Good Friday morning.
Morning must-read — “How AI is already reshaping the campaign trail“ via Peter Schorsch for Substack — Artificial intelligence is quickly moving from novelty to campaign tool, reshaping political strategy in ways both large and small, from ad creation to voter targeting and opposition research.
You can read my latest FloridAI Substack here.
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Samuel Arena lands on ARRO ‘30 Under Thirty’ list — Arena, co-founder and COO of national grassroots political firm Express Canvassing, was named to Cygnal’s ARRO “30 Under Thirty” list honoring rising Republican operatives. The Pasco County native has overseen battleground field programs in more than 40 states, including campaign operations across Florida at the federal, statewide and local levels. The ARRO “30 Under Thirty” list highlights rising young talent in Republican politics and campaign operations. “These honorees represent exactly why we built 30 Under Thirty in the first place,” said Cygnal pollster Chris Lane. “They are smart, hardworking, mission-driven, and already making a real difference in the conservative movement.” Arena and other honorees will be honored during a celebration in Washington next week.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
Tweet, tweet:
—@SenBillCassidy: People are concerned about paying their mortgage or rent, affording groceries and paying for gas, not about putting together a $1.8 billion fund for the President and his allies to pay whomever they wish with no legal precedent or accountability. This is adding to our national debt. If there needs to be a settlement, the administration should bring it to Congress to decide.
Tweet, tweet:
Tweet, tweet:
—@SenRickScott: Universities aren’t piggy banks. They’re supposed to set students up with a good-paying job and be responsible with taxpayer dollars. We need transparency from @UF.
Tweet, tweet:
—@Fineout: Day 9 of the Special Session… No budget meetings today, unlikely to be any meetings… The hope of getting the budget finished by Friday has all but evaporated. Under Fla’s 72-hour ”cooling off period,” budget must be done by next Tuesday to end the Special Session on time… This means that House & Senate budget negotiators will be working through Memorial Day weekend in order to try to bring this $115B budget – hashed out largely behind closed doors – in for a landing
Tweet, tweet:
Tweet, tweet:
— DAYS UNTIL —
Marvel’s ’Spider-Noir’ arrives on Amazon Prime — 5; Rafa Nadal documentary ’Rafa’ premieres on Netflix — 7; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 11; Florida Tech & Innovation Summit — 12; ’Cape Fear’ series premieres on Apple TV — 14; ’Masters of the Universe’ premieres — 14; 2026 Florida Chamber Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit — 17; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 17; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 20; Steven Spielberg’s ’Disclosure Day’ premieres — 21; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices — 21; Flag Day — 23; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 — 23; President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday — 23; ’Toy Story 5’ premieres — 28; The final season of ‘THE BEAR’ premieres — 34; ’Supergirl’ premieres — 35; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates — 35; live-action ’Moana’ premieres — 40; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 43; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline — 48; 2026 Florida Python Challenge — 49; MLB All-Star Game — 53; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline — 55; Primary Election voter registration deadline — 59; ’Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ premieres — 70; ’Ted Lasso’ season 4 premieres — 75; Primary Election ballot request deadline — 76; Early voting period begins — 78; ’Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 86; ‘Lanterns’ premieres on HBO — 86; Primary Election Day — 88; NFL regular season kicks off — 110; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia — 111; Yankees host the Mets for 9/11 anniversary — 112; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 116; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline — 120; Tampa Bay Buccaneers opener against Cleveland Browns — 121; General Election domestic ballot deadline — 125; Domestic General Election VBM deadline — 132; General Election voter registration deadline — 136; Early Voting General Election begins — 155; General Election — 165; ’Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 168; 2026 Florida Automated Vehicles Summit — 173; ’The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ premieres — 182; Brad Pitt returns as Cliff Booth, his Academy-award winning role, in a film directed by David Fincher, written by Quentin Tarantino — 187; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 210; ’Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 210; untitled Star Wars movie premieres — 210; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 248; 69th annual Grammy Awards — 261; Super Bowl LXI — 268; Tampa Mayoral Election — 284; 2027 Oscars — 296; Jacksonville First Election — 305; Jacksonville General Election — 361; ’Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ premieres — 379; ’Bluey the Movie’ premieres — 441; ’MIAMI VICE’ reboot premieres — 441; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 497; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 574; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 612; 2028 Oscars — 653; ’Lilo & Stitch 2’ premieres — 735; ’Incredibles 3’ premieres — 756; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 784; U.S. Presidential Election — 900; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 976; Avatar 4 premieres — 1,300; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,340; Avatar 5 premieres — 2,031.
— TOP STORY —
“NOAA sees quieter hurricane season but warns residents not to relax“ via Martin E. Comas of the Orlando Sentinel — Federal forecasters are projecting a quieter Atlantic hurricane season this year, with NOAA predicting below-average tropical activity as a strengthening El Niño pattern in the Pacific creates atmospheric conditions that can suppress storm development. Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30.
NOAA expects between eight and 14 named storms, including three to six hurricanes and one to three major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher. Researchers gave the highest probability to a below-normal season, though officials stressed that fewer storms do not mean lower risk for coastal states. Forecasters urged residents to prepare as they would in any year, noting that a single landfalling hurricane can still bring catastrophic flooding, wind damage and major disruption, regardless of seasonal totals.
Hurricane season may look quieter on paper, but NOAA says preparation — not complacency — remains the forecast.
Meteorologists say El Niño is the biggest factor behind the forecast. Warmer waters in the eastern and central Pacific can strengthen wind shear and raise atmospheric pressure over the Atlantic, making it harder for tropical systems to organize and rapidly intensify. NOAA’s outlook aligns with forecasts from Colorado State University and AccuWeather, and the agency said upgraded computer modeling, drones, satellite monitoring and artificial intelligence are helping refine seasonal forecasting and improve confidence in long-range projections.
Still, NOAA does not forecast where storms will strike, leaving the state’s vulnerability unchanged. Last year showed how a single major hurricane can dominate a season, reinforcing the agency’s broader message that fewer storms should not translate into lower preparedness.
— STATEWIDE —
“Florida Cat Fund enters hurricane season in strong financial shape“ via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — Florida’s Hurricane Catastrophe Fund is heading into hurricane season in a stronger financial position, offering a key layer of stability for insurers and policyholders as the state prepares for potential storms. The state-backed fund, which provides lower-cost reinsurance to insurance companies, is legally required to offer up to $17 billion in coverage. A newly approved financial report shows the Cat Fund has access to more than $14 billion to cover claims, boosted in part by lower projected losses tied to previous hurricanes, including Hurricane Ian. Its health matters beyond the insurance market, as Florida can impose assessments on many insurance policies if reserves run low. With hurricane season beginning June 1, state officials and financial advisers say the fund appears well-positioned to respond.
“Ron DeSantis says budget vetoes help enforce legislative discipline“ via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Gov. DeSantis is openly describing budget vetoes as a political tool to reward allies and pressure lawmakers who resist his agenda, offering a blunt look at how he uses executive leverage in Tallahassee. Speaking to the Federalist Society, DeSantis said support for priorities such as tort reform, school choice and other major initiatives can factor into whether legislators’ local spending projects survive the line-item veto. He framed the strategy as part of broader “power politics,” arguing elected officials should follow through on promises made to voters rather than pursue competing agendas. His remarks come as House and Senate leaders continue budget negotiations and could offer clues about how this year’s veto list may take shape. The comments also reinforce how aggressively DeSantis links policy loyalty to political leverage.
Gov. Ron DeSantis says budget vetoes are part of Tallahassee’s power politics, making loyalty potentially as valuable as local appropriations.
“Florida agriculture reels from drought, freezes and wildfire damage“ via Kylie Williams of POLITICO — Florida’s agriculture industry is absorbing major losses after drought, freezes and wildfires compounded long-running financial pressure on growers already facing rising costs, development pressures and past storm damage. State agriculture officials estimate Winter Storms Ezra and Gianna alone caused more than $3.1 billion in crop losses, hitting strawberries, blueberries and other sectors especially hard. Industry leaders warn the damage could force struggling farmers, particularly younger producers, to leave the business as fuel, fertilizer and labor costs remain elevated. State and federal officials are now seeking disaster relief, including grants, loans and broader crop insurance protections. With citrus and other perennial crops still being assessed, growers remain braced for additional uncertainty as hurricane season approaches and weather risks continue piling up.
“VISIT FLORIDA counting on $80 million budget“ via the News Service of Florida — VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO Bryan Griffin said the tourism marketing agency is in line to receive $80 million from the state in draft budgets for fiscal year 2026-2027, now before the Senate and House, the same level as the current year. “We’re very pleased about that, for the support among all the different decision-makers in the state,” Griffin told members of the VISIT FLORIDA Executive Committee. VISIT FLORIDA, expected to release first-quarter 2026 tourism numbers, estimated that a record 143.3 million people traveled to Florida in 2025, a 0.2% increase over 2024.
— 2026 —
“Paul Renner launches parental rights coalition, proposes constitutional amendment” via Kennedy Owens of Florida’s Voice — Renner announced the launch of a statewide “Parents for Renner” coalition alongside a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at expanding and protecting parental rights in education. The coalition will focus on issues including school choice, homeschooling freedom and expanding educational options for Florida families. The group includes parents, educators and community advocates from across the state who support policies centered on parental involvement in education and childcare decisions. The proposed Florida Parental Rights Constitutional Amendment would establish in the state Constitution that “the liberty of parents to direct the upbringing, education and care of their children is a fundamental right.”
Paul Renner is launching a parental rights coalition and proposing a constitutional amendment, staking out familiar political turf with bigger legal ambitions.
Jared Moskowitz gets donor-platform boost — Oath, a Democratic donor strategy platform, is spotlighting U.S. Rep. Moskowitz as one of the candidates offering the strongest return on investment for Democratic contributors as the 2026 map shifts. The memo places Moskowitz in its ”Give Here” category after redistricting reshaped his South Florida seat into a Toss Up, making him a sharper focus for national donors. Oath noted Moskowitz has about $1.2 million cash on hand and is slightly behind one self-funding Republican opponent, underscoring a growing financial urgency. His inclusion signals that national Democrats increasingly see the race as more competitive and potentially pivotal in the broader fight for House control.
“Congress candidate Luther Campbell says he knows how to deal with ’narcissist’ Trump, calls JD Vance ’an anti-Christ’“ via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Campbell, the rap artist, youth coach, and podcaster turned political candidate, castigated Trump, Vance, and other elected officials as part of a pitch that he’s the ideal, though unorthodox, choice to fill an open congressional seat in Broward County. Speaking before Broward Democratic Party leaders and activists, Campbell described Trump as the ”orange man” and a ”narcissist” who violates the Constitution. He said Vance is even worse, describing him as ”an anti-Christ, in my opinion.”
“Michael Carbonara commits $3M to TV campaign across CD 22“ via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Carbonara‘s congressional campaign is putting $3 million behind a multiplatform ad push in the 22nd Congressional District. The paid-media commitment will run across broadcast, cable, connected TV, and streaming platforms through the Aug. 18 Republican Primary. The buy covers the full CD 22 footprint, running from western Broward and Palm Beach counties all the way across the state, pairing traditional television with voter-file-onboarded streaming inventory to reach Republican Primary voters. The campaign projects the program will reach every Republican Primary household in the District multiple times before Election Day.
“Ruben Gallego endorses ’forward-looking leader’ Hector Mujica for CD 28“ via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego says Mujica is the best Democrat to take on Republican U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez in the 28th Congressional District. Gallego, an Arizona Democrat, Marine Corps combat veteran, and son of Latino immigrants, announced his endorsement of Mujica, citing shared values on economic opportunity, working families, and immigrant communities. ”Hector Mujica knows what it means to serve with purpose and lead with compassion,” Gallego said. ”He’s the kind of forward-looking leader we need in Congress, and I’m proud to endorse him.”
“‘He shows up’: Phil Ehr’s endorsement coalition grows in CD 28” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Retired Navy Commander Ehr is building more community support in South Florida. Ehr, a Democratic candidate for Florida’s 28th Congressional District, is touting eight new endorsements from elected officials, veterans, civil rights advocates, diplomats and faith leaders. The fresh nods, Ehr’s camp said, reflect his years of “commitment to Southwest Miami-Dade and the Florida Keys — not as a campaign slogan, but as a record of showing up for families across the District.” Cuban-born baseball player Raidel Arbelay Becerra and businessman Adolphus Busch have also endorsed Ehr.
— MORE ELECTIONS —
DeSantis sets SD 21 Special Election after Ed Hooper exit — DeSantis has ordered a Special Election to fill the Senate District 21 seat after Sen. Hooper announced his resignation and retirement from politics. The election will align with Florida’s regular 2026 cycle, with a Primary scheduled for Aug. 18 and a General Election Nov. 3 if needed. Hooper, the Senate Appropriations Chair, said timing his resignation to take effect on Election Day would ensure uninterrupted representation for constituents in north Pinellas and parts of west Pasco. Within hours of the announcement, Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco launched his campaign with backing from incoming Senate Presidents Jim Boyd and Jay Trumbull. No candidates had formally filed with the Division of Elections as of the announcement.
“‘Real leadership’: Eliott Rodriguez backs former congressional rival Richard Lamondin for SD 38” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — For a short time this year, he was an opponent of Democratic candidate Lamondin. Now, Rodriguez is throwing his support behind Lamondin’s Senate District 38 campaign. Rodriguez, a former CBS4 anchor, just joined a growing roster of backers who hope to see Lamondin unseat incumbent Republican state Sen. Alexis Calatayud in what Democrats have designated their top Senate target this cycle. “I spent decades covering this community and the stories that shaped it. I know what real leadership looks like. And I know what failure looks like. Richard Lamondin has what it takes to deliver for South Florida and bring some much-needed sanity to Tallahassee,” Rodriguez said. “I’m fighting for this community in (Florida’s 27th Congressional District) and endorsing him is part of that same fight.”
Richard Lamondin picked up an endorsement from former rival Eliott Rodriguez, adding another recognizable ally in a key Democratic target race.
“Jeff Holcomb, Randy Maggard, and Brad Yeager endorse Walter Price for HD 55“ via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — Three Pasco County Representatives are lining up behind Price for House District 55, adding the County’s full House delegation to a coalition that already runs from a Cabinet officer to the local Sheriff — and reinforcing a Republican who currently stands alone in the race. Reps. Holcomb, Maggard, and Yeager are endorsing Price, a Captain with Pasco County Fire Rescue, praising his public service and conservative record. ”I’m proud to endorse Walter Price for election to the Florida House. Walter isn’t seeking office to begin a career in public service; he’s continuing a life defined by it,” Maggard said.
“A ’career standing up for others’: Broward Property Appraiser backs Michael Ferguson for HD 100“ via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Broward Property Appraiser Marty Kiar is endorsing lawyer and military veteran Ferguson, a Democrat, in his bid for House District 100. Kiar, who served in the House and on the County Commission before winning his current government job in 2016, said he’s supporting Ferguson based on his record of accountability and community service. ”Michael has spent his career standing up for others and holding people accountable,” Kiar said. ”He brings the kind of integrity, work ethic, and common-sense approach we need in Tallahassee to tackle rising costs, protect our neighborhoods, and make government work better for the people it serves.”
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Inside the unraveling of U.S. diplomacy under Donald Trump“ via Andrew R.C. Marshall, Humeyra Pamuk, John Shiffman, Gram Slattery, John Irish, Tim Kelly and Andrea Shalal of Reuters — When Trump warned Iran on April 7 that ”a whole civilization will die tonight,” a European diplomat in Washington said his government wanted an urgent answer to a chilling question: Was the U.S. President contemplating the use of a nuclear weapon? Across Europe and Asia, the concern went beyond whether Trump’s apocalyptic threat was real or bluster. One fear, the diplomat said, was that Russia could seize the moment to justify similar threats in Ukraine, triggering a nuclear crisis on two continents. European governments immediately sought reassurance through a traditional channel: the U.S. State Department. But according to the diplomat, officials there gave an unsettling response: They didn’t know what Trump meant.
Donald Trump’s diplomacy is rattling allies, with foreign governments questioning whether Washington still speaks clearly.
“Marco Rubio doubtful of diplomacy with Cuba as Trump raises new threat of military action“ via Matthew Lee and Will Weissert of The Associated Press — Trump and America’s top diplomat again raised the specter of U.S. military intervention in Cuba, a renewed threat that takes on greater weight a day after the administration announced criminal charges against the island’s former leader, Raúl Castro. ”Other Presidents have looked at this for 50, 60 years, doing something,” Trump told reporters when asked about Cuba during an environmental event in the Oval Office. ”And it looks like I’ll be the one that does it. So, I would be happy to do it.” Secretary of State Rubio told reporters separately that Cuba has been a national security threat for years because of its ties to U.S. adversaries and that Trump is intent on addressing it.
“Supreme Court permits lawsuits over U.S. assets seized by Cuba in 1960“ via Ann E. Marimow of The New York Times — The Supreme Court sided with a U.S.-owned port business whose dock front property was seized in 1960 when Fidel Castro came to power and nationalized private property, possibly opening the door for similar claims from American companies and individuals. The 8-to-1 ruling in favor of the Havana Docks Corporation landed as Trump was ratcheting up pressure on the communist country, which has experienced a humanitarian crisis after the United States blocked oil shipments to the island from Venezuela and Mexico. The Trump administration had backed the U.S.-owned entity, which sued major cruise lines that had been using the confiscated docks.
“U.S. sends aircraft carrier Nimitz to the Caribbean as pressure mounts on Cuba“ via Antonio María Delgado of the Miami Herald — In what appears to be a carefully calibrated show of force, the U.S. deployed the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz and its accompanying strike group into Caribbean waters this week, a move that coincided with the unsealing of murder charges against former Cuban leader Raúl Castro and an intensifying pressure campaign by the Trump administration against Havana. The Doral-based U.S. Southern Command confirmed that the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group had entered the region, describing the deployment as a demonstration of American ”readiness and presence, unmatched reach and lethality, and strategic advantage.”
“Homeland Security’s plan to squeeze international flights“ via Nick Miroff of The Atlantic — Markwayne Mullin convened a small group of airline and travel-industry executives at DHS headquarters in Washington last week and told them he may reduce Customs and Border Protection staffing at major airports that serve sanctuary jurisdictions. Mullin told the executives the locations could include Portland International Airport, in Oregon; New York City–area airports such as John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport; and Washington Dulles International Airport. Mullin did not indicate when DHS would begin the pullback, but it would likely occur sometime after the United States finishes hosting the World Cup in July.
Markwayne Mullin is floating airport staffing cuts in sanctuary jurisdictions, bringing immigration politics closer to the departure gate.
“Trump moves to police frontier AI models“ via Jacob Wendler, Dana Nickel, Dasha Burns, and John Hewitt Jones of POLITICO — The White House’s highly anticipated artificial intelligence and cybersecurity executive order will designate a coalition of national security and civilian agencies to ramp up scrutiny of cutting-edge AI models. Industry officials began receiving details on the directive from the White House this week. One key question is whether the order will require a federal review of advanced AI models before they can be released, an idea the Trump administration had distanced itself from earlier this month after initially floating the proposal. The latest draft would ask developers to submit certain models to a voluntary review by federal agencies as far as 90 days before they’re made public.
“Moskowitz blasts Texas Democratic candidate over antisemitic rhetoric“ via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Moskowitz is intensifying warnings about antisemitism inside Democratic politics, sharply condemning a Texas congressional candidate after inflammatory remarks targeting so-called ”American Zionists.” Speaking on Fox & Friends, the Parkland Democrat said rhetoric that dehumanizes Jewish people is no longer confined to the political fringe and argued party leaders across the country must confront it before it becomes further normalized. Moskowitz tied the issue to both personal and public safety, pointing to threats against his family, an assassination plot involving a constituent, and repeated harassment directed at his office. He also invoked his family’s Holocaust history while warning about parallels between modern extremist language and past antisemitic persecution.
— LOCAL: S. FL —
“Florida Trump prosecutor accused in cake-recipe-named doc smuggling“ via Samantha Neely of Florida Today — A former Department of Justice prosecutor from Florida is charged with allegedly transmitting sealed government records, including documents tied to former Special Counsel Jack Smith’s investigation into Trump. Carmen Mercedes Lineberger, 62, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, faces multiple criminal charges and up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Lineberger previously worked on Smith’s probe into Trump. According to a release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, Lineberger allegedly emailed secret documents labeled ”INTERNAL DOJ USE ONLY” to her personal email in late 2025. She changed the file titles to: “Chocolate_cake_recipe.pdf” and ”Bundt_Cake_recipe.pdf.”
Carmen Mercedes Lineberger is accused of sending sealed DOJ records to her personal email, allegedly disguised under cake-recipe file names.
“FIU suspends former campus Republican leaders for 2 years over racist group chat“ via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — Two former campus Republican leaders have been barred from FIU’s campus after the school suspended the students for two years over a racist group chat created by the Miami-Dade GOP’s then secretary. Abel Carvajal, the creator of the group chat and a third-year law student, was found responsible for an “affirmative act which aids, attempts, promotes, conceals, or facilitates” violation of the Student Code of Conduct after a sanctions hearing last month. Dariel Gonzalez, the FIU College Republicans’ recruitment chairman at the time, was found responsible for violating a part of the conduct code that bars ”verbal or written abuse, threats, intimidation and/or coercion that objectively endangers the health, safety or well-being of others.”
“Broward could close more than 10 additional schools in 2027.” via Scott Travis of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Broward could undergo its most dramatic round of school closings next year, with more than 10 schools possibly shutting down in 2027, Superintendent Howard Hepburn said. That would be more school closures than the past two years combined. The District shut down one school in 2025, Broward Estates Elementary in Lauderhill, with six more set to close after the school year ends in June, including North Fork Elementary in Fort Lauderdale, Panther Run Elementary in Pembroke Pines and Plantation Middle. The District also could be in for other major changes in the coming years, including the opening of a few new schools to replace multiple decaying, underenrolled schools. A substantial change planned for this Fall is an overhaul of the four Nova schools, using an artificial intelligence curriculum to return schools to their roots as places for cutting-edge learning.
“Broward School Board approves taking legal action against County Tax Collector’s Office“ via Scott Travis of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The Broward School Board has authorized its lawyers to take legal action against County Tax Collector Abbey Ajayi over her office’s decision to withhold $5.5 million from school referendum dollars. School Board members became livid in January after they learned that the Tax Collector’s Office, which started operations in January 2025, had withheld the $5.5 million. The referendum was passed in 2022 to enhance employee salaries, safety and security and mental health. The District is asking voters to renew the referendum in November. District officials said before the creation of the Tax Collector’s Office, the County’s financial office collected the money and never withheld a Commission.
“Broward asks court to order Spirit to pay $3M in past-due airport fees, clear path for new tenants“ via David Lyons of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Amid the sea of debts generated by the shuttered Spirit Airlines after its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, the pile of unpaid bills owed to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport now amounts to approximately $3 million, according to a court filing by the Broward County Attorney’s Office this week. The tally isn’t over. Now, according to the filing, the delinquent amount could reach as high as $6 million. County lawyers assert Spirit ”has failed to pay post-petition gate fees, landing fees, and other charges due and owing to the County as owner and operator of the Debtor’s hub airport, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL),” according to the filing. ”Approximately $3 million is now delinquent.”
“Ken Jenne gets clemency for tax evasion, mail fraud conviction“ via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Former Broward Sheriff Ken Jenne has been granted clemency, restoring the civil rights he lost in 2007 when he pleaded guilty to federal tax evasion and mail fraud charges after a two-year corruption investigation into his outside business dealings. Jenne was a former state prosecutor who served in the Senate from 1978 to 1998. In 1998, he was elected Sheriff and served until his resignation in September 2007. He was sentenced to a year and a day in a federal minimum-security camp. Jenne said he learned less than a month ago that Ron DeSantis had agreed to grant his clemency, which covers certain state rights, including the right to pursue some professional licenses and membership in the Florida Bar.
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Mayra Uribe hears pushback from Orange County Democrats about not resigning sooner“ via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Democrats and labor leaders put Uribe in the hot seat, airing frustrations about her choice not to step down sooner from the Orange County Commission as she runs for County Mayor. Uribe presented at an Orange County Democrats meeting, where much of the Q&A centered around Uribe’s decision on when to resign. Her delay has stoked fears that a DeSantis appointee could end up serving on the Commission in the blue County for nearly two years. ”The Democratic process is being taken away from us,” one constituent told her. ”I do not want a DeSantis appointee.”
Mayra Uribe is facing Democratic pushback over her delayed resignation, with critics warning it could hand Gov. Ron DeSantis an opening.
“Halloween Horror Nights plans ’Sinners’ haunted house for 2026“ via Dewayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel — “Sinners,” the four-time Oscar-winning horror film, will be represented in a haunted house at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights, Universal Orlando confirmed. The 2025 movie was written, directed and produced by Ryan Coogler. “The moment ‘Sinners’ premiered, we knew it was an undeniable fit for Halloween Horror Nights, and it’s an honor to bring this story to life,” Mike Aiello, senior director of entertainment creative development at Universal Orlando Resort, said in a news release. “It’s rare for a film to fully satisfy hardcore horror fans while also inviting new audiences into the genre — and that’s exactly what ‘Sinners’ does. Its world, characters and intensity will translate into a relentless haunted house.”
— LOCAL: TB —
“Tampa City Council narrowly approves nonbinding Rays stadium deal“ via Nina Moske of the Tampa Bay Times — The Tampa Bay Rays have cleared another hurdle in their quest to build a $2.3 billion baseball stadium in Tampa. The vote before the Tampa City Council came down to the wire, with members approving the nonbinding stadium agreement with the team in a tense 4-3 vote. Council members Charlie Miranda, Lynn Hurtak, and Guido Maniscalco voted no. The decision came after a 5-2 vote in favor of the memorandum of understanding from Hillsborough’s Board of County Commissioners. The Board of Hillsborough College also unanimously approved a ground lease with the Rays, who have proposed their stadium and surrounding mixed-use development at the college’s Dale Mabry campus.
The Tampa City Council gave the Rays’ stadium push a narrow win, keeping a pricey and still very unfinished deal alive.
“St. Pete slips in park rankings as other cities accelerate investment“ via Aaron Styza of St. Pete Catalyst — St. Petersburg’s park system remains among the nation’s best, but the city dropped five spots in the latest Trust for Public Land ParkScore Index as peer cities accelerated investment and expansion efforts. The 2026 rankings place St. Pete 19th nationally, down from 14th last year. Tampa also slipped slightly, falling from 43rd to 46th. The movement reflects gains elsewhere rather than deterioration locally. ”The rest of the country is catching on,” said Will Klein, Director of Parks Research at Trust for Public Land. ”Even though St. Pete continued to increase its park investment this year, other cities did so more.” According to the report, 78% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, slightly above the national average of 76%.
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“Rich to see supporter of breadbox loan decry Winn-Dixie deal“ via Mark Woods of the Florida Times-Union — Jacksonville City Council member Rory Diamond is calling a $12 million taxpayer-backed incentive package for Winn-Dixie “extortion,” arguing the city should not subsidize a major employer to keep jobs already rooted in Northeast Florida. The criticism carries extra edge given Diamond’s past support for the controversial “breadbox loan,” a separate public financing fight critics used to question selective outrage over corporate incentives. The approved deal keeps 500 jobs at Winn-Dixie’s Westside headquarters, adds 200 more over five years and preserves a Harveys Supermarket in Brentwood. Winn-Dixie also pledged major capital investments. Diamond’s opposition has reopened an old Jacksonville debate: when does economic development become a prudent investment, and when does it just become taxpayer-funded leverage with better branding?
Rory Diamond’s attack on the Winn-Dixie deal is reviving breadbox-era questions about which taxpayer subsidies deserve outrage.
“This Florida state park, two hours from Tallahassee, is on the best beach list” via C. A. Bridges of the Tallahassee Democrat — Once again, Dr. Beach has judged the nation’s beaches and named Florida’s some of the very best. In fact, a beach that capital city residents often throng to over the Summer is No. 2. We didn’t make No. 1, for the third year in a row, but St. Andrews State Park in Panama City, about two hours from Tallahassee ranked second in the 2026 Top Ten Beaches in the U.S., released May 21, at drbeach.org, just in time for the Memorial Day weekend. Hawaii’s Poipu Beach on Kauai was No. 1, according to Dr. Beach, aka Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, a professor in the Department of Earth & Environment at Florida International University, who has created the best job ever.
— LOCAL: SW. FL —
“George Parrish Houston pushes change message in Lee County Runoff” via Moriah Norman of WALB — Houston is sharpening his message ahead of a June Runoff in the Lee County School Board District 1 race, arguing voters are looking for stronger transparency, accountability and a new perspective. Houston led the three-way Primary but fell short of the majority needed to avoid a Runoff against incumbent Donna L. Ford. The campaign is unfolding amid broader frustration over local property tax overpayments and voter rejection of renewing the County’s Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax. Houston said school leaders must correct mistakes in good faith while exploring grants, partnerships and other funding options to ease pressure on taxpayers. He said his Runoff focus remains on safe schools, strong academic standards and responsible spending.
George Parrish Houston is leaning into a change message, betting Lee County voters still have an appetite for something different.
“Lee County schools cut 457 jobs as $92M deficit deepens” via Mickenzie Hannon of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — Lee County School District is cutting 457 positions, including 275 teachers, as officials work to close a projected $92.4 million structural deficit ahead of the next school year. District leaders tied the cuts to declining enrollment, inflation, expanded school choice and years of what administrators described as legacy overspending. Officials said the County has lost nearly 2,000 students compared to a year ago, forcing staffing adjustments and broader budget realignment. Superintendent Denise Carlin said enrollment decline is only one factor behind the deficit, while school leaders are also shifting capital funds to support operations. The cuts have drawn sharp backlash from parents, teachers and community members as budget tensions escalate.
— TOP OPINION —
“DEI may be fading, but corporate America hasn’t let go“ via Beth Kowitt of Bloomberg Opinion — Diversity, equity and inclusion may no longer dominate corporate branding or workplace rhetoric, but the systems and goals behind DEI have not fully disappeared. A new study from Catalyst and New York University’s Meltzer Center found that most employees and leaders at midsize and large U.S. companies say their employers remain committed to DEI principles, even if the terminology has shifted.
The larger concern is not whether DEI still exists in name, but whether companies are dismantling the workplace structures that made broader inclusion possible. As employers tighten policies on remote work, scheduling flexibility and benefits, critics warn gains for women and minorities may be harder to sustain.
Research cited in the analysis suggests universal workplace policies such as paid family leave, flexible scheduling and childcare often did more to diversify management ranks than formal racial equity initiatives. Those programs widened access for workers balancing caregiving and financial pressures.
Now, many companies appear to be reversing course. Some employers are scaling back leave benefits, reducing flexibility and pushing workers back into full-time office schedules.
That shift could disproportionately affect women and workers of color, who often faced the biggest barriers in traditional workplace models built around rigid schedules and fewer accommodations.
While DEI itself may not be dead, the argument is that corporate America may be eroding the infrastructure that made those efforts meaningful — raising questions about whether workforce diversity can advance without the policies that supported it.
— MORE OPINIONS —
“Trump’s Venezuela playbook faces limits in Cuba“ via Giselle Ruhiyyih Ewing of POLITICO — The Trump administration is escalating pressure on Cuba with sanctions, threats and legal action against former leader Raúl Castro, but former U.S. officials say a Venezuela-style strategy may not translate easily to Havana. Analysts argue Cuba’s decades-old one-party communist system is structurally different from Venezuela, making regime change far more difficult and raising risks of deeper instability or military escalation. Some also warn that aggressive action could strengthen the Cuban government’s resolve rather than weaken it. The issue carries political weight in Florida, where Cuban American Republicans remain vocal advocates for tougher action against Havana. At the same time, officials caution that any collapse in Cuba could create broader geopolitical risks, including migration pressures and openings for foreign rivals such as Russia or China.
“Florida rewrites history with a right-wing slant“ via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — Several generations of Florida students were taught that the Civil War had nothing much to do with slavery, that secession was a noble “lost cause,” and that plantation life was beneficial for the slaves. The United Daughters of the Confederacy, the perpetrators and perpetuators of those myths, had seen to it that the only textbooks allowed in Southern schools would peddle those fictions. Revisionist history never plays well. But here we go again. Not for the first time, DeSantis is messing with the minds of students, distorting the history of slavery and its persistent and pernicious legacy of racism.
— WEEKEND TV —
ABC Action News Full Circle with Paul LaGrone on Channel 10 WFTS: LaGrone leads a discussion on rising instability in Cuba, economic strain and the political fallout from major developments in Washington and Florida. Immigration attorney Renata Castro breaks down worsening conditions in Cuba and what escalating unrest could mean for migration and Florida. ABC News Washington correspondent Averi Harper examines political and legal questions tied to Trump’s IRS agreement and a new $1.8 billion compensation fund. Financial adviser Steve Cotton discusses stubborn inflation and why everyday costs remain elevated. Tallahassee correspondent Forest Saunders looks at the Florida political response, while political analyst Dr. Susan MacManus examines broader trust, economic frustration and political consequences.
Florida This Week on WEDU PBS: Host and moderator Lissette Campos leads a discussion this week on the U.S. Justice Department’s indictment of former Cuban leader Castro and others tied to the 1996 Brothers to the Rescue shootdown, nearly 30 years after Cuban MiGs downed civilian aircraft over the Florida Straits. The panel also explores rapid shifts in the media industry, including an AI-generated “local newsroom” in South Florida, the growing influence of Spanish-language media during the FIFA World Cup, and ownership changes that could affect local news coverage in Tampa Bay. Guests include Jose Cancela, Tom Martinez, Katie Sanders and Ray Roa. The program airs Sunday at 12:30 p.m. on WEDU PBS. Episodes are also available online through Florida This Week, YouTube and Facebook.
In Focus with Allison Walker on Bay News 9/CF 13: Walker leads a Mental Health Awareness Month discussion on access to services and support systems available for Floridians seeking mental healthcare. Pinellas County Commissioner Kathleen Peters discusses local government perspectives on mental health needs and community response. Ashley Brown, executive director of the Women’s Resource Center of Manatee and Sarasota counties, examines available support resources and barriers families may face when seeking help. Johnny Crowder, founder and CEO of CopeNotes, adds perspective on mental wellness tools and broader conversations around emotional health and access to care. The program focuses on challenges, resources and ongoing efforts to strengthen mental health support statewide.
The Usual Suspects on WCTV-Tallahassee/Thomasville (CBS) and WJHG: Gary Yordon speaks with former U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd of North Florida.
This Week in South Florida with Glenna Milberg on Local 10 WPLG: Glenna Milberg returns from a reporting trip to Venezuela, where she spoke with the national campaign director for opposition leader María Corina Machado, bringing fresh context to political developments inside the country. The program also breaks down the week’s biggest headlines and the key newsmakers driving them. The show airs on Sunday at 11 a.m.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— ALOE —
“Central Florida packs Memorial Day weekend with tributes, festivals, and crowds“ via Patrick Connolly of the Orlando Sentinel — Central Florida is heading into a packed Memorial Day weekend that blends solemn remembrance with major public gatherings across the region. Communities including Orlando, Ocoee, Eustis, Sanford, Winter Garden, and Mount Dora are hosting ceremonies honoring fallen service members, with wreath placements, color guards, and veterans’ tributes shaping the holiday. Elsewhere, the long weekend offers a broader entertainment draw, from Orlando Fringe Festival performances and Caribbean celebrations tied to Orlando Carnival Downtown to concerts, car shows, and family attractions across Seminole, Lake, and Osceola counties. Florida State Parks are also opening gates with free admission through the weekend. The crowded schedule reflects a region balancing remembrance, tourism, and the unofficial start of Summer.
From solemn tributes to festivals and packed beaches, Memorial Day weekend is drawing crowds across Florida with remembrance and revelry sharing the calendar.
“Honey Drippers, jazz, and riverfront crowds shape a busy holiday weekend“ via Tom Szaroleta of The Florida Times-Union — Jacksonville leans hard into local flavor this weekend, from a neighborhood frozen treat becoming a minor league baseball identity to major music and holiday gatherings across the region. The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp will suit up as the Jacksonville Honey Drippers for weekend games against Norfolk, turning an Eastside staple into a cultural nod with specialty branding and giveaways at VyStar Ballpark. Downtown also hosts the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, bringing a packed lineup of nationally known acts to the riverfront. Outside the city core, Palatka’s Blue Crab Festival returns with food, music, and family events, while St. Augustine welcomes rising country singer Sam Barber. Green Cove Springs closes the long weekend with Riverfest, blending veteran tributes, community festivities, and fireworks.
“Memorial Weekend LGBTQ beach party returns to Pensacola Beach“ via Chemarryn Thornton of the Pensacola News Journal — One of the largest LGBTQ Memorial Day gatherings in North America is returning to Pensacola Beach, continuing a decadeslong tradition that has grown from a small social gathering into a major annual tourism and cultural event. Memorial Day weekend in Pensacola runs through the weekend at Park East, drawing thousands of visitors for nightly parties, daytime beach tea dances, and performances by nationally known DJs and visual production teams. The event traces its roots to the 1960s, when Ray and Henry Hillyer helped establish early gatherings that later evolved into a Memorial Day weekend destination. The weekend highlights both Pensacola’s tourism pull and the event’s long-standing place in LGBTQ community history.
“Memorial Day events across Manatee, Sarasota honor fallen service members“ via Amaia Gavica of the Bradenton Herald — Communities across Manatee and Sarasota counties are marking Memorial Day with ceremonies, tributes and service events honoring U.S. military members who died in service. In Bradenton, the Manatee County Veterans Council will host ‘Remembering Our Fallen’ at Donald L. Courtney Veterans Park, featuring remarks from local leaders and a photographic tribute to service members killed since Sept. 11, 2001. Anna Maria and Sarasota also plan Memorial Day ceremonies, with Sarasota hosting its annual downtown parade and commemorative event at J.D. Hamel Park. Other observances include a 5K memorial hike benefiting veterans and a community cleanup at Old Memphis Cemetery in Palmetto after recent vandalism. Local officials encouraged reflection, remembrance and volunteerism.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Best wishes to our friends, former Rep. Dane Eagle and Eileen Stuart, both at Ballard Partners. Also celebrating are Rep. Patt Maney, Sam Ard and Jordan Raynor.
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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.