Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.

Peter SchorschMarch 4, 2015

The newest chapter of the “4th Floor Files” features Albert Balido, principal founder of the Tallahassee-based Anfield Consulting. Balido’s boutique public affairs firm represents a wide range of interests, including Florida Crystals, the cities of Miami and Frostproof, Hewlett Packard Co., the Florida Education Association, and the Southern Poverty Law Center, to list a few. […]

Associated PressMarch 3, 2015

The Republican-led Florida Legislature kicked off its annual session Tuesday with the usual pomp, but the celebratory nature was overshadowed by lingering questions about the state budget, tax cuts and health care. The two GOP legislators in charge opened the session by stressing areas on which they plan to work in tandem over the next […]

Associated PressMarch 3, 2015

The Republican-led Florida Legislature kicked off its annual session Tuesday with the usual pomp, but the celebratory nature was overshadowed by lingering questions about the state budget, tax cuts and health care. The two GOP legislators in charge opened the session by stressing areas on which they plan to work in tandem over the next […]

James CallMarch 3, 2015

The Florida House and Senate have a joint work plan but when Sen. President Andy Gardiner recapped day one of the 2015 Legislative Session the conversation shed light on the issues separating the chambers. The different priorities will be the bargaining chips lawmakers will exchange over the next 10 weeks of policymaking and budget writing. […]

James CallMarch 3, 2015

Senate President Andy Gardiner spoke with reporters for about 10 minutes Tuesday after the Senate adjourned its first session of the 2015 Legislative Session. The discussion highlighted the differences separating the House and Senate as they begin writing a state budget and addressing other priorities. While the Senate is focused on prison reform, providing access […]

Phil AmmannMarch 3, 2015

With a message of hope for the next 60 days, Florida House Speaker Steve Crisafulli issued his official statement Tuesday morning to open the 2015 Legislative Session. Borrowing its theme from Florida’s 19th century state motto — “Leave Us Alone” — the Broward County Republican said he was glad the state turned away from its […]

James CallMarch 2, 2015

Don Clifford’s vision is getting closer to becoming a reality. He leads a group of investors who’ve put up $7 million to build the world’s largest in-door marijuana cultivation facility. Monday he was in Tallahassee for a hearing on a proposed rule for Florida’s Charlotte’s Web law. Regulators and stakeholders have been meeting since August […]

Phil AmmannMarch 2, 2015

The newest chapter of the “4th Floor Files” features lobbyist Darrick McGhee of Johnson & Blanton. McGhee, with more than 13 years of experience in government, was the former Director of Legislative Affairs in the Executive Office of Gov. Rick Scott. Significant other? Children? Grandkids? Happily married to Tikia McGhee (12 years); Two children: Darrick […]

Phil AmmannMarch 2, 2015

An old brewers’ adage: “Five ingredients for excellent beer: malt, hops, water, yeast, and friends.” As Tallahassee lurches into the 60-day 2015 Legislative Session on Tuesday, state Sen. Jack Latvala and Rep. Dana Young fired another salvo in the developing growler debate. In December, the two Tampa Bay Republicans announced the creation of the Brewing […]

James CallMarch 1, 2015

Tallahassee will become the capital city this week when lawmakers arrive at the state capitol Tuesday for the 2015 Legislative Session and begin debate on how to spend $77 billion. Other issues as well will be considered during the next 10 weeks; developing a state water policy, curbing the use of standardize test in public […]

Tag: legislative

4th Floor Files talks to Albert Balido about realism, Sine Die parties and being yourself

Budget, health care issues cloud Legislature’s opening day

Budget, health care issues cloud Legislature's opening day

The day that was in Florida politics — March 3

Day One with Andy Gardiner: Medicaid, greyhounds, water and a “long way to go”

House Speaker Steve Crisafulli issues challenge to 2015 Session

Delayed medical marijuana draft rule goes through new public hearing

4th Floor Files talks to Darrick McGhee about marriage, less government and fiscal conservatism

Brewing Liberty Caucus takes first steps towards victory in growler debate

The week ahead: Tally turns into Capital City