Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 5.9.25

Good Friday morning.

Jose Espinoza is joining Capital City Consulting’s Miami office.

Espinoza is a seasoned government professional who most recently served as chief policy adviser to Miami-Dade County Commissioner and immediate past Chair of the County Commission Oliver Gilbert III, where he led the Commissioner’s legislative strategy and public policy initiatives.

“Jose was an invaluable member of my team and someone I trusted to carry the weight of complex issues and lead with integrity,” said Gilbert. “His judgment and dedication helped shape the work we did for the community, and I have no doubt he’ll be an asset to Capital City Consulting.”

In his new role at Capital City Consulting, Espinoza will use his deep knowledge of local government and proven track record in regional advocacy to support the firm’s growing roster of public — and private-sector clients.

Over the past decade, Espinoza has held various roles in County government, including positions in the County’s budget office, where he managed the County’s $250 million social services portfolio, and in the County Mayor’s Office, where he served as the policy adviser to a Deputy Mayor.

“Jose has tremendous experience navigating the complexities of local government,” said Brian May, Managing Partner of Capital City Consulting Miami. “His deep policy and budget experience, coupled with an ability to build strong relationships, give him a unique skill set that will serve our clients well.”

Capital City Consulting co-founder Ron LaFace added, “We welcome Jose to the firm and look forward to him assisting our clients’ growing needs in Miami-Dade. We are seeing our U.S. and international clients establishing bigger presences in South Florida and Jose’s addition will complement and enhance the services we are providing.”

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New polling from the James Madison Institute (JMI) suggests a close contest for the Republican nomination for next year, while offering a glance at the Democratic Primary that might have been.

Survey results show First Lady Casey DeSantis with the slightest edge over U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds in the Republican field for Governor, with the First Lady leading with 29% support to the Congressman’s 28%, with former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz in a distant third place with 10%. That’s a much closer contest than the same.

However, the numbers also show that DeSantis has higher unfavorable ratings as she prepares to run to succeed her husband, Gov. Ron DeSantis. While 38% of voters have a favorable view of the First Lady, 31% have an unfavorable view of her. Meanwhile, 26% have a favorable outlook on Donalds, compared to 13% with a negative view.

Meanwhile, JMI released polling on the state of the Democratic Primary in April and May. The first poll came before former Florida Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo quit the party and found him a front-runner for the Democratic nomination. He led the field with 42% support from Democratic Primary voters, compared to 15% support for Miami-Dade Mayor Danielle Levine Cava.

But that’s dream casting at this point. When Pizzo left the party, pollsters dropped him as an option when they polled voters in May. Levin Cava’s support rose to 32%, with former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham at 12% and former U.S. Rep. David Jolly at 10%.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@realDonaldTrump: Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!

—@BarackObama: Michelle and I send our congratulations to a fellow Chicagoan, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. This is a historic day for the United States, and we will pray for him as he begins the sacred work of leading the Catholic Church and setting an example for so many, regardless of faith.

—@StrandJunker: If you hate Pope Leo XIV because he is too “liberal,” I have some very bad news for you about Jesus.

—@JohnStemberger: I would like to see a Pope who is balanced between truth and compassion, and who upholds this tension found in the moral and ethical traditions and teachings of the Catholic Church. Mercy and Justice are both required impulses for Christian leaders of every kind. Note: I am a former Catholic who is now an Evangelical, but I have a great respect and great interest in the future of Catholicism.

—@GusCorbella: For the politicos of the family, Pope Leo XIV is the first registered Republican in the Church’s two-thousand-year-old history. So, that’s something to behold.

—@RumpfShaker: Interesting twist: (Donald) Trump is not eligible to become Pope since he has not been baptized Catholic, but since the new Pope Leo XIV was born in Chicago and is over 35 years old, as long as he retains his U.S. citizenship, he *would* be eligible to be President.

Tweet, tweet:

—@BDayspring: Raising marginal taxes (in combo with the practical impact of tariffs on consumers) would be political hemlock for Republicans.

—@Jason_Garcia: Florida’s Attorney General goes to bat for the car dealers lobby after taking $30,000 from the car dealers lobby

—@MDixon55: I won’t be satisfied with the new Pope until @fineout tweets he can’t be recalled in Florida

—@MearKat00: I volunteer to disperse the white smoke when we get budget allocations.

— DAYS UNTIL —

Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting — 4; Florida Chamber Leadership Conference on Safety, Health + Sustainability — 6; Epic Universe grand opening — 13; Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’ premieres — 14; ‘Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning’ premieres — 14; Florida Chamber Florida Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 20; ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ premieres — 21; Tony Awards — 30; Special Election for SD 19 — 32; DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet will meet — 33; Special Primary Election for Senate District 15 to succeed the late Geraldine Thompson — 46; Florida Chamber Florida Learners to Earners Workforce Solution Summit — 46; ‘Squid Game’ season three premieres — 49; James Gunn‘s ‘Superman’ premieres — 63; ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ premieres on Netflix — 77; ‘Fantastic Four – First Steps’ premieres — 77; Florida Freedom Forum — 85; ‘Eyes of Wakanda’ premieres on Disney+ — 89; Florida Chamber Florida Technology & Innovation Solution Summit — 95; Special Election for Senate District 15 — 116; the Emmys — 128; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 131; Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 140; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 171; ‘Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 196; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 208; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 208; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 222; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 224; Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 273; ‘Avengers 5’ premieres — 361; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 378; FIFA World Cup 26™ final — 399; Another untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 589; Tampa mayoral election — 662; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 729; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 875; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1162; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election — 1278; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1678; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2409.

— MORE NUMBERS —

As lawmakers and the Governor debate which taxes to cut and how much to cut them, voters express a clear preference.

According to a new poll from The James Madison Institute, nearly two-thirds of voters (65%) would support eliminating property taxes for primary residences.

When asked to choose between the two tax cut proposals, 46% of those polled say eliminating property taxes is their preference, compared to 32% who favor reducing the sales tax.

While there’s strong support for property tax elimination, JMI found that 60% of voters are concerned about potential cuts to local services, indicating a significant portion of voters weigh the trade-offs.

JMI also measured opinions on cutting the communications services tax, which applies to phone, cable and streaming subscriptions. More than half of those polled (55%) would support slashing the tax, which produces $600 million in local government revenue annually.

Support for property tax cuts comes as voters say they’ve yet to see much, if any, benefit in the years since lawmakers passed legislation overhauling the state’s property insurance market. Overall, one in three Florida residents told JMI they’ve seen no change or reduction in their homeowners’ insurance premiums.

— EPILOGUE —

“The failed election bill that angered voting-rights and voting integrity advocates alike” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — A Florida bill requiring proof of U.S. citizenship for new voter registration applications failed, drawing relief from voting-rights groups, while election integrity advocates also opposed it. The measure, modeled after a federal proposal, would have required verification through various methods, including birth certificates and passports, potentially disenfranchising voters, especially married women. Brad Ashwell of All Voting is Local Action noted the cumbersome requirements, while Deb Monks of Defend Florida criticized the bill’s details. The bill also included an automated vote validation process, raising concerns about ClearAudit software implementation costs. While some Republicans supported the bill, Democrats’ election-related proposals were ignored. Both sides anticipate similar legislation next year.

“‘Legal morphine’ will stay on Florida shelves as lawmakers fail to act” via Kirby Wilson of the Tampa Bay Times — As the 60-day Florida Legislative Session wound to a close, lawmakers had a chance to address the growing prevalence of 7-hydroxymitragynine products in Florida. They did nothing. A proposal by state Sen. Jay Collins to ban the products died in a Senate Committee days before lawmakers closed up shop until 2026. Researchers who study 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, liken the products to opioids such as morphine. They argue they should not be available to consumers.

“Legislature passes hurricane crane safety requirements after crash” via Romy Ellenbogen of the Tampa Bay Times — After Hurricane Milton’s winds brought part of a crane crashing into an office building in downtown St. Petersburg, new regulations could soon be required for construction managers during storms. Lawmakers near-unanimously passed a bill last week that requires all hoisting equipment for a construction project to be secured no later than 24 hours before a hurricane’s impact. The move comes after an investigation last year revealed significant gaps in oversight for heavy equipment like cranes. Florida lawmakers more than a decade ago passed a law that prevented local governments from writing crane regulations, including measures regarding “hurricane preparedness or public safety.”

— MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“Multiple affordable housing measures shelved this Session” via Andrew Powell of Florida Politics — A pair of bills that sought to tackle Florida’s ongoing affordable housing crisis did not make it through the Legislative Session. Sen. Don Gaetz sponsored the measure (SB 184) that would have required local governments to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs), also known as “granny flats” or “carriage houses,” onto a single-family residence. The House approved a similar House companion bill (HB 247) sponsored by Reps. Bill Conerly and Fabian Basabe. During the bill’s passage through the Senate Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development, Gaetz told the members the measure was styled as an affordable housing bill but could also be used as a private property rights bill.

— STATEWIDE —

“Florida pushing for approval to enforce new immigration law” via Jim Saunders of the News Service of Florida — As legal wrangling continues in a lower court, Attorney General James Uthmeier’s office has asked a federal appeals court to at least temporarily allow the state to carry out a new law targeting undocumented immigrants who enter Florida. Uthmeier’s office filed a 34-page motion on Wednesday at the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals seeking a stay of a preliminary injunction issued last week by U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams that blocked enforcement of the law. A stay, if granted, would allow enforcement while an underlying appeal of the injunction plays out. The law, passed during a February Special Legislative Session, created state crimes for undocumented immigrants who enter or re-enter Florida. The Republican-controlled Legislature said the law was aimed at helping carry out Trump’s policies on preventing illegal immigration.

“Labor Department: Florida’s new unemployment claims increase to start May” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — New unemployment claims in Florida ticked up for the first time in nearly a month for the week ending May 3. A new U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) report showed the state’s first increase in new unemployment claims in three weeks. There were 6,227 initial unemployment claims for the week ending May 3. That was a modest increase of 385 claims from the week ending April 26, when there were 5,842 filings. It’s the first time Florida’s weekly unemployment claims have exceeded 6,000 in about a month. Despite the latest DOL report, new unemployment claims have generally been decreasing for most of this year.

— 100 DAYS —

“Donald Trump congratulates first American Pope. When will President and Melania Trump meet Leo XIV?” via Kinsey Crowley of USA Today Network — Trump, whose wife, First Lady Melania Trump, is Catholic, offered congratulations to Prevost, who was selected as the next Pope on May 8. “Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social. “What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!” Leo, 69, is a Chicago native. He will go by the name Pope Leo XIV. He served as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and the Pontifical Commission for Latin America president since 2023.

“Inside the MAGA Deep State” via Tara Palmeri of The Red Letter — Under Marco Rubio’s State Department revamp, an obscure nonprofit, the Benjamin Franklin Fellowship (BFF), is reportedly funneling MAGA-aligned diplomats into senior roles, sparking fears of politicization. Career officials worry membership is a “loyalty pledge” to Trump, prioritizing ideology over merit, with one diplomat calling it “clearly partisan.” Lew Olowski’s rapid promotion to lead Human Resources is cited as an example. BFF co-founder Simon Hankinson says it’s a “safe space” for conservatives, not intentionally a MAGA pipeline, but acknowledges it could be a “by-product.” Critics, like former spokesperson Ned Price, express concern that it’s a “shadow MAGA group,” undermining nonpartisanship and raising Hatch Act questions.

“Fired FEMA chief threatened to quit weeks ago” via Thomas Frank of POLITICO — The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency was fired Thursday morning and replaced by a Trump administration official with no disaster response experience. Cameron Hamilton, FEMA’s acting administrator, was summoned to the Department of Homeland Security headquarters in Washington, where Deputy Homeland Security Secretary Troy Edgar and Corey Lewandowski, an adviser to Trump, terminated him.

“Pam Bondi offers explanation for delay in releasing Epstein files and even Republicans are skeptical” via David Catanese of the Orlando Sentinel — It’s been nearly 70 days since U.S. Attorney General Bondi promised the public a release of the files in the Epstein case. It took a skeptical remark from a top Republican Congressman to force her to explain why she hasn’t followed through. “There are tens of thousands of videos of Epstein with children or child porn and there are hundreds of victims,” Bondi told reporters at the White House on Wednesday. “And no one victim will ever get released. It’s just the volume, and that’s what they’re going through right now. The FBI is diligently going through that.” Bondi, former Florida Attorney General, was responding to newly expressed doubts from Rep. James Comer, the Republican Chair of the House Oversight Committee, who told a MAGA-friendly podcaster he does not believe the Justice Department is in possession of the records detailing the high-profile sex-trafficking case.

“Trump withdraws U.S. Attorney nominee, whose extremism tested limits for GOP Senators” via Glenn Thrush, Alan Feuer, Maggie Haberman and Devlin Barrett of The New York Times — Ed Martin, the interim U.S. attorney for Washington, was breezing toward the office elevator in his signature trenchcoat in February when he passed a group of about 10 young prosecutors preparing to leave, framed diplomas and keepsakes in hand. “Whoa, what’s going on here?” Martin asked with a chuckle, seemingly oblivious to who they were and where they were going. The lawyers were too stunned to speak. They had just been fired — part of a purge, overseen by Martin, of about two dozen prosecutors detailed during the Joe Biden administration to prosecute the rioters who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

— MORE D.C. MATTERS —

Happening Saturday — U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost and Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried will host a town hall in Florida’s 17th Congressional District to fight back against Trump and Elon Musk’s “government takeover”: 10 a.m., location upon RSVP here.

“House GOP passes ‘Gulf of America’ renaming bill” via Andrew Solender of Axios — The House voted to formalize Trump’s executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America.” It’s the first time the House has voted to codify one of the President’s executive orders into federal law, though it’s unclear if the Senate will take it up. The bill passed 211-206, with Republican U.S. Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska breaking with his party and voting with Democrats against the bill. It is unclear whether the Senate will take up the measure, and it could face a steep climb in the upper chamber given House Democrats’ unanimous opposition.

“‘Stop stonewalling’: Anna Paulina Luna demands Bondi swiftly release Jeffrey Epstein files” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Luna wants Attorney General Bondi to “stop stonewalling” and release more Epstein files. “The crimes of Jeffrey Epstein implicated the most powerful members of our society in one of the most horrific sex-trafficking rings to be uncovered in this century,” said Luna. “The survivors of Jeffrey Epstein, as well as the American people, deserve to know who among the elite protected, enabled, or participated in Jeffrey Epstein’s disgusting racket.” Luna heads the Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets. That panel was named to scrutinize prior investigations of matters like the John F. Kennedy assassination, the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and the investigation of Epstein, a Florida billionaire convicted of sex trafficking who died in federal prison.

“MAGA Kennedy Center boss demands anti-Trump ‘Les Misérables’ stars get blacklisted” via William Vaillancourt of the Daily Beast — The Trump-backed head of the Kennedy Center has called for a blacklist of artists who choose not to perform at the Washington, D.C., venue. Ric Grenell, reacting Wednesday to headlines about cast members of Les Misérables who are planning to boycott Trump’s scheduled appearance next month, demanded career-altering consequences for “vapid and intolerant artists.” “Any performer who isn’t professional enough to perform for patrons of all backgrounds, regardless of political affiliation, won’t be welcomed,” Grenell said. “In fact, we think it would be important to out those vapid and intolerant artists to ensure producers know who they shouldn’t hire — and that the public knows which shows have political litmus tests to sit in the audience,” he continued.

“Conservative think tank pushes for enhanced premium tax credit extension” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Conservative think tank Plymouth Union Public (PUP) Research is urging Congress to extend premium tax credits for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans, crucial for millions, including over 4.2 million Floridians. Their memo states extending credits is a “free-market policy” that could “save billions if paired with tailored Medicaid reforms.” Failure to extend them, set to expire this year, would drastically increase costs; a Florida family of four earning $64,400 could pay $4,300 more annually. PUP Research warns that with potential Medicaid cuts removing 8.6 million from coverage, not offering alternatives could “spur a public health crisis.” Polling indicates strong bipartisan support for extending these credits.

— ELECTIONS —

“Byron Donalds says he was born again at Cracker Barrel” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Cracker Barrel is known for its homestyle breakfasts, niche soda pops and sprawling gift shop. Yet for U.S. Rep. Donalds, it was where he came to Jesus, as he revealed to CBN News. Donalds, who worked there at age 21, served a church group of 13 at the restaurant, then had his epiphany while rolling silverware. “The Lord spoke to me,” Donalds recalled. “It was like, ‘Stop running from me.’ And so, it just knocked me back. So, I went out to find the table, and they were all gone, and I could see through the windows that they were getting on their bus. So, I walked out. My manager’s like, ‘Where are you going?’ I need a second,” Donalds replied. From there, he had his fateful interaction with a contingent member.

“Andy Beshear, Cory Booker to headline Florida Democrats’ Leadership Blue Gala” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — The Florida Democratic Party (FDP) has announced that Kentucky Gov. Beshear and New Jersey Sen. Booker will be the featured speakers at its annual Leadership Blue Gala. The marquee event will be held Saturday, June 21, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood as part of a three-day Leadership Blue Weekend. FDP Chair Fried said that the party is “thrilled” to be hosting Beshear and Booker at its South Florida soiree. “Sen. Booker and Gov. Beshear are two of the brightest stars of today’s Democratic Party,” she said, “and their visit to Florida is more proof of the party’s commitment to the future of our state and the importance of the South.”

“Are Democrats sleeping on South Florida? And could Jared Moskowitz pay the price?” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Hundreds of progressive activists gathered in a United Church of Christ, months after Trump’s election. The “People’s Town Hall,” organized by the Hope & Action, Indivisible’s Broward County chapter, served as a chance at catharsis for angry progressives in a traditionally Democratic part of the state, with many venting opposition to the GOP administration’s rapidly deployed policies. Organizers invited three Democratic members of Congress to the event, including U.S. Rep. Moskowitz, the Parkland Democrat representing Florida’s 23rd Congressional District, where the event was held. None showed. That left Jennifer Jones, an organizer for the event, irritated with the members of Congress during a moment demanding party unity. “At this point, we are really frustrated,” she said weeks later. “We want to support him, all of us — independents, Democrats, progressives. We don’t want that seat flipped, and the seat is at risk. But if the seat is at risk, then listen to your constituents when you have an opportunity.”

“Florida Democrats consider opening Primaries amid effort to rebuild party power” via Forrest Saunders of WFTS — Florida Democrats are exploring a revival strategy, including potentially opening Primaries to independent voters. Fried confirmed discussions, aiming to represent the state’s growing non-party-affiliated demographic better and rebuild after Republican dominance. “There’s a lot of people that are in the middle,” Fried said, noting younger and minority voters increasingly registering as independent. While not expected for the 2026 Midterms, this shift comes as Republicans face legislative infighting. Despite recent Democratic defections, Fried remains optimistic, citing national trends and high-profile support. “We have to have that serious conversation about opening up our Primaries,” she stated, calling it part of a larger plan.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Florida International University picks Jeanette Nuñez as sole candidate for president” via Clara-Sophia Daly of the Miami Herald — Florida International University announced Thursday that it has completed its presidential search process and interim President Nuñez is the sole candidate to fill the position. The move comes as no surprise to the university community. Nuñez, the former Lieutenant Governor and a former state representative, was appointed interim president in February after the Chair of the FIU Board of Trustees received a call from someone in Gov. DeSantis’ office advising that she was interested in the position. “I did not suggest the Lieutenant Governor as interim president, not thinking she should be the full-time president,” said Rogelio Tovar, Chair of the Board of Trustees, in February.

“Blocked by Marco Rubio, Rick Scott for federal judge, Coral Gables attorney is appointed as magistrate” via Jay Weaver of the Miami Herald — When South Florida lawyer Detra Shaw-Wilder was nominated last year as a federal judge, her career appeared to be reaching new heights. But her nomination by a Democratic President withered away as Florida’s two Republican Senators blocked it amid a divisive presidential election campaign. Shaw-Wilder, however, survived the setback and will soon be joining the federal bench as a magistrate judge in the Southern District of Florida. The region’s U.S. District Court judges appointed her in early May to fill a Summer vacancy. Eighteen federal magistrate judges oversee bond hearings, arraignments, and pre-trial criminal and civil matters, among other duties.

“Do Airbnbs produce extra trash? Raquel Regalado wants to know — and maybe charge a fee if so” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Do short-term vacation rentals — homes advertised as hotel alternatives on platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo and HomeAway — create garbage at a faster rate than neighboring residential properties? Miami-Dade Commissioner Regalado wants to know, and she has filed a resolution to get answers and possibly charge the rental properties extra to cover the county’s extra waste collection costs. The measure is up for consideration Monday by the Infrastructure, Innovation and Technology Committee, a sub-panel of the County Commission that Regalado chairs. If approved, it would direct Mayor Levine Cava’s administration to compare the trash output of vacation rental properties with that of “comparable residential use properties.”

“Judy Mollica files to run for Seat 2 on the Delray Beach Commission” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Entrepreneur and real estate broker Mollica just filed to run for Seat 2 on the Delray Beach City Commission. So far, she’s the only candidate running for the open seat, which Commissioner Rob Long is vacating for a House run. Mollica hopes to leverage her community involvements and 25 years of real estate experience into a win next year. If elected, she vows to partner with residents, businesses and local leaders on thoughtful solutions to the issues Delray Beach faces. That includes supporting responsible growth, housing affordability, government transparency, economic stability and “preserving the city’s unique charm,” her campaign said.

“Boca Raton Middle employee fired after being accused of trying to meet minor for sex” via Angie DiMichele of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The Palm Beach County School Board has terminated a man who worked at Boca Raton Middle School following his arrest earlier this week on a charge of traveling to meet a minor for unlawful sex. Stephon McCray, 44, was a “non-instructional staff member” and was removed from the middle school in February when McCray was initially reported to Delray Beach Police, the school said in a message to parents on Wednesday. The School Board voted to fire him. Officers were called to Sprouts Farmers Market in Delray Beach on Feb. 26 about a “suspicious incident.” They met with Dustin Lampros, who runs a social media account called “561 Predator Catchers,” according to a probable cause affidavit for McCray’s arrest. The account is similar to the “To Catch a Predator” series from NBC’s “Dateline,” where adult men ran sting operations and confronted those who believed they were meeting up with minors for sex in the early 2000s.

“Can a Miami college student be the next Steve Jobs? It could start here” via Vinod Sreeharsha of the Miami Herald — When Jobs was 12, he called Hewlett-Packard co-founder Bill Hewlett. That Summer, he offered the future Apple co-founder an internship on the HP assembly line. As tech professionals keep moving to South Florida, Miami-Dade College wants students to get the same chance. On May 5, MDC launched an initiative led by The Idea Center at the college that will offer at least 200 students $20-an-hour internships at Miami tech startups and small businesses with growth potential. Interns will work eight to 12 weeks at one of at least 50 participating employers.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Central Florida Catholics celebrate first U.S.-born Pope” via Steven Lemongello. Martin Comas and Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel — The Catholic Church has its first American Pope, Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Prevost, sparking elation. “I couldn’t believe my ears,” exclaimed Apopka resident Nancy O’Reilly. “It’s exciting.” The 69-year-old Chicago native and Villanova graduate served as a bishop in Peru and a Vatican prefect. Orlando Bishop John Noonan called it a “privilege,” thanking God for “a new Shepherd” with “broad experience.” Father Miguel Gonzalez noted continuity with Pope Francis’ immigrant support. Orange County Commissioner Mayra Uribe said, “This is huge for our country,” hoping it “will unite people.” Former Sen. Mel Martinez praised the “great choice,” while student Eric Russ is “excited for what perspective he has to bring.”

“Amid Florida property tax debate, city and county budgets have ballooned” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Central Florida county budgets have ballooned since 2020, fueled partly by rising property tax collections that have pumped billions more dollars into municipal accounts. In Orange County, the annual spending plan grew by $1.7 billion in the last five years, with property tax collections up by about 40%, according to an Orlando Sentinel analysis. The four other largest local budgets in Central Florida swelled by at least $100 million in that period. Since 2020, Orange’s budget has grown by about 31%. Around Central Florida, budgets have grown from nearly 22% in Seminole County to up to 93% in Lake County, while tax collections spiked, too, jumping 67% in Osceola County, one of the state’s fastest-growing counties.

“Mayra Uribe is running for Orange County Mayor” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Orange County Commissioner Uribe is officially running to replace term-limited County Mayor Jerry Demings. “Voters in our county are disillusioned with partisan gridlock and empty promises,” she said at a rally announcing her candidacy. “They’re looking for a Mayor who can deliver real results, protect what’s special about Central Florida and prepare the region for generational challenges — from affordability to resilience.” Uribe described herself as a “hands-on, prepared and responsive” County Commissioner, the office she’s held since 2018. Uribe’s priorities include higher-paying jobs, affordable housing, clean growth and better transportation, she said in her press release.

“Daytona Beach City Commissioners are looking at increasing impact fees by mid-September” via Eileen Zaffiro-Kean of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — With the need to continue providing services to Daytona Beach’s steadily climbing population, a consultant’s study is suggesting hiking Daytona’s impact fees for the first time since 2006. Tens of millions of dollars’ worth of new fire stations and firetrucks, police department substations and vehicles, park projects, a proposed City Hall expansion, road projects, and water and wastewater plant upgrades could all be fueled by higher impact fees charged on residential and commercial construction. If City Commissioners adopt fees at the rates the study is proposing, that would mean the new owner of a home ranging from 2,000-3,000 square feet would be paying another $1,600 in impact fees. That’s a 45.4% increase above Daytona’s current impact fees.

“State to pay $40K settlement tied to Ron DeSantis suspension of Orange-Osceola State Attorney” via Mike DeForest — Nearly two years after DeSantis suspended Orange-Osceola State Attorney Monique Worrell, state officials have agreed to pay $40,000 to settle a civil rights lawsuit filed by one of Worrell’s former employees. Keisha Mulfort, who served as Worrell’s chief of staff and public information officer, was fired from the state attorney’s office effective Aug. 9, 2023, the same day DeSantis suspended Worrell for what the Governor described as incompetence and neglect of duty.

“County wrap-up: Volusia OKs incentives for low-impact development and affordable housing” via Sheldon Gardner of The Daytona Beach News-Journal — Volusia County has new incentives to attract affordable housing and low-impact development, which the County Council approved this week. The County Council approved the programs in two separate votes on Tuesday. One initiative is a voluntary low-impact development and green stormwater infrastructure program. Low-impact development is “An ecologically driven stormwater management approach, prioritizing soft engineering strategies to intricately mitigate rainfall on-site through a network of vegetated treatments,'” according to the county.

“Kissimmee Commissioners send hoteliers back to drawing board” via Laura Kinsler of the Orlando Sentinel — Faced with choosing a hotel proposal from four competing developers, Kissimmee’s Board of Commissioners told all the bidders to go back to the drawing board and come back in June with a new plan. Hospitality workers cloaked in union T-shirts packed the room. They coalesced behind the proposal from Kissimmee Place Development Group for a 300-room Hyatt Place hotel and convention center adjacent to the Toho Square parking garage. But Mayor Jackie Espinosa said there wouldn’t be enough parking at the garage to accommodate the project. “The Hyatt is beautiful … the lighting, the gazebos, everything they’re planning on doing is magnificent,” she said. “It does bring that class, but my concern is that it’s too much.”

— LOCAL: TB —

“Tampa Bay Catholics react to Pope Leo XIV with joy, reflection” via Juan Carlos Chavez of the Tampa Bay Times — As the world reacted to Thursday’s historic news that an American, Prevost, would lead the Roman Catholic Church as Pope Leo XIV, Catholics in Tampa Bay and across Florida joined in the moment. Bishop Gregory Parkes of the Diocese of Saint Petersburg invited Catholics to pray in support of the new Pope. “May God bless our new Holy Father,” Parkes said. “I pray that his ministry will unite the human family in pursuit of peace and the common good of people of every race, religion, and language.” People gathered to pray and celebrate the surprising news at a Thursday afternoon mass at St. Petersburg Catholic High School. “I’m excited. I was not expecting this. It’s exciting news,” said Yahir Bonet, who works in the bishop’s office.

“St. Pete, Ken Welch score three legislative wins, with a little help from friends” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — St. Pete is celebrating a trio of legislative victories, including new rules creating a traffic violation for destructive vehicle wake on flooded streets, now awaiting Gov. DeSantis’ signature. A “Yes In God’s Backyard” (YIGBY) policy, championed by Mayor Ken Welch, will allow churches to build affordable housing on their land, bypassing zoning. Thirdly, crane safety best practices during storms were improved, prompted by a past collapse. Welch lauded bipartisan efforts from state legislators like Sen. Nick DiCeglie and Rep. Lindsay Cross, stating these wins bolster neighborhood safety and housing opportunities, making St. Pete and Florida safer and more affordable. The city eagerly anticipates these new measures’ positive impact on the community.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Bowing to Trump DEI ban, Duval schools end minority/women business plan, focus on small biz” via Steve Patterson of the Florida Times-Union — The Duval County School Board scrapped a long-standing program to hire minority- and women-owned businesses Tuesday night, committing instead “to provide expanded and equitable participation by small and micro businesses.” The school district’s Office of Economic Opportunity will administer a new “Small/Micro Business Enterprise” hiring effort designed to comply with Trump’s executive order banning diversity, equity and inclusion programs in organizations receiving federal funding. The new program is intended “to promote equal opportunity for all segments of the contracting community to participate in Board contracts,” read the Board-approved policy amendment.

“Funeral arrangements announced for Circuit Judge Dawn Caloca-Johnson of Tallahassee” via Jim Rosica of the Tallahassee Democrat — Funeral arrangements have been announced for longtime Circuit Judge Caloca-Johnson, who died May 4 after a single-vehicle wreck in Gulf County. A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 4665 Thomasville Road in Tallahassee. Her family will receive mourners in the parish hall immediately following the mass. She will be interred at a later date at Roselawn Cemetery in Tallahassee.

“Scuttled: JTA says St. Johns River Ferry won’t return for about two months” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The St. Johns River Ferry mishap that led to the service being shut down for repairs for a few days has now extended into a closure that will stretch into Summer. The ferry vessel service, which extends State Road A1A in North Florida, ran into a boarding ramp Sunday and was shut down immediately. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) initially said repairing it could take days. But after inspections and a review of the vessel and operations, JTA officials said the service will be out of commission for an extended period.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Catalina Lauf mulls run for Southwest Florida’s 19th Congressional District” via Eric Daugherty of Florida Politics — Lauf is drumming up speculation that she will seek Florida’s 19th Congressional District seat, telling Florida’s Voice she is a political refugee from a blue state and wants to keep Florida red. “I left a state collapsing under big government, rising crime, and economic decline,” Lauf said. “Florida stands for freedom — and I’ll fight to keep it that way.” Lauf, the founder of Love American Uphold Freedom PAC, also garnered support from Rep. Luna earlier this year. “If Byron [Donalds] runs for Gov., [Lauf] needs to run [for his district],” Luna said in January.

“Federal cuts: Hurricane aircraft’s Sarasota stop in public awareness campaign scrapped” via Heather Bushman of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — As the six-month hurricane season looms, cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are already making a local impact. NOAA scrapped a pre-season public awareness event at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport set for Thursday during the national hurricane preparedness week, which runs May 4-8. The cancellation of a scheduled visit from a Hurricane Hunter aircraft to draw attention to the need to prepare early for the season that begins June 1 comes as NOAA has undergone significant layoffs and funding cuts, and as the Sarasota area braces for what could be another extreme storm season.

— TOP OPINION —

“Why I chose the University of Florida” via Santa Ono for Inside Higher Ed — The University of Florida possesses incredible momentum and the potential to become the nation’s very best public university. This belief in its mission and future is why I pursued the presidency. Having spent meaningful time with the university’s leadership, I deeply believe in their ambitious vision, anchored in excellence and laser-focused on student success. The passion I’ve witnessed is infectious, and the rare alignment between the Board of Trustees, the Board of Governors, the Governor, and the Legislature signals a seriousness of purpose to build something truly exceptional. I am excited to be part of that.

I believe in Florida’s vision for higher education, understand its priorities, and support them. I will execute this vision with clarity, consistency, and integrity. My alignment is rooted in principles like the renewed emphasis on merit, the strengthening of civics, and the belief that universities should prepare students not just for careers, but for informed citizenship. Public universities must remain grounded in academic excellence and intellectual diversity, rejecting ideological capture and fostering open dialogue.

Like many, I supported DEI’s original intent of ensuring equal opportunity. However, I saw it evolve into something more about ideology and division. That’s why, at my previous institution, I eliminated centralized DEI offices, redirecting resources to academic support and merit-based achievement. It was necessary, and I’ll bring that same clarity to UF.

The future depends on a clear mission, a culture of merit, and preparing students for the real world. Throughout my career, I’ve avoided politicizing institutions. Combating antisemitism has also been a priority; UF is a national leader in this, and that standard will not change. Jewish students will feel supported, and all forms of hatred will be confronted. While peaceful protest has its place, UF is not a place for disruption or lawlessness. It will remain a campus where all students are safe, differing views are heard, and the rule of law is respected. This is an exciting moment, and I’m ready to get to work.

— OPINIONS —

“An American Pope with dual citizenship in Latin America will resonate deeply in Miami” via the Miami Herald editorial board — For Miami, known as the gateway to Latin America, the choice of a new multilingual, American-born Pope who worked for years in Peru has enormous significance. On Thursday, Cardinal Prevost, originally from Chicago, was elected the 267th Pope, representing over 1.4 billion Catholics around the world and many in South Florida. He’s the first American Pope and will be known as Leo XIV. Prevost, 69, has dual citizenship in the U.S. and Peru, where he was a missionary and was appointed bishop of the city of Chiclayo, where he served from 2014 to 2023. Pope Francis made him a cardinal in 2023.

“Defying Miami ‘Obama’ judge on immigration is political theater and a dangerous move” via the Miami Herald editorial board — The Trump administration has ushered in a new era in immigration enforcement — one focused on achieving the President’s agenda at all costs, even when it means bypassing due process, ignoring a judge’s order or calling for another judge’s impeachment. Trump’s allies certainly feel they received a mandate from voters after last year’s elections to crack down on undocumented migrants with full force. But the U.S. is still a country of checks and balances — something that could be at risk as Trump’s allies test how far they can go in defying the courts. In Florida, a federal judge is considering whether to hold state Attorney General Uthmeier in contempt of court for telling law enforcement agencies they did not have to follow her orders blocking a new state immigration law.

“To address teacher shortages, Florida erases the phrase ‘teacher shortages’” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — Today, I thought we’d take a look at the hot mess that is this state’s Legislature. Since lawmakers were unable to do the one thing they must do — pass a budget — this Session is headed into overtime at a cost of about $50,000 a day. I wanted to highlight an issue that flew under the radar — the Legislature’s attempt to deal with the state’s teacher shortage by … wait for it … deleting the words “teacher shortage” from Florida statutes. Florida has long struggled to fill teaching positions thanks to low pay and the general disrespect heaped upon educators, leaving substitute teachers manning classrooms throughout the state. And Florida statutes currently acknowledge that problem: “The Legislature recognizes that Florida continues to face teacher shortages and that fewer young people consider teaching as a career.”

“This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s prioritize well-being of Florida’s caregivers” via Nichole Goble for Florida Politics — Millions of Florida caregivers tirelessly support loved ones, manage medications, appointments, and provide emotional comfort. Yet, their mental health is often neglected. This Mental Health Awareness Month, we must acknowledge that while caregivers focus on others, their well-being suffers. The role is isolating, demanding, and financially straining, leading to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout. Access to tailored mental health resources remains limited. We hear daily from caregivers sacrificing their health. That’s why resources promoting self-care and mental health conversations are crucial. Partnerships with organizations like hospice providers, which offer grief counseling and respite, are essential to ease their burden. Florida’s caregivers do heroic work silently. We owe it to them to listen and respond. Prioritizing their mental health strengthens families, communities, and our health care system. Let’s make this month a movement for them.

— WEEKEND TV —

ABC Action News Full Circle with Paul LaGrone on Channel 10 WFTS: Air traffic control shortages spark a meltdown at Newark Airport; Mike Hatten, aviation expert, talks about what the federal government needs to do right now and why the travel trouble has been decades in the making; the Florida housing market hits a wall, prompting the question of whether this is a hiccup or a crash; Vincent Arcuri, real estate insider, gives insight on where we are and where we’re headed; Panel topic is Gov. DeSantis and the political infighting in Tallahassee, with Yacob Reyes from Axios Tampa Bay and Dr. Susan MacManus, ABC Action News political analyst.

Facing South Florida with Jim DeFede on CBS 4 in Miami: The Sunday show provides viewers with an in-depth look at politics in South Florida and other issues affecting the region.

In Focus with Allison Walker on Bay News 9/CF 13: A discussion about Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, with a look at the influence Asian Americans have in the political arenas, and how the APA community influences Florida. Joining Walker are Hiep Nguyen, Smart City Officer, Winter Haven, and Ricky Ly, drainage engineer and founder of the TastyChomps blog.

Political Connections on Bay News 9 in Tampa/St. Pete and Political Connections on CF 13 in Orlando: The weekly Sunday show is now a joint weeknight show airing Monday through Friday at 7 p.m.

The Usual Suspects on WCTV-Tallahassee/Thomasville (CBS) and WJHG-Panama City (NBC): Gary Yordon and Leon County School Superintendent Rocky Hanna.

This Week in Jacksonville with Kent Justice on Channel 4 WJXT: Jacksonville City Council member Matt Carlucci; Ashley Harding, a News4JAX City Hall reporter; and Jacksonville teen Brooke Curry, the inspiration for “Brooke’s Law.”

This Week in South Florida with Glenna Milberg on Local 10 WPLG: Milberg talks with state Sen. Shevrin Jones and State Rep. Jim Mooney about the Florida Legislature’s framework for a budget, as well as Gov. DeSantis saying the GOP sales tax cut is “dead on arrival.” State Sen. Jennifer Bradley explains the new legislation to ensure condo safety, accountability and transparency. And U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick explains her concerns involving immigration detention facilities in South Florida.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

(Albeit a sad one)

— ALOE —

“Orlando No. 1 most visited U.S. city in 2024, drawing 75.3 million tourists” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — An estimated 75.3 million tourists visited Orlando last year — a nearly 2% increase from 2023 — allowing the city to keep its crown as the No. 1 most visited U.S. city, Visit Orlando said. “Every January, visitation starts at zero, and through strategic marketing and the strength of our world-class experiences, we welcome millions of visitors each year,” said Visit Orlando President and CEO Casandra Matej, who announced the tourism numbers during an event for National Travel & Tourism Week. “This level of visitation means that visitors to our destination are fueling our economy, supporting local businesses, which in turn creates jobs and pathways to advancement, and helps residents sustain a quality of life rarely found in cities of our size.”

“2001 Odyssey acquires Mons Venus to carry on strip club legacy in Tampa” via Gabriele Calise of the Tampa Bay Times — Full-nude club Mons Venus and its fiery owner Joe Redner helped Tampa earn the reputation as a “strip club capital of the country.” Now, 2001 Odyssey — the strip joint across the street with a spaceship on its roof — plans to carry on its legacy. 2001 Odyssey acquired the “world-famous” Mons Venus at 2040 N. Dale Mabry Highway in January, owner Don Kleinhans said. “What’s happening is we purchased the business, not the real estate,” said Kleinhans, president of 2001 Inc. “So, we have the business, but (Redner) is the landlord.” The goal is to preserve the Mons Venus — with some improvements — instead of seeing an out-of-town company take over.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best wishes to the awesome Erica Chanti of Rubin Turnbull & Associates, our former colleague Renzo Downey, St. Petersburg City Council member Brett Gerdes, and political consultant Greg Keller.

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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.