves and a face mask putting human fecal matter on top of seven tables and two grills at Urfer Park. All told, the damage cost Sarasota County $2,310. Detectives say the woman, the principal at Phillippi Shores Elementary, told them that she had invited all of the children in her child’s class to the birthday party. She also said she had an ongoing dispute with a substitute teacher, 42-year-old Heather Carpenter, over a complaint Carpenter had filed that Carpenter did not feel was being properly addressed. Carpenter was arrested and charged with third-degree felony criminal mischief.
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Florida voters sour on Donald Trump, new poll suggests” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Polling data by Morning Consult show 46 percent of the state’s voters approving of Trump’s performance in December, with 49 percent disapproving. That’s a net negative of 3 percentage points. Nationwide, 44 percent of Americans approved of Trump’s performance last month, and 52 percent disapproved, a net negative of 8 percentage points. What’s remarkable in the numbers is Trump’s plunge in Florida since January 2017. As he was taking office, his approval was far higher in Florida and a far smaller percentage disapproved.
“’It’s just too much’: A Florida town grapples with a shutdown after a hurricane” via Patricia Mazzei of The New York Times — In Florida, where Republicans dominated the November midterms, and the state’s only Democratic Senator went down in defeat, conservative towns like Marianna — along with farm communities in the South and Midwest, and towns across the country that depend on tourism revenue from scaled-back national parks — will help measure the solidity of public support for Trump and his decision to wager some of the operations of the federal government on a border wall with Mexico. Jim Dean, Marianna’s city manager, said he had already been concerned, even before the shutdown, that the hurricane would prompt public agencies to consider reducing their footprint in the region. What if an extended shutdown contributed to keeping the prison closed indefinitely? “I worry about the government pulling out of rural America,” he said.
“Trump signs Gus Bilirakis’ bill ensuring student veterans not penalized by college, universities” via Kevin Derby of the Sunshine State News — Early last year, Bilirakis, the vice chairman of the U.S. House Veterans Affairs Committee, introduced the “Servicemembers Improved Transition through Reforms for Ensuring Progress (SIT-REP) Act.” Under Bilirakis’ proposal, veterans using their GI Bill benefits will not be penalized if the VA delays payment to the school due to the time it takes to process. The Florida Republican reeled in support of a host of veteran’s groups including the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). Back in June, U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and John Boozman introduced the Senate version. The Senate passed Bilirakis’ bill last month as part of U.S. Sen. Jon Tester’s “Veterans Benefits and Transition Act” which Trump signed into law.
“Charlie Crist will join felons who’ve served their sentences to register to vote” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Crist will literally lead the way for those in St. Petersburg to register to vote when the new Florida Constitutional amendment automatically restoring voting rights for some 1.4 million felons goes into effect. When he was governor, Crist wasn’t able to get automatic clemency for felons passed. But his clemency board implemented policies that restored civil rights for more than 155,000 Floridians between 2007-2011. “In November, 64 percent of Floridians voted for Amendment 4 to automatically restore voting rights to convicted felons who have paid their debts to society,” Crist said in a statement. “While some may continue to try to stall, it is time to end this dark chapter of Florida’s history of discrimination once and for all.”
“Alcee Hastings, Donna Shalala named to House Rules Committee” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — Just a day after Democrat Nancy Pelosi was sworn in as Speaker of the House, the congresswoman from California named two party colleagues from South Florida to the powerful House Rules Committee. Longtime Rules Committee member U.S. Rep. Hastings of Florida’s 20th Congressional District will once again sit on the committee. He’ll be joined by freshman U.S. Rep. Shalala of Florida’s 27th Congressional District. That’s according to Brad Howard, chief of staff for Democratic U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy of Orlando. The appointments would give the Florida delegation a sizable say in how bills are debated during the 116th Congress.
— OPINIONS —
“I’m committed to pursuing a bold agenda for Florida” via Ron DeSantis for the Tallahassee Democrat — Future generations of leadership need us to get this moment in Florida history right. Our parents and grandparents did that for us, delivering a state and nation of immense strength, and now it is our turn to do the same. Lt. Gov. Nunez and I are honored to be put in this position by the people of Florida. We are committed to pursuing a bold agenda that opens wide the gates of opportunity and makes Florida the best in the nation. We were elected to serve all Floridians, and that is a charge we will keep. Following a very competitive election, I know there are political divides in our state, but the election is over, and it is time for our state to come together. Campaigns fade from view, but the real issues we must tackle are in front of us. I ask you to continue to share your ideas and tell us your stories, as you help us better understand the problems we must address.
“Joe Henderson: Casey DeSantis’ strong impact coming into focus” via Florida Politics — Her husband will be the subject of intense media scrutiny for the next four years. He will get the headlines. But his wife has proved she is effective in smaller settings. That’s where impressions are formed. Her experience as a television show host has made her comfortable in public settings. She clearly has confidence in that role, and that in turn will help her husband as he takes over leadership in Florida. By contrast, Ann Scott preferred to stay in the background during Rick Scott’s two terms as Governor. She was a strong advocate for childhood reading programs and did a lot of charity work. Early on though, she wanted no part of public speaking. From the look of things, Casey DeSantis has a different game plan. She has a pretty good story to tell, and the poise to do that.
“Jon Mills: Redemption” via Florida Politics — Americans believe in second chances. They believe in redemption. That’s why a bipartisan supermajority passed a clear mandate to automatically restore the ability to vote to felons who have paid their debt to society. The Amendment is unambiguous. A unanimous Florida Supreme Court approved the Amendment for the ballot and said the proposal would “lead voters to understand that the chief purpose of the amendment is to automatically restore voting rights to felon offenders, except those convicted of murder or felony sexual offenses, upon completion of all terms of their sentence.” Voters overwhelmingly agreed with that explicit purpose. There is reason to be optimistic about the implementation of Amendment 4. Many Supervisors of Election have been encouraging to those whose rights have been restored to register. The new leadership of the state has an opportunity to support and encourage the fundamental right to vote. There is no need for the Legislature to enact new laws for the Amendment to take effect. The amendment says, “any disqualification from voting arising from a felony conviction shall terminate, and voting rights shall be restored.”
— MOVEMENTS —
“Ileana Ros-Lehtinen joins Akin Gump law firm” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — Former U.S. Rep. Ros-Lehtinen may be retired from Congress, but she’s not out of the workforce yet. The Texas-based law firm Akin Gump announced Monday they were hiring Ros-Lehtinen as a senior adviser. The firm also hired former U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith of Texas as a senior consultant. “As a firm that operates at the intersection of business, law and policy, we recognize the valuable skills, knowledge and perspectives that Reps. Ros-Lehtinen and Smith bring to our clients,” said Akin Gump chair Kim Koopersmith. “They will be great additions to our top-tier policy practice, and I am very proud to welcome two individuals with such long and distinguished careers on Capitol Hill to the firm.” Both former members of Congress will work in the firm’s D.C. office, which focuses on public law and policy practice.
“Converge, the gov’t affairs firm founded by Jonathan Kilman, plots major expansion with new public affairs affiliate” via Florida Politics — While the rest of us were enjoying some down during the holidays, Miami-based Converge Government Affairs was busy building a sister public affairs firm, Converge GPS. Converge chairman Kilman announced the launch of Converge GPS (short for Global Public Strategies), which will be an affiliated but separate, bipartisan firm focused on public affairs, corporate communications and political consulting. GPS is beginning with an all-star roster: Nancy Texeira, Ben Pollara, Elnatan Rudolph, and Matt Yost with Texeira, Pollara and Rudolph joining as partners of the newly established firm.
Is Steve Crisafulli hanging out his own lobbying shingle? — Sunburn has learned that the former Speaker is subleasing office space from uber fundraisers Kris Money and Trey McCarley and will soon be lobbying. Not right now, he says. “In addition to working for my family business, over the past couple of years, I have consulted for business clients both here in Florida and around the country. I am not currently lobbying and am focused on continuing to provide good counsel to my clients and serve as a transition member for Gov. DeSantis.”
Funeral services announced for Malcolm Beard — A service will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4207 E. Lake Ave., Tampa. A 9:30 a.m. visitation will precede the service. The graveside interment at Garden of Memories will be for family members only. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches at youthranches.org. Beard, a former Hillsborough County Sheriff and retired state lawmaker, died last week at the age of 99.
Shot: The Bulwark beefs up ‘for the preservation of the American experiment’ — The Bulwark, a project of the nonprofit Defending Democracy Together Institute, says it’s adding original reporting, commentary, and analysis, as well as a daily podcast from editor-in-chief Charlie Sykes. The site said it would also “keep aggregating the best principled, conservative opinion from around the web every day” … Additional staff includes editor-at-large Bill Kristol, executive editor Jonathan Last, managing editor Rachel Larimore, senior editor Jim Swift, senior editor Benjamin Parker, and others.
Chaser: New progressive blog launches in … Naples? — David Silverberg, Communications Director for the David Holden for Congress campaign in Southwest Florida’s 19th Congressional District, now has created a blog called The Paradise Progressive. “The election is over, but the need for coverage of topics vitally affecting Southwest Florida is not,” he writes in an email. “After the campaign, every day I saw stories that weren’t being covered but needed to be — and it drove me crazy.” Silverberg said it would focus on national-level political events and developments and their impact on Southwest Florida. “At the moment environmental policy is taking center stage, but there will be many more topics in the days ahead.”
— ALOE —
Breakfast at the Governors Club — With the beginning of committee weeks, the Governors Club helps kick-start the day with a self-service breakfast buffet. Priced at $11 per person, the buffet will be available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays during committee weeks.
“Florida gas prices hit two-year low” via Malena Carollo of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida gas prices were $2.13 per gallon Monday, down three cents over the week, while Tampa Bay prices, also down 3 cents over the week, averaged $2.01 per gallon Monday. In many locations in the bay area, gas was less than $2 per gallon. Enjoy cheap fuel while it’s around, AAA said. Gas prices typically rise in the spring between 30 to 70 cents. “Although pump prices could become somewhat volatile this month, drivers will notice a significant increase in the spring, with the upward trend beginning as early as February,” Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA, said in a release.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Best wishes to state Rep. Rene “Coach” Plasencia, Ron Bilbao of the Florida Education Association, Evan Ross, and Meagan Salisbury of Blue Ticket Consulting.
