Good Thursday morning.

As you embark on the latest edition of INFLUENCE Magazine, one of the first things you might notice is the photo in the Publisher’s Note. It’s not an image of Michelle, Ella, and me on our latest Disney cruise or holiday excursion.

Instead, the photo you are looking at is a behind-the-scenes shot of Chelsea Workman photographing Susie Wiles in her White House office.

Chelsea Workman captures Susie Wiles in her White House office during an exclusive shoot for Florida Politics.

In addition to being President Donald Trump’s Chief of Staff, she’s also a Florida Woman.

She was one of the brains behind Rick Scott’s political ascension and is credited with shaping Florida’s Republican renaissance.

Getting into her office now that she is what Trump describes as “the most powerful woman in the world” is no easy feat.

And that’s what this special edition of INFLUENCE Magazine is about.

It’s a deep dive into Florida’s takeover of Washington, D.C. The Trump administration is packed with Florida politicos and other bigwigs from South Florida to the Panhandle.

So the edition is an introduction to those of you in D.C. to myself and my esteemed colleagues at Extensive Enterprises, which publishes this magazine, Florida Politics and Southeast Politics.

This photo exemplifies what sets us apart — earning trust. This photo doesn’t show paparazzi hounding the President’s right-hand woman; it shows a talented photographer working under the Extensive Enterprises banner, with Wiles by invitation.

That doesn’t happen by accident.

Power players in Florida politics trust us to understand there are many sides to a story and to get those sides. And they trust us enough to invite us into exclusive briefings, top-level meetings and even the White House itself.

So let’s call this edition our expansion to D.C., in which we bring readers more coverage of the White House, our Florida Congressional delegation and the governmental affairs and special relationship that now exists between our nation’s capital and the Sunshine State.

Team Florida Politics prepares the new INFLUENCE Magazine edition, highlighting Florida’s growing presence in Washington and beyond.

It begins with stellar work by reporters Jacob Ogles and Jesse Scheckner, who compiled what I believe is the most comprehensive database of Florida Men and Women working in D.C.

We have also included interviews with lobbyists who have taken the Trump train from Florida to D.C.

And not to be outdone by ourselves, we’ve also included a feature with provocateur Laura Loomer — an inclusion that may come as a shock to some — still a hard interview to land, which again demonstrates the trust we cultivate.

There are also profiles from the other side of the aisle, with U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, and from those who have seen politics in recent months at both the state and federal level, such as new U.S. Rep. Jimmy Patronis.

While it will be hard to follow this stellar edition, we are also already looking forward to assembling the next one, which readers will rejoice to hear will include our INFLUENCE 150 in the new year.

Until then, thank you for reading and, especially, for trusting.

You can read the latest edition of INFLUENCE Magazine by clicking here.

___

Baptist Health has selected Matt Zuino to succeed longtime leader Michael Mayo as president and CEO, effective Jan. 17.

“Matt is a visionary leader with a proven track record of driving strategic results and operational excellence while consistently prioritizing people and community,” said Deborah Pass Durham, Chair of the Baptist Health Board of Directors. “The Board is extremely confident Matt will lead Baptist Health into the future with clarity, purpose and passion.”

Mayo added that Zuino “has been instrumental in uniting our leaders together around strategic vision, shared goals and measurable outcomes.”

Matt Zuino is tapped to lead Baptist Health as its next president and CEO in January.

Baptist Health credited Zuino, currently the organization’s COO, for strengthening hospital operations across the system, from expanding access and improving patient experience to advancing clinical quality and supporting the workforce.

Before joining Baptist Health in 2017 as president of Physician Integration, Zuino spent 17 years at Virtua Health in New Jersey, where he served as senior vice president of Hospital Services and COO of Virtua Medical Group.

“This is an exciting, transformational time at Baptist Health. I feel very fortunate to build upon our 70-year legacy as the area’s only locally headquartered, mission-driven, faith-based health system,” said Zuino.

“Our future will be defined by how well we listen, innovate and accelerate our commitment to those we serve as we look toward 2030 and beyond.”

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@MorePerfectUS: The U.S. lost about 50,000 jobs in October, according to economists at Goldman Sachs. That’s the biggest decline since 2020.

—@realAnnaPaulina: Today’s hearing to ban insider trading was for show. We got news that they are marking up and bring to the floor a water down version with no teeth. Unacceptable.

Tweet, tweet:

—@Fineout: This wk State Rep. @RAlexAndradeFL filed a sweeping public records bill – HB 437 – that would put in place firm deadlines on responding to record requests including requiring an acknowledgement of the request. Under the @GovRonDeSantis admin, some agencies have ignored requests

—@IanOliverWX: Death Valley (1.2”) has received roughly 7X more rain than Miami (0.17”) in the month of November

— DAYS UNTIL —

‘Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 1; ‘Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 6; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 8; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 13; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 13; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 19; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 22; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 22; Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 27; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 29; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 35; Special Election for HD 87; HD 51 Special Primary and two Boca Raton referenda — 54; 2026 Legislative Session begins — 54; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 54; The James Madison Institute’s 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 55; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 59; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 71; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 77; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 78; Boca Raton Mayoral and City Council Elections — 110; last day of the Regular Session — 113; Special Election for HD 51 (if necessary) — 124; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 125; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 126; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 137; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 146; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 146; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 151; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 155; F1 Miami begins — 162; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 183; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 194; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 200; State Qualifying Period ends — 204; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 211; FIFA World Cup begins — 203; live action ‘Moana’ premieres — 223; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 226; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 231; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 236; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 238; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 242; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 259; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 261; Primary Election Day 2026 — 271; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 295; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 299; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 303; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 308; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 315; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 319; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 338; 2026 General Election — 348; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 393; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 393; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 393; Tampa Mayoral Election — 467; Jacksonville First Election — 488; Jacksonville General Election — 544; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 562; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 624; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 680; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 757; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 967; U.S. Presidential Election — 1083; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1483; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2214.

— TOP STORY —

“‘Quite a bit of baggage’: Democrats hope to unseat scandal-plagued GOP Rep. Cory Mills” via Skyler Swisher of the Orlando Sentinel — Democrats are piling into the race against two-term Republican U.S. Rep. Mills, betting that a string of personal and political controversies has weakened the Trump ally heading into the Midterms. The field now includes former NASA chief of staff Bale Dalton, attorney Noah Widmann, 2024 nominee Jennifer Adams and Navy veteran Marialana Kinter. Their argument is simple: Mills is distracted by scandals and unfit to serve Seminole and Volusia counties.

Mills has been hit with damaging headlines for months. A judge approved a restraining order sought by an ex-girlfriend who accused him of threatening to release explicit images. Police also examined since-withdrawn assault allegations. His military record has come under scrutiny, and the House Ethics Committee is investigating whether he benefited from federal contracts while in office.

Democratic challengers seize momentum as escalating scandals and investigations leave Cory Mills politically vulnerable.

Mills denies wrongdoing, pointing to his constituent service record and conservative voting history. But Democrats believe the cumulative baggage could matter in a Midterm cycle, especially with affordability issues and Trump’s approval rating dragging on Republicans.

Widmann has emerged as a credible challenger, outraising Mills for two straight quarters. He emphasizes his working-class background, crediting public assistance programs for helping him rise from teenage parent to a Georgetown-educated lawyer. He argues that economic fairness and public investment are central to restoring opportunity.

Dalton, a Navy veteran and former senior NASA official, frames his campaign around frustration with gridlock in Washington. His background includes global deployments and experience advising space and aeronautics firms.

Adams and Kinter round out the Democratic field, both arguing that Mills’ controversies reflect a deeper leadership failure. Mills faces one GOP Primary challenger.

—“Anna Paulina Luna, Kat Cammack accuse ‘swampy’ House GOP leadership of protecting Mills from censure” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics

—“‘No backroom deal’: Mills denies any ‘quid pro quo’ to avoid censure vote” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics

“House Ethics Committee expands investigation of Mills to include ‘sexual misconduct’” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The House Ethics Committee has stepped up an investigation of U.S. Rep. Mills, including whether he committed “sexual misconduct.” That move regarding the internal investigation unfolds as a growing number of GOP Congresswomen call for the New Smyrna Beach Republican to be censured and stripped of Committee assignments. Ethics Committee Chair Michael Guest, a Mississippi Republican, issued a joint statement with ranking member Mark DeSaulnier, a California Democrat, announcing the establishment of an investigative Subcommittee looking into allegations against Mills. That accelerates an investigation first launched in December based on allegations from Michael Johnson, Mills’ Republican Primary opponent in the 2024 Election cycle.

—“Sarah Raviani, Mills’ paramour, breaks silence on February police call” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics

— STATEWIDE —

“Despite Ron DeSantis’ lobbying, megadonor Ken Griffin stays on the sidelines in Governor’s race” via Matt Dixon of NBC News — DeSantis has been quietly hunting for a deep-pocketed benefactor to block Byron Donalds’ rise in the 2026 Governor race, but his personal lobbying of Griffin hasn’t moved the billionaire. Despite multiple private conversations in Miami and New York, Griffin remains uninterested. That leaves DeSantis grasping for alternatives as Donalds piles up more than $30 million and holds Trump’s endorsement. The Governor has floated several possibilities, including Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, who appears to be the favorite after a nonprofit poured $1.1 million into ads touting his Green Beret record and loyalty to DeSantis. Investor James Fishback is also circling a run. Still, Griffin’s refusal undercuts DeSantis’ effort to derail Donalds at the height of campaign season.

Ken Griffin meets with Ron DeSantis as the Florida politician seeks support for 2026 race

“South Carolina Rep. Russell Fry endorses Byron Donalds for Florida Governor” via Michelle Vecerina of Florida’s Voice — Donalds has received the endorsement of South Carolina Republican Rep. Fry, adding another prominent national conservative to his campaign for Florida Governor. Fry’s backing continues a wave of high-profile endorsements Donalds secured last week, which included business magnate Elon Musk, professional golfer Phil Mickelson, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, and U.S. Rep. Chip Roy. “Byron Donalds is the conservative leader Florida needs. He’s an America First fighter who stands firmly with President Trump and delivers real results for the people he serves,” Fry said in a statement.

Russell Fry endorses Byron Donalds for Governor — strengthening national conservative support behind his campaign.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“New audit exposes accountability faults in Florida’s massive school choice program” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — Lawmakers are scrambling to repair the state’s rapidly expanding school choice system after a new audit revealed serious accountability failures in how K-12 funding is tracked and distributed. The audit found millions in taxpayer dollars left unused or misallocated, including voucher accounts exceeding $50,000 and payments issued to students still enrolled in public schools. Auditors said the state repeatedly failed to verify enrollment, recoup ineligible payments or prevent duplicate funding, calling the overall process “pay and chase.” The findings stunned legislators, who warned that the nation’s largest voucher program is growing faster than the state can manage. Senators are pushing structural reforms, while House leaders insist the problem lies with implementation, setting up a major policy clash ahead of the Session.

“Bill advances to require political candidates show their party allegiances for 365 days” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — It could get harder for candidates to flip political parties abruptly when seeking political office. A bill advancing Wednesday in a Senate Committee would require politicians running for office to be registered under their political parties or listed No Party Affiliation (NPA) for at least one year before the beginning of the qualifying period preceding the General Election. Sen. Kristen Arrington introduced Senate Bill 62 in front of the Senate Ethics and Elections Committee. The Committee had no debate before the Senators voted 7-0 in support. Arrington, a Kissimmee Democrat, told the Committee she was “looking forward to getting it across the finish line.”

Kristen Arrington outlines her proposal today, requiring candidates to maintain their party affiliation for one year.

“‘Free kill’ repeal again heads to House floor, but a Senate companion bill still hasn’t been filed” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Before the 2026 Regular Session has even begun, a proposed repeal of a unique Florida law that denies families legal recourse in medical malpractice cases is already heading to the House floor again. This time, however, the proposal doesn’t have a companion bill in the Senate, a complication that may potentially imperil its future if it passes in the House and is sent to the upper chamber. Members of the House Judiciary Committee voted 15-1 to advance HB 6003, which would delete a restriction in Florida Statutes blocking the award of noneconomic damages — grief, loss of companionship and the like — in cases of lethal medical negligence if the victim is 25 or older, unmarried and without children under 25.

“Senate panel passes bill forcing Medicaid managed care plans to offer more after-hours appointments” via the Florida Phoenix — Health care isn’t something that always can be scheduled during regular business hours. There’s an effort underway in the Legislature to make sure the managed care companies that receive billions of dollars to provide care to the poor, sick and elderly remain open between 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. Monday through Friday and on the weekends. Specifically, the bill would amend Medicaid statutes to require that at least 50% of a managed care plan’s primary care provider network offer availability to Medicaid enrollees during off-hours. The Senate Health Policy Committee passed SB 40, offered by Sen. Barbara Sharief, a Miramar Democrat.

“Builders could get green light from lawmakers for more construction” via John Kennedy of USA Today Network — The development industry would get another weapon in its battles against local government planning requirements, with legislation advancing that would bar key controls on homebuilding. The measure would block cities or counties from halting residential construction due to concerns that a new development is incompatible with surrounding neighborhoods. If the proposed development were next to an existing residential area, it couldn’t be denied under the bill. The legislation is looming as a new, pro-builder move from the Republican-controlled Legislature. Last year, lawmakers imposed strict limits on changes cities or counties could make to local planning standards, and the Legislature is now debating putting deep property tax cuts before voters.

“Lawmakers aim to help high school football coaches get better pay” via Jeffrey Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — Lawmakers are taking a fresh look at how little high school football coaches are paid, after years of complaints that district stipends fall far below minimum wage and lag behind other states. Senate Education PreK-12 Chair Corey Simon, a former FSU and NFL player, has filed legislation allowing coaches to negotiate their salaries independently of teachers’ unions, with a House companion expected. The proposal does not fully meet coaches’ demands but marks a significant step toward reform. Advocates say coaches have long been undervalued despite their impact on student engagement and retention. The effort comes as Districts statewide navigate broader education issues, including leadership changes, debate scheduling, teacher vacancies, and ongoing questions about voucher funding.

Happening today — Red Hills Strategies is hosting a REDTalk with Sen. Alexis Calatayud this evening, spotlighting her path to serving as state Senator for District 38. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. at the firm’s downtown Tallahassee office, 119 Park Ave.; contact Maggie Gahan at [email protected] with questions.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Donald Trump loyalist admits grand jury never saw final James Comey indictment” via Alan Feuer and Devlin Barrett of The New York Times — A federal judge put the prosecutors pursuing charges against Comey, the former FBI director, through the wringer, interrogating them with a series of questions that underscored irregularities in the case, including that the full grand jury did not see the indictment it was supposed to have approved. The grilling by the judge, Michael S. Nachmanoff, took place at an excruciatingly awkward hearing in U.S. District Court in Alexandria, Virginia, which was nominally held to consider the narrow issue of whether the charges against Comey had been filed as an act of vindictive retribution by Trump.

James Comey case intensifies — Donald Trump ally admits grand jury never saw final indictment.

“‘Democrats are going to come to regret this’: After Jeffrey Epstein vote, Trump ready to attack” via Dasha Burns and Diana Nerozzi of POLITICO — The Trump administration, on its back foot following brutal election results and its failed effort to quash a House vote to release the Epstein files, is now planning to go on the attack. “The Democrats are going to come to regret this,” said a White House official, granted anonymity to discuss the strategy. “Let’s start with Stacey Plaskett. You think we’re not going to make a scene of this?” Documents released from Epstein’s estate showed the nonvoting delegate from the U.S. Virgin Islands texting with Epstein during a congressional hearing in 2019. In those texts, Epstein appeared to try to influence the questions she asked from the dais. Her office did not respond to a request for comment, but a staffer said Plaskett had received texts from Epstein, along with “staff, constituents and the public at large,” during a hearing. The aide also said Plaskett has made her disgust over Epstein’s behavior clear.

“Trump administration holds roundtable on college compact” via Bianca Quilantan and Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO — The Trump administration convened a White House roundtable Wednesday with college leaders to gather feedback on its proposed higher education compact, a plan initially criticized by major universities but now being reworked with input from a broader range of institutions. Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Under Secretary Nicholas Kent led the discussion, which focused on eliminating low-value academic programs, improving transparency and cutting administrative bloat. Participants, including Florida university chancellor Ray Rodrigues and several community college leaders, said the administration’s expanded outreach is overdue and noted that many compact principles already mirror practices in states like Florida. Some panelists said the original proposal overlooked community colleges and lacked incentives for institutions to sign on but welcomed renewed dialogue.

“Democrats have biggest advantage for control of Congress in eight years” via Domenico Montanaro and Elena Moore of NPR — Democrats holding their largest advantage, 14 points, since 2017 on the question of who respondents would vote for if the Midterm Elections were held today. Trump’s approval rating is just 39%, his lowest since right after the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. A combined 6-in-10 blame congressional Republicans or Trump for the government shutdown. Nearly 6-in-10 say Trump’s top priority should be lowering prices — and no other issue comes close.

—“Supreme Court set to wade into a case that could tip the scales for the Midterms” via Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney of POLITICO

“Federal government shutdown delayed capital for over 100 small businesses in Florida” via Angel Green of WFTV — The recent federal government shutdown delayed access to federally guaranteed loans for small businesses in Florida. During the shutdown, Florida small businesses lost $461 million in federal loans, while nationwide, the SBA reported that $5.3 billion in lending was blocked. The SBA estimated that small businesses in Florida missed out on tens of millions of dollars in federally guaranteed loans during the shutdown. These loans are typically used to hire employees, fund expansions or cover operating costs. The SBA’s 7(a) and 504 loan programs offer federally guaranteed financing vital for small businesses to grow or stabilize.

— ELECTIONS —

“Firefighters fall in behind ‘remarkable advocate’ Blaise Ingoglia in CFO race” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Chief Financial Officer and Fire Marshal Ingoglia is getting a boost from a first responder union. The Florida Professional Firefighters are backing the Spring Hill Republican just days after Rep. Kevin Steele announced a Primary challenge to the incumbent. “Florida’s firefighters have found a remarkable advocate in the CFO’s office,” said FPF President Wayne “Bernie” Bernoska. “Blaise Ingoglia has demonstrated time and again his commitment to the issues that matter most to the men and women serving our communities. From training, equipment, and safety protocols to safeguarding firefighter retirement and cancer benefits, firefighters know Blaise has our back. The Florida Professional Firefighters proudly endorse his candidacy for state CFO!”

Happening tonight:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Tax docs show Trump library is counting on a $1B fundraising haul” via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — Trump’s presidential library foundation plans to raise almost a billion dollars in tax-exempt contributions over the next two years to build and operate his high-rise legacy project in downtown Miami, according to new tax filings. The foundation’s massive fundraising projections — during a period when Trump is still in office — are almost 50 times the amount Barack Obama’s presidential library raised in its first three years.

“Miami-Dade civic leaders featured in billboard campaign supporting immigrant rights” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Four prominent Miami-Dade County civic figures just unveiled a new billboard urging residents to defend their immigrant neighbors and uphold due process, dignity and humane treatment. The display, installed at the heavily traveled intersection of Interstate 95 and the State Road 836 on-ramp in Miami, features Miami Dade College President Emeritus Dr. Eduardo Padrón; David Lawrence Jr., founding Chair of The Children’s Movement of Florida and a former Miami Herald publisher; veteran journalist Leticia Callava, formerly of Univision and Telemundo; and Michael Putney, a longtime former senior political reporter for WPLG Local 10. Above them, a message in bold urges passersby to “Join Trusted Names We All Respect Defending Our Immigrant Neighbors.”

Eduardo Padrón, David Lawrence Jr., Leticia Callava and Michael Putney join billboard supporting immigrant rights

“Ken Griffin seeks approval for Florida’s tallest office tower” via Sommel Brugal of Axios — Hedge fund billionaire Griffin is seeking Miami-Dade County approval for a 54-story Brickell tower that would become Florida’s tallest building. The project at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive would house Citadel’s headquarters along with other offices, a hotel and retail space. Developers are requesting a special exception to build closer to Biscayne Bay, a move backed by county staff. Plans call for a roughly 2-million-square-foot complex featuring a 212-room hotel, spa, event space and about 23,500 square feet of restaurant or retail uses. The FAA approved the design in July. Griffin has offered a $3 million contribution for stormwater and traffic upgrades as part of the proposal, which continues the billionaire’s growing influence over South Florida development.

“Two FAU faculty members return to work after Charlie Kirk comments found to be protected speech” via Shira Moolten of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Two Florida Atlantic University faculty members returned to work after a university investigation concluded that comments they made about Kirk were protected speech. Karen Leader, an associate professor of art history, and Rebel Cole, an eminent scholar in the College of Business, have resumed their full duties after two months of administrative leave, according to an FAU spokesperson. The two faculty members, along with a third, English professor Kate Polak, had been placed on administrative leave with pay in September while the university hired an outside attorney to investigate complaints about their social media remarks. While Leader and Polak were investigated over comments they made aimed at Kirk himself, Cole was investigated over comments he made regarding Kirk’s opponents.

“Miami-Dade urges Florida to consider expanding incinerator ash use in roads, construction” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Miami-Dade is formally asking for state action that could grant county leaders more flexibility to repurpose ash generated by waste-to-energy incinerators, including one planned to replace the facility that burned down in 2023. County Commissioners voted unanimously for a resolution by Juan Carlos “J.C.” Bermudez urging the Legislature and Department of Environmental Protection to revise regulatory language and provide guidance that would “facilitate safe reuse of incinerator ash,” potentially blending the material into cement, asphalt and other building components. Under current arrangements, ash produced by the old Doral plant, which sat in Bermudez’s district, has been sent to a nearby landfill rather than processed for reuse.

Juan Carlos Bermudez backs expanded incinerator ash reuse for construction materials — urging state action.

“St. Lucie County picks Katherine Barbieri over Michael Mortell for County Attorney job” via Wicker Perlis of Treasure Coast Newspapers — County Commissioners chose Nov. 18 to elevate interim County Attorney Katherine Barbieri to the permanent position. In doing so, the Commission declined to interview former Stuart City Manager Michael Mortell, who was a late entry into the search after his mysterious firing by the City Commission there. Mortell was Stuart City Attorney for a decade before becoming City Manager in 2023. Longtime County Attorney Dan McIntyre announced in May that he would retire on Aug. 29. Barbieri, his former chief deputy, has served as the interim since then. The county spent $24,500 conducting two rounds of searches for the position, both led by Tallahassee search firm S. Renée Narloch & Associates.

“Sheriff, Indian River Commissioners find little room for compromise in budget standoff” via Colleen Wixon of Treasure Coast Newspapers — The deadlock between County Commissioners and Sheriff Eric Flowers continues. Flowers wants the County Commission to reallocate about $2.5 million — money unspent from last year’s budget — back to the Sheriff’s Office to help meet his budget request for 2025-26, according to a Nov. 13 letter he sent to Commissioners. Other constitutional officers — such as the Elections Supervisor, Clerk of Courts, Tax Collector and Property Appraiser — also return unspent money from their previous year’s budgets, and it goes into the county’s general operational budget. For his part, Flowers returned about $1.4 million, including about $495,000 from purchases made last year but not yet received.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Visit Orlando CEO’s pay nears $700K, tax filing shows” via Skyler Swisher of the Orlando Sentinel — As county officials probe Visit Orlando’s spending, a newly released tax filing shows the top executive for the region’s tourism marketing agency earned nearly $700,000 last year while 10 other top officials each made more than $200,000. Visit Orlando’s tax form also shows that about 92% of its $100-million-plus annual budget comes from public money, mostly hotel taxes — a proportion likely to embolden critics who argue tourism-based businesses ought to pay more of the marketing tab. Visit Orlando CEO Casandra Matej received $693,170 in total compensation in 2024, while other top officials earned from $231,000 to nearly $400,000, according to the nonprofit organization’s IRS filing made public this week.

Casandra Matej faces scrutiny after filings reveal nearly $700,000 in annual compensation.

“Another I-4 overhaul will begin construction in January, but some are not happy” via Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel — Just three years after the lengthy and expansive I-4 Ultimate venture in Central Florida was finally completed, construction on Interstate 4 will start right back up again in January on another major overhaul of the notoriously clogged corridor. But some longtime residents are unhappy, with one of the projects in the latest overhaul set to build a new road through a couple’s once-tranquil backyard. The Florida Department of Transportation is currently moving forward with three planned projects totaling $1.7 billion along the busiest section of the I-4 corridor in Polk and Osceola counties, in an effort to reduce travel time and improve connectivity to other roads.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Hillsborough lawmakers advance Superintendent, County Commission proposals, sending them to Tallahassee” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Hillsborough County lawmakers voted to advance several major local bills, including a proposal to make the Superintendent an elected and partisan office and another to expand the County Commission to nine single-member Districts. The delegation also approved a third measure to create a new Land Reserve Stewardship District. Both the Superintendent question and the County Commission expansion would be placed on the 2026 ballot. Delegation members tabled a proposal involving ad valorem taxes for the Tampa Port Authority. The approved measures now head to the Legislature for consideration during the 2026 Session. If lawmakers sign off on the Superintendent and County Commission charter reform proposals, Hillsborough voters will decide whether to adopt the changes in 2026.

“Dave Eggers to chair the Pinellas County Commission” via St. Pete Catalyst — The Pinellas County Commission unanimously elected Commissioner Eggers to serve as its Chair for 2026 at Tuesday’s meeting. Commissioner Chris Latvala will replace Eggers as Vice Chair. Eggers will succeed current Chair Brian Scott and lead meetings, represent the Commission at community events and coordinate Committee assignments.

Dave Eggers has been selected to lead the Pinellas County Commission in its upcoming 2026 term.

Paging David Jolly — “Big Storm Brewing to be sold at auction as former owner remains in jail” via Christopher O’Donnell of the Tampa Bay Times — A federal bankruptcy judge has approved the sale of Big Storm Brewing as part of the ongoing effort to recover money stolen from medical trust funds by the craft brewing firm’s former owner. The brewery’s Clearwater tap room on 49th St. N in Clearwater, along with its fixtures, liquor licenses, trademarks and inventory, will be sold at a Dec. 3 auction, court records show. The starting bid is $7.5 million. A Gulfport company, Tide LLC, has already pledged a bid for that amount. The business will remain open while the sale continues, court records show. Big Storm Brewing was one of more than 100 companies fully or partly owned by Leo Govoni, a Clearwater entrepreneur who was indicted in June on charges of wire and mail fraud and money laundering charges. He is accused of stealing funds from the medical trust funds of injured and disabled people.


— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Loranne Ausley holds campaign kickoff as Tallahassee Mayor race heats up” via Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — Former lawmaker Ausley has launched her bid for Tallahassee Mayor, joining City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow and attorney Daryl Parks in a high-dollar contest already topping $229,000 in fundraising. Ausley, a former state Representative and Senator, opened her campaign with a pledge to focus on safety, affordability and a stronger local economy, framing her run as a unifying effort after recovering from a serious 2024 bicycle accident. Matlow is sharpening a populist message accusing longtime power brokers of controlling city politics, while Parks leads fundraising and is promoting an economic platform centered on broad opportunity. The race is drawing significant attention a year before the election as the City Commission remains split over major issues, including health care and growth management.

Loranne Ausley launches her Tallahassee Mayor campaign as Jeremy Matlow and Daryl Parks intensify competition.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“DeSantis’ makeover of ‘left-wing’ Florida college has been costly” via Lori Rozsa of The Washington Post — DeSantis’ multiyear transformation of New College of Florida has delivered sweeping ideological and structural changes — and a steep price tag. After installing a new president, reshaping the Board, eliminating programs and adding athletics, state officials now estimate the cost of producing a degree has ballooned to nearly $495,000, the highest of any public college in Florida. Operating expenses and administrative staffing have surged even as enrollment remains far below targets, despite heavy recruitment of athletes. Supporters say the overhaul rescued a failing institution and created a model for conservative higher education, while critics call it an expensive political project with little academic payoff. A DOGE audit and sliding national rankings have intensified scrutiny as funding continues to climb.

Ron DeSantis faces scrutiny as New College overhaul drives degree costs to unprecedented highs.

“Manatee County approves Kirk memorial road. Will it be a vandalism target?” via Ryan Ballogg of the Bradenton Herald — Manatee County Commissioners took a final vote to name a road after controversial political activist Kirk following his assassination. After debating a proposal by Commissioner Jason Bearden last month to rename a major Manatee County road after Kirk, the Board settled on the far less costly option of designating a memorial highway in his name. Memorial highways recognize an individual with large rectangular signs posted along a portion of a road. The road keeps its original name for addresses, street signs and official purposes. Commissioners approved initial plans for the memorial in a unanimous October vote despite a mixed reaction from residents, some of whom strongly opposed naming a local road after Kirk.

— TOP OPINION —

“Florida grand juries, at root of Epstein rot, may next target Trump foes” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — A growing national push to uncover the full truth about Epstein is renewing scrutiny of Florida’s role in shielding him years before federal prosecutors stepped in. Newly released state grand jury records show that early favoritism toward Epstein began in Palm Beach, where prosecutors presented a distorted version of events that minimized the scope of his crimes and paved the way for an extraordinarily lenient deal in 2006.

Epstein’s treatment remains a prime example of how secrecy inside grand jury rooms can enable manipulation. Despite allegations from dozens of girls and young women, Epstein served only 13 months under lax conditions that allowed him to leave jail frequently. That laxity became clear only after Florida leaders agreed last year to unseal long-hidden records, revealing how prosecutors steered grand jurors toward a narrow and misleading picture.

Today, secrecy concerns are resurfacing amid reports that new federal grand juries have been convened in Fort Pierce and Fort Lauderdale. Trump ally Mike Davis publicly suggested the panels could soon pursue criminal charges against political figures the President believes wronged him. News outlets confirmed a federal judge ordered the grand juries to begin work on Jan. 12.

Critics warn that secret proceedings again risk being shaped by selective evidence. A recent case in Virginia underscored those fears, with a federal judge citing possible “irregularities” in a grand jury process involving a Trump-appointed prosecutor targeting former FBI director Comey.

Advocates argue that while some secrecy can protect witnesses or prevent flight, blanket confidentiality invites abuse. They say evidence, testimony and arguments should be made public once cases conclude.

Ultimately, the Epstein scandal demonstrates the dangers of hidden proceedings. Transparency, they argue, is essential to prevent political agendas or prosecutorial misconduct from flourishing in the shadows.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Leading students into Florida’s cybersecurity frontier” via Manny Diaz and Madeline Pumariega for Florida Politics — Florida is ramping up its cybersecurity and AI talent pipeline as the national demand for trained professionals surges past 4 million unfilled jobs. The University of West Florida and Miami Dade College are leading that push, offering nationally accredited degree programs, hands-on training and rapid-response workforce development initiatives. UWF, designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, is expanding its capacity with more than $44 million in recent federal and state grants, including CyberSkills2Work, which will train nearly 4,700 professionals. MDC, the first Florida college with NSA-validated associate and bachelor’s cybersecurity programs, continues to grow through its Cybersecurity Center of the Americas. Together, the institutions anchor Florida’s strategy to strengthen national security, economic competitiveness and advanced workforce readiness.

“Florida’s Medicaid overhaul delivers stronger outcomes and lower costs” via Brittney Hunt for Florida Politics — Florida’s shift to a coordinated Medicaid managed care system continues to deliver stronger health outcomes and lower costs more than a decade after replacing the old fee-for-service model. The Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Program now covers more than 4 million residents, with Florida outperforming national benchmarks in birth outcomes, children’s preventive care, chronic-disease management and behavioral-health access. State data shows pre-term births, avoidable ER visits and hospital readmissions have declined, while postpartum care and preventive screenings rank among the nation’s best. Member satisfaction remains high, and long-term-care performance has sharply improved, with two-thirds of seniors and people with disabilities now living independently. State officials say the results show coordinated care is improving outcomes while controlling taxpayer costs.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

What John Lux is reading — “Orange County’s pitch to entice filmmakers: Lights, cameras, incentives!” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — “We were going gangbusters in the ’90s,” said Roseann Harrington, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings’ Chief of Staff, while pitching a film incentive program to County Commissioners. “We were going to be the ‘Hollywood of the East,’ and we were on our way to doing that when, in 2016, the state ended incentives, and things kind of dried up in Florida, in Orlando and in other parts.” She said Georgia then invested “a ton of state money” and replaced Florida as one of the top three U.S. film locations. Commissioners — who listened to a cast of advocates, including actors — decided unanimously to roll out the red carpet for filmmakers beginning next year.

Roseann Harrington champions renewed film incentives as Orange County aims to revive its onetime industry boom.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Happy birthday to Ella’s godfather, Anthony Pedicini and Attorney General James Uthmeier, as well as Laila Aziz, Jon Coley, and one of St. Pete’s best, Sara Stonecipher.

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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.