Good Wednesday morning.
Best wishes to the Roger Sterling of Florida politics, the often funny and always wise David Johnson. Here’s hoping he enjoys a well-shaken martini (or two) for his birthday.
Congrats to David Johnson, celebrating another trip around the sun.
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The future of transportation takes center stage next week as the Florida Autonomous Vehicle Summit returns to Orlando for its 13th year. Running Nov. 5-7 at the Omni Orlando Resort at Champions Gate, the three-day event will showcase cutting-edge innovation across air mobility, self-driving vehicles and connected infrastructure — from hands-on demos to in-depth discussions with industry and policy leaders.
This year’s lineup features live demonstrations from Waymo, Saferydr, beep, the Tesla Owners Club, DeCharge, Karsan and Glydways. Attendees can ride self-driving shuttles from Beep and Karsan, explore Glydways’ autonomous microtransit pods, test Tesla’s latest self-driving software and experience DeCharge’s next-generation electric vehicle charging system.
Florida’s Autonomous Vehicle Summit returns to Orlando, showcasing innovations in self-driving, electric and connected transportation systems statewide.
The event’s exhibit hall will feature Florida’s leading transportation authorities — including CFX, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority and the Jacksonville Transportation Authority — alongside innovators such as Cavnue, GM2 Inc., HNTB and HDR. The Summit is hosted in partnership with the ACES Mobility Coalition, uniting experts in autonomous, connected, electric and shared mobility.
Former Sen. Jeff Brandes and CFX Executive Director Michelle Maikisch will give opening remarks on Thursday. Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared Perdue headlines the luncheon address, with sessions exploring air mobility, toll innovation, logistics and the global race toward more intelligent transportation. Registration remains open, with on-site options available.
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“Want more Florida Politics in your Google News feed? There’s a new tool for that.” — Google News has launched a new “preferred sources” feature, allowing users to customize their “Top Stories” feed to display content from their favorite publications prominently.
For followers of Florida’s political landscape, this tool is a game-changer, ensuring they receive timely, in-depth reporting on the Governor’s office, the Legislature and high-stakes campaigns.
Google News users can now make Florida Politics a preferred source for top stories on state government.
By selecting Florida Politics as a preferred source, readers can prioritize its indispensable coverage, ensuring they see the latest headlines on key issues, such as property insurance and the state budget, first. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to enable the feature. Don’t forget about other ways to connect, such as through our breaking news text messages, following @Fla_Pol on X, and signing up for newsletters like Last Call, Takeaways from Tallahassee and The Delegation.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@realDonaldTrump: The Democrats are far more likely to win the Midterms, and the next Presidential Election, if we don’t do the Termination of the Filibuster (The Nuclear Option!), because it will be impossible for Republicans to get Common Sense Policies done with these Crazed Democrat Lunatics being able to block everything by withholding their votes. FOR THREE YEARS, NOTHING WILL BE PASSED, AND REPUBLICANS WILL BE BLAMED. Elections, including the Midterms, will be rightfully brutal. If we do terminate the Filibuster, we will get EVERYTHING approved, like no Congress in History. We will have FAIR, FREE, and SAFE Elections, No Men in Women’s Sports or Transgender for Everybody, Strong Borders, Major Tax and Energy Cuts, and will secure our Second Amendment, which the Democrats will also terminate, IMMEDIATELY. If we don’t do it, they are far more likely to do well in the upcoming Elections, which would mean a PACKED Supreme Court, 2 more States and 4 more Democrat Senators (D.C. and Puerto Rico), and 8 more Electoral Votes. Remember, Republicans, they are going to end the Filibuster as soon as they get the chance We know this because they already tried, and the only two people who didn’t go along are now out of office. But they have much less chance of WINNING if we have Great Policy Wins after Wins after Wins. IN FACT, THEY WILL LOSE BIG, AND FOR A VERY LONG TIME. TERMINATE THE FILIBUSTER NOW, END THE RIDICULOUS SHUTDOWN IMMEDIATELY, AND THEN, MOST IMPORTANTLY, PASS EVERY WONDERFUL REPUBLICAN POLICY THAT WE HAVE DREAMT OF, FOR YEARS, BUT NEVER GOTTEN. WE WILL BE THE PARTY THAT CANNOT BE BEATEN – THE SMART PARTY!!!
—@RealDonaldTrump: The Unconstitutional Redistricting Vote in California is a GIANT SCAM in that the entire process, in particular the Voting itself, is RIGGED. All “Mail-In” Ballots, where the Republicans in that State are “Shut Out,” is under very serious legal and criminal review. STAY TUNED!
—@RepRooney: Divorcing Congressional redistricting from the decade-based census will ultimately prejudice conservatives more than liberals. Modification or elimination of the filibuster in the Senate will most likely do the same. What goes around comes around — not good for the future.
—@KySecofState: We’re getting calls about polls being closed. They are closed because we do not have elections today. Kentucky votes next year. You cannot vote today in Kentucky for the Mayor of New York City or the Governor of Virginia. Sorry.
—@ijustbluemyself: Sauce Gardner is officially the first millionaire to leave Zohran’s (Mamdami) New York
—@CesarFernandez: Nothing like @X during NFL trade deadline + election day.
—@JeremyMBarr: Some news: McClatchy is shutting down their D.C. bureau and laying off some staffers, including a few reporters who cover Congress and the White House.
—@StevenTDennis: Capitol news desert: ~Half the states have nobody in the press corps watching their state delegations and asking tough questions in the hallway. It would take ~$10M/year to hire 50 top reporters, one for each state, plus editors, etc., and restore state coverage.
—@RyanMaue: Exciting to report that Florida will be the worst state impacted by the upcoming historic Arctic blast early next week. Miami into the 40s and Orlando/Tampa upper-30s = 25°F below normal for Nov 11th
— DAYS UNTIL —
Ted Cruz to keynote Miami-Dade GOP’s Lincoln Day Dinner — 6; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 11; ’Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 16; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 21; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 23; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 28; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 28; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 34; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 37; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ six-episode docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 37; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 42; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 44; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 50; Legislative Session begins — 69; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 69; The James Madison Institute’s 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 70; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 74; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 86; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 92; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 93; last day of the Regular Session — 128; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 140; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 141; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 152; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 161; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 161; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 166; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 170; F1 Miami begins — 177; ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 198; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 209; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 215; State Qualifying Period ends — 219; FIFA World Cup begins — 218; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 241; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 246; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 251; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 253; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 257; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 274; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 276; Primary Election Day 2026 — 286; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 310; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 314; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 318; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 323; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 330; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 334; Early Voting General Election Mandatory period begins — 353; 2026 General Election — 363; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 408; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 408; Tampa Mayoral Election — 482; Jacksonville First Election — 503; Jacksonville General Election — 559; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 577; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 639; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 695; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 772; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 982; U.S. Presidential Election — 1098; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1498; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2229.
— TOP STORY —
“Quarter of Florida residents ‘seriously’ contemplate leaving state because of high cost of living, survey says” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A new Florida Atlantic University survey found that one in four Floridians is seriously considering leaving the state due to the high cost of living. At the same time, half have given it some thought. Researchers called affordability Florida’s “pressure point,” with eight in 10 residents concerned about housing costs and half “very concerned.” Only 12% rated the U.S. economy as excellent and 29% as good, reflecting a broader sense of financial strain.
Local officials warn of an affordability crisis. State Rep. Christine Hunschofsky of Parkland said the state’s rising costs are driving young residents away. In contrast, Broward County Commissioner Robert McKinzie said, “It’s not affordable anymore for the regular person.” Real estate broker Desiree Grant added that wage earners feel the most significant stress, though few have acted on plans to leave.
Soaring prices could lead to an exodus from Florida.
Younger Floridians are most likely to consider moving — 72% of those aged 18 to 24 said they’re thinking about leaving, compared to just 27% of seniors. Many younger adults remain at home or move to other cities with higher-paying jobs, such as Chicago or Atlanta.
Politics also plays a role. Democrats are nearly twice as likely as Republicans to consider leaving because of affordability pressures, while Gov. DeSantis maintains that Florida’s conservative policies continue to attract new residents.
Despite these challenges, most Floridians remain hopeful. More than half believe the American Dream “still holds true,” though many acknowledge it’s becoming harder to achieve as the cost of living outpaces wages and economic optimism fades.
— STATEWIDE —
“Amid 2026 campaign chatter, Jay Collins meets with Israel critic, anti-immigrant activist James Fishback” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Fishback, an anti-immigration activist and CEO of Azoria, said he will run for Governor if no other candidate acknowledges what he calls “the great replacement of American workers.” Fishback met recently in Tampa with Lt. Gov. Collins, who is also weighing a gubernatorial bid to continue DeSantis’ legacy. Fishback has drawn criticism for his attacks on legal immigration, H-1B visa programs, and U.S. support for Israel, prompting some to label him a far-right figure. He has praised DeSantis for seeking to end H-1B hiring at state universities and criticized front-runner Byron Donalds for being too moderate. His rhetoric has unsettled Republican leaders who fear his views could inflame tensions within the party ahead of 2026.
Jay Collins meets with activist James Fishback, whose anti-immigration rhetoric sparks controversy ahead of the 2026 campaign.
“Collins doesn’t know when Gov. Ron DeSantis will roll out property tax plan” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis continues to delay unveiling his plan to eliminate property taxes on homestead properties, with Collins saying the Governor is “being diligent and dotting the I’s, crossing the T’s.” Collins told “Jenna Ellis in the Morning” that DeSantis will release the proposal when it’s ready and urged lawmakers to wait rather than advance competing measures. The House has already filed eight proposed constitutional amendments offering various forms of property tax relief, but DeSantis has dismissed them as “milquetoast.” Collins warned that only one proposal can appear on the 2026 ballot, comparing it to “The Highlander.” Tension between the Governor’s Office and House Speaker Daniel Perez is growing as the Legislative Session approaches.
“James Uthmeier accuses Microsoft of ‘anti-life and anti-Christian biases’” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Attorney General Uthmeier says software giant Microsoft is exhibiting bias against religious groups that primarily impacts Christians, representing potential violations of Florida’s Civil Rights Act. “Christian-based nonprofit organizations have been denied access to Microsoft’s nonprofit discount program. We expect Microsoft’s cooperation in fixing this problem, or there will be consequences,” Uthmeier said. The program explicitly names nonprofits and nongovernmental organizations, public libraries, public museums and various health care organizations as being eligible for discounts. But some groups, such as those who approach women’s health from a Christian standpoint, are excluded, Uthmeier wrote the company.
“Florida health agency submits application for millions of federal rural health funding” via Kimberly Leonard of POLITICO — Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration has applied for millions in federal funding through Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which allocates $50 billion over five years to improve rural health care. Deputy Medicaid Secretary Brian Meyer told state lawmakers the proposal emphasizes workforce development, expanded access to primary, maternal, dental, and mental health services, and telehealth technology. The state also outlined plans to promote nutrition and physical activity. Lawmakers voiced frustration over the short Nov. 5 deadline. Still, Meyer said officials will collaborate with the Legislature once funds are awarded on Dec. 31. Grants will be distributed in two phases, with spending restrictions and federal monitoring to ensure Florida meets improvement benchmarks.
Brian Meyer outlines Florida’s bid for federal rural health grants, emphasizing workforce growth and expanded medical access.
“Consumer sentiment in Florida slips for fourth straight month” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — Sunshine State residents can’t seem to shake the slump in consumer confidence, as UF analysis measured consumer sentiment at 78.3 last month. That’s down from September’s revised reading of 79.3. The state aligns with the national consumer sentiment figure, which dropped by 1.5 points in October. “Consumer confidence among Floridians continues to decline, largely due to more pessimistic views about their personal finances and the national economic outlook,” said Hector H. Sandoval, director of the Economic Analysis Program at UF’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research.
— LEGISLATIVE —
“Why this bill has been caught in the Florida abortion debate” via Romy Ellenbogen of the Tampa Bay Times — For the third consecutive year, Sen. Erin Grall is advancing legislation allowing parents to sue for the wrongful death of an unborn child. The bill would amend Florida’s wrongful death statute to let parents seek damages for mental pain and suffering if another person caused a pregnancy loss. It defines an unborn child as a member of the species Homo sapiens “at any stage of development.” Though Grall insists the bill is unrelated to abortion, critics warn it could advance “fetal personhood” and threaten reproductive rights. The proposal shields mothers and lawful medical providers but remains controversial among abortion rights advocates and medical groups. The measure faces its first hearing today before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where debate is expected.
Erin Grall advances a bill on unborn child wrongful death, reigniting debate over abortion and fetal personhood.
“Florida high school coaches seek long-awaited pay bump” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Lawmakers are considering an overhaul to how Florida pays high school coaches, who have been pressing for changes to a system they contend is undervaluing local athletic program leaders. Sunshine State coaches have long been paid through stipends that vary by county, offering rates officials claim aren’t commensurate with the hours they put toward sports and students. With the Session set to begin in January, coaches are pushing for the Legislature to take steps like establishing a minimum wage floor and allowing schools to use external funds, including boosters, to ramp up pay and compete with other states that are poaching Florida’s talent.
“Appeals court rejects land-buying law challenge, says Chinese plaintiffs are unaffected” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — A federal appeals court upheld Florida’s 2023 law restricting property ownership by Chinese citizens and other “countries of concern,” finding the plaintiffs lacked standing. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said none faced imminent harm because they already live in Florida and have no plans to buy more land. The ruling reverses a lower court’s finding of standing but still denies relief. Judges Barbara Lagoa and Robert Luck, both appointed by DeSantis and later by Trump, ordered the case dismissed. In dissent, Judge Charles Wilson warned that the decision revives discriminatory precedents. The law limits Chinese nationals to one parcel of land under 2 acres and requires registration of properties owned by residents of six nations.
“Mockingbird may get the bird as lawmakers flock to flamingo, scrub-jay bills” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Florida lawmakers are chirping again over whether it’s time to give the state’s bird lineup a makeover, and this year’s proposal just might have wings. Two identical bills (SB 150, HB 11) would crown the American flamingo as Florida’s official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as its official state songbird. That would knock the northern mockingbird off its perch after nearly 100 years in the spotlight. HB 11 landed first, filed Sept. 4 by Republican Reps. Jim Mooney of Islamorada and Chip LaMarca of Lighthouse Point. Sen. Ana María Rodriguez of Doral joined the flock when she filed the Senate companion bill Oct. 9. The Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee began pecking at the proposal Tuesday and quickly gave the proposal a necessary nod of approval.
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Donald Trump says SNAP will only get paid after shutdown” via Emily Peck of Axios — Trump said food benefits will only get paid once the shutdown ends, in a post on Truth Social Tuesday morning. The post appears to defy two federal courts that ruled last week that the White House must pay at least partial Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, even during a shutdown. Some 42 million Americans rely on SNAP to feed themselves, and a majority are children or adults over age 60. This is the first shutdown to disrupt SNAP payments, a critical anti-poverty program.
Donald Trump says SNAP benefits will pause until shutdown ends, defying court rulings ordering partial payments.
“Administration hints furloughed workers may not be paid after shutdown” via Hannah Natanson, Jacob Bogage and Riley Beggin of The Washington Post — The Trump administration is sending notifications to federal staff suggesting that only those who are working during the government shutdown will be paid when it ends, despite a 2019 law that also guarantees pay to furloughed employees. “Once an appropriation or continuing resolution is enacted, excepted employees are entitled to receive payment,” read one message sent to some portions of the government and obtained by The Washington Post. That sentence — which leaves out furloughed workers — was not included in the first furlough notice issued last month.
“Department of Transportation might be forced to shut down some airspace next week” via Ayesha Ali of ABC News — The Department of Transportation might be forced to shut down the airspace in certain parts of the country if the government shutdown continues into next week, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said. “So if, if you bring us to a week from today, Democrats, you will see mass chaos,” he said. “You will see mass flight delays. You’ll see mass cancellations, and you may see us close certain parts of the airspace, because we just cannot manage it, because we don’t have the air traffic controllers.”
“China backs Venezuela, Trump hints Nicholas Maduro’s end is near as tensions escalate” via Antonio María Delgado of the Miami Herald — China defended its growing cooperation with Venezuela, saying that its engagement with leader Maduro’s government “constitutes normal cooperation between sovereign states” and is “not directed against any third party.” The comments, made by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, followed a report that Maduro had sought military assistance from Russia, China, and Iran to bolster Venezuela’s defenses amid escalating tensions with the United States. “China supports strengthened international cooperation to combat transnational crime and opposes the use or threat of force in international relations,” Mao said. She added that China “opposes any attempt to undermine peace and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as unilateral coercive actions against foreign vessels that exceed reasonable and necessary limits.”
“Trump advisers were paid over $1.6M by the Albanian opposition” via Kenneth P. Vogel of The New York Times — Consultants who worked on Trump’s presidential campaigns were paid more than $1.6 million to advise a conservative Albanian opposition party on its strategy for parliamentary elections in May, according to a finance report. In the report, submitted to the Albanian Election Commission, the Democratic Party of Albania revealed payments totaling the equivalent of more than $1.62 million to the consulting firm of Chris LaCivita, who helped manage Trump’s 2024 campaign, and nearly $65,000 for polling by the firm of Tony Fabrizio, who has advised the Trump political operation. The Democratic Party of Albania suffered a heavy defeat in the May elections.
“Trump renominates Elon Musk ally Jared Isaacman to run NASA months after withdrawal” via Ari Levy of CNBC — Trump has renominated Isaacman to run NASA after pulling his prior nomination months ago due to what the President called a “thorough review of prior associations.” “Jared’s passion for Space, astronaut experience, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of exploration, unlocking the mysteries of the universe, and advancing the new Space economy make him ideally suited to lead NASA into a bold new Era,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social on Tuesday. Isaacman, who is friends with Tesla CEO Musk, was initially picked to lead NASA in December, before Trump had even taken office. Isaacman is a billionaire who founded payments company Shift4 and has led two private spaceflights.
Donald Trump renominates billionaire astronaut Jared Isaacman to lead NASA, citing his experience and vision for the space industry.
“Laura Loomer is now credentialed to cover the Pentagon” via Scott Nover and Drew Harwell of The Washington Post — Loomer, the far-right political activist and former congressional candidate in Florida, has been credentialed to cover the Defense Department, according to one person familiar with the matter, joining a new cohort of right-wing media that have agreed to the Pentagon’s new press policy. Loomer, 32, has forged a close alliance with Trump, routinely meeting with the President in the Oval Office during his second term. She has frustrated some in the administration with her proximity to Trump and public criticisms of high-ranking defense and national security officials, whom she argues are disloyal to Trump — some of whom have been dismissed soon after her rebukes.
“Despite recent turmoil at FDA, White House praises the agency’s leader” via David Lim and Lauren Gardner of POLITICO — The White House is rallying behind Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary after the abrupt ousting of one of his top deputies over the weekend, the latest tumult in an agency that’s seen plenty this year. A new top drug regulator will likely be installed on Wednesday to replace George Tidmarsh as director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “President Trump pledged to lower costs and Make America Healthy Again by cutting red tape and embracing innovation,” White House spokesperson Kush Desai wrote in an email.
“Rick Scott, Byron Donalds slam investigators who subpoenaed GOP Senators’ phone records” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Investigators in a federal case against Trump obtained phone records and text messages belonging to U.S. Sen. Scott, Senate Republicans say. At a news conference at the U.S. Capitol, Scott decried the Arctic Frost investigation as a weaponization of the Justice Department against Republican elected officials. “Basically, they want to shut us all up,” the Naples Republican said. “They want to shut us up and put us in prison. That’s what they want to do.” U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Senator and close ally of Scott, informed Florida’s senior Senator last week that he believed Special Counsel Jack Smith had targeted Scott along with several other GOP Senators during President Joe Biden’s term.
“Carlos Giménez urges U.S. to use trade negotiations to end Mexico’s Cuba ties” via Nora Gámez Torres of the Miami Herald — Miami Republican U.S. Rep. Giménez urged the Trump administration to demand that Mexico cease oil shipments to Cuba and end contracts with doctors in Cuban medical missions as part of the upcoming renegotiation of a trade deal with the Mexican government. In a letter, Giménez, who chairs the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to ensure “Mexico ends its disturbing relationship with the murderous regime in Havana.” The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement is scheduled for review early next year. As the agreement’s framework is revised, Giménez asked the U.S. top officials to require Mexico “step up efforts in combating and eliminating narco-terrorist organizations… halt trafficking of medical professionals from Cuba, victims of modern-day slavery” and “demand Mexico end its oil shipments to the regime in Havana.”
Carlos Giménez urges U.S. negotiators to pressure Mexico to cut oil and medical ties with Cuba.
“Jimmy Patronis criticizes ‘sniper’ speeding tickets after traffic stop off Three Mile Bridge” via Karris Harmon of Wear TV — Thousands of vehicles travel the Three Mile Bridge every day. Gulf Breeze Police say Patronis was going more than 20 miles per hour over the posted speed limit. Patronis acknowledged Tuesday that the officer who pulled him over was doing his job. But he says if law enforcement is issuing tickets, they need to be seen. Patronis claims the officer who stopped him on the bridge was out of sight. Gulf Breeze Police Chief Rick Hawthorne says the officer pulled Patronis over for going 68 mph in a 45-mph zone. “He was on the north side of the big hump, parked in the emergency lane with his lights out, and it was 6 o’clock at night,” Hawthorne said. “So, he wasn’t behind a bush or a tree and couldn’t be seen.”
— ELECTIONS —
“It’s not over: Eileen Higgins, Emilio González to compete in runoff for Miami Mayor” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — The race for Mayor of Miami isn’t over yet. Commissioners Higgins and former City Manager González will face off in a runoff on Dec. 9 after neither secured a majority in the Nov. 4 election. Higgins, a current Miami-Dade County Commissioner, and González emerged from a crowded field of 13 candidates vying to succeed term-limited Mayor Francis Suarez. González, who successfully sued to block the city’s attempt to delay the election, casts himself as a reformer focused on fiscal discipline and government overhaul. Higgins emphasized affordability, anti-corruption and environmental resilience. The runoff will decide who will lead Miami through its next chapter.
Eileen Higgins and Emilio González advance to a December runoff to decide Miami’s next Mayor.
“Christine King re-elected to Miami Commission as race for District 3 seat heads to runoff” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami Commissioner King easily won re-election Tuesday to represent District 5, securing another four-year term after first winning the seat in 2021. Her victory came as the city’s District 3 race heads to a runoff, with candidates Miguel Gabela and Damian Pardo advancing after neither reached a majority. King, who chairs the City Commission, ran on a record of expanding affordable housing, strengthening support for small businesses, and investing in parks and youth programs. Her challenger, Michael Hepburn, campaigned on ethics reform and greater government transparency but failed to gain traction. The District 3 runoff will determine who replaces Commissioner Joe Carollo, who was barred from seeking re-election due to term limits after years of controversy and legal battles.
“Fort Myers Beach voters support recall of Karen Woodson, John King” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Voters in Fort Myers Beach approved the recall of Town Council member Woodson following a contentious campaign tied to a controversial high-rise development on the former Red Coconut RV Park site. Allegations against Woodson included violations of the Sunshine Law, improper staffing decisions and acceptance of unreported gifts from developers. Council member King faced a parallel recall but remained in office due to a court-ordered stay that paused the results pending appeal. Alongside the recall vote, residents also selected from three candidates — Tom Brady, Rebecca Link and Edward Rood — to fill any vacated seat. The election marks one of the first successful municipal recalls in Lee County in decades and signals heightened community scrutiny of local governance.
“Gainesville votes to send GRU Authority packing a second time” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — Voters in Gainesville are headed to the polls on Nov. 4 for the second time in a year to decide whether to return control of Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) to the city’s elected Commission or let it remain under the Governor-appointed GRU Authority. Last year’s referendum, in which about 73% of voters supported returning oversight to the city, was invalidated by a judge due to misleading ballot wording. The current vote follows the 2023 state law that shifted GRU oversight to the Authority Board. Opponents argue the Authority removes local accountability, while supporters point to reduced debt and lower rates since the shift. The referendum’s outcome could settle a longstanding governance dispute over who runs the utility.
“Hialeah voters pick Bryan Calvo as first new elected Mayor in five years” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Former Hialeah City Council member Calvo unseated Mayor Jackie Garcia-Roves, reclaiming the city’s top post just six months after she made history as Hialeah’s first woman Mayor. With most precincts reporting, Calvo led with 53% of the vote, followed by Jesús Tundidor with 21% and Garcia-Roves with 19%. The race unfolded amid rising concerns over living costs, infrastructure and fiscal management. Calvo criticized recent tax rebates as reckless and vowed to curb waste, cut taxes and fight corruption. Tundidor emphasized conservative fiscal discipline, while Garcia-Roves defended short-term rebates to provide relief. Calvo, 27, once the city’s youngest Council member, said his win represents a call for “real change” at City Hall.
“Two elected to Hialeah Council as two other races head to runoffs” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Two candidates secured seats on the Hialeah City Council, while races in two other Districts are headed to runoffs. With 44 of 45 precincts reporting, Council member Melinda De La Vega won the Group 6 seat with about 60.5% of the vote; Council member Juan Junco secured re-election in the Group 4 contest with approximately 59%. Meanwhile, the Group 3 and Group 7 contests did not yield outright winners, sending top vote-getters to runoff elections. The outcomes reflect a divided electoral field, with some incumbents holding ground while other Districts remain unresolved. Voter concerns such as cost of living, city infrastructure and government transparency framed the campaigns across the city.
Melinda De La Vega and Juan Junco win Hialeah Council seats as two other races advance.
“Holmes Beach voters re-elect Steve Oelfke, Terry Schaefer, but toss Carol Soustek in favor of Jessica Patel” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — In Holmes Beach, voters re-elected incumbents Oelfke and Schaefer to the City Commission — but removed Soustek in favor of newcomer Patel. The election for three at-large seats featured four candidates, with Oelfke and Schaefer retaining their roles and Patel joining the Commission. The change signals voter appetite for new voices, despite the continued presence of two familiar figures. Key campaign themes included hurricane recovery, stormwater management, neighborhood fiscal stability and resident engagement in budgeting decisions. The outcome underscores a mixed mandate: the electorate endorsed experience in two seats while opting for change in the third.
“Kim Konsky unseats incumbent, Erica Ávila wins re-election in Homestead Council races” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Konsky defeated incumbent Tom Davis to win Seat 1 on the Homestead City Council, capturing 55.9 % of the vote while Davis fell to 44.1%. Meanwhile, incumbent Ávila held Seat 5 with 58.1 % of the vote, defeating challenger Sonia Castro. The elections reflect a mixed outcome: one seat flipped while the other remained in place. Voter turnout was low at roughly 10.7%. Major campaign themes included development control, transparency, infrastructure and public safety. Konsky, a Realtor, unseated Davis by promising fresh leadership, while Ávila leveraged her experience to secure re-election. The results signal some appetite for change in Homestead alongside continuity in other races.
“Lake County elections: Michael Jaycox defeats Jim O’Neil, Mascotte incumbents hold on” via James Wilkins of the Orlando Sentinel — Voters in Lake County’s municipal elections threw out one veteran incumbent while reaffirming others. In Groveland, veteran O’Neil lost his District 4 seat to Jaycox by a wide margin — Jaycox captured 68.8% of the vote. Criminal charges and a civil lawsuit had shadowed O’Neil’s campaign. Meanwhile, in Mascotte, incumbents Robin Hughes and Randy Brasher held their seats, defeating challengers Barbara Krull and Sharee Hodge, respectively. Hughes edged out Krull 50.7% to 49.3%. The results highlight a divided electorate: growth and accountability concerns drove change in Groveland, while other towns opted for continuity. The mixed outcomes underscore local attention to leadership, trust, and the handling of municipal issues.
“Sara Roberts McCarley wins open Lakeland Mayor race” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Roberts McCarley won Lakeland’s open Mayor’s race — becoming the city’s first elected female Mayor in decades. She captured just over 50% of the vote in a four-way contest — avoiding a runoff and succeeding outgoing Mayor Bill Mutz. A City Commissioner since 2019, McCarley campaigned on transparency, public safety and continued community investment, promising to build on Mutz’s collaborative leadership style. Opponents Cedric Valrie, Kay Klymko and Kaitlin Kramer trailed far behind. Voter turnout was roughly 19%, reflecting steady engagement for a municipal election. McCarley’s victory marks a milestone for Lakeland politics — signaling voters’ preference for experienced, pragmatic leadership and reaffirming the city’s focus on managed growth, fiscal responsibility and neighborhood revitalization.
“Marathon voters re-elect two City Council incumbents, add one new member” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — In the city of Marathon, all five precincts reported their results, and voters re-elected incumbents G. Lynn Landry and Robyn Still to the City Council. Both secured enough votes to win new three-year terms. A third new Council member also joined the panel after the at-large election for three seats. The results reflect continuity with the standing Council members while also introducing fresh representation. Candidates had campaigned on key issues including transparency, fiscal responsibility, growth management and citizen engagement. The outcome suggests residents preferred a blend of experienced leadership and new perspectives as the community continues addressing challenges related to tourism, infrastructure and quality of life in the Florida Keys.
“Tom Keen wins Orlando City Council seat against better-funded incumbent” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Former Rep. Keen pulled off the upset and knocked off a longtime incumbent with a bigger war chest in the Orlando City Council election Tuesday. Keen won nearly 54% of the vote in the race for District 1 to oust Commissioner Jim Gray, who captured 31% of the vote. The other two candidates in the race, Sunshine Linda-Marie Grund and Manny Acosta, received nearly 10% and 5% of the vote, respectively. Keen said he was “over the moon” and surprised he won outright since he was expecting to go to a runoff election because of the crowded field. His strategy had been knocking on doors, and he said he wore out three pairs of tennis shoes during his campaign. The election results were validation that Orlando is “really blue,” Keen said.
“Roger Chapin and Mira Tanna are heading to a runoff for Orlando City Council,” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — In Orlando’s City Council District 3 race, Chapin and Tanna advanced to a runoff after neither candidate secured a majority on Election Day. Chapin led narrowly with approximately 34% of the vote versus Tanna’s roughly 33.8%. A crowded field of five contenders had vied to replace outgoing Commissioner Robert Stuart, who is stepping down after two decades. Chapin emphasized experience, economic development and safer streets, while Tanna, a city grants manager, focused on government trust and inclusive representation. District 3 covers neighborhoods such as Baldwin Park, Audubon Park, College Park and Rosemont, and the runoff is scheduled for Dec. 9.
“Shan Rose beats Regina Hill to keep her Orlando City Council seat in ugly race” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Rose retained her seat on the Orlando City Council in a contentious District 5 campaign, defeating former Commissioner Hill with around 52% of the vote. Hill, who served nine years on the Council, had sought to reclaim her position following suspension in March 2023 over allegations of elder exploitation. Rose, who filled the vacancy in a Special Election last year, pointed to achievements such as a 27 % drop in crime, new accessible sidewalks and increased programs for seniors and youth. She emphasized her focus on community safety and infrastructure improvements. Hill’s campaign was overshadowed by lingering legal issues, which likely weighed heavily on voters.
Shan Rose defeats Regina Hill in Orlando’s District 5 race, keeping her seat after a heated campaign.
“Leslie Waters continues Seminole winning streak, defeats challenger Marcus Barber” via Jesse Mendoza and Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Longtime Seminole Mayor Waters has defeated challenger Barber in a race that pitted decades of government experience against a first-time candidate running on a message of community service and small-town pride. With unofficial results in, Waters secured a resounding win, with nearly 57% of the vote. Waters, a fixture in Seminole politics since 2009, will continue leading the city of roughly 19,000 residents in central Pinellas County. Before becoming Mayor in 2013, she served as a City Council member, Vice Mayor and interim Mayor. Before her time with the city, she spent eight years in the Florida House, where she rose to Speaker Pro Tempore and chaired key Committees on transportation and insurance.
— LOCAL: S. FL —
“CNN’s Carlos Suarez named Miami-Dade Mayor’s Comms Director in media team shake-up” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami-Dade Mayor has appointed veteran journalist Suarez as her new Communications Director, part of a broader shake-up in the administration’s media team. Suarez, a Miami native and former CNN correspondent, brings years of experience covering major events, including the Parkland school shooting, Hurricane Irma, and the Surfside condo collapse. Levine Cava praised Suarez as “a true homegrown talent” with deep community ties and bilingual skills to help strengthen communication across Miami-Dade’s diverse population. Outgoing Communications Director Natalia Jaramillo will move to a new role within the county’s Communications, Innovation & Technology Department, focusing on digital engagement and coordination across agencies. Deputy Chief of Staff Rachel Johnson will remain as a senior communications adviser.
Daniella Levine Cava appoints veteran journalist Carlos Suarez as Miami-Dade Communications Director amid staff reorganization.
“Amazon’s Jeff Bezos returning to Miami to speak at celebrity business forum” via Vinod Sreeharsha of the Miami Herald — Amazon founder Bezos, a Miami Palmetto Senior High alumnus, will headline the 2025 America Business Forum at downtown Miami’s Kaseya Center — the event’s first time in the United States since launching in Uruguay in 2016. The two-day conference, set for Nov. 5–6, will bring together leaders from business, politics, and culture to discuss innovation and leadership. Bezos will close the forum on Nov. 6 at 5:10 p.m., joining a lineup that includes Trump, Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado, and soccer star Lionel Messi. Miami Mayor Suarez, who attended last year’s forum in Uruguay, helped recruit speakers. Organizers said Bezos’ participation underscores Miami’s growing status as a global hub for business and technology.
“Man struck and killed by Brightline train in Pompano Beach, BSO says” via David Goodhue of the Miami Herald — A Brightline train struck and killed a man who was walking along the railroad tracks in Pompano Beach Monday night, the Broward Sheriff’s Office said. The man was hit around 6:30 p.m. in the area of 300 South Dixie Highway. Pompano Beach Fire Rescue paramedics declared the man dead.
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Orange County’s hotel tax draws $26M in September” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Orange County’s hotel tax generated $26 million in September — the most revenue ever collected during the month. But officials warn that the big increases seen in the last few months are starting to level out. “After a strong, hot Summer, TDT collections cooled off in September with the start of the Fall season,” Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond said in a press release about September, which includes Labor Day and then many students around the country returning to school. Acknowledging the record-breaking September, Diamond’s Office said the total amount of revenue for Fiscal Year 2024-25 reached nearly $385 million, marking the highest annual collections ever.
Phil Diamond reports Orange County’s hotel tax hit a record $26 million in September, topping expectations.
“Osceola to provide $1 million for food pantries amid SNAP decrease” via Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel — Osceola Commissioners voted 4-1 to set aside $1 million to aid 38 food pantries, one week after county nonprofits said the decrease in SNAP funding will spark a “crisis.” “This made me lose sleep the whole weekend; these individuals who rely on SNAP benefits are possibly going hungry,” Commissioner Viviana Janer said. “It’s very unfortunate that we have to get to this point.” Roughly 24,000 households in Osceola County rely on Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program benefits, Rev. Mary Downey, CEO of the nonprofit Hope Partnership, told state legislators. Osceola will set aside $90,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds, or CDBG, and $910,000 in general revenue funds if needed in the event the federal government does not reopen in short order, spokesperson Tyler Winik said.
— LOCAL: TB —
“USF grows research funding to $750M” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — The University of South Florida has reached a record $750 million in research funding in Fiscal Year 2025, an $11.6 million increase over last year and a 37% bump in funding since 2022. The increase in funding will expand USF’s ability to address critical challenges, discover scientific, technological and other academic breakthroughs, and create new opportunities to improve health care, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, the environment, hurricane response and more. “The University of South Florida is committed to solving real-world challenges, and our record research funding — bringing us closer to our goal of $1 billion in funding by 2030 — provides more opportunities for our faculty, staff and students to turn bold ideas into innovation and impact,” USF President Rhea Law said.
The University of South Florida reaches a record $750 million in research funding, advancing innovation statewide.
—“USF president-elect won’t be confirmed until 2026” via Breanne Williams of the Tampa Bay Business Journal
“SunRunner bus lane removal may have violated state law created to make it harder to repurpose lanes” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — A local transit supporter has filed a complaint against FDOT District 7 Secretary Justin Hall over the agency’s decision to remove dedicated Business Access and Transit (BAT) lanes along Pasadena Avenue used by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority’s (PSTA) SunRunner route. The complaint, filed by local transit and pedestrian accessibility activist Garrett Marple, says Hall “likely made or authorized this decision … without the professional diligence, safety analysis, or ethical consideration required of a licensed professional Engineer under Florida law.” Legislation approved in 2024 (HB 1301) requires “any project that will repurpose one or more existing traffic lanes” to include “a traffic study to address any potential adverse impacts of the project” and hold at least one public meeting “before completing the design phase of the project.”
“Polk County Commission delays vote on adding school tax increase to ballot” via Paul Nutcher of the Lakeland Ledger — Irritated by the optics of voting in favor of a proposed referendum for a school tax increase ― all while state lawmakers are considering property tax cuts ― Polk County Commissioners voted Nov. 4 to delay a decision on the referendum until January. And they want the Polk County School District to explain why the revenues are needed.
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“Prominent figure in politics passes on offer to become FAMU president’s Chief of Staff” via Tarah Jean of the Tallahassee Democrat — A well-connected political figure was the top choice to be Florida A&M University’s Chief of Staff, but the two offers months apart were voided after he didn’t respond. At the same time, the prominent individual has been a volunteer helping hand and sounding board in FAMU President Marva Johnson’s inner circle. As Johnson works to solidify her senior leadership team, she extended a Chief of Staff job offer letter to Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Executive Director Vince Evans in July, as FAMU’s president-elect, ahead of her official start in August, and again on Oct. 6.
FAMU President Marva Johnson’s top choice for Chief of Staff, Vince Evans, declines repeated job offers.
— LOCAL: SW. FL —
“Florida’s campus DOGE report questions spending at New College” via Lucy Marques of the Tampa Bay Times — New College of Florida’s finances could be a point of discussion at this week’s Board of Governors meeting, due to a new audit from the state’s Department of Government Efficiency. DeSantis had ordered the audit of Florida’s State University System to eliminate unnecessary spending and investigate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. The report does not include any analysis of those programs, but instead compares student success measures, such as graduation rates, with spending at each of the state’s public universities. While concerns over New College’s finances aren’t new, the report, which draws from publicly available data, highlights how the university diverges from others in the state.
A state audit questions New College of Florida’s spending patterns, highlighting disparities in student success and efficiency.
“The Bradenton Times pushes radical left agenda while Manatee County faces $112 million overspending scandal” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — What began as a small-town online outlet promising “independent journalism for Manatee County” has evolved into one of Florida’s loudest radical left echo chambers, and it’s happening as the county finds itself under state audit for massive financial mismanagement. While Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia investigates what he calls the worst local budget audit his office has ever encountered, revealing $112 million in overspending, The Bradenton Times has been devoting its energy to attacking conservatives, targeting Republican officials, and promoting talking points that many people say could have been lifted straight from a national partisan playbook.
Happening today — Florida gubernatorial candidate and former House Speaker Paul Renner will unveil his campaign Health Freedom Initiative, joined by Stand for Health Freedom Executive Director Leah Wilson and Parental Rights Florida State Coordinator Patti Sullivan to highlight health proposals that prioritize and defend Florida families’ health freedom, promote patient-centered care with transparency and innovation, and expand access to alternative and preventive treatments: 11 a.m. EST, Seed to Table Market, 4835 Immokalee Road, Naples. Media are invited to arrive at 10:30 a.m. RSVP for coverage to [email protected].
— TOP OPINION —
“No politics is local” via David Graham of The Atlantic — The once-familiar saying that “all politics is local” no longer reflects America’s political reality. Across the country, races that were once about roads, schools, and budgets are now consumed by national debates and partisan identity. Local contests increasingly serve as referendums on national figures, especially Trump.
In Virginia and New Jersey, gubernatorial races are shaped less by local concerns than by the candidates’ alignment with or opposition to Trump. The same dynamic drives state legislative and congressional elections, where party loyalty now outweighs personal connection or community ties. Voters view their ballots through a national lens, not a local one.
The pattern holds in New York City, where the mayoral race is dominated by global issues such as the Israeli Palestinian conflict. Debates over policing or housing are overshadowed by how candidates position themselves on foreign affairs, further blurring the line between local and global politics.
Political scientists note how deeply this shift has taken root. Lee Drutman of New America found that 98% of House election results can be predicted by how districts voted for President, leaving little space for ticket-splitting or independent judgment.
In Virginia, the state’s traditional “Governor’s curse” — electing a leader from the opposite party of the sitting President — has faded as voters grow more partisan and nationally conditioned. New Jersey shows a similar realignment, with state politics bending to national narratives.
This nationalization of politics erodes local control and engagement, reducing communities to mere reflections of America’s broader divides.
— MORE OPINIONS —
“America is hurting — Americans are too” via Christian Ulvert for Florida Politics — Public support for LGBTQ+ rights is slipping, and that reality weighs heavily after years of progress. A decade ago, same-sex marriage enjoyed overwhelming bipartisan approval. Today, barely half of Americans say it should remain legal. The rights once seen as settled are again under pressure as discrimination and fear resurface. From Miami to the halls of power, the call now is for visibility, vigilance, and courage — to speak early against anti-LGBTQ+ efforts, engage allies across divides, and live authentically despite risk. Equality isn’t self-sustaining; it requires constant defense. Love, representation, and truth must replace silence and fear. Progress matters, but the fight continues until every LGBTQ+ person can live safely, visibly, and fully as themselves.
“Donalds is right — Florida needs real wastewater solutions like Eco World Water” via Steve Adelstein for Florida Politics — Florida’s wastewater crisis is reaching a breaking point as the state’s population surges and aging infrastructure falters. At the Florida Chamber’s Future of Florida Forum, Rep. Donalds called attention to the need for modern solutions — and Eco World Water says it has one. The Florida-based company claims to convert raw wastewater into potable-grade water in just 10 minutes without using the power grid. Traditional systems can take days and often fail during storms, leaving communities vulnerable. Eco World Water argues its scalable technology can help municipalities, utilities, and emergency teams manage growth more efficiently. Donalds’ push for fiscal responsibility aligns with the company’s message: innovation, not bureaucracy, will keep Florida resilient and ready for the future
“New screening options help Floridians beat colorectal cancer” via Ute Harshbarger for Florida Politics — Colorectal cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers when detected late, but early screening changes everything. When caught early, the disease has a 91% five-year survival rate, yet only 65.5% of eligible Floridians are up-to-date on screenings. Barriers like discomfort, fear, and lack of awareness keep many from getting tested, particularly among low-income adults. Traditional colonoscopies are effective but often dreaded, while stool-based tests can feel unpleasant. Now, blood-based screening options like the FDA-approved Shield test offer a simpler, non-invasive alternative that can be done during a routine doctor’s visit. Early detection saves lives — and makes it possible for Floridians to keep doing what they love for more years and more memories ahead.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— ALOE —
“Star-eating black hole unleashes record-setting energetic flare” via Will Dunham of Reuters — Scientists are observing the most energetic flare ever seen emanating from a supermassive black hole, apparently caused when this celestial beast shredded and swallowed a massive star that strayed too close. The researchers said the flare at its peak was 10 trillion times brighter than the sun. It was unleashed by a black hole roughly 300 million times the mass of the sun residing inside a faraway galaxy, about 11 billion light-years from Earth. A light-year is the distance light travels in a year, 5.9 trillion miles. Black holes are extraordinarily dense objects with gravitational pull so strong that not even light can escape. The researchers said the most likely explanation for the flare is a large star being pulled into the black hole.
A distant supermassive black hole devours a massive star, producing a flare 10 trillion times brighter than the sun.
“Google plans to put data centers in space to meet demand for AI” via Robert Booth of The Guardian — Google is hatching plans to put artificial intelligence data centers into space, with its first trial equipment sent into orbit in early 2027. Its scientists and engineers believe tightly packed constellations of about 80 solar-powered satellites could be arranged in orbit about 400 miles above the Earth’s surface, equipped with the powerful processors required to meet rising demand for AI. Prices of space launches are falling so quickly that by the middle of the 2030s, the running costs of a space-based data center could be comparable to one on Earth. Using satellites could also minimize the impact on the land and water resources needed to cool existing data centers.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Celebrating today are U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, Britton Alexander, Emma Collum, former state Rep. Ken Robertson and Eric Robinson.
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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.