Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 11.27.18

Sunrise in Miami

Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics.

By Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel McAuliffe, Jim Rosica, and Drew Wilson.

Two late-developing nuggets to share before we hit send on this morning’s edition of Sunburn:

— Gov.-elect Ron DeSantis is headed to Scottsdale, Arizona today to take part in the annual gathering of the Republican Governors Association. We’re not sure how this will impact the roll-out of agency heads or additional staff hires (or details about the angled-for Inaugural Committee) but it’s DeSantis’s first out-of-state trip since winning the election, so keep an eye on what happens out West.

— Leon Co. GOP Chaiman Evan Power will make an announcement this morning that will impact the race for chair of the Republican Party of Florida. Current chair Blaise Ingoglia‘s term ends later this year and he’s said to want a third term. Despite the party’s electoral wins, the Florida GOP is a fractured organization. Will Power step up to challenge Ingoglia? Is Ingoglia even running for re-election? We’ll find out more today.

—

Senate President Bill Galvano on Monday finalized the committee structure and made appointments to (the) Senate’s standing committees.

“In making these committee assignments, I have worked to incorporate the interests stated on your subject matter preference forms as well as your comments from our personal conversations,” the Bradenton Republican said in a memo to members.

“Additionally, a general comment from Senators has been the desire to serve on fewer committees, allowing more time to focus on specific subject areas. I have worked to honor that request.”

But Galvano also significantly tweaked the committee structure for 2018-20. For example (from the memo):

— The Committee on Communications, Energy, and Public Utilities and the Committee on Regulated Industries are combined to form the more expansive and flexible Committee on Innovation, Industry, and Technology, which will be chaired by Sen. (Wilton) Simpson.

Here’s why: “Maximizing opportunities to expand our state’s economic footprint is critically important … (W)ith proper planning we can attract technology, not just tourists. We can be the target for venture capital, job creators, and startups.”

— Structurally, the Committee on Appropriations reverts to the smaller subcommittee format utilized during the 2014-16 legislative term:

The Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education and the Appropriations Subcommittee on PreK-12 Education are combined as the Appropriations Subcommittee on Education.

The Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government and the Appropriations Subcommittee on the Environment and Natural Resources are combined as the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government.

The Committee on Finance and Tax is a standing committee, rather than an Appropriations Subcommittee.

— The Committee on Transportation is expanded to include all matters of security and is renamed the Committee on Infrastructure and Security.

Domestic security matters previously considered by Military and Veterans Affairs will now fall under the purview of this committee, which will be chaired by (Sen. Tom) Lee.

— With planning for the 2020 Census underway, the Committee on Reapportionment returns to the committee structure as a standing committee. Galvano said he does not intend to appoint committee members at this time.

—“Rob Bradley again helms Senate budget process” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics 

—“David Simmons to chair Senate Judiciary; other Central Florida Senate committee seats announced” via Scott Powers of Orlando Rising 

—“Familiar faces will lead Senate education committees” via Jeffrey Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times

—“South Florida represents: Lauren Book, Manny Diaz named Senate committee chairs” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics 

—“Tampa Bay lawmakers get Senate committee leadership posts” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@RealDonaldTrump: Mexico should move the flag-waving Migrants, many of whom are stone cold criminals, back to their countries. Do it by plane, do it by bus, do it anyway you want, but they are NOT coming into the U.S.A. We will close the Border permanently if need be. Congress, fund the WALL!

—@DJGroup: Pleased for the state to see @ShaneStrum as @RonDeSantisFL COS, he will serve well. Known Shane since we qualified as Young Republicans, so yeah it’s been awhile. Congratulations and all the best.

—@BillGalvano: Pleased to announce @Rob_Bradley will continue to serve as Chair of the @FLSenate Committee on Appropriations. Over the last year, Senator Bradley has impressed all of us by his ability to quickly and comprehensively take on the responsibility of chairing the full committee.

—@JeffreyBrandes: There is no current issue in #Florida as challenging as criminal justice reform. I am honored to lead the Florida Senate Justice Appropriations Committee as we cast a bold vision for the future.

—@Fineout: Ok @brianjburgess — if you really had asked me, I would have said getting my public records requests filled in by the Scott administration before he leaves town for good would top my Christmas wish list.

—@MearKat00: We are a women’s soccer school.

—@Scott_Maxwell: CyberMonday seems like a good time to reignite the fight against the dastardly bastardization of the word “BOGO.” If a retailer says you can buy something for full price — and then get another for a slightly reduced price, that is NOT a BOGO. Please, America. Let’s unite on this

— DAYS UNTIL —

Hanukkah begins — 5; Partial government shutdown — 10; 2019 Session Interim Committee Meetings begin — 18; 116th Congress convenes — 37; Florida’s gubernatorial inauguration — 42; ‘Hamilton’ comes to the Straz Center — 77; 2019 Legislative Session starts — 98; Tampa mayoral election — 98; ‘Captain Marvel’ release — 102; Iowa Caucuses — 433; 2020 General Election — 707.

— TOP STORY —

“Ron DeSantis taps Shane Strum for chief of staff” via Florida Politics — Strum will be DeSantis‘ chief of staff when he takes office in January, the Governor-elect announced Monday. “I am very pleased to announce that Shane is returning to public service and bringing his expertise to our administration,” said DeSantis in a prepared statement. Strum has been senior vice president at South Florida’s Memorial Healthcare System. He also was a 2010 transition adviser to now-outgoing Gov. Rick Scott, and has been a chief of staff before, under former Republican Gov. Charlie Crist.

Tweet, tweet:

Huge congratulations to Shane and to our Governor-elect @RonDesantisFL on an amazing hire. Shane’s public and private sector experiences will be an asset to our great state. #flapol https://t.co/zCq0JRWfbB

— Jimmy Patronis (@JimmyPatronis) November 26, 2018

“DeSantis sends warning to Airbnb” via John Lucas of The Capitolist — DeSantis … criticize(d) Airbnb for taking “steps against Israel” with recent business decisions that have been hailed as a victory for the anti-Semitic “Boycott, Divest, Sanctions” movement. DeSantis warned the company that if it continues, Florida will look to take steps against them. Airbnb recently decided to remove listings of rentals in Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

— ROAD TO SESSION —

“Trio of lawmakers joins House Democratic leadership” via Florida Politics — Democratic state Reps. Geraldine Thompson, Dianne Hart, and Ben Diamond have been named floor leaders, House Democratic Leader Kionne L. McGhee announced Monday. “As we transition into a new legislative year, I am confident of the progress this caucus will achieve,” McGhee said in a statement … The newly appointed floor leaders “will serve as liaisons between the Democratic Leader and the Office of the Speaker and Rules Committee,” a news release explained. “They will also manage the debate of Democratic members when special procedures have been implemented on bills and amendments for floor debates.”

“Lawmakers seek help for workers exposed to arsenic” via the News Service of Florida — Two Jacksonville Democrats have filed bills seeking $10 million in state money to help former employees of a wood-treating facility who were exposed to arsenic. Rep. Tracie Davis, a Jacksonville Democrat, filed a proposal (HB 6501) that is identical to a bill (SB 52) filed earlier by Senate Minority Leader Audrey Gibson, also of Jacksonville. The measures seek money to compensate former employees of Wood Treaters, LLC in Jacksonville. Also, the bills call for the Florida Department of Health to work with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to put together data about the former employees’ exposure to arsenic, which would help determine the health risks.

“Senator takes aim again at garden regulations” via the News Service of Florida — After being unable to get the House to go along during the 2018 Legislative Session, state Sen. Rob Bradley will try again to prevent local governments from regulating homeowners’ vegetable gardens. Bradley last week filed a bill (SB 82) that would largely bar regulations on vegetable gardens on residential property. The bill stems from a legal dispute between homeowners Hermine Ricketts and Laurence Carroll and the Village of Miami Shores over an ordinance that banned front-yard vegetable gardens. The couple had maintained a front-yard garden for nearly two decades but uprooted their vegetables when faced with the possibility of fines. They challenged the constitutionality of the ordinance but lost in court.

“Voting before age 18? A new bill makes that possible” via Florida Politics — If a bill filed recently in the Florida Senate becomes law, voters who are under the age of 18 may be able to vote in the Presidential preference primary. SB 56, filed by South Florida Democrat Perry Thurston, would permit preregistered voters under the age of 18 to vote in presidential primaries only. The stipulation: They have to turn 18 between the primary and the general election. This would not apply to down-ballot races. A third of the states already allow this practice.

“Familiar issues top Florida League of Cities’ legislative priorities” via Danny McAuliffe of Florida Politics — The League coalesced around five priorities ahead of the 2019 Session during its recent annual legislative conference in Orlando. One of the most recognizable and recurring positions is the League’s stance on short-term vacation rentals. The group supports legislation “that restores local zoning authority with respect to short-term rental properties thereby preserving the integrity of Florida’s residential neighborhoods and communities,” according to its priorities list. Also, on the League’s radar are any forthcoming bills that might address community redevelopment agencies, or CRAs … bills related to reforming the Communications Services Tax and transportation funding, as well as any legislative changes to the state’s water quality and supply.

— COURTING —

It’s time to whittle down the list for new justices.

The Florida Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission meets Tuesday to decide on whom to recommend to Gov.-electDeSantis to fill three soon-to-be-empty seats on the state’s highest court.

Current Justices Barbara Pariente, R. Fred Lewis and Peggy A. Quince will be leaving in January because of the state’s mandatory retirement age for judges and justices.

There are 59 attorneys and sitting judges who have applied for a seat, and they were interviewed in Tampa and Orlando.

Here’s what’s at stake: The next justices will likely determine the ideological balance of the court.

Pariente, Lewis, and Quince are regarded as the liberal-leaning contingent; Chief Justice Charles Canady and Justices Ricky Polston and Alan Lawson are the conservatives.

Justice Jorge Labarga can be a swing vote, though he has begun more often voting with the conservative bloc.

The commission will go over the names and can recommend as few as nine or as many as 18 people for the three openings.

The commission meets at 11:30 a.m., Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, Orlando International Airport, 1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd., Orlando, but pursuant to … the Florida Constitution, proceedings involving deliberations are not open to the public.

— STATEWIDE —

“Authorities: Hurricane Michael killed at least 43 in Florida” via The Associated Press — Florida Division of Emergency Management spokesman Alberto Moscoso said two more deaths were confirmed in hard-hit Bay County, raising the total there to 23. Florida has also raised the toll in Jackson and Washington counties to four deaths in each county. The new totals also include one death in Leon County, one death in Franklin County and one death in Wakulla County. Gulf County had three deaths, Gadsden and Liberty counties had two deaths, while Clay and Calhoun counties each had one death.

—”Hurricane Michael emphasizes the need for public safety radio communications” via Florida Politics

“VISIT FLORIDA: State on track for record tourism by end of 2018” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — It looks like 2018 will be another record year for tourism in Florida, which could be good news both for the hospitality industry and for agencies promoting the state in the nation and abroad. Gov. Scott announced Florida welcomed 95.8 million visitors from January through September, nearly a 7-percent increase from the 89.8 million tourists in the Sunshine State in the first three-quarters of 2017. “I am proud to announce that Florida’s tourism industry is continuing to set records to help our state’s economic growth,” Scott said. “Since December 2010, Florida has welcomed a record number of travelers for 27 quarters and had seven consecutive years of record visitation and visitor spending.”

“Supreme Court gives go-ahead to judicial appointment” via Jim Saunders of the News Service of Florida — With one dissenting justice calling the situation a “travesty,” the state Supreme Court on Monday tossed out a challenge to Gov. Scott’s authority to appoint a replacement for a retiring Northeast Florida circuit judge. The Supreme Court, in a 4-3 decision, said it would not rule on the case — effectively keeping in place a lower-court ruling that backed Scott’s authority. But in a one-page order, the majority said it was dismissing the case and that the earlier decision to hear it had been “improvidently granted.” The case centered on whether Scott — or voters — should pick a replacement for 4th Judicial Circuit Judge Robert Foster, who was originally slated to leave office Jan. 7, 2019, which would have been the end of his term because of a mandatory retirement age. But on April 2, Foster sent a letter to Scott making the resignation effective Dec. 31, four business days ahead of schedule.

“Video tour of Florida’s death row shows how inmates live as they await execution” via Dan Sullivan of the Tampa Bay Times — The Florida Department of Corrections provided a video recording of death row in connection with a request from the Tampa Bay Times last month for information on dealing with contraband in the state prison system. It is a view that few people outside the prison system ever see. Inside these cells at the Union Correctional Institution near Raiford, and in a few more at adjacent facilities, some 345 people await execution. A typical death row cell includes a thin mattress, a steel sink and toilet combination, a locker, and a small table for writing. An inmate spends an average of 23 hours a day inside the cells. When a death warrant is signed, an inmate is moved to one of the “death watch” cells at Florida State Prison. The cells, adjacent to the execution chamber, are slightly larger than regular death row cells.

To view the video, click on the image below:

FBI’s post-Parkland report sidesteps tipoff question — A new report put out by the FBI contains no mention of what the bureau did after receiving multiple tips regarding the shooter who killed 17 people at a Parkland high school in February. Parkland city commissioners and Pinellas Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, who chairs the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Commission, were expecting the FBI to provide some details on how it handled the case. Rather than providing those details, the report focuses on what the bureau has done to improve its public hotline in the months since the massacre. To that end, the FBI said it has put in place a system “key threat word list” that will pipe hotline tips with certain keywords to an agent so it can be reviewed. Some of the tips the FBI received on the MSD shooter explicitly described him as a future “school shooter.”

“No, SunPass STILL isn’t fixed yet (Day 179)” via Noah Pransky of WTSP — Tens of thousands of Florida drivers are about to get hit with monster SunPass bills, but the state still doesn’t know if it will come before or after Christmas. This comes after the Florida Department of Transportation and Gov. Scott administration promised Toll-by-Plate (TBP) invoices would be sent in November after missing a previous promise date in October. TBP bills have not been sent to customers since a system overhaul went terribly wrong in early June. Hundreds of thousands of SunPass customers use the toll-by-place invoice option. “Until we are 100% confident that invoices are accurate, Toll-By-Plate invoices will not be sent to customers,” FDOT Deputy Communications Director Tom Yu wrote. “Customers continue not to be charged any late fees on their Toll-By-Plate accounts and will continue to have the Flex Pay option to pay their invoices.”

“State geologist challenging springs action plan raised questions before” via Dinah Voyles Pulver of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — When groups across the state challenged new springs protection rules published by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection over the summer, one name stood out: Thomas Greenhalgh. Greenhalgh, a hydrogeologist who works for the DEP’s Florida Geological Survey, surprised many by taking the rare step of challenging his own agency’s proposed action plan for improving water quality in the springs in the Suwannee River basin. Echoing concerns voiced by Volusia County officials and environmental advocates, Greenhalgh’s letter stated the springs plans made claims that are “inaccurate and unsubstantiated.

“Whether JEA did background checks on CEO finalist remains unclear” via Nate Monroe of the Florida Times-Union — It’s not clear what kind of background check — if any — the JEA board of directors has to review before selecting one of three finalists to become the utility’s permanent chief executive officer, a closely watched decision that will set the course for one of the nation’s largest municipal electric, water and sewer agencies for years. JEA acknowledged receiving a request on the background reports but did not respond Monday evening with the reports or confirming whether any such check was done by Heidrick & Struggles, the executive search firm assisting JEA. The question is a significant one because it’s not clear the board did any due diligence before hiring interim CEO Aaron Zahn earlier this year. His candidacy has generated controversy because of a perception by some JEA employees and outside observers that the fix is in for him to get the permanent job.

“Company fires employee after racially charged post targeting FSU coach Willie Taggart” via TaMaryn Waters and Karl Etters of the Tallahassee Democrat — Hilton Grand Vacations has fired an employee who posted a picture on social media that showed a lynching of Florida State head coach Taggart. The Orlando-based company initially suspended its team member while it investigated the racist post. By midafternoon, it went further. “Our concern regarding this situation has been a top priority,” said Lauren George, a spokeswoman for Hilton Grand Vacations. “The person responsible for posting this information has been terminated. His behavior was in violation of multiple company policies and the furthest example from being a reflection of our company’s values.” George declined to confirm the name and length of tenure of the employee, citing confidentiality. The post has been linked to a Tom Shand‘s social media account.

—“Marco Rubio blasts ‘stupid’ FSU fan … over racist Taggart image” via TMZ Sports

— HAPPENING TODAY —

The Florida Chamber of Commerce 2018 Insurance Summit begins, with business leaders, industry experts and elected officials discussing crucial issues facing insurers, businesses and consumers. Key speakers throughout the two-day event include CFO Jimmy Patronis, Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Commissioner David Altmaier, Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund COO Anne Bert, former St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Baker and Florida International University Wall of Wind Challenge winners from Miami Coral Park Senior High School. Hospitality desk/check-in opens 3 p.m., welcoming reception begins at 5 p.m., JW Marriott Miami, 1109 Brickell Avenue, Miami.

The 2018 Autonomous Vehicle Summit shifts into gear today at the Tampa Marriott Waterside. Topics will cover not only what the future of driving technology holds, but how it plays out in everything from architecture and land use to finance and mobility. More than a dozen speakers are lined up for the two-day summit. “The summit is not just about autonomous cars, but how it will shape cities in a modern world,” said Sen. Jeff Brandes, who champions emerging technology as a solution for long-standing issues in the state.

The state Public Service Commission meets to consider giving approval to a long-discussed plan by Florida Power & Light to purchase the city of Vero Beach’s utility system, as well as take up issues related to the impact of last year’s federal tax overhaul on Florida Public Utilities Co., 9:30 a.m., Betty Easley Conference Center, 4075 Esplanade Way, Tallahassee.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Donald Trump rejects dire climate change report by his own administration: ‘I don’t believe it’” via The Associated Press — The National Climate Assessment, quietly unveiled, warns that natural disasters are worsening in the United States because of global warming. It says warming-charged extremes “have already become more frequent, intense, widespread or of long duration.” The report notes the last few years have smashed U.S. records for damaging weather, costing nearly $400 billion since 2015. Trump says, “I don’t believe it.” Trump, administration officials and elected Republicans frequently say they can’t tell how much of climate change is caused by humans and how much is natural.

“Watchdog office to probe Mar-a-Lago members’ influence at VA” via Lorraine Woellert of POLITICO Florida — The GAO will investigate whether members of Mar-a-Lago improperly influenced the Department of Veterans Affairs, including over a $10 billion contract to modernize veterans’ health records. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Brian Schatz had requested an investigation in August following reports that Trump confidant Ike Perlmutter, chairman of Marvel Entertainment, and Bruce Moskowitz, a West Palm Beach doctor, used their access to the club — and the president — to delay and shape a plan to overhaul digital health records at the VA. “GAO accepts your request as work that is within the scope of its authority,” the watchdog office said in its response, which was dated Nov. 19. “At the current time, we anticipate that staff with the required skills will be available to initiate an engagement in about five months.” Warren and Schatz asked the VA inspector general and the GAO to probe a trio of Mar-a-Lago-linked men, which also includes lawyer Marc Sherman. The GAO said it would coordinate with the inspector general’s office.

“Stephanie Murphy, Darren Soto, ‘Problem Solvers’ pushing Nancy Pelosi for three concessions” via Scott Powers of Florida Politics — The nine insurgent Democrats of the congressional Problem Solvers Caucus including U.S. Reps. Murphy and Soto are down to pushing Minority Leader Pelosi for three key concessions before agreeing to support her for House Speaker. The three concessions call for two changes that would require debates and votes on bills that get specific numbers of co-sponsors, and one change demanding that every member be allowed to have at least one bill debated and voted on in committee. The caucus, broadly a bipartisan group of centrist lawmakers, initially made 12 demands of House rules reforms in June. The caucus said it has Pelosi’s backing on three of those already, and the three highlighted would make six of the original 12. Otherwise, Murphy, Soto and the other seven Democrats would consider withholding any votes for Pelosi in the January House Speaker election.

“James Mattis introduces new Southcom commander, praises unity in western hemisphere” via Sanya Mansoor of the Miami Herald — Adm. Craig Faller was named the new commander of the Miami-based U.S. Southern Command. U.S. Secretary of Defense Mattis said the agency will continue to collaborate with neighboring countries to “protect our people” from the effects of mother nature’s storms, drug trafficking and terrorism. “There is more in this hemisphere that binds us together than drives us apart,” Mattis told civil and military leaders, foreign ministers and others at a ceremony inside the gym on the campus of Southcom in Doral. He said the United States prides itself on mutual respect and stable military ties with many of its neighbors, but not those “suffering under the unfortunate leadership in Cuba and Venezuela.” Faller assumes the new role from Adm. Kurt Tidd, who has been leading the agency for almost three years. Both have extensive experience in the navy.

— EPILOGUE —

“What you should know about the closest U.S. Senate race in Florida history” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — Outgoing GOP Gov. Scott managed to defeat incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson by just 0.12 percentage points after the final manual recount totals were posted. An analysis by Dr. Eric Ostermeier over at the University of Minnesota’s Smart Politics blog shows how extraordinary this year’s U.S. Senate race was. Before 2018, the closest U.S. Senate race in Florida was held in 1988. U.S. Sen. Lawton Chiles, the Democratic incumbent, had elected not to run for a fourth term. That led to a pair of three-term congressmen to face off for the post, with Republican Connie Mack III coming out on top, defeating Democratic opponent Buddy MacKay by just over 30,000 votes out of more than 4 million cast, giving him a margin of victory of 0.85 percentage points. Scott’s margin of 0.12 percentage points easily bests that mark. While the closeness of the vote in Florida may be surprising to some, here is a number to remember the next time you debate whether it’s worth it to cast a vote during an election year: in 10 of the last 12 election cycle, at least one U.S. Senate race has been decided by less than a percentage point.

“Bill Nelson implores Senate: ‘Move beyond a politics that aims not just to defeat but to destroy’” via Steve Contorno of the Tampa Bay Times — Addressing the Senate for the first time since losing his re-election bid to Scott, the Democratic Senator reiterated much of what he said in a concession message last week to supporters. But he added a call for the next Senate — and its next Senator — to protect Florida’s environment and its coastline from pollution. “I will fight on to save this planet, our homes, and our cities from the spreading plague of greenhouse gases that infect our atmosphere and play havoc with our weather and risk the planet, our children and grandchildren will inherit.” Nelson also called for a return to civility in politics and the Senate. “We have to move beyond a politics that aims not just to defeat but to destroy, where truth is treated as disposable, where falsehoods abound, and the free press is assaulted as the enemy of the people.”

To view a portion of Nelson’s speech, click on the image below:

“Constitutional assault weapons ban filed for 2020” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — The amendment, sponsored by Ban Assault Weapons Now (BAWN), would bar possession of “any semi-automatic rifle or shotgun capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition at once.” The restriction would not apply to handguns. For those who already own the potentially barred weapons, they would be required to register the weapon “by make, model, and serial number with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.” Absent that, possession of the weapons after a year of the amendment’s effective date would be illegal. BAWN is a Miami-based political committee primarily comprised of family members of mass shooting victims at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and Pulse nightclub. No less than 766,200 signatures were required for amendments to appear on this year’s ballot. That number will likely rise for 2020.

“Dana Cottrell already poised for another long shot congressional run” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Cottrell, a Spring Hill Democrat, already has filed to challenge U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster in Florida’s 11th Congressional District in 2020. The career educator ran this year and lost to the Clermont Republican by more than 29 percentage points, 65-35. “While disappointing, it’s now time for us to come together and hold him to the promises we seek,” Cottrell wrote on Twitter Nov. 6, “making sure affordable health care, equality, improved education, and a clean environment is available to everyone.” She apparently plans to provide accountability for Webster with another long-shot bid.

“Joe Gruters stepping down as Sarasota GOP chair after 10 years” via Zac Anderson of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Having just won a state Senate seat, and with three young children and an accounting firm that he co-owns, Gruters said he wants to turn over the chairman position to someone who can devote more time to the job. “There comes a time when for the greater good of the organization you should step aside,” Gruters said. Gruters recently had finished guiding U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan to re-election when he took over as party chair in December 2008 at the age of 31. Whether Gruters can take credit for more decisive GOP victories countywide in recent years is debatable. But his admirers say his approach has helped galvanize the GOP base in Sarasota County. Big crowds at events — and at the free rallies Gruters also organized — helped make Sarasota an attractive stop for Republicans with presidential ambitions. But it is the Trump connection that has drawn the most attention to Gruters, the local party and the community.

— OPINIONS —

“Chris Hand: First priority for 2019 Session — election reform” via Florida Politics —  Six actions legislators could take … Eliminate potential conflicts of interests. … Allocate funds for voting equipment. While overheated voting machines in Palm Beach County have received most of the recent media attention, that equipment malfunction was not an isolated incident or breaking news. … Fix ballot design problems with help from Supervisors of Elections. … Reschedule primary elections. Voters are (now) tasked with choosing congressional or state government nominees right before Labor Day … Move to a “Top Two” voting system. Since nearly 30 percent of all Florida voters are neither Democrats nor Republicans, it is fundamentally unfair to deny those citizens the ability to participate in primary elections. … Increase turnout with same-day voter registration. … Ease voting by mail. This task starts with finding a better way to verify mail ballots than the signature match.

“Matt Mitchell: Be like Melinda” via Florida Politics — The moment she figured it out, Melinda Fryman’s face fell. … [Columbia County’s] document-feeders were identifying and rejecting any ballot with a write-in vote for U.S. Senate, Governor or Commissioner of Agriculture. … it was a systemic error that would have had an infinitesimally small impact on the elections’ outcomes. On balance, it may have caused no harm nor benefit to any candidate. But in that moment, Melinda looked utterly crestfallen. You would have thought the entire election rested on her shoulders and her mistake would have destroyed everything. … Yet, in spite of the embarrassment and public pressure, Melinda did the right thing. … My fellow Floridians, you should be proud of the process that took place this month, as tense and stressful as it can be. And you should be incensed that some bad actors have not treated you with the respect you deserve as a citizen of this state. … I have some free advice for Susan Bucher, Brenda Snipes’ replacement and the people who staff up the systemically broken offices in Broward and Palm Beach counties: Be like Melinda.

— MOVEMENTS —

Personnel note: Lester Bass appointed to 4th Circuit Court — Gov. Scott announced the appointment on Monday. Bass, 55, of Jacksonville, has served as a Duval County Judge since 2014. He previously served for 11 years as a General Magistrate and Hearing Officer in the same Judicial Circuit, and also served as an Assistant Public Defender, Assistant State Attorney, and as an attorney with Jacksonville Area Legal Aid. Bass received his undergraduate degree from Duke University and his law degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He fills a vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Robert M. Foster. The move followed the state Supreme Court earlier Monday tossing out a challenge to Scott’s authority to appoint the replacement, effectively keeping in place a lower-court ruling that backed Scott’s appointment power. Jacksonville attorney David Trotti, who wanted to run for the seat, had filed a lawsuit.

“Cesar Fernandez joins Converge Government Affairs” via Florida Politics — Public policy whiz Fernandez has joined Converge Government Affairs, the growing Miami-based lobby shop founded by veteran influencer Jonathan Kilman. … Three years ago, Florida Politics named Fernandez one of its “30-under-30 rising stars” in Florida politics — and his star has only risen since. … The Miami native and University of Florida alumnus did his time on the campaign grind before ride-sharing company Uber snapped him up to serve on their in-house lobbying team in early 2015. During his time on the job, he managed the company’s government affairs work before state and local governments in Florida for three years and was instrumental in the passage of the landmark statewide ride-sharing regulation bill during the 2017 Legislative Session. … “We couldn’t be more excited to have Cesar join Converge,” Kilman said. “His experience advocating across both sides of the aisle to solve tough problems at the forefront of the innovation and technology sector will provide enormous value to our clients.” … Fernandez joins Converge’s statewide lobbying practice and will be based out of the firm’s Miami HQ.

“Justin Hollis tapped as new Beer Industry of Florida head” via Florida Politics — The Beer Industry of Florida announced Monday that it’s bringing on Hollis to replace exiting President Eric Criss, effective Dec. 1. … “We are looking forward to the energy, enthusiasm and expertise that Justin Hollis will bring to us in Tallahassee and around the state,” said Doug Cone, who chairs the beer distributor trade group and also runs Cone Distributing. … Hollis is one of Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam’s longtime strategists and served as the chair of the Bartow Republican’s political committee, Florida Grown PC, throughout Putnam’s gubernatorial campaign. With Hollis as chair, that committee reeled in more than $29.5 million in contributions. … “I imagine it’s rare for others to find professional opportunities that are so closely aligned with one’s personal passions. I’m thrilled to take the helm of an organization that’s goals are good business, excellent taste and pure enjoyment,” he said.

“Post-transplant, ‘Louis Betz 2.0’ to push for organ procurement changes” via Florida Politics — In 2013, Betz was diagnosed with a terminal lung disease and his only chance at survival was a double lung transplant, which he received last month with little time to spare. With his new lease on life, Betz plans to push for reforms to make the transplant process more equitable for Florida patients and their loved ones. … “This process changed my life. Watching others suffer and die on the waiting list was and is one of the most difficult things I have had to live with and witness,” he said. … “There have been some changes on organ procurement policy at the federal level over the past year that do not favor Florida. … This is a huge problem for people awaiting transplants.” … Betz said he plans to flex the connections he’s made during his career to “raise this issue to the level it needs, no matter what it takes.”

“CFP founder to address American Priority Conference” via Sean David Hartman of the Central Florida Post — The founder and publisher of the Central Florida Post will be joining several conservative influencers at the American Priority Conference in Washington, D.C. from Dec. 6 to 8. Jacob Engels, a controversial gay conservative, will be joining other pro-Trump conservative pundits like Jack Posobiec, Corey Lewandowski, Amy Kremer, Niger Innis, Pastor Mark Burns, Laura Loomer, and Walk Away leader Brandon Straka. Loomer who, like Engels, reports aggressively against left-wing politicians, will speak on protecting citizen journalism. Engels will also be discussing citizen journalism, censorship and the new media landscape.

— ALOE —

She said ‘Yes!’ — Congrats to Rep. Dane Eagle and Brooke Iwanski on their engagement.

“For Giving Tuesday, ‘Check-A-Charity’ before donating” via Florida Politics — Agriculture Commissioner Putnam, whose department oversees charities in Florida, is offering tips for “Giving Tuesday,” observed the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services “helps Floridians maximize their donations by providing detailed information on charities registered in Florida,” a news release said. Putnam shared advice, including using the department’s Check-A-Charity tool to view a charity’s financial information and how contributions are being spent.

“AAA: Florida average gas prices lowest of the year” via Roxy Tyler of WJXT — The Florida average has dropped over the past 47 days for a total discount of 39 cents. Sunday’s daily average price of $2.43 per gallon is 7 cents less than a week ago, and the lowest since December 2017. Average prices are at or near the lowest of the year in metro areas like Daytona Beach, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Lakeland, Melbourne, Ocala, Orlando, Punta Gorda, Tampa Bay and The Villages. Gas prices are falling to their lowest levels of the year in most markets, and motorists should see deeper discounts this week. Just as retailers cut prices on Black Friday, the price of crude also dropped by more than 10 percent due to concern that strong oil production will overpower demand.

“’Last year was bad, this year is horrible’: Christmas tree shortage hits South Florida” via Taylor Dolven of the Miami Herald — Even though it struck a full decade ago, the 2008 downturn and a concurrent glut of yuletide firs and spruces drove many growers out of business. The supply is now tight — and replenishing it takes time, since a tree grows eight to 10 years before it’s ready for the tree lot. “Last year was bad; this year is horrible,” said Chris Winkler, 53, co-owner of Holiday Sale tent, who has been selling Christmas trees with his family in Miami for more than 40 years. Normally Winkler and his three brothers operate four tree selling locations; this year they’re down to two. And in keeping with the laws of supply and demand, fewer trees means higher prices. “We don’t have the trees to fill four,” he said. “I’ve invested more money this year and I have less trees.”

“Was Universal’s Mario Kart ride revealed at IAAPA?” via John Gregory of Orlando Rising — Of all the new theme park technology and concepts on display at the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo, few generated the kind of buzz — and encouraged as much unrestrained speculation — as the “Duel Power Coaster” introduced by Dynamic Attractions. A combination of a motion simulator platform and a roller coaster, Dynamic’s new ride tech is capable of everything from inversions to racing-like features such as drifting, airtime, spinouts and having two cars “dueling” on separate tracks. Features of Dynamic’s Duel Power Coaster fit with what little has been revealed about the Mario Kart attraction. Universal has filed patents related to both drifting and augmented reality goggles, both of which can be included in the Dynamic system. Much of the rumored connection, however, relies on speculation, such as how the concept art features a certain Mario Kart-like color palette.

—HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best birthday wishes belatedly to two great men whose brilliance and insights tower over Florida politics, Dan Gelber and, my dear friend and mentor (yes, I said mentor), John “Mac” Stipanovich. More belated wishes to Rep. Jason Fischer, Ed Briggs of RSA Consulting, Jennifer K. Davis, top lobbyist Jeff Johnston, Leader Adam Hasner, Gary Springer, Charlie Van Zant and Carlie Waibel. Celebrating today is Rep. Halsey Beshears, our dear friend Mark Zubaly, as well as Rep. Danny Burgess‘ better half, Courtney, the inimitable John Kennedy, Beth Nunnally, Ann Orner and the supersmart Ben Pollara.