Staff Reports, Author at Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.

Staff ReportsMay 30, 2017

Consumer sentiment among Floridians dropped in May for the second month in a row, falling 2.4 points to 93.3 from a revised April reading of 95.7. Among the five components that make up the index, one increased and four decreased. “Most of the pessimism in May stems from perceptions about the current economic conditions,” said […]

Staff ReportsMay 30, 2017

The Florida Retail Federation has issued a reminder that the new disaster preparedness sales-tax holiday begins this week. Right in time for hurricane season, the state will waive sales taxes on purchases of emergency supplies starting at 12:01 p.m. Friday, ending at 11:59 p.m. Sunday. “Thanks to our legislative leaders and Gov. Scott for including […]

Staff ReportsMay 27, 2017

In honor of Memorial Day, Vern Buchanan laid a wreath Friday at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. Joining the Sarasota Republican, who represents Florida’s 16th Congressional District, was his wife Sandy. “America must never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country,’’ Buchanan said. “Our nation owes […]

Staff ReportsMay 27, 2017

The special election to replace Eric Eisnaugle in the Florida House will take place on Oct. 10, following a special primary election on Aug. 15. Gov. Rick Scott set the schedule in an executive order Friday, as Eisnaugle’s resignation from his District 44 seat took effect. Scott selected Eisnaugle on May 8 to replace former […]

Staff ReportsMay 26, 2017

After the Florida Senate failed to consider several names for confirmation before sine die of the 2017 Regular Session, Gov. Rick Scott announced 11 reappointments Thursday to various boards statewide. Florida Prepaid College Board Ambassador John Rood, 62, of Jacksonville, is the chair of the Vestcor Companies, Inc. He served as United States Ambassador to […]

Staff ReportsMay 26, 2017

The chairman of the Constitution Revision Commission has called a meeting of the full panel in Orlando on June 6 to debate and vote on a package of procedural rules. Carlos Beruff said in a letter to members Friday that the panel’s rules committee had reached consensus in some, but not all, areas. “In light of the […]

Staff ReportsMay 26, 2017

Florida’s gross domestic product grew by 3 percent last year, outpacing both the national rate of 1.5 percent and the other large states, Gov. Rick Scott announced Friday. “This great news is further proof that our economy is booming and we must stay focused on continuing this growth so Florida can out compete other locations […]

Staff ReportsMay 26, 2017

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Florida House Democrats are beefing up their campaign arm for next year’s elections, hiring a communications chief and operatives to begin work immediately. Kionne McGhee, scheduled to become House leader following the 2018 elections, said it is “imperative” that Democrats “take back power” in the House. “I’m pleased to welcome our new staff into the fray,” McGhee […]

Staff ReportsMay 25, 2017

John Tupps is heading back to the Governor’s Office. Gov. Rick Scott announced Thursday that Tupps would be returning to the Governor’s Office as his communications director beginning June 5. He will replace Jackie Schutz Zeckman, who has been tapped to serve as Scott’s chief of staff. “John has demonstrated an incredible commitment to supporting […]

Staff ReportsMay 25, 2017

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) on Wednesday invited “communities across Florida to submit proposals for three grant funding opportunities for the upcoming fiscal year,” according to a press release. The department “is committed to using our resources and tools to help all Florida communities and their residents flourish,” DEO Executive Director Cissy Proctor […]

Staff Reports

Consumer confidence in Florida drops again in May

Three-day disaster preparedness sales tax holiday begins Friday

Vern Buchanan honors Memorial Day by laying wreath at Tomb of Unknown Soldier

Dates set for special election to replace Eric Eisnaugle in House

Without Senate confirmation, Rick Scott reappoints 11 to state boards

Constitution Revision Commission will debate, vote on rules on June 6

Rick Scott: Florida GDP continues to outpace national growth rate

Personnel note: House Democrats staff-up for 2018 campaign cycle

Rick Scott names John Tupps communications director

DEO seeks applicants for grant opportunities