Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.

Mitch PerryFebruary 26, 2015

Alan Clendenin, who nearly became chairman of the Florida Democratic Party two years ago, is considering a run for elected office for the first time. The 55-year-old State and Democratic National Committeeman from Tampa says he is considering a run for the open Hillsborough County Commission District 6 race, but says it could be another office. […]

Gary FineoutFebruary 26, 2015

For nearly 2 million Florida public school students, the next few weeks could be a crucial moment in their education. The state is undertaking one of the biggest changes in its classrooms since former Gov. Jeb Bush pushed through his signature A+ school grading system nearly 16 years ago. Students will switch this spring to […]

Janelle Irwin TaylorFebruary 26, 2015

In anticipation of the 2015 Legislative Session, FloridaPolitics.com is asking state lawmakers about their goals and priorities — and whether they support controversial issues in the state. Here are the responses from Rep. Janet Cruz of Tampa. In one word, how would you describe your expectations for the Session, i.e. “Excited?” “Expansion.” What’s a local issue you are […]

Janelle Irwin TaylorFebruary 26, 2015

Florida Department of Transportation officials will be on hand 5 to 7 Thursday evening to answer questions and present the Gateway Expressway project to residents. The meeting will be at the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority’s administration building located at 3201 Scherer Drive, St. Petersburg. The location is appropriate considering it’s just about ground zero for […]

Mitch PerryFebruary 26, 2015

St. Petersburg GOP state Sen. Jeff Brandes has filed legislation that would allow share-riding companies Uber and Lyft to operate legally in Florida, and would also change the current composition of the Hillsborough County Public Transportation Commission — an agency that Brandes tried to kill in proposed legislation a year ago. The Brandes bill on the […]

Mitch PerryFebruary 26, 2015

As anyone paying attention to the rhetoric of some of the leading GOP presidential candidates this year, the term “income inequality” is no longer strictly the province of the Occupy Wall Street crowd. “The opportunity gap is the defining issue of our time,” Jeb Bush said in his first major speech of the year in Detroit […]

Ryan RayFebruary 26, 2015

Editor’s Note: As the 2015 Legislative Session approaches, FloridaPolitics.com is reporting on several “legislative food fights” likely to break out during the annual lawmaking period. These food fights don’t always make the front page of the Tampa Bay Times, but they are the kind of industry vs. industry or intra-industry turfbattles that drive Tallahassee — and expand the economics […]

Peter SchorschFebruary 26, 2015

IN LOVING REMEMBRANCE: MARGARET CRIST WOOD via Michelle Todd Some people come into our lives for just a season. However, even after that time has passed, their positive impact is everlasting. Margaret Crist Wood was one such person for me. Margaret’s grace, love for her family, her kindness and laughter left a deep impression with me. […]

Peter SchorschFebruary 26, 2015

Former State Sen. Paula Dockery, who served 16 years in the Florida Legislature, is joining the board of the League of Women Voters of Florida. Term limited from running again for the State Senate in 2012, Dockery has since launched a new career as a political columnist. Her syndicated columns appear in more than 20 newspapers […]

Phil AmmannFebruary 25, 2015

On Wednesday, Gov. Rick Scott announced 16 appointments – including 12 reappointments – to a variety of state regulatory boards. All the following are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate. Florida Commission on Community Service (Volunteer Florida) Scott announced two appointments and three reappointments to the Florida Commission on Community Service (Volunteer Florida), which […]

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Image via AP.

Tampa DNC Committeeman Alan Clendenin contemplating a run for office

Florida legislators under pressure to alter school testing

Previewing the 2015 Legislative Session with Rep. Janet Cruz

FDOT officials bring expressway plans to Pinellas

Jeff Brandes bill would reduce local choice of representation on Hillsborough County PTC

Mitch Perry Report for 2.26.15 — Is GOP divided on whether income inequality is a partisan issue?

Optometrists, contact lens retailers fight battle along blurred lines

Sunburn – The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics – February 26

Paula Dockery joins Florida League of Women Voters board

Gov. Scott announces 16 regulatory board appointments