Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 5.13.25

Good Tuesday morning.

A top of the ‘burn happy birthday shoutout to the G.O.A.T. of Florida political campaigns, Susie Wiles, who, as anyone reading this newsletter knows, is now Chief of Staff to the President of the United States.

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Florida TaxWatch is kicking off its Spring Meeting in Sarasota this evening. The opening night includes an introduction from Belinda Keiser, vice chancellor of Community Relations and Student Advancement at Keiser University, followed by a keynote address from Bryan Stern, founder and Chair of Grey Bull Rescue. Most of the programming will occur on Wednesday, including a morning panel I will speak at about the Legislative Session. A full agenda is available here.

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Floridian Partners announced the addition of veteran lobbyists Robert “Hawk” Hawken and Meredith Woodrum Snowden.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Hawk and Meredith,” said Charlie Dudley, Managing Partner at Floridian Partners. “Hawk brings decades of experience and strong relationships with legislative leaders, while Meredith adds deep policy expertise and a strong command of Florida’s governmental process. Together, they bring immediate value to our clients.”

Hawken has been a fixture in Florida politics since 1989 — from his private room at the Silver Slipper to The Florida Channel’s “Hanging with Hawk.” He is also known for representing Dosal Tobacco and PRIDE Enterprises, Florida’s prison-based manufacturing program, earning him a reputation for steady, strategic advocacy across various regulated industries.

“Hawk is a trusted advocate on tough issues,” said Senate Majority Leader Jim Boyd. “Floridian Partners is a great fit — a team as respected and effective as he is.”

Before partnering with Hawken, Snowden, a former Florida House Committee staffer, began her private-sector career as a government affairs consultant within Florida law firms. Over the past two decades, she has advised clients on legislative, executive, and regulatory matters and built a reputation for effectively navigating complex governmental processes.

“Hawk, Meredith, and Floridian Partners have represented us for years,” said Cina Welch, president and CEO of FCCI Insurance Group. “They’ve now recognized what we at FCCI have long known: their combined experience, competence, and influence make for a powerful team that delivers results.”

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TSG Advocates, The Southern Group’s federal practice arm, is adding muscle to its D.C. team with Brian Darling, Beau Rothschild and Kaitlyn Roberts.

Darling brings decades of experience on Capitol Hill, including senior staff roles for five U.S. Senators and policy leadership on the Senate Judiciary Committee. He’s well-known in conservative policy circles and has served as a communications voice for right-leaning think tanks and clients across government contracting, tech and real estate.

“Brian served me both as Counsel and Sr. Communications Director during a very active time in the Senate. He is unique in the lobbying world because he brings high-level expertise in both public relations and policy and occupies the growing ideological ranks of liberty-oriented Republicans. Brian will thrive in his new role and will provide a unique skill set to TSG Advocates,” said U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky.

Rothschild joins with over 20 years of experience in legislative affairs and political strategy, including time as a Chief of Staff and Senior Adviser in the House. He’s credited with shaping several processes within the House Administration Committee that remain in use today. His lobbying portfolio has spanned Fortune 100 companies, and international trade clients.

Roberts brings nearly a decade of experience in federal policy and public affairs, including service in the first Donald Trump and Joe Biden administrations. Her work made her well-acquainted with the President’s executive orders, appointments, legislation and inner circle, giving her an insider’s view of how decisions get made at the highest levels. A Harvard-trained strategist with a background in global affairs, Roberts most recently served as a corporate adviser in the Washington office of Aramco. She’s drawn to the intersection of business and policy — a space where TSG Advocates increasingly drive results.

“These new hires bring a new level of talent and connections to our firm — and that will be game-changing for our clients,” stated Chase Kroll, founding member of TSG Advocates. “Collectively, we offer a rare combination of real-time insight and access across the entire federal ecosystem at a time when relationships and timing matter more than ever.”

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The Florida Chamber Foundation has released a new report calling for urgent improvements in math education to better prepare students for Florida’s evolving job market.

As part of its Florida 2030 Blueprint, the Foundation emphasizes strengthening the state’s talent pipeline to support its goal of becoming a Top 10 global economy.

The report, Aligning Math Education to Workforce Needs: Insights From Florida’s Employers, highlights a persistent gap between the math skills taught in K-12 schools and those required by employers across industries.

Drawing on data from surveys and focus groups with business leaders, educators and parents, the research report recommends integrating real-world math applications into curricula, exposing students to math-intensive careers early in their education, and fostering stronger partnerships between schools and industry.

“This is a solvable issue,” said Dr. Keith Richard, vice president of Research at the Florida Chamber Foundation. “By aligning education with workforce needs, we can better equip students for long-term career success.”

Math proficiency is correlated with job performance in many roles, from technical to leadership positions. While 65% of Florida’s eighth graders are currently proficient in math, the report stresses the need for continued progress.

“This report is a call to action,” said Bemetra Simmons, president and CEO of the Tampa Bay Partnership. “Every percentage point gained represents a stronger economy and a brighter future for Florida’s students.”

The findings echo concerns from the Foundation’s 2016 report on educational accountability. The results will be further explored during the upcoming “Learners to Earners Summit,” which will be held on June 24 in Tampa.

To access the full report or get involved, visit flchamber.com/matheducation.

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OnPoint Data Strategy, a strategic business unit of HSP Direct, announced today that JR Kennelly has been hired as president.

Kennelly brings over seven years of political and sales experience at various levels of conservative politics, including pivotal roles as Regional Director for Gov. Ron DeSantis’ and Trump Victory campaigns, deputy director of Scheduling at the Florida Governor’s Office, and Executive Aide to the DeSantis Inaugural Committee.

More recently, Kennelly served as the Director of Strategic Partnerships at Koch Industries’ i360, where he drove significant growth for Fortune 500 companies and prominent political campaigns.

“We’re very excited to bring on JR as the new president of OnPoint,” said HSP Direct CEO Nicole Hall. “He brings great instincts, deep relationships, and a tenacious attitude for results. JR’s focus will be on growing and diversifying our donor universe, expanding our data science insights, and positioning OnPoint as the premier partner in conservative fundraising.”

Kennelly said, “I am honored and excited to take on this role as president of OnPoint. HSP Direct has built an unparalleled reputation of excellence in the industry and OnPoint is poised to carry forward the next phase of data innovation that conservative clients are looking for. I look forward to capitalizing on the phenomenal work that has been done and taking OnPoint to the next level.”

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Sachs Media was recognized with the top health care PR campaign at the 2025 North American SABRE Awards in New York City for its impactful work with the Florida Healthy Kids Corporation.

Selected from a highly competitive field of five national finalists, the “Back to School” campaign stood out for its strategic creativity in connecting families with affordable, accessible health coverage.

“We’re tremendously proud to receive this honor, which reflects the dedication of our talented team and a strong collaboration with Florida Healthy Kids,” said Lisa Garcia, partner and COO of Sachs Media.

“For almost three decades, our firm has been committed to creating campaigns that make a difference in people’s lives, and this recognition underscores the positive impact these efforts can have.”

Presented by PRovoke Media, the SABRE Awards are among the highest honors in the global PR industry, celebrating superior achievement in branding, reputation and engagement.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

Tweet, tweet:

—@ByronDonalds: The astronomical price of prescription drugs has depleted savings accounts and crushed hardworking Americans. The time for fairness and accountability is NOW. Thank you @POTUS for taking decisive action to put the American People First! This is a HUGE WIN for Florida Seniors

—@ChristinaPushaw: At a press conference highlighting Florida’s actions to stop illegal immigration, @GovRonDeSantis reiterates criticism of certain types of legal immigration, namely H1B program — a “racket”

—@AGJamesUthmeier: Recently, my office became aware of a complaint against Life Time Fitness in Palm Beach Gardens for putting women and girls at risk by allowing men into the women’s locker rooms. If Life Time does not immediately reverse this dangerous policy, my office will take swift legal action.

Tweet, tweet:

—@JoePomplioano: I’m not a big conspiracy theorist but it seems awfully convenient that the Mavericks traded Luka to the NBA’s biggest market and then got Cooper Flagg in return months later, despite having just a 1.8% chance to land the number one pick.

— DAYS UNTIL —

Florida Chamber Leadership Conference on Safety, Health + Sustainability — 2; Epic Universe grand opening — 9; Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’ premieres — 10; ‘Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning’ premieres — 10; Florida Chamber Florida Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 16; ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ premieres — 17; Tony Awards — 26; Special Election for SD 19 — 28; Gov. DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet will meet — 29; Special Primary Election for Senate District 15 to succeed the late Geraldine Thompson — 42; Florida Chamber Florida Learners to Earners Workforce Solution Summit — 42; ‘Squid Game’ season three premieres — 45; James Gunn’s ‘Superman’ premieres — 59; ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ premieres on Netflix — 73; ‘Fantastic Four – First Steps’ premieres — 73; Florida Freedom Forum — 81; ‘Eyes of Wakanda’ premieres on Disney+ — 85; Florida Chamber Florida Technology & Innovation Solution Summit — 91; Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party begins — 94; Special Election for Senate District 15 — 112; Cowboys-Eagles open NFL season — 114;the Emmys — 124; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 127; Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio premieres — 136; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 167; ‘Wicked: Part 2’ premieres — 192; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 199; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 204; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 204; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 218; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 220; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 226; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 269; ‘Avengers 5’ premieres — 357; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 374; FIFA World Cup™ final — 395; Another untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 585; Tampa mayoral election — 658; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 725; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 871; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1158; U.S. Presidential Election — 1274; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1674; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2405.

— TOP STORY —

“Ron DeSantis dismisses idea of Florida GOP ‘summit’ to help negotiate budget impasse” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Gov. DeSantis flatly rejected a proposal Monday from the Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) to host a summit aimed at resolving a state budget impasse between the GOP-led House and Senate.

Negotiations broke down Friday, with the two chambers reportedly billions of dollars apart, primarily due to conflicting tax cut proposals. House leadership favors a significant sales tax cut, while DeSantis and Senate leaders have pushed for property tax relief.

In response to the stalemate, RPOF Chair Evan Power proposed a summit involving DeSantis, House Speaker Daniel Perez, and Senate President Ben Albritton to find “a common path forward.”

However, during a news conference, DeSantis dismissed the idea: “With all due respect… that’s not the role of the Republican Party of Florida… we’re not going to do a dog and pony show.” He asserted that legislators should “do their jobs.”

DeSantis intensified his criticism of House leadership, claiming they have “careened off course the whole Session. ” He referred to prior disputes, including an investigation into the First Lady’s Hope Florida Foundation. He touted his fiscal record, highlighting debt reduction and key state investments under his tenure, suggesting the state should “keep doing what we’ve been doing.”

While no date is set for full legislative budget talks, the House is scheduled to meet Tuesday to extend the negotiation deadline through June. The new fiscal year begins July 1, adding urgency to finding a resolution. A House Committee studying property tax elimination is also set to convene.

— STATEWIDE —

Happening today — The House will hold a floor Session: 1 p.m., House Chamber.

“DeSantis says ‘dust still settling’ but LG, CFO picks to happen ‘relatively soon’” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis does not appear to be in a rush to pick replacements for former Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez and former Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. “I did say I wanted to get through the Legislative Session and see how the dust settled. Obviously, dust is still settling,” DeSantis said Monday, alluding to the 2025-2026 state budget that the Legislature hasn’t passed yet. Patronis resigned the position earlier this year to run for Congress. Nuñez became the interim president of Florida International University on February 7. Since then, she has been made permanent. DeSantis suggests that the appointment will be “relatively soon,” but timing depends on the Legislature doing its job.

“State officials say ICE raids, mass deportation are ‘the new normal’ in Florida” via Ana Goñi-Lessan of USA Today — Florida officials called Operation Tidal Wave, where over 1,000 migrants were detained in five days, the “new normal.” And not just for the Sunshine State, but for the rest of the country. Within the next 60 days, the federal government will attempt to put into practice an approach to mass deportation “strikingly similar” to Operation Tidal Wave, said Larry Keefe, executive director of the State Board of Immigration Enforcement, at a news conference in Tampa on May 12. “The techniques, the methods… will be the standard that our brother and sister states apply in the effort,” he said.

“‘Where’s the cavalry?’ DeSantis slams other red states for failing to fight illegal immigration” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — DeSantis is calling out other red states for not doing enough to deport undocumented people as he touted Florida’s efforts fighting illegal immigration. “Where’s the cavalry?” DeSantis said during a Tampa news conference. “We’re not the only red state in the country.” Earlier this year, Sheriffs in Florida’s 67 counties, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and other law enforcement agencies signed 287(g) agreements, giving them authority to help Immigration and Customs Enforcement enforce U.S. immigration law. Those Florida agreements make up more than half of the country’s 287(g) agreements, DeSantis said, as he scolded other states for not stepping up.

“New bill to repeal Florida’s ‘Free Kill’ law makes it to DeSantis’ desk” via Ashley Ferrer of USA Today Network — Florida’s Senate voted May 1 to pass a bill that would repeal the state’s so-called ‘Free Kill’ statute, which restricts who can sue for medical malpractice. Under the ‘Free Kill’ law, only spouses and children under 25 of someone who died from medical malpractice can sue for pain and suffering due to the loss of life. HB 6017 deletes this provision. Also titled “Recovery of Damages for Medical Negligence Resulting in Death,” the new bill was filed by House Reps. Dana Trabulsy and Johanna López and is supported by families affected by the 35-year-old law.

“Backers of recreational pot in Florida join court fight against tougher rules for ballot initiatives” via Dara Kam of the News Service of Florida — Backers of a renewed attempt to pass a recreational-marijuana constitutional amendment have joined a court challenge to a new law that makes it harder for groups to place initiatives on the ballot, saying the measure imposes “draconian restrictions on Floridians’ sovereign” right to change the state constitution. The law (HB 1205), finalized by the Legislature on May 2 and immediately signed by DeSantis, includes sweeping changes to the initiative process that make it more difficult for signature gatherers to collect petitions, by creating new crimes, heightening existing penalties for wrongdoing, and shortening the time frame for petitions to be submitted to supervisors of elections. The Legislature approved the changes following fierce fights over ballot proposals in November 2024 aimed at allowing recreational use of marijuana and placing abortion rights in the Constitution.

“Citrus harvest forecast improves as season nears its close” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — After beginning the year with a bleak outlook, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) citrus harvest projections for Florida have been steadily getting better. The USDA published a revised citrus forecast that projects 11.63 million boxes of oranges will be harvested this growing season, along with 1.3 million boxes of grapefruit and 400,000 boxes of tangerines and tangelos. After Hurricanes Helene and Milton blasted Florida in the Fall, citrus forecasters tempered their outlook. Analysts then expected only 11.5 million boxes of oranges to be harvested this year, along with 1.1 million boxes of grapefruit and 350,000 boxes of tangerines and tangelos. But the outlook has steadily improved since then.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Donald Trump promises to slash drug costs, tying U.S. prices to those paid abroad” via David Lim of POLITICO — Trump revived a plan to tie prescription drug prices in the U.S. to what other nations pay for medicines. His executive order still leaves many questions about how the administration will implement a so-called “most-favored nation” policy. “For years, pharmaceutical and drug companies have said research and development costs were what they are,” Trump said. “And for no reason whatsoever, they had to be borne by America alone. Not anymore, they don’t.” The order directs U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to ensure other nations do not “purposefully and unfairly undercut market prices and drive price hikes” in the U.S.

“Top Democrat in Senate Foreign Relations Committee urges Marco Rubio to prioritize Haiti crisis” via Jacqueline Charles of the Miami Herald — The top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee is calling on Secretary of State Rubio to prioritize U.S. efforts to deal with the crisis of gang violence in Haiti. Rubio, who supported Haiti while he was in the Senate, should reconsider restoring funding cuts, push for money for the ongoing international armed mission to fight gangs and engage with Russia and China in high-level conversations to lay the groundwork for a formal United Nations peacekeeping mission, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire said. Shaheen outlined her concerns and recommendations to Rubio in a three-page letter that shows she’s been closely monitoring the worsening crisis in Haiti.

“Byron Donalds calls Trump’s fair drug pricing executive order ‘huge win’ for Florida seniors” via Eric Daugherty of Florida’s Voice — Donalds said over the weekend that Trump’s new executive order seeking more internationally fair drug pricing for Americans is a “huge win for Florida seniors.” “The astronomical price of prescription drugs has depleted savings accounts and crushed hardworking Americans,” the Congressman said. “The time for fairness and accountability is NOW.” “Thank you [President Trump] for taking decisive action to put the American People First!” Donalds said. Trump announced Truth Social, stating that his order will “almost immediately” reduce drug prices by 30% to 80%.

“Defamation case against Randy Fine dismissed” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — A lawsuit in Duval County accusing U.S. Rep. Fine of defamation is closed. Maleana Gay, who filed the complaint in August 2024, has filed a motion to throw out the case, according to records. In her complaint, Gay stated that Fine accused her of having an “unabashed Nazi” as a running mate in a race for Republican State Committee member in August 2024. Gay also alleged Fine said she had “endorsed an avowed bigot” and supported an “unrepentant antisemite,” and that he sent an email “that implied she was an antisemite.”

“House GOP propose more modest Medicaid cuts than conservatives wanted” via Paige Winfield Cunningham of The Washington Post — Republicans are steering clear of dramatic Medicaid cuts in their spending bill, instead opting for smaller changes backed by moderate and swing-state members who had balked at the prospect of slashing a program that covers more than 70 million low-income and disabled Americans. The text of the legislation, released Sunday night by the House Committee that oversees health care, calls for new requirements for beneficiaries, including co-pays for those above 100% of the federal poverty level and work requirements for many able-bodied, childless adults. It also tightens up eligibility verification rules and cracks down on taxes that states charge medical providers as a roundabout way of collecting more federal Medicaid dollars.

“The leadership of the Library of Congress is in apparent dispute” via Josh Gerstein and Katherine Tully-McManus of POLITICO — The leadership of the Library of Congress is in apparent dispute after the White House moved Monday to install Justice Department’s No. 2 official as its new acting Chief. A DOJ official said Trump appointed Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche as acting Librarian of Congress. But the official who now holds that post, Robert Randolph Newlen, disputed that a change had been made in an email to library staff Monday morning. “Congress is engaged with the White House, and we have not received direction from Congress about how to move forward,” Newlen wrote. Newlen took over as acting Librarian of Congress on Thursday after Trump fired Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden, cutting short her 10-year term.

“Mexico says U.S. suspension of beef imports because of screwworm is unfair” via The Associated Press — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Monday described as “unfair” the decision by the Trump administration to suspend imports of Mexican beef cattle for 15 days due to the detection of screwworm in shipments. Sheinbaum, who has spent the past few months scrambling to offset Trump’s tariff threats, said she hoped the suspension would not result in another economic blow for her country. “We do not agree with this measure,” Sheinbaum said. “The Mexican government has been working on all fronts from the very first moment we were alerted to the screwworm.”

— ELECTIONS —

Raemi Eagle-Glenn endorses Marshall Rawson for HD 10 — Republican Rawson’s campaign for House District 10 announced an endorsement from former Alachua County Commissioner Eagle-Glenn. “I want a Representative with fortitude to stand up to the political establishment in Tallahassee,” said Eagle-Glenn. “Marshall Rawson will not bow to special interests. He will deliver for the people of House District 10!” Rawson added, “Raemi is a dynamic conservative fighter who supports the right things for the right reasons, and I’m honored to have her as an active part of the team.” Rawson is competing against Chase Brannan in the Republican Primary for the North Central Florida seat.

“Aaron Lewis leaves Orlando City Council race, endorses Mira Tanna” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Family Support Network co-founder Lewis has dropped out of an Orlando City Council race. Instead, he will endorse Tanna for the District 3 City Commissioner job. “This wasn’t easy — but I believe in making room when the right leader steps forward. And in this case, that leader is Mira Tanna,” Lewis posted on X. The news came shortly after incumbent City Commissioner Robert Stuart announced he would not seek re-election to the seat. That leaves Tanna and Samuel Chambers in the running for the post. Tanna, a grants manager for the city, announced her candidacy last month. She embraced Lewis’ endorsement. “I’m honored to earn Aaron’s support,” Tanna said.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Ex-Miami-Dade Commission Chair denied new trial after convicted on corruption charges” via Charles Rabin of the Miami Herald — One of the longest tenured elected leaders in Miami-Dade County history was denied a last-ditch effort to overturn a criminal conviction. Joe Martinez, a former decorated cop and five-time elected County Commissioner from West Kendall who chaired the 13-member Board twice during his almost 20 years in office, was found guilty of unlawful compensation and conspiracy to commit unlawful compensation at trial in November. Martinez is expected to be sentenced on June 20. Jurors were told that Martinez, 66, accepted three $5,000 payments almost a decade ago from Extra Supermarket owner Jorge Negrin in exchange for pushing legislation that would have permitted much-needed refrigerated containers at a West Kendall mall at 12800 SW Eighth St.

“Miami-Dade advances proposal to study Airbnb trash output, possible ‘pay-as-you-throw’ model” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami-Dade could start examining whether short-term vacation rentals in the county produce more trash than their traditional residential counterparts — and whether they should be charged more for the difference. But it’s easier said than done. Members of the Infrastructure, Innovation and Technology Committee voted 3-0 for a resolution by Raquel Regalado that would direct Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s administration to do the study. At a minimum, county staff would have to compare the trash output for vacation and non-vacation rentals and, based on the information collected, provide the County Commission recommendations for offsetting any disproportionate impacts.

“Millionaire money has poured into Miami. Meanwhile, locals are being pushed out” via Max Klaver of the Miami Herald — Millionaires are flocking to Miami faster than any other major metropolitan area in the country, save the Bay Area, a new report reveals. From 2014 to 2024, the Miami area’s millionaire population nearly doubled, ballooning by 94% to almost 39,000 people, according to wealth consultant Henley & Partners and financial intelligence firm New World Wealth. The findings underscore the massive influx of wealth to Florida during and immediately after the COVID pandemic, with high earners from other parts of the country drawn to Florida’s favorable tax policies, warm weather, relatively cheap real estate and lax pandemic restrictions. But over the same period, housing prices have spiked.

“Judge asked May 12 to rule State Attorney has conflict to investigate Keith Pearson” via Melissa E. Holsman of Treasure Coast Newspapers — Pearson must wait until next week for a Judge to decide if a conflict of interest exists for State Attorney Tom Bakkedahl’s Office to keep investigating an issue raised last July by St. Lucie County Sheriff Richard Del Toro regarding “a false social media post” designed to make him appear to be a racist. The social media post surfaced on July 19, 2024, when Del Toro, then Port St. Lucie Police acting Chief, was campaigning against Pearson during a combative Republican Primary for Sheriff, which Del Toro won before moving on to win the General Election. Pearson was appointed Sheriff in December 2023 by DeSantis after the abrupt resignation of longtime Sheriff Ken Mascara.

“Musical chairs for Hialeah’s City Council start up again. A look at the candidates” via Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald — Politics in Hialeah often plays out like a game of musical chairs. With no designated voting districts in Miami-Dade’s second-largest city, political hopefuls are free to target whichever Council position offers the most straightforward path to victory, whether to avoid clashes with established officeholders or stepping into a vacancy left by a well-timed resignation. The latest reshuffling began when Mayor Esteban “Steve” Bovo abruptly stepped down to join a lobbying firm, setting off a cascade of changes. Council member Jacqueline Garcia-Roves was elevated to Interim Mayor, leaving her Council seat open and sparking yet another appointment scramble — the third in less than a year.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Michelin Guide finds culinary talent, public money aplenty in Orlando” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Long before the Michelin Guide’s “famously anonymous” inspectors sneaked into Orlando to gauge its gastronomical genius, TastyChomps food blogger Ricky Ly believed the city’s chefs had the chops to rank with the world’s best. “We were all sure Orlando had these great places and, given a chance, could make any list,” he said. Ly said the talent of local chefs made it so. But so too did another Central Florida resource: tourist-tax money. Visit Orlando, the tourism marketing agency funded mainly by Orange County’s Tourist Development Tax, helped lure Michelin’s secret evaluations of the region’s culinary brilliance by paying more than $800,000 since September 2021, according to a 19-page “business collaboration agreement” posted on the County Comptroller’s website.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Tampa Bay could soon have two ferries running between St. Petersburg, Tampa” via Mark Parker of the St. Pete Catalyst — Pinellas County transportation officials plan to purchase up to two high-speed vessels, which they would then lease to a private operator for an enhanced ferry service between St. Petersburg and Tampa. An unused $4.86 million federal grant approaching its termination date would fund the acquisition. Brad Miller, CEO of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), said owning the vessels would reduce hourly operating costs by hundreds of dollars. The agency’s Executive Committee voted to accept the grant on Wednesday. The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) received the funding in 2021 and recently refused to transfer the money until PSTA’s Governing Board formally approved plans to purchase a new ferry.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“FSU shooting suspect out of hospital, transferred to detention center” via Richard Tribou of the Orlando Sentinel — The suspect in the deadly shooting on the Florida State University campus last month was released from the hospital Monday and transferred to a detention facility. Phoenix Ikner, 20, was taken by the Tallahassee Police Department to the Leon County Detention Facility, the Sheriff’s Office posted in an update on its Facebook page. Ikner, the stepson of a Leon County Sheriff’s deputy, faces felony charges stemming from the April 17 shooting on the FSU campus. He faces two counts of first-degree murder and seven counts of attempted first-degree murder. Ikner was wounded when law enforcement responded to the shooting about four minutes after it began.

“After 13 years on the morning news, First Coast News anchor Katie Jeffries plans to leave” via Gary T. Mills of The Florida Times-Union — Another familiar face is leaving First Coast News. Just three weeks before longtime meteorologist Tim Deegan is set to retire from Jacksonville’s NBC and ABC affiliate after a 42-year run, morning news anchor Jeffries announced Thursday that she would also be leaving the station this month. “It is time you all know. My time at First Coast News is coming to a close,” Jeffries wrote in a social media post. “For 16 years, I have had the privilege of telling people’s stories as a journalist. Thirteen of those years have been spent here on the First Coast, and I am so grateful for all the support and kindness you all have shown me over the years.”

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“North Port voters to decide five referendum questions on May 13” via Earle Kimel of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — North Port residents will go to the polls May 13 to decide five referendum questions — four of which involve the city’s ability to borrow money. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 13. The five questions on the ballot include two city charter changes and three questions seeking permission to finance new projects — the largest is a proposed new headquarters for North Port Police. Statewide, all bonds backed by property taxes must first be approved by voters. Still, North Port is the only known municipality in Florida that cannot borrow funds for emergency response or projects backed by other financial means.

“Venice City Council to choose from 3 applicants to fill Seat 1 vacancy at Tuesday meeting” via Earle Kimel of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Three people applied to fill the Venice City Council Seat 1, which was vacated when Joan Farrell resigned this Spring. The new member will be chosen and sworn in at the end of Tuesday’s meeting. The seat opened when Farrell suddenly resigned on April 11, two days after the Council decided against a citizen appeal to reject the site plan for a shopping center in Northeast Venice. Mitzie Fiedler has applied. She held the seat for two terms until Farrell upended her in the 2023 Election that also saw Ron Smith win the race for Seat 2. Christopher Derbak and Lloyd Weed have also applied.

— TOP OPINION —

“Federal proposals are a devastating blow to health care in Florida” via Mary Mayhew for Florida Politics — Our state’s Medicaid program is facing a potential catastrophe. Lawmakers in Washington are contemplating massive, unfair cuts that would profoundly harm Florida’s most vulnerable citizens and destabilize the very foundation of our health care system.

Let me be clear: these are not mere accounting adjustments or efficiency measures. They represent an extreme assault on a system already underfunded, a system relied upon by about one-fifth of Floridians, primarily pregnant women, low-income children, people with disabilities and the frail elderly. In some rural areas, Medicaid covers a third or more of the population.

Currently, base Medicaid payments don’t even cover 60% of a hospital’s cost to care for an enrollee. Hospitals depend on supplemental payments, often financed through provider taxes on the hospitals themselves (a federally allowed practice used across the country), to partially cover this shortfall.

Congress is now considering slashing these crucial provider taxes and supplemental payments. The result? Hospitals are facing even greater unfunded care costs, forcing heartrending decisions. We could see reductions or eliminations of vital services like trauma care, pediatrics, labor and delivery and mental health clinics. Rural hospitals might be forced to close entirely.

The consequences will be devastatingly human: a senior unable to find a nursing home bed, a child facing life-threatening delays in cancer treatment, a mother driving 50 miles for a safe delivery, or a mentally ill individual cycling between jail and emergency rooms.

Florida already ranks near the bottom in per capita Medicaid spending; our system has no fat to trim. These proposed cuts would simply starve an already lean lifeline. Lawmakers must reject these draconian measures; our children, the elderly, and the most vulnerable are counting on it.

— OPINIONS —

“Smooth operator” via Nick Catoggio of The Dispatch — Trump recently named both Secretary of State Rubio and Vice President JD Vance as potential successors, fueling speculation about the 2028 GOP leadership. Trump’s mention of Rubio, who now holds multiple key posts, including acting National Security Adviser, alongside the presumed heir apparent, Vance, was seen as significant by observers. This development highlights Rubio’s growing influence within the administration. While many analysts believe Vance, as Vice President, holds the strongest claim to inheriting Trump’s movement, Rubio’s apparent ascent complicates the picture. Insiders note Rubio’s increased visibility and suggest Trump may view the two Floridians as having comparable stature, setting the stage for a potentially dynamic contest for the post-Trump GOP mantle.

“Make public broadcasting great again by shaking it up” via Llewellyn King of the Tampa Bay Times — The animus that has led Trump to order an end to federal funding of PBS and NPR isn’t new. Public broadcasting has been an irritant to conservatives for a long time. Conservatives say public broadcasters are biased against them, especially PBS; they are a kind of ground zero for all things “woke,” and they don’t deserve one penny of public money. My friend and colleague, Adam Clayton Powell III, who has worked in commercial and public television and was the first vice president of news at NPR in the 1980s, thinks that some of the old rigor about being even-handed may have “fallen away.”

“UF presidential pick backed Jim Harbaugh amid Michigan’s scandal” via Mike Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel — If there is anybody who should be thrilled about Santa Ono becoming the University of Florida’s unanimous choice as the new school president, it is Florida football coach Billy Napier. As long as Napier wins at a high level — either by hook or by crook — Ono will have his back. If we’ve learned anything about Ono from his tenure as the president of the University of Michigan, it is that he loves a winning football team. At all costs. When the University of Florida announced a few days ago that Ono was the sole finalist to replace Ben Sasse as the next president, the news rippled far beyond Gainesville. Ono, who has served as president of the University of Michigan since 2022, is a respected academic leader with a reputation for energy, charisma and a strong belief in the power of higher education. His academic credentials are impeccable.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“On eve of announcement, report from Spain says it has Dolphins’ opponent, date for Madrid game” via David Furones of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The date and opponent for the Miami Dolphins’ game in Madrid, Spain this season will officially be announced Tuesday morning, but a Spanish news outlet said on Monday it has the scoop. According to Diario AS, a publication based in Madrid with 3.3 million followers on X, the Dolphins will play the Washington Commanders on Nov. 16. Miami was first announced as the designated home team for the NFL’s first game in Spain in January. It will be played in Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to the famed Spanish soccer club Real Madrid. Before Monday’s report, the Commanders had been a team rumored to be the away team against the Dolphins. At the NFL annual meeting on March 31, coach Mike McDaniel was asked if he expected to play Washington in Spain. He was coy in revealing whether he knew or not.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Best wishes to Tampa City Council member Bill Carlson, Craig Fugate, former FEMA Director and former state Emergency Management Director and Todd Reid of Firehouse Strategies and Abbie Vail of Ballard Partners.

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