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.
What’s the cost of free speech when a 77-year-old grandma, who also happens to be the state’s leading environmentalist, speaks out to right a wrong?
In Maggy Hurchalla’s case, it’s over $4.3 million.
As TCPalm recently reported, a jury found her “liable of interfering in government contracts” and ordered her to pay millions in damages to the owners of Lake Point, “a mining and water treatment project near Lake Okeechobee.”
The company accused her of “sabotage;” Hurchalla, who says she’ll appeal, also says her speech was truthful commentary protected under the First Amendment. The company countered that her “claim that Lake Point destroyed wetlands” was, in fact, a lie.
As retired Miami Herald scribe Martin Merzer explains, Hurchalla was on the short end of something called a “SLAPP suit,” which usually aren’t about money, “but rather about achieving silence.”
Read Merzer’s special report for Florida Politics here.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
— @AEdwardsLevy: The percentage of voters who say Trump deserves re-election is essentially identical to that of Bill Clinton and Barack Obama at the time of the 1994 and 2010 midterm elections, respectively.
— @MorningMoneyBen: I feel like in 2016 we lost sight of fact that it’s hard for incumbent party to hold WH for three terms. And in 2020 could lose sight of fact that presidents usually get re-elected.
— @FLGovScott: I enjoyed stopping by @ElMesonPR in Puerto Rico today. This company has two locations open in Florida, with one more opening soon. Thanks for your hard work!
— @MarioDB: We must show solidarity for the people of #Nicaragua. What is happening in Nicaragua cannot be tolerated. #Ortega cannot just shut down the press and censor people. I urge the Senate to take up the #NICAAct, which was already passed in the House.
— @DanKEberhart: #Rubio’s flirtations with #Florida Democrats is ridiculous. You’re either on the bus or your not. He needs to be all in for #rickscott. #midterms2018
— @Fineout: Not something that happens every day — @The_RGA sends out email lauding column on Democratic gov debate penned by @NickensFL of @TBTimes_Opinion Nickens called the 4 Dems clueless and not ready for prime time
— @JeffreyBrandes: #Florida just passed 100,000 patients on the medical marijuana registry but access to quality affordable medical cannabis is still controlled by a small “Cartel” of suppliers. Next year I will file legislation that puts patients first and will open the market to small businesses
— @MDixon55: The Florida Court System is the little old lady writing checks as everyone in the growing checkout line at the grocery store tweets about how annoying the wait is
— @EllieJaneTaylor: Kate Middleton’s day: 11am – Birth human 4pm – Blow dry and full make up 6pm – Present new heir to media looking red carpet ready My day: 11am – Wake up, eat cheese 4pm – Put bra on 6pm – Take bra off, eat cheese #royalbaby
— DAYS UNTIL —
NFL Draft begins — 2; Close of candidate qualifying for federal office — 10; Mother’s Day — 19; Deadpool 2 release — 24; Solo: A Star Wars Story premier — 31; Memorial Day — 34; Father’s Day — 54; Close of candidate qualifying for statewide office — 59; Deadline for filing claim bills — 99; ‘The Race for Governor’ Republican gubernatorial debates — 99; ‘The Race for Governor’ Democratic gubernatorial debates — 100; Start of the U.S. Open — 121; Primary Election Day — 124; College Football opening weekend — 128; ‘Before You Vote’ Florida U.S. Senate debate — 182; ‘Before You Vote’ Florida Governor debate — 183; General Election Day — 196; ‘Hamilton’ comes to the Straz Center — 296; 2019 Legislative Session starts — 315.
— TOP STORY —
“Lawmakers swapping deals toward Special Session on gambling” via Jim Rosica of Florida Politics – Lawmakers have moved from informal talks to exchanging offers toward a Special Session on gambling, sources said late Monday … The impetus behind the Special Session effort is a proposed constitutional amendment that polls show will likely pass this November. It would require a statewide vote to approve any future expansions of gambling. Representatives for both chambers had no comment on developments Monday. Industry and legislative sources, however, say Senate President-designate Bill Galvano, a Bradenton Republican, and House Speaker-designate Jose Oliva, a Miami Lakes Republican, have been sending proposals across the Capitol rotunda. Those offers include, among other things, provisions to ensure the state doesn’t lose out on any gambling-related taxes or fees.
— NELSON V. SCOTT —
“Abortion foes target Bill Nelson” via Alex Leary of the Tampa Bay Times — Susan B. Anthony List, which said its canvassers have visited 335,000 homes ahead of the midterms, will hold news conferences Wednesday in Pensacola and Panama City, Thursday in Tallahassee and Jacksonville, and Friday in West Palm Beach. “Bill Nelson could not be more out of step with his pro-life constituents. He voted repeatedly to continue sending tax dollars to Planned Parenthood, the country’s biggest abortion business,” said Jill Stanek, a former nurse who serves as Susan B. Anthony List’s national campaign chair. “Senator Nelson even voted against a compassionate, popular measure to stop abortion after five months, when babies feel pain, and legislation simply saying that if an unborn child survives an abortion, they ought to be treated with equal dignity and to receive medical care.” In January, Nelson was one of two Democrats who did not vote on the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, which would have banned abortions after 20 weeks.
Jackie Schutz Zeckman makes the POLITICO Playbook Power List: Women to Watch — Gov. Scott’s former communications director and chief of staff now is campaign manager for his 2018 U.S. Senate bid. “The 32-year-old St. Pete Beach native has been with Scott since shortly after he won the 2010 governor’s race. She started as a deputy press secretary (for) one of the nation’s best-known governors, now challenging Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson. ‘She has worked with me since I got started, and has been one of my biggest confidants,’ Scott told Playbook. ‘She has done a great job in every job she has ever had’ … If Scott wins and heads to Washington, Schutz Zeckman is not yet sure if she will follow her longtime boss: ‘I have absolutely no idea, I never expected to be where I am today.’” Her feature is here; the entire listing is here.
Assignment editors – Gov. Scott will host a campaign roundtable with Pensacola business leaders, held in one of the recently announced low-tax Opportunity Zones. Roundtable begins 3:30 p.m. CDT, Pete Moore Chevrolet, 103 N. New Warrington Road in Pensacola.
— NOTES FROM THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL —
“FEC scrutinizing Florida Democratic Party finances and large deficit in federal campaign account” via Ana Ceballos of the Naples Daily News — The party must explain to the Federal Election Commission why it failed to detail how a federal account ended up $159,333 in the red in November … the month when former party Chairman Stephen Bittel resigned after being accused of inappropriate conduct around women in the office. In a Jan. 25 letter, FEC analyst Nicole Miller asked party officials to itemize incurred debt or obligations that would show why there was a negative balance. The negative balance suggests “that you have overdrawn your account, made a mathematical error or incurred a debt,” Miller wrote. “Please file an amendment to your report to accurately disclose your financial activities.” Miller identified other discrepancies in the state party’s finance report, including problems with contribution deposits and how the party reported about $13,000 in credit card payments.
“Richard Corcoran’s lagging fundraising gets boost from trial lawyers” via Matt Dixon of POLITICO Florida — As Corcoran continues to mull his bid for governor, trial attorneys are buoying his political committee’s shaky bottom line. In March, he received more than $100,000 from Coral Gables-based Grossman Roth Yaffa Cohen, a firm of trial attorneys specializing in medical malpractice and personal injury. The firm has given to both parties, but like many law firms, it’s given much more to Democrats over the years. The $100,000 check was first sent through two other political committees, a strategy sometimes used to make it more difficult to track. The firm gave $100,000 March 30 to the political committee Leadership for Florida’s Future, one day after the same committee received $50,000 from Sunshine Gasoline Distributors, which is owned by Max Alvarez, a large GOP donor. On March 31, that committee gave $150,000 to a separate committee, Citizens Alliance for Florida’s Economy, which then gave the $150,000 to Watchdog PAC, the Corcoran-aligned committee.
“Ron DeSantis campaign gets attack ads pulled after citing PolitiFact in cease and desist letter” via Kirby Wilson of the Tampa Bay Times — Seven radio stations have pulled a radio ad that falsely accused DeSantis of voting “to give food stamps to people who are in the United States illegally” in 2014 after a DeSantis campaign lawyer sent a cease and desist letter. The advertisement, paid for by the National Liberty Federation (NLF) has drawn scrutiny for its content — and for its mysterious financial backers. Many Florida politicos suspect the state’s sugar industry — no friend of DeSantis — is behind the campaign. As a 501(c)(4) social welfare group, the National Liberty Federation does not have to disclose its donors. A March 29 PolitiFact article rated the claim cited by the NLF about illegal immigrants getting food stamps “Pants on Fire,” its designation for a statement that “is not accurate and makes a ridiculous claim.”
Time for TV: Adam Putnam logs first media buy — Agriculture Commissioner Putnam, arguably the leading GOP candidate for governor in 2018, will have ads on the air for the first time. The ads will be up until the 30th of this month. Smart Media Group reported a $627,000 buy from Putnam for “broadcast, cable and satellite,” including Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Mobile (covering far N.W. Florida), Orlando, Panama City, Tallahassee, Tampa and West Palm Beach markets. As Matt Dixon of POLITICO Florida notes, conspicuously absent for now: Miami.
Assignment editors — Putnam will join supporters at a Bradford County Grassroots Barbecue beginning 6 p.m. at Belle Oaks Barn, 11800 SW. 157th Ln. in Brooker.
“Andrew Gillum announces digital ad buy for ‘Opportunity’” via Scott Powers of Florida Politics — The 30-second ad, “Opportunity,” features Gillum, now the mayor of Tallahassee, sitting in front of a modest house talking about the people who cared about and believed in him when he was young, and how he intends to do the same. It includes footage taken from a five-minute introductory video “Bring it Home” that he released at the start of his campaign last year. “Were it not for a good public education, caring and loving parents, a grandmother who prayed for me, and, quite frankly, people who believed enough in me to say that I could, I wouldn’t be the person I am today,” Gillum states. “And I plan to work as hard as I can every day, if given the opportunity, to make sure every child has that same opportunity.”
“Patrick Murphy won’t rule out bid for Florida governor, with David Jolly as running mate“ via Marc Caputo of POLITICO Florida – Supporters of Murphy want him to run for governor so badly that they’re polling his standing in the Democratic primary and testing the historic decision to pick a Republican running mate who also happens to be a former congressman and U.S. Senate candidate. Murphy confirmed for POLITICO that a supporter is underwriting a poll but wouldn’t discuss details or the idea of running with former Rep. David Jolly, with whom he’s touring the state to talk about how Washington is broken. “A supporter wanted to do a poll and I didn’t say no,” Murphy, who has started raising and spending money through his old political committee, said via text message. “I didn’t say yes to actually running! Lol.” Jolly couldn’t be reached. Though Jolly’s name is currently being surveyed — Sunday night was the first day the unnamed pollster went into the field — he’s not the only name that’s being tested, according to a source who would disclose no further details. Jolly’s name would be the most intriguing because, if one version of the plan becomes reality, it would mark the first time a Republican joined a Democratic ticket, and the first time in modern memory that a major candidate for Florida governor picked a lieutenant governor candidate before a primary was over.
Tweet, tweet:
Once in a while you start working on a scoop and get burned.
And once in a while it becomes real easy to figure out who burned you— Marc Caputo (@MarcACaputo) April 24, 2018
“Javier Manjarres shows some political fundraising muscle” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Javier Manjarres is showing some financial strength in his effort to unseat Congressman Deutch — a sign the race could be the best-funded challenge since Deutch was first elected in 2010. Federal Election Commission filings show the super political action committee formed last year to lay the groundwork for Republican Manjarres’ congressional campaign raised $323,000 in the first three months of 2018. Deutch, the Democratic incumbent who represents most of Broward and southeast Palm Beach County, raised $190,500. A head-to-head comparison isn’t precise. Manjarres wasn’t raising money directly for his campaign, which didn’t become formal until April 2. Until then he was working on behalf of the super PAC. America First Agenda spent most of what it raised and had $69,000 in the bank March 31.
“Donna Shalala’s stance for marijuana ‘justice’ follows decades of cannabis opposition” via David Smiley of the Miami Herald — “Decriminalizing marijuana shouldn’t just be a policy priority — but a moral imperative,” Shalala tweeted Friday, April 20. It wasn’t a controversial stance to take … At a time when the state of Florida is overseeing a government-sanctioned cannabis marketplace that just topped 100,000 users, not supporting the rescheduling of cannabis might be more newsworthy. And that’s where Shalala stood not so long ago. Before declaring her interest Ros-Lehtinen’s seat, Shalala was known as a cannabis critic. For decades, and during her entire stint as Health and Human Services secretary under Bill Clinton, she warned of the dangers of marijuana and criticized states that began to buck the federal government and establish their own medical markets. As recently as 2013, she was on record questioning her own party for its support of a medicinal marijuana market in Florida.
Happening tonight:
— STATEWIDE —
“Commission looking into mass school shooting in Parkland to hold first meeting” via Sascha Cordner of WFSU — The 16-member Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Commission comes out of Florida’s new gun safety law that includes a bump stocks ban and raises the age to purchase a gun from 18 to 21. According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the commission’s agenda is full of mostly organizational duties. The meeting will start at 8:30 a.m. and is expected to most of the day. It will be held at Broward College’s North Campus in Coconut Creek — about 20 minutes from Parkland, where the Valentine’s Day massacre occurred.
Flags at half-staff for slain Gilchrist County deputies – Gov. Scott has ordered flags at half-staff Tuesday in honor of Gilchrist County Sheriff’s deputies Noel Ramirez and Taylor Lindsey. The Governor’s Office made the announcement Monday evening. Ramirez, a 29-year-old sergeant, had been in law enforcement for seven years and Deputy Taylor, 25, served for over three years. “Investigators say a man opened fire on the two last Thursday as they sat down to eat at the Ace China Restaurant in Trenton,” CBS12.com reported. “They were on duty and in uniform.” The Sheriff’s Office said the 59-year-old gunman later killed himself, taking his motive with him. Scott directed the U.S. and state flags to be flown at half-staff at the Gilchrist County Courthouse, City Hall, and at the Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office, all in Trenton, from sunrise to sunset. Trenton is about 30 miles west of Gainesville. Ramirez is survived by his wife and two young children, the news site reported.
“Lockup guard slugged this skinny kid. Prosecutors say it’s justified. Here’s the video.” via Carol Marbin Miller of the Miami Herald — Broward County prosecutors have ruled that a former detention center officer was justified when he slugged a 14-year-old boy in the face — breaking the teen’s nose in two places — because the juvenile was aggressive with staff and causing a disturbance in the county’s long-troubled lockup. Former lockup officer Darell Bryant will not face charges as a result of the incident, which occurred Feb. 12, 2017. In a “closeout” memo signed earlier this month, prosecutor Christopher Killoran with the Broward State Attorney’s Office said that Bryant “was justified in his use of force and his actions that day.” Fourteen-year-old Andrew Ostrovsky was sent to the Broward Regional Juvenile Detention Center after being charged with joyriding in his father’s Dodge van in January 2017. Records show he was 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighed 120 pounds. Bryant told a Fort Lauderdale police detective the encounter began when Andrew attempted to fight another juvenile detainee and then became “combative” with staff members who tried to intervene. Andrew, the report said, failed to comply when officers told him to stand against a wall in the dining hall and “calm down.” Bryant said Andrew punched him. The report said Bryant then “redirected” Andrew to the ground. To view the video, click the image below:
“Florida Bar seeks early win in traffic ticket firm case” via Jim Rosica of Florida Politics — The Bar is asking the state’s Supreme Court to give it the “W” in a case against an upstart Miami firm that’s allegedly practicing law without a license. In its case against TIKD, The Bar is requesting for a “judgment on the pleadings,” bypassing oral arguments “when the outcome of the case rests on the court’s interpretation of the law.” The company hires lawyers to fight people’s traffic tickets for them. If TIKD loses, it pays customers’ fines or court costs. The Bar maintains that TIKD is in the wrong, in part because founder and CEO Chris Riley — a U.S. Navy commander-turned entrepreneur — isn’t a lawyer but his company advertises and acts like a law firm.
“Harris files open records suit over statewide radio contract” via Jim Rosica of Florida Politics — A month after losing a contract for the state’s first responder radio system, Harris Corp. has filed a public records lawsuit in Tallahassee. The Melbourne-based company filed its complaint last week. It seeks an “expedited hearing” after it asked for information that its competitor, Motorola Solutions, says is covered by a “trade secrets” exemption. The state on March 14 signaled its intent to go with Motorola over Harris, which held the contract since September 2000. It’s been estimated to cost upward of $18 million a year, funded through a $1 fee tacked on to vehicle registrations. Contenders for state contracts often file public record requests for info from a winning competitor after losing an award.
“NRA supporters hot and bothered over YETI coolers” via Dara Kam of the News Service of Florida — It’s all part of the #BoycottYETI movement launched over the Texas-based company said it no longer wanted to be a vendor for the NRA Foundation. The high-dollar coolers were a huge hit at NRA Foundation banquets and auctions throughout the country, according to an alert sent out by NRA Florida lobbyist Marion Hammer, a onetime president of the national gun-rights group. The foundation events “raise money to support youth programs and education programs nationwide,” Hammer wrote in the alert. “The youth of America who benefit from these programs are the future hunters, hikers, fishermen/women, bikers, campers, wildlife photographers, mountain climbers, sportsmen/women and conservationists who will protect our natural resources and recreational lands,” according to Hammer.
ICYMI: “State tops 100,000 marijuana patients — but don’t expect more providers” via Jim Rosica of Florida Politics — Florida now has topped 100,000 patients in its medical marijuana use registry, according to the Department of Health. But that doesn’t mean the department will issue another four licenses to grow and sell medical marijuana, as provided under state law … Here’s the catch: Those patients have to be “active” and “qualified” … As the department’s own disclaimer says, “Not all patients entered into the medical marijuana use registry apply for medical marijuana use identification cards.” And the number of “approved ID card applications” is only 75,208, according to OMMU records. There are 2,935 applications now being processed.
“Big in Canada: VISIT FLORIDA efforts correlate with increased visitation” via Danny McAuliffe of Florida Politics — Numbers released Monday from VISIT FLORIDA, the state’s public-private marketing agency, indicate that more Canadians are choosing to retreat to the Sunshine State for vacation stays. The uptick follows increased marketing efforts in the United States’ neighbor to the north. Overall visitation saw an increase of 4 percent in 2017 with 3.48 million Canadian visitors — up from 3.35 million in 2016. Between January and November of last year, Canadian air travel to Florida was up 5.9 percent. VISIT FLORIDA in 2017 spent record amounts on advertising the state. According to the agency, ads were segmented across digital, television, out of home, paid social elements, and partnerships … In fall 2017, Toronto saw Florida-focused digital billboards in Yonge-Dundas Square, along with display activations from various Florida destinations in Union Station. In the eyes of Ken Lawson, VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO, the change in visitation numbers is no coincidence. “These increases in Canadian visitation show that our new marketing strategies highlighting the diversity of Florida are working.”
“State/city partnership addresses water woes” via the Pine Island Eagle — Issues with drought conditions in Cape Coral are being reformed, thanks to the recently approved Reservoir Pipeline Project. State Rep. Dane Eagle spearheaded this proposition, filing an appropriations bill for $1,115,000 in state funds, a figure that will be matched by the city. “The city came to me with this important issue and Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto and I worked for two years to get the appropriations bill passed. Water quality and quantity is an important issue for us. The bill was vetoed the first time by Gov. Scott, but we took the time to educate him on why we need this money. The drought last year was a real eye-opener and we hope to be able to have the resources at hand if we were ever again in that situation,” Eagle said. The state funding will be used to engineer, design, and permit a 3.5-mile pipeline from Southwest Aggregates Mining reservoir in south Charlotte County to Gator Slough in northeast Cape Coral.
“Attorney asking to review Andrew Coffey grand jury proceedings” via Karl Etters of the Tallahassee Democrat — A defense attorney for one of the men accused in the hazing death of Coffey claims grand jurors were misled about the fraternity pledge’s past alcohol use. Brian Tannebaum is one of several defense attorneys who say they have found evidence — through the deposition of a friend of Coffey’s, as well as photos and texts from Coffey’s phone – that the 20-year-old from Pompano Beach abused alcohol long before he pledged Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at FSU. But Tannebaum in court filings Friday, said two Leon County grand juries may not have been told that information and were not presented with witnesses who knew it or were asked questions about it. He is asking Leon Circuit Judge Martin Fitzpatrick to release or allow the review of the grand jury transcripts. State Attorney Jack Campbell said he was opposed to the release of grand jury proceedings but declined to discuss specifics. A hearing date on the motion has not been set.
— D.C. MATTERS —
All the prayers – “George H.W. Bush admitted to Houston hospital” via Axios — Former president Bush was admitted to the Houston Methodist Hospital Sunday morning after contracting an infection that spread to his blood … “He is responding to treatments and appears to be recovering,” the statement read. George was admitted to the hospital the day after attending the funeral of his wife of 73 years of marriage, former First Lady Barbara Bush.
“The Republican National Committee spent over $250,000 at Trump-owned Florida properties in March” via Kirby Wilson of the Tampa Bay Times — The RNC shelled out $222,071.28 at Mar-a-Lago for a pair of March fundraisers that netted $12 million for the Committee and the Trump 2020 re-election fund. However, much of that money went toward reimbursing the club for hosting the event … The Committee also spent $29,288.79 at Trump National Doral Miami, according to FEC filings. The expenditures may benefit the Trump brand in ways that dollar figures cannot quantify. Just after he was elected in 2016, Trump told The New York Times that the Trump brand is “certainly a hotter brand than it was before.”
Happening today — Former Trump adviser Omarosa Manigault-Newman will speak to the Tiger Bay Club of Central Florida beginning noon, Country Club of Orlando, 1601 Country Club Dr.
“You know who else uses your Facebook data? Florida lawmakers who grilled Mark Zuckerberg” via Steve Contorno of the Tampa Bay Times — Facebook founder Zuckerberg hardly finished a sentence as U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor peppered him earlier this month with pointed questions about his company’s collection of private data … During his turn with Zuckerberg, Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson accused Facebook of a “pattern of lax data practices.” Yet, both Florida lawmakers have paid Facebook for ads that target users based on the personal information the social media platform collects. “His campaign uses them, just like almost every other campaign these days,” Nelson spokesman Ryan Brown said. Democratic consultant Kevin Cate said the hearings demonstrated lawmakers understand little about how advertisers — including their own campaigns — use Facebook to connect with customers. Most campaigns target voters using the vast personal information collected by the same company Congress spent two days ripping apart, he said. “It’s only hypocritical if they know that it’s going on, but the vast majority have no idea what their campaigns are doing with social targeting,” said Cate, who was contracted earlier this campaign cycle by Nelson.
“Post-Irma ag relief could come soon” via the News Service of Florida — The $2.36 billion Wildfires and Hurricanes Indemnity Program (WHIP) is expected to offer a direct-payments model that would not hold growers to traditional payment limitations and would establish a state-managed program to handle tree losses. Gov. Scott, Agriculture Secretary Putnam and members of Florida’s congressional delegation have lobbied U.S. Agriculture Commissioner Sonny Perdue to speed up the release of the money amid increasing frustration from the state’s citrus growers awaiting federal assistance related to the deadly hurricane. On Wednesday, Perdue told members of the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture that details of the program to distribute funds to farmers impacted by hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, along with California wildfires, should be finalized this week. Perdue also told the subcommittee that farmers should be able to start applying by late June to early July.
What Brian Ballard is reading — “Interior rejected staff advice when scuttling tribes’ casino” via Nick Juliano of POLITICO — Trump administration officials rejected recommendations from federal experts on Indian gaming policy when they blocked two American Indian tribes from opening a casino in Connecticut last year, documents obtained by POLITICO indicate. The heavily blacked-out documents add to questions about whether Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke and his political appointees buckled to lobbying pressure from MGM Resorts International, a gambling industry giant that is planning its own casino just 12 miles from the project proposed by the Mohegan and Mashantucket Pequot tribes. Interior’s inspector general is investigating the department’s handling of the tribes’ casino application, a spokeswoman told POLITICO, after Connecticut lawmakers asked the internal watchdog to look into the matter.
— OPINIONS —
“Marco Rubio: Building a national American conservatism” for National Review — We are in the middle of a geopolitical competition between democracy and dictatorship. In far too many places, authoritarianism seems to be winning, while democracy and liberty are coming under assault. Authoritarian leaders in Russia and China, Turkey, and even the Philippines argue that democracy leads to societal chaos and national decline. They point to the heated divisions and unsolved challenges of the pre-eminent democratic republic in the world, the United States, as Exhibit A. We face an existential challenge to the American cause. It is a bet against the revolutionary idea that a diverse people could use their God-given right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness to establish and maintain a just and prosperous nation. This is why I am, now more than ever, committed to doing all I can to help reinvigorate a national American conservatism that puts the strength of family, community, faith, and work first. Our policy agenda must follow from this goal.
“Joe Henderson: Rick Scott betting his timing is right again” via Florida Politics — Scott was able to rise from an outsider in the business world who had never held elected office to a two-term governor. Now, he is casting his eye toward the U.S. Senate. That brings us to the way he is flooding the TV airwaves now with commercials about term limits for Congress. His Democratic opponent in November, not coincidentally, is three-term Sen. Bill Nelson. At first blush, it might seem like a humongous waste of money on an ad blitz advocating something that is never going to happen. Congress would never pass such a law. But Scott’s camp does need a big share of Florida’s nearly 3.5 million independent voters. He is betting his message of term limits will resonate loudly with them. “Term limits have always been extraordinarily popular with people, especially independents,” Emeritus Professor of Government at USF St. Petersburg Darryl Paulson said. It’s just the latest example of Scott making moves with November in mind … It is an interesting play though, and Scott is betting the timing is right once again.
“A missed chance for open primary elections” via the Tampa Bay Times editorial board — The Florida Constitution Revision Commission did a lot of things wrong this week by combining unrelated or unpalatable provisions into single amendments that will appear on the November ballot. It also wasted an opportunity to do one thing right. The commission foolishly failed to approve an amendment that would have enabled voters to end the scam of using write-in candidates to close primary elections. Voters could not be clearer about what they want. Two decades ago, they approved a constitutional amendment aimed at opening up primary elections to all voters, regardless of party affiliation, when all of the candidates are from one political party and the winner will take office. Yet the primary elections have been remaining closed when write-in candidates sign up. Never mind that the names of those candidates never appear on the ballot and that they never win … maybe by 2038 changes also will be made to the CRC so this week’s fiasco won’t be repeated.
— FOR YOUR RADAR —
Per usual, Trimmel Gomes’ podcast is informative and refreshing, helping listeners keep up with the quick pace of Florida politics.
Inside The Rotunda podcast this week are clips from former Gov. Jeb Bush’s touching eulogy of his late mother, former First Lady Barbara Bush, along with insights from a leading member of the Constitution Revision Commission and a quick interview with Oscar Psychas, one of the kid plaintiffs in a high-profile climate change lawsuit against the state.
At the heart of the episode — as its title foretells — is the issue of bundled CRC ballot proposals, such as bans on oil drilling and vaping. The coupling of ideas has come under fire. “It’s like BOGO deals when it comes to amending Florida’s Constitution,” quipped Gomes. But it’s defended by guest Tim Cerio, who served as the Rules Chair of the 37-person panel.
From Cerio: The commissioner explained that bundling is a tool that dates back to earlier commissions. It’s provoked criticism from some — commissioners included — but Cerio maintained the key point is that ballot language should be easy to understand, which he said was accomplished. “I think for the most part everyone agrees that the ballot summary language we are presenting to voters is clear and concise and not confusing or misleading.”
On Marsy’s Law: Cerio sponsored the victims’ rights proposal known as Marsy’s Law. It will appear on the November ballot and seeks to entitle victims to protections and information on court proceedings. The Rules Chair said “time after time” members of the public expressed a need to the commission for such rights.
Parkland parallels: Psychas, a 20-year-old Gainesville native, told Gomes, in a small gesture to Parkland-inspired activism, that “young people are starting to hold government accountable.”
— MOVEMENTS —
“Alex Sink turned a statewide election defeat into a new career: Startup sage.” via Mark Gordon of Business Observer — Starting about five years ago Sink, who grew up on a hog farm in Mount Airy North Carolina, began to find her new career passion: helping tech startups grow and prosper. She’s been a senior adviser for Hyde Park Capital Investments, a prominent Tampa firm, and she founded a nonprofit that supports entrepreneurs in several communities statewide, the Florida Next Foundation. Her latest gig, and her highest-profile post since she ran for governor, is chairwoman-elect of Tampa Bay Wave, a nonprofit dedicated to helping entrepreneurs build, launch, and grow breakout tech businesses. Sink’s chairwomanship begins in November. Says Sink: “Our goal is to get these companies investor-ready.” Sink, 69, joins several others in getting behind the area’s startup scene, from Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeff Vinik to a dozen or so co-work spaces and incubators that dot the town. “I really believe we are at a tipping point,” says Sink, adding while a corporate headquarters is nice, local companies are the lifeblood of a community.
“Group targets Everglades Foundation board member for support of Harvey Weinstein” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO Florida — A group called Women United Now sent letters to members of Florida‘s congressional delegation protesting Paul Tudor Jones II remaining on the board of the Everglades Foundation because of his support for disgraced Hollywood producer Weinstein. The group in February began staging protests against Jones, who resigned from the board of Weinstein’s company in October. But Jones told Weinstein in an email that sexual abuse allegations against him would blow over … Jones is a billionaire hedge fund investor who has supported the Everglades Foundation and contributed to political candidates in Florida. “Our nation has come a long way toward changing the dangerous and sexist culture women have faced for generations,” Women United Now said in the letter sent to the delegation. “However, some individuals and groups continue to foster a culture where rich and powerful men can harass women without recourse. The Everglades Foundation is one such group.”
Spotted: Brian Ballard’s firm in the latest “POLITICO Influence” email — His Ballard Partners comes in at No. 12 in the website’s listing of Lobbying Disclosure Act revenue rankings for the first quarter of 2018. The firm reported “$4 million (versus $3.6 million in Q4 2017 and $1.3 million in Q1 2017).”
— ALOE —
“AAA: Florida gas prices are now the highest in more than three years” via FOX 13 News — Sunday’s national average for gas prices were $2.76 per gallon, which is the highest daily average since July 2015, according to a report by AAA. Florida’s state average surpassed last year’s high of $2.73 by one cent Thursday, becoming the highest daily average price since December 2014. It costs $5 more to fill the average size gasoline tank, compared to this time last year. AAA says oil prices are higher than a year ago due to global demand and reduced supply, and it’s possible it can continue to increase. The most expensive gas prices in Florida are in West Palm Beach, Fort Walton Beach and Fort Lauderdale areas. The least expensive is found in Punta Gorda, Orlando and Jacksonville areas.
“Big visitor calls at Port Tampa Bay” via Richard Danielson of the Tampa Bay Times — The 750-foot-long Ireland, one of the biggest cargo vessels ever to call at Port Tampa Bay, arrived Sunday. The Ireland is on its inaugural voyage, having left a shipyard in China for a stop in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula to pick up 64,865 short tons of limestone for delivery to Tampa. Like granite, steel and cement, limestone is in heavy demand right now by the bay area’s booming construction industry. The Ireland is owned by Vulcan Materials Co., of Birmingham, Alabama, the nation’s largest producer of construction aggregates like crushed stone and gravel and a tenant of 23 acres at Port Tampa Bay since 1991. Named one of the “Great Ships of 2017” by Maritime Reporting & Engineering News, the Ireland can unload 4,500 metric tons of cargo per hour.
“The craft beer industry’s buzz is wearing off” via Rachel Siegel of The Washington Post — A new report by the Brewers Association — a trade association representing small and independent American craft brewers — showed that craft brewers saw a 5 percent rise in production volume in 2017. Yet with that growth comes an increasingly crowded playing field, leading to more closures of small craft breweries. In 2017, there were nearly 1,000 new brewery openings nationwide and 165 closures — a closing rate of 2.6 percent. That’s a 42 percent jump from 2016, when 116 craft breweries closed. Experts say saturation is still some time away, and that pullback is inevitable for any booming industry that, with time, begins to mature. “We have seen a little bit of deceleration,” said Bart Watson, chief economist of the Brewers Association. “When you’re talking about an industry that sells tens of billions of dollars a year, it’s hard to grow at double-digit rates.”
“Disney World hiring 3,500, offers signing bonuses up to $3,000” via Paul Brinkmann of the Orlando Sentinel — in an ever-tightening job market, Disney World is doubling its hiring bonuses for some summer jobs, even for unskilled or part-time positions … A housekeeper hired this year at Disney World’s resorts can get a hiring bonus of $1,250 for a job that pays $10.50 per hour. That’s up from last year’s $500 hiring bonus. And it’s for full-time or part-time hires. Full-time or part-time lifeguards this year can get a $1000 hiring bonus, double what the entertainment giant offered last year, and that is for full-time or part-time jobs, according to job postings. Seasonal lifeguards get a $500 bonus. Bus drivers can get a $500 hiring bonus — the same as last year. Culinary chefs can get a $3,000 bonus. The bonuses are given after training periods and 30 days on the job.
“Florida Aquarium gears up for 17th annual SeaGrapes Festival” via Sean Streicher of WTSP — The Florida Aquarium’s 17th Annual SeaGrapes Wine and Food Festival is set for Saturday, April 28. 100 percent of the proceeds go back to the aquarium to help them “entertain, educate and inspire stewardship of the natural environment.” This year’s festival will feature over 150 different types of wine, and food from more than 20 Tampa Bay restaurants. There will be live entertainment and after-hours access to all of the aquarium’s exhibits. General admission tickets are still available. They cost $125 and include the following: Unlimited wine tasting; unlimited food tasting; access to all Aquarium exhibits and select outdoor areas; live entertainment that changes throughout the Aquarium galleries; complimentary valet parking available at the Aquarium’s main entrance; optional Sunset Cruise on the Bay which departs from Aquarium wharf at 7 p.m. and returns at 8:15 p.m. Boarding begins promptly at 6:45 p.m.
Happy birthday to state House candidate Berny Jacques, our favorite St. Petersburg City Councilmember, Ed Montanari, Samantha Pollara, and Corcoran & Johnston’s Amanda Stewart.
