Good Tuesday morning.
I am excited to announce that Florida Politics will be publishing at least three editions of IN SESSION, our print newspaper covering the 2026 Legislative Session.
Print editions of IN SESSION arrive on Opening Day, highlighting coverage of the 2026 Legislative Session.
We will deliver our first edition on the Opening Day of Session (we may even have Newsies handing them out around the Capitol).
If you are interested in advertising in this Special Edition, please respond here or email me at [email protected]. The deadline to reserve space is Dec. 10 because we have to be at print in time to be ready for the Session.
If interested, I’ll respond with prices and specs.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@Sec_Noem: I just met with the President. I am recommending a full travel ban on every damn country that’s been flooding our nation with killers, leeches and entitlement junkies. Our forefathers built this nation on blood, sweat, and the unyielding love of freedom—not for foreign invaders to slaughter our heroes, suck dry our hard-earned tax dollars, or snatch the benefits owed to AMERICANS. WE DON’T WANT THEM. NOT ONE.
Tweet, tweet:
Tweet, tweet:
Tweet, tweet:
—@RonDeSantis: We rejected (Joe) Biden’s plan to send Afghanistan refugees to Florida — and then Biden partnered directly with local governments like Miami-Dade and brought them in through the back door.
Tweet, tweet:
—@Fineout: Analysis from economic research team with Realtor.com… Florida Home Prices Could Spike Up to 9% Under Ron DeSantis’ Plan To Eliminate Property Taxes (h/t @leonardkl)
— DAYS UNTIL —
Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 1; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 1; JMI, Floridian Partners, and Red Hills Strategies host the holiday ‘Capital Young Professionals Gathering’ — 1; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 7; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres on Netflix — 10; ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era’ docuseries premieres on Disney+ — 10; Gov. DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 15; ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 17; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 23; ‘Industry’ season four premieres — 40; Special Election for HD 87; HD 51 Special Primary and two Boca Raton referendums — 42; 2026 Legislative Session begins — 42; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 42; The James Madison Institute’s 2026 Red, White & Bluegrass event — 43; ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ premieres on HBO — 47; ‘Melania’ documentary premieres — 59; Florida TaxWatch State of the Taxpayer Dinner — 65; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 66; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Y: Marshals’ premieres — 89; Boca Raton Mayoral and City Council Elections — 98; last day of the Regular Session — 101; Special Election for HD 51 (if necessary) — 112; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 113; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 114; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 125; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 134; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 134; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 139; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 143; F1 Miami begins — 150; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 171; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 182; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 188; State Qualifying Period ends — 192; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 199; FIFA World Cup begins — 191; live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 211; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 214; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 219; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 224; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 226; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 230; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 247; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 249; Primary Election Day 2026 — 259; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 283; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 287; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 291; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 296; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 303; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 307; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 326; 2026 General Election — 336; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 381; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 381; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 381; Tampa Mayoral Election — 455; Jacksonville First Election — 476; Jacksonville General Election — 532; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 550; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 612; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 668; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 745; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 955; U.S. Presidential Election — 1071; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1471; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2202.
—TOP STORY—
“Florida agencies want millions more for immigration enforcement next year” via Katelyn Ferral of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida has become one of the most aggressive partners in President Donald Trump’s nationwide immigration enforcement campaign, deploying millions of state dollars and expanding its law enforcement role in locating and deporting immigrants living in the country illegally. Nearly a year into the effort, the state now leads the nation in the number of agencies assisting federal authorities.
As Trump accelerates his strategy by deploying more federal agents, Florida agencies are asking lawmakers for millions in new funding to handle technology needs, equipment upgrades and growing personnel demands. The requests outline how Florida plans to deepen its involvement in immigration enforcement during the coming year.
Florida agencies seek millions to expand immigration enforcement efforts amid rising statewide demands. Image via TBT.
Federal officials have deported nearly 600,000 people so far, well below Trump’s goal of up to 1 million deportations annually. Florida has made 6,300 immigration arrests since Aug. 1, according to the state Board of Immigration Enforcement, underscoring the scale of the state’s role.
The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is seeking $2.15 million to modernize communications systems used to coordinate with federal and state partners. The Department of Corrections is requesting $387,000 for more license plate readers, continuing a strategy that has linked prison staff to federal immigration operations.
The Department of Financial Services wants more than $184,000 to hire crime intelligence analysts who would help expand the state’s work on transnational and immigration-related cases. The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is seeking more than $17 million combined for career development and aviation resources to support immigration missions.
The Department of Law Enforcement is asking for roughly $900,000 to add nine investigators, citing a sharp rise in cases tied to human trafficking, drug trafficking and other criminal activity involving immigrants. The agency says Florida’s expanded enforcement role has significantly increased its intelligence workload.
— LEGISLATIVE —
“Democratic House Leader calls plan to redraw congressional map ‘illegal’” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — A select House Committee on congressional redistricting will convene Thursday afternoon. It’s the first legislative meeting on the issue since DeSantis said in July that it would be “appropriate to do a redistricting” in the middle of the decade. He followed up on that in August, saying that he and Attorney General James Uthmeier supported an update to the 2020 Decennial Census. Florida House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell slammed the proposal, saying the only reason it is happening is that Trump wants to “rig” next year’s Midterm Elections because “he wants to stop Americans from holding his administration accountable for their bad decisions.”
James Uthmeier backs mid-decade redistricting plan amid critics’ calls for it to be declared illegal.
“Danny Burgess refiles bill to give grandparents better visitation access after family tragedies” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Sen. Burgess has refiled legislation (SB 674), which aims to expand a 2022 law he supported that empowered grandparents to petition for visitation in cases where one parent was found criminally liable for the other parent’s death. Under SB 674, a grandparent may seek visitation under additional circumstances if one parent is deceased, missing or in a persistent vegetative state if three conditions are met; the child lived with the grandparent for at least six months during the year before the parent died, disappeared or was medically incapacitated; the child did not live in the same household as the other parent for at least six months during the preceding 12-month period. Eliminating the child’s contact with the grandparent would pose a “substantial threat of harm to the physical, mental or emotional well-being of the child.”
“Lawmakers propose mandatory human review for claim denials” via Matthew Sellers of Insurance Business Magazine — House Bill 527, sponsored by Rep. Hillary Cassel, would require that every claim denial in the state be made by a qualified human professional, not a computer system acting alone. The legislation is proposed to take effect on July 1, 2026. The bill imposes a clear requirement: automated tools can assist in the claims process, but they cannot be the sole basis for denying a claim. For insurance professionals in one of the nation’s largest insurance markets, the implications are significant.
—”Lobbying compensation: Top 25 firms rake in $750K-plus in Q3” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics
— LEG. SKED. —
Happening today — A coalition of voting-rights advocates and impacted Floridians will gather at The Capitol this morning for a “We Draw the Lines: No Partisan Maps” Day of Action, pushing back against a proposed mid-decade redistricting they say violates Florida’s Fair Districts Amendments: 11 a.m., Fourth Floor Rotunda. The event will feature leaders from Equal Ground, the ACLU of Florida, the Southern Poverty Law Center and All Voting is Local, along with voters from CD 5 and CD 9. After the news conference, participants will fan out for office visits and outreach ahead of Wednesday’s first meeting of the House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting.
8:30 a.m.
— House Judiciary Committee: Room 404, House Office Building.
— House State Affairs Committee: Room 17, House Office Building.
9:30 a.m.
— Florida Public Service Commission: Room 148, Betty Easley Conference Center.
10 a.m.
— Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability: Room 110, Senate Office Building.
— Senate Military and Veterans Affairs, Space and Domestic Security: Room 301, Senate Office Building.
— Citizens Property Insurance Corporation: Zoom, virtual.
1 p.m.
— House Education Administration Subcommittee: Room 102, House Office Building.
— House Health Care Facilities & Systems Subcommittee: Room 404, House Office Building.
— House State Administration Budget Subcommittee: Room 17, House Office Building.
— Senate Judiciary: Room 110, Senate Office Building.
— Senate Transportation: Room 37, Senate Office Building.
3:30 p.m.
— House Criminal Justice Subcommittee: Room 404, House Office Building.
— House Health Care Budget Subcommittee: Room 314, House Office Building.
— House Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee: Room 212, Knott Building.
— Senate Agriculture: Room 301, Senate Office Building.
— Senate Community Affairs: Room 37, Senate Office Building.
— Senate Environment and Natural Resources: Room 110, Senate Office Building.
4 p.m.
— House Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee: Room 17, House Office Building.
— STATEWIDE —
“‘Tis the season: ‘Ron DeSanta’ wrapping paper available for holidays” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis supporters now have a new holiday novelty to unwrap, with the Restore Our Nation PAC selling “Ron DeSanta” Christmas wrapping paper for $25 a roll. The PAC is pitching the merch as a way to “wrap your gifts like your politics” while boosting its effort to take the Governor’s Florida Blueprint national. A less DeSantis-themed “Freedom Is My Favorite Gift” design is also available, along with Alligator Alcatraz shirts and branded fleece pullovers. The push comes as the committee looks to improve its finances heading into 2025; its midyear report showed more than $4.4 million on hand but a negative cash flow, raising $260,000 and spending about $455,000 in the first six months of the year.
Holiday shoppers can buy Ron DeSanta wrapping paper as the PAC pushes new fundraising merch.
“Third-party ad buys pile up for Jay Collins” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Money is pouring into a new wave of ads boosting Lt. Gov. Collins as he inches toward a run for Governor, with the Florida Fighter committee committing at least $2.78 million for TV buys across Tampa, Orlando and West Palm Beach through Dec. 9. The spot leans on DeSantis’ voice to praise Collins for pushing property-tax relief, even as DeSantis avoids a formal endorsement. Collins, struggling in early GOP polling, says he’s “very grateful” for the outside help as he positions himself as the disciplined alternative to flashier rivals like U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds. The bulk of the spending targets 3,727 broadcast buys, giving Collins much-needed air cover during his final deliberations on entering the race.
“Paul Renner rebukes GOP colleague, calls for U.S. Reps. Cory Mills and Democrat Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick to step down” via Frank Kopylov of Florida’s Voice — In a sharply worded statement released Monday, Renner said members of Congress have become consumed by “stock trades, insider deals and undisciplined personal misbehavior,” arguing that such conduct has weakened the country and distracted lawmakers from serving the public or supporting Trump’s policy agenda. “This nation is made weaker, and our people suffer when elected officials forget ‘WE’ the People and use their office to serve the ‘ME’ of self-interest,” Renner said. Renner said both Cherfilus-McCormick and Mills have displayed “an ongoing pattern” of behavior that warrants immediate resignation.
“Federal appeals court will take up fight over Florida drag show law” via Jim Saunders of News Service of Florida — The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Monday said it will hold a full-court or “en banc,” hearing in the state’s appeal of a preliminary injunction issued in 2023 by U.S. District Judge Gregory Presnell. The order also vacated a May decision by a panel of the Atlanta-based appeals court that upheld the injunction. Monday’s order did not explain the court’s reasoning. But it came with a request from Florida Attorney General Uthmeier, who, in June, sought a rehearing. The Central Florida venue Hamburger Mary’s challenged the constitutionality of the law, which aims to prevent venues from admitting children to adult live performances.
Save the date — The Capital Tiger Bay Club will host Florida Department of Education Commissioner Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas for a luncheon briefing on the future of Florida’s schools. He’ll outline priorities for 2026, including expanded educational pathways, parental rights measures and transparency initiatives: 11:30 a.m., Monday, Dec. 8, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, 505 West Pensacola St., Tallahassee. The program is from noon to 1 p.m. Media planning to attend should contact Capital Tiger Bay Club Chair Christina Johnson; livestreaming is not permitted. Go to capitaltigerbayclub.org for more information and follow on Facebook and Twitter.
“Private school vouchers in Florida redirecting funding away from public schools” via Fresh Take Florida — Florida’s expansion of vouchers for families who want to enroll their children in private schools is leading to tighter budgets at public schools across the state. In 2023, the Republican-led Legislature passed a bill that eliminated the income requirement for families to receive the vouchers, called family empowerment scholarships and Florida tax credit scholarships. These vouchers, intended to help families who could not afford private education, allow for public state aid to be redirected to families to cover the costs of the private school. State funding diverted to private school vouchers increased from 12% for the 2021 school year to 24% for the 2025 school year, according to data from the Florida Policy Institute.
“Educators are challenging new rule requiring college syllabi to posted 45 days in advance” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The Florida Education Association (FEA) and the United Faculty of Florida (UFF) are challenging a new state rule requiring college professors to submit a final syllabus 45 days before class starts. Arguing the rule is overreaching, the unions called it an attack on academic freedom in a petition filed with the Administrative Hearing Division. “The latest rule from the Florida Department of Education points to a continued attack on academic freedom from the state of Florida,” said Robert Cassanello, President of the UFF. “Through this rule, the Department of Education has overstepped its statutory legal authority and is forcing professors to comply with the use of a public-facing platform that serves to place a target on the backs of our professors and students. More than being an overreach, it is flat out dangerous.”
“Nearly $760M needed for park repairs and maintenance, DEP report says” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection says the state needs nearly $760 million to tackle long-deferred repairs and upgrades across its parks, according to a report released Monday under a new land management law signed by Gov. DeSantis. The report outlines $499.1 million for building repairs, $174.7 million for road paving and $76 million for water-quality improvements, with work targeted through 2035. Former state parks director Eric Draper warned the backlog will worsen without significant funding increases, noting the Legislature approved only $15 million this year. The report also identifies $1.4 billion in future construction projects to expand recreation. The issue comes as DeSantis prepares to submit his 2026-27 budget recommendations by Dec. 14.
“Statewide insurance trust offers millions in tax savings for School Districts” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — The Florida Educator Health Trust is touting millions in savings for School Districts that have joined its nonprofit insurance pool, a model designed to cut health plan costs without reducing employee benefits. Led by former Superintendent Ted Roush, the trust brings Districts together to negotiate and manage coverage as a single unit, leveraging scale that individual Districts can’t achieve on their own. The structure, formerly known as FSHIP and now operating under the Florida Association of District School Superintendents, has already delivered more than $1 million in savings for Brevard County and nearly $5 million for Hendry County. Leaders across the state say the approach is strengthening benefits, reducing taxpayer burden, and providing Districts with a sustainable, long-term strategy for managing rising health care costs.
Ted Roush leads a statewide insurance trust delivering significant health plan savings for Districts.
“Florida Supreme Court, The Florida Bar issue disciplinary action against nine lawyers” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Nine Florida lawyers were hit with disciplinary action this month, with eight suspended and one reprimanded after misconduct findings by the Florida Supreme Court and The Florida Bar. The penalties ranged from brief suspensions to multiyear bans. Fort Lauderdale attorney David Casals received a 30-day suspension after a felony cocaine-trafficking conviction, while Panama City lawyer Billy-Joe Hoot Crawford was suspended for a month following convictions for interference with custody and witness tampering. Other suspensions involved failures to respond to Bar inquiries, conflicts of interest, obstruction charges and mishandled immigration cases. The lone reprimand went to Orlando attorney Eduardo Rodriguez for notarization failures at his firm. One Tennessee-based lawyer, Capp P. Taylor, was barred for two years for hiding out-of-state suspensions from Florida clients.
Safety Net Hospitals lead state in training new doctors — The Safety Net Hospital Alliance of Florida is touting new data confirming that its member hospitals are leading the state in graduate medical education. The report shows Safety Net Hospitals produce half of all Florida GME Matches and have the highest Match Rates — a measurement of hospitals’ success in filling their empty residency slots — in the state. “This update validates findings from the cornerstone GME Match Rates and Quality, 2020-24 Report, that Safety Net Hospitals are attracting more doctors-in-training than other hospitals,” Safety Net Hospitals CEO Justin Senior said. View the full report here.
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Donald Trump weighs options on Venezuela strikes amid congressional alarm” via Michael Wilner, Ana Ceballos, Kate Linthicum and Patrick J. McDonnell of The Los Angeles Times — The Trump administration is facing sharp scrutiny this week over its approach to Venezuela after turning its focus to the beleaguered nation, weighing U.S. military strikes against a Latin American state for the first time in more than 35 years. Trump scheduled a meeting with top generals and Cabinet officials on the matter at the White House, where they will debate target options now that more than a dozen warships have been deployed to the Caribbean Sea. Trump has sent conflicting signals to the country’s dictatorial President, Nicolás Maduro, whose grip on power since 2013 has decimated Venezuela’s economy and prompted a massive migration crisis. Trump warned air traffic away from Venezuelan skies before speaking by phone with Maduro over the weekend, only to caution reporters trying to interpret his actions against predicting his next moves.
Trump considers potential Venezuela strikes as military leaders debate targets amid rising tensions.
“Record-setting personnel issues are marring Trump’s second term” via Jordain Carney, Alex Gangitano and Calen Razor of POLITICO — On the surface, Trump’s second-term personnel operation has been a smoothly running machine. The Senate has confirmed more than 300 civilian nominees, even changing the chamber’s rules to move them faster. But there are clear signs of breakdowns behind the scenes. Trump has withdrawn a record number of nominees for a President’s first year in office as he faces a combination of GOP pushback against some picks, vetting issues, White House infighting and, in some cases, the President’s own mercurial views. The pace of withdrawals, the highest since at least the Ronald Reagan presidency, has flown below the radar. But they also acknowledged the obvious: In some instances, the White House just isn’t ensuring Trump’s nominees get the votes. “It would appear that some nominees haven’t been vetted and … somebody says, ‘Go with them anyway,’” Sen. John Kennedy said.
“For ‘no tax on tips,’ the IRS gets intimate” via Andrew Duehren of The New York Times — Trump’s promise for “no tax on tips” has raised important practical questions for the Internal Revenue Service. What is the exact definition of a tip? Who typically receives them? Are photos of bare feet a type of pornography? On the list of nearly 70 eligible occupations, detailed in a proposed regulation in September, were “digital content creators,” “entertainers and performers,” and “dancers,” categories that, at first blush, seemed as if they could be a boon for America’s sex workers. But the Trump administration also added that tips for prostitution or “pornographic activity” would not be entitled to the new tax break.
“‘Appalling’ offshore drilling plan faces bipartisan blowback” via Mark Parker of St. Pete Catalyst — The Trump administration’s plan to allow oil drilling 100 miles off Florida’s west coast has drawn unanimous criticism from state politicians, local marine experts and tourism stakeholders. J.P. Brooker, the St. Petersburg-based director of Florida conservation for the Ocean Conservancy, called the Interior Department’s proposal a “terrible step backward.” Plans to reopen federal waters to new oil and gas leasing came to light Nov. 20, a day after Brooker and local marine experts met to discuss the future of Florida’s coastlines. “The oil and gas industry is a terrible neighbor for Florida,” Brooker said. “It’s their rigs. It’s the miles of pipeline they leave on the bottom of the ocean. It’s the potential for oil spills. We should be looking at alternative energy sources that make Florida cleaner and greener.”
—“Sen. Rick Scott’s home targeted in Thanksgiving swatting hoax” via Rob Landers and Stacey Henson of the Naples Daily News
“‘Silence is not an option’: Kat Cammack sides with constituent who obtained restraining order against Mills” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Cammack is backing a constituent who accuses U.S. Rep. Mills of threatening to release intimate videos after their relationship ended, a scandal now under House Ethics Committee review. Cammack voted against shelving a censure resolution targeting Mills, saying ignoring misconduct only erodes public trust. Lindsey Langston, a Columbia County Republican leader, secured a restraining order against Mills after alleging revenge-porn threats and dating violence. Cammack said supporting her was a responsibility, not a political calculation, and stressed that domestic abuse and coercion are widespread issues. As co-founder of the Republican Women’s Caucus, she said her vote was intended to show that “silence is not an option” when a victim — especially a constituent — comes forward.
“Kathy Castor cheers release of Tampa boy held in Israeli custody for last nine months” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Castor welcomed news that the Israeli government has released Tampa teenager Mohammed Ibrahim, who was jailed through most of 2025. “Mohammed’s release is long overdue. His case underscores the need for fairness, due process and respect for human rights for every civilian — especially children — caught in conflict,” said Castor. “I’m thankful for the advocates, civil rights groups, Members of Congress and countless others who pressed for Mohammed’s release. I pray for Mohammed’s family — who never lost hope and fought hard to bring him home — and Mohammed as they are finally reunited.”
Kathy Castor welcomes Tampa teen’s release from Israeli custody after nine months of detention.
“Ashley Moody officially donates salary earned during shutdown to Tampa charity” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Moody lived up to her promise to give her salary to a charitable cause in the wake of America’s most extended government shutdown in history. Moody had vowed not to take a paycheck when the shutdown began Oct. 1 in Washington, D.C. Now, after a 43-day government closure following a dispute between Republicans and Democrats on Capitol Hill, Moody is giving her salary to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. She officially donated the funds to the Center on Nov. 25. “The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is an incredible organization that provides support and care to Floridians. The work they do truly saves lives. For six weeks, Senate Democrats held the American people hostage to play partisan games — impacting federal law enforcement officers’ and essential personnel’s livelihoods — all while still collecting their own paychecks,” Moody said.
“Florida, three other GOP-led states settle lawsuit over checking citizenship status of voters” via The Associated Press — Officials in Florida, Indiana, Iowa and Ohio entered the settlement with the Department of Homeland Security and Secretary Kristi Noem roughly a year after the states individually sued the agency under Biden. They had alleged the previous administration was withholding information about citizenship status that they needed to determine whether thousands of registered voters were actually eligible to cast a ballot. Each of the states could soon run searches for thousands of voters using names, birthdays and Social Security numbers through the federal government’s Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements program. In turn, the settlement reached on Friday says the states may share driver’s license records with the Department of Homeland Security “to assist in improving and modernizing” its database.
“TSA imposes $45 travel fee for flyers without REAL ID” via Pavan Acharya of POLITICO — Travelers who don’t have a REAL ID or other similar form of identification will have to pay a $45 fee to get through airport security starting early next year, the TSA announced Monday. The announcement comes several months after DHS began enforcing REAL ID identification at airport security checkpoints. The $45 fee that TSA is instituting starting Feb. 1 is more than double the $18 payment the agency floated last month.
“A pared-back White House Christmas — with a Trump Lego portrait” via Rachel Kurzius of The Washington Post — If the call across the land is for a more maximalist Christmas, first lady Melania Trump did not heed it. In her first holiday back in charge of White House decor, she presented a straightforward, even understated — at least by White House standards — look on a tour that has been halved in size. This year’s theme? “Home Is Where the Heart Is.” And it’s officially called Christmas at the White House, rather than referring to the broader holiday season. The decorations include ample ribbon throughout, Lego portraits of Trump and George Washington in the Green Room, 3D-printed ornaments on the White House Christmas Tree in the Blue Room, and 75 of what the first lady’s office is calling “Mrs. Trump’s Signature Wreaths.”
— ELECTIONS —
“Florida Republicans expand lead as voter rolls gain nearly 5,000 voters” via Michelle Vecerina of Florida’s Voice — The latest registration figures show the Republican Party of Florida with approximately 5.10 million registered voters compared to roughly 4.10 million for the Florida Democratic Party. This vast difference follows a steady trend that has flipped Florida from a swing state to a reliably Republican territory over the past decade. The November figures, released by the data director for Decision Desk HQ, highlight continued Republican momentum. The GOP achieved its 5,000 net gains in active registered voters primarily because of a drop of more than 5,300 registered voters during the same period. The total number of active party-affiliated voters in the state stands at approximately 13.45 million.
“Timothy Brandt Robinson, a history teacher who stirred controversy, seeks to challenge Anna Paulina Luna” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Robinson, a Pinellas County history teacher, is running in Florida’s 13th Congressional District for the chance to flip a seat held by Republican U.S. Rep. Luna. Speaking from Scottsville, Alabama, alongside his wife, Carole, Robinson said he “never once thought about running for office.” “But over the years, so many of you told me that you would support me if I did, and guys, now it’s official,” he said in a video announcement. Robinson, a Democrat, traveled with his wife to Alabama over the holiday “to climb on real rocks.” When not in the classroom, Robinson is frequently seen at a local rock gym where he climbs on fake rocks. While climbing the real thing with his wife, Robinson said his decision became clear.
Timothy Brandt Robinson launches congressional bid after reflection while rock climbing in Alabama.
“Michael Carbonara willing to make sacrifices to beat Debbie Wasserman Schultz, flip Broward red” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Carbonara has found plenty of success as an entrepreneur. Now, he feels confident he can unseat the longest-serving Democrat in Florida’s congressional delegation. As the South Florida businessman challenges U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, he acknowledges that a run for public office requires sacrifices. “You give up on the ability to make money and different successes and building that business,” he said. “But if we don’t have a country that allows businesses to thrive and people to have a quality of life that we want, a certain standard of living, if we don’t make those sacrifices now, it’s not going to be there tomorrow.”
“Edwin Pérez launches campaign to flip HD 51 in Special Election” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — Pérez, who filed and qualified for the ballot last week, is framing himself in contrast to exiting Rep. Josie Tomkow, pointing to the Republican Representative’s low marks from left-leaning groups such as Progress Florida and Florida Watch. Pérez’s campaign is already touting endorsements from Polk County Democratic Party Chair John Hill and Democratic former Sen. Vic Torres, who said HD 51 has “been underserved for far too long by Republican leaders more focused on special interests than on the needs of working families.” While unopposed for the Democratic nomination, Pérez faces a tough road in the General Election. Tomkow won her most recent re-election last year with 57% of the vote. The same cycle saw Trump carry the district with 56% of the vote.
Happening tonight:
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— LOCAL: S. FL —
“Miami Dade College limiting public access to new library vote” via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — To undercut a lawsuit alleging a lack of transparency, Miami Dade College’s Board of Trustees is retaking its vote to give away prime downtown land to be used for Trump’s presidential library — but still isn’t holding a formal public hearing about the proposal. During an official public hearing, “any citizen is entitled to speak” with or without prior approval, according to Miami Dade College rules. Tuesday’s 8 a.m. Board of Trustees meeting, however, is not considered a public hearing under this policy. The college is instead telling members of the public that they must seek permission to address the Board by submitting a written request via email. That’s according to both the public notice of Tuesday’s meeting and an email the college sent to a prospective public commenter.
“Florida Bar opens inquiry into Monique Pardo Pope following Billy Corben complaint” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — The Florida Bar has opened an official inquiry into Monique Pardo Pope, a runoff candidate for the Miami Beach Commission, whom documentarian Corben accused of spreading lies about his legal record. In a letter to Corben, the Bar confirmed it has opened a disciplinary file and is looking into his complaint that Pardo Pope intentionally lied about him after he revealed she is the daughter of serial killer Manuel Pope and detailed loving social media posts she wrote about him. According to the Florida Bar, just 25% of complaints or inquiries result in the opening of a disciplinary file.
The Florida Bar opens an inquiry into Monique Pardo Pope after a complaint accusing her of intentional lies.
“Sinking skyscrapers? As buildings got bigger in Sunny Isles, so did engineering concerns” via Denise Hruby of the Miami Herald — When developers began transforming the kitschy waterfront motels of Sunny Isles Beach into luxury high-rise condos and hotels more than two decades ago, they were confident they understood the challenges of erecting massive towers on shifting sand. They were wrong. It turned out to be far more complicated than anyone expected. Within just a few years, engineers discovered they’d underestimated how much some buildings would sink on a barrier island composed of varying layers of sand, silt, peat and porous limestone — much the same material underlying many of South Florida’s premier oceanfront properties. In their own reports filed with the city, geotechnical engineers acknowledged the miscalculations.
“Alix Desulme to be honored at North American Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — North Miami Mayor Desulme will be honored next week at the North American Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism with the Combat Antisemitism Movement’s Mayors of Courage Award, recognizing his outspoken leadership after the Oct. 7 attack, his Israel Solidarity Rally, and his work establishing a sister city relationship with Kiryat Motzkin. Desulme says he is “deeply humbled,” stressing that ensuring safety and dignity for every resident is a core duty. He will join other Mayors on CAM’s new advisory Board as antisemitic incidents surge across the U.S. and Canada, reaching record levels in 2024. The Dec. 2-4 summit in New Orleans will bring municipal leaders together for panels, workshops and strategy sessions to strengthen civic resilience and counter rising anti-Jewish hate.
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Buddy Dyer says Bale Dalton is the best Democrat to take on Mills” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Orlando Mayor Dyer just threw his support to Democrat Dalton as Dalton runs in Florida’s 7th Congressional District. Dyer, Orlando’s longest-serving Mayor, endorsed the former NASA Chief of Staff as he looks to unseat GOP U.S. Rep. Mills. In a statement announcing his support, Dyer focused on Dalton’s military biography. “As a Navy combat veteran, he has lived a life of service — putting duty, country, and community above politics,” Dyer said. “In a time when Washington is defined by gridlock and extremes, Bale stands out as someone who listens first, seeks practical solutions, and is willing to work with anyone if it means improving the lives of the people he serves. Bale understands the challenges facing Florida families because he’s lived them: from the rising cost of living, supporting our veterans and protecting our communities.”
Buddy Dyer endorses Bale Dalton for Congress, citing his service record and practical approach.
“Tight race comes down to runoff for Winter Haven City Council seat” via Spectrum News — After a close race in the General Election, two candidates will have a runoff on Dec. 2. Matthew Crowley and Chad Davis are running for Winter Haven’s City Council Seat 4. The two were separated by about 300 votes in the November election. Crowley is a lifelong Winter Haven resident, small-business owner and community advocate. According to his campaign website, he is focused on transparency, public safety, affordable housing and economic opportunity for all. “Winter Haven deserves honesty and accountability, not backroom self-dealing,” Crowley said.
“Highway Patrol arrests two for ‘aggressively’ chalking ‘Resist’ on Pulse crosswalk” via McKenna Schueler of Orlando Weekly — A Florida Highway Patrol officer arrested two people Sunday afternoon for allegedly “defacing” the formerly rainbow-colored crosswalk outside Orlando’s Pulse nightclub — the latest in a string of questionable arrests. On Nov. 23, 28-year-old James Houchins and 29-year-old Austin “Bubba” Trahan were caught on video “aggressively” chalking the term “Resist” onto the crosswalk, which is owned and maintained by the state Department of Transportation. The video footage came from the transportation department’s Regional Communications Center, which notified Florida Highway Patrol of the chalkers and dispatched an officer to the area to arrest them.
“Ken Welch taps Nathan Bruemmer as St. Pete’s LGBTQ+ point person” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — St. Petersburg Mayor Welch has appointed attorney and educator Bruemmer as the city’s LGBTQ+ Liaison, a move that reinforces the administration’s focus on advancing inclusion, safety and equity for residents and visitors. Bruemmer, an experienced attorney, educator and LGBTQ+ policy leader, will serve as the city’s primary point of contact for LGBTQ+ residents, organizations, businesses and allies. He succeeds Eric Vaughan. The announcement comes as St. Petersburg marks 12 consecutive years with a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index, which reflects the city’s non-discrimination protections, municipal employment practices, inclusive services and visible LGBTQ+ leadership.
Ken Welch appoints Nathan Bruemmer as St. Pete’s LGBTQ+ liaison to advance inclusion efforts.
“Regionwide drought pushes St. Petersburg into a water shortage” via St. Pete Catalyst — A regional drought pushed St. Petersburg into a Phase 1 water shortage Monday, marking the start of a new conservation push as rainfall continues to lag and water levels drop across Tampa Bay. The Southwest Florida Water Management District issued the order after months of below-normal precipitation and declining resources, placing the city under tighter scrutiny even as its watering rules stay the same. The city is leaning on residents to follow its twice-weekly irrigation schedule. Even-numbered addresses can be watered on Tuesday and Saturday, odd-numbered on Wednesday and Sunday. All watering must take place either before 9 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Hand watering for plants is still permitted any day, though lawn hand watering must follow the assigned days and hours.
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“Gainesville wants answers after being charged $700K in legal fees by GRU Authority” via Elliot Tritto of the Gainesville Sun — The Gainesville City Commission is calling for “full transparency” from the GRU Authority after discovering the utility charged the city more than $700,000 in legal fees over the past two fiscal years. In a letter to GRUA Board Chair Eric Lawson, Mayor Harvey Ward questioned why Gainesville taxpayers are footing the bill for legal expenses and whether those costs relate to defending HB-1645. This state law created the Board appointed by the Governor. During the Nov. 20 City Commission meeting, Ward said the City Manager’s office received a financial report that showed GRU failed to pay its full general services transfer contribution for fiscal year 2025. The utility had agreed to transfer $8.5 million to support municipal services but delivered only $7.1 million. The Mayor said a big chunk of the missing contribution comes from paying $1.1 million for street lights in unincorporated Alachua County, a cost that Gainesville taxpayers now bear under a contract that is more than 30 years old.
Eric Lawson faces questions as Harvey Ward challenges $700K in GRU Authority legal fees.
“USPS boosts holiday readiness in Tallahassee” via Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — Local officials of the U.S. Postal Service say they’re ready for the bustling holiday season. “This holiday season is our busiest time of the year — and one of our most critical opportunities to serve Tallahassee,” said Tallahassee Postmaster Vanessa Cobb in a press release. It hasn’t always been like that. Tallahassee has suffered through years of botched mail delivery, according to many residents. The complaints and grievances all culminated with a report by the Office of Inspector General, revealing delayed mail, improper package scanning, problems with carriers filling out time cards, and dilapidated properties, to name a few. The postal service worked to fix many of the issues identified in the reports and installed a new postmaster, Cobb, who returned to her hometown and promised to strengthen the relationship between the community and USPS.
“Jacksonville and Culinary Institute of America in ‘preliminary’ talks” via David Bauerlein of The Florida Times-Union — The Culinary Institute of America, whose award-winning graduates include the late celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, has had some talks with city officials about bringing its school in the art of cooking to Jacksonville. “Many companies and organizations are considering an expansion into Jacksonville, and the Culinary Institute of America is among them,” city spokesperson Phillip Perry said. “There have been a couple preliminary discussions with city leaders, but nothing beyond that is concrete at this point.” The not-for-profit Culinary Institute of America’s main campus is in Hyde Park, New York. The school also has campuses in the Wine Country of California, San Antonio and Singapore. The school offers associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees with majors in culinary arts, baking and pastry arts, food business management, hospitality management, culinary science and applied food studies.
— LOCAL: SW. FL —
“Hurricane recovery surpasses $15 billion after Helene, Milton” via the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — As the recovery effort from Hurricanes Helene and Milton continues across Florida, federal and state data reveal that the financial commitment to rebuilding the state has soared past $15 billion. The total includes funds provided directly to survivors, reimbursements to local communities and significant payouts from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). While Florida and its regional partners are leading the ongoing effort, FEMA has been a primary financial resource, providing more than $11 billion in grants, community reimbursements, and flood insurance payments to date. More than $1.8 billion in recovery funds have been awarded to the state to reimburse communities for essential work, including critical infrastructure repairs, emergency efforts and debris removal. A significant portion — $589.8 million — was dedicated to debris removal.
“Naples attorneys try to bridge gap with airport Board, propose rules” via J. Kyle Foster of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — The city of Naples and Naples Airport officials continue to be at odds as the city tries to work out control over development at the airport — and Airport Commissioners try to make sure no one is violating FAA rules and the airport can still serve its flying community. City Attorney Matthew McConnell and Assistant City Attorney Andrew Dickman presented proposed wording for updating the city’s land development code at the Naples Airport Authority Board of Commissioners’ Nov. 20 meeting. This followed the City Council’s adoption in May and then rescission in October of an ordinance asserting more control over the Naples airport. The airport is operated on city property by a separate state Legislature-created body — the Naples Airport Authority (NAA).
Matthew McConnell and Andrew Dickman present updated development rules amid ongoing disputes at the NAA.
“Bradenton postal union treasurer gets prison after stealing $100K, records show” via Michael Moore Jr. of the Bradenton Herald — A Judge sentenced the former treasurer of a Bradenton Postal Workers union to more than a year in prison after prosecutors said she siphoned more than $100,000 from the organization. Circuit Judge Matt Whyte sentenced 53-year-old Kathleen Rita Kaplan to 366 days in prison with credit for time served, followed by two years of community control with GPS monitoring and nearly 27 years of probation, according to court records. Kaplan previously pleaded no contest to two first-degree felonies: grand theft of more than $100,000 and fraudulent use of personal identification information, court records show. As part of the sentence, Whyte barred Kaplan from handling money for others or holding elected office, records show.
— TOP OPINION —
“It’s almost dying time for dozens of Florida’s black bears” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — Barring a last-minute miracle, Florida’s black bears will be in the crosshairs of hunters come Saturday — a planned slaughter based on shoddy science and laden with potential for things to go wrong.
Or maybe “go wronger.”
This hunt should never have been approved, let alone labeled an annual event that will continue until state officials come to their senses.
Thousands of Floridians begged the state Legislature and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to stop the hunt from going forward, citing threats to the state’s bear population that are only going to become worse as more and more people crowd into Florida.
— MORE OPINIONS —
“The Florida Legislature is not your friend” via Diane Roberts of Florida Phoenix — Florida lawmakers are unloading a torrent of 2026 bills that read like a blueprint for turning the state into a deregulated, flooded, disease-friendly playground for developers and ideologues. New proposals would strip cities of authority over growth, gut wetland protections, and reward the kind of rule-breaking that led to the destruction of an eagle nest in Pasco County. Culture-war favorites are back, including bans on Pride flags and a revived fetal-personhood push that treats a fetus as a full citizen with imaginary “lost earnings.” Vaccine rollbacks and a lawsuit free-for-all against manufacturers threaten public health, while another attempt to let 18-year-olds buy assault-style rifles looms. Layer on eight competing property-tax schemes and an increasingly testy standoff with DeSantis, and Florida is barreling toward a combative, chaotic Legislative Session.
“Restoring respect for the rules in Florida” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — An ugly trend has taken hold in Florida. It’s rooted in the misguided conviction that politicians and bureaucrats have the right to conduct public business and spend public money in private. Requests for public records that were once routine are now met with silence, demands for outrageous fees, or monthslong delays. This may seem like an abrupt departure from Florida’s historic embrace of government in the sunshine. But in reality, the light has been slowly dimming for a long time, aided by one-party control of state government. It has reached the point where requests may go unanswered, particularly when the documents sought would paint an unflattering picture or expose the sources of bad ideas. They take many forms: emails, text messages, internal memos and whistleblower reports.
“Teaching standards, hijacked by the right” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — There are only five nations whose governments and economies resemble to any degree the communism preached by Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, Josef Stalin and their disciples. They are China, Cuba, Laos, North Korea and Vietnam. Modern Russia is a menace, but of a different sort, harkening back to 19th-century spheres of influence and imperialism. Much like the tsars, Vladimir Putin is an authoritarian dictator whose interests lie with wealthy oligarchs rather than the general population. The rise of communism and the reasons for its failure to prevail worldwide are essential elements of any proper education in history and social studies. But they are not the whole story, no matter what Florida’s hyped curriculum would have students believe.
“Florida should better regulate kratom products, not prohibit them” via David Negron for the Orlando Sentinel — I didn’t grow up imagining that chronic pain would shape my adult life. I was born with spina bifida, a condition that leaves my spinal cord tethered and puts pressure on my vertebrae, causing constant, often debilitating pain. A few years ago, I started to try kratom products to help with my pain. It helped somewhat, but not enough to let me live the full, active life I’m determined to keep. Then, about six months ago, someone suggested I try a kratom-derived product. The relief it provided was real, sustained, functional relief, which shocked me. For the first time in years, I could move throughout my day with less agony and more dignity. I support regulation. Every responsible kratom product consumer I know supports regulation. Testing, labeling, age limits, restrictions on mixing products and packaging standards are all reasonable safeguards. But a ban doesn’t protect anyone. It only forces people back into the very behaviors policymakers claim they want to prevent.
“No need to rush into a pricey new City Hall” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — It has been two-and-a-half years since Fort Lauderdale’s flood-ravaged City Hall had to be abandoned. A gaping hole sits where a fortress-like gray box served as the nerve center of government since 1969. From rented temporary quarters in a nearby building, the dynamic and ever-growing city chugs along, and plans are moving forward for a new City Hall to serve Broward’s largest city for the next 50 years. Four teams are competing for this lucrative signature project. All four will make detailed pitches to City Commissioners on Tuesday. The meeting agenda anticipates that the city will rank the proposals and begin detailed negotiations with the top-ranked team. Our advice is to be methodical and prudent, even though delays tend to drive up construction costs.
What Heather Turnbull is reading — “This North Carolina organization delivers salvation on four legs” via Frank Bruni of The New York Times — Mara Shapiro, a graduate student pursuing a master’s in public health at the University of Virginia, got food poisoning. For her, that meant more than nausea and stomach pain. Because she has Addison’s disease, a rare autoimmune disorder, what might have been a minor medical episode became a full-blown crisis, and she ended up barely conscious, hallucinating and unable to move. Rooster was curled up under the podium when she presented some of her work at an early November meeting. Rooster is a graduate of Eyes Ears Nose & Paws. This North Carolina nonprofit organization has been preparing and providing assistance dogs for people with chronic illnesses and disabilities since 2008.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— ALOE —
“Tourism sets all-time record” via Sara Thopson of Tourism Review — The state saw an all-time high of 143 million visitors in 2024. Those travelers spent $134.9 billion, which is a solid 3% bump from the year before. Most of that came from domestic travelers, who chipped in $120.1 billion, while international guests added another $14.8 billion. What is really impressive is that 99 cents of every single dollar tourists spent stayed right here in Florida. That is an improvement over last year and ranks among the best rates in the country for keeping money within the local economy.
“Holland & Knight expands equine practice with first sponsored rider, new podcast” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — Holland & Knight is continuing to grow its Equine Industry Team with two new ventures: sponsoring its first competitive rider and launching a podcast aimed at providing legal and business insights across the sport. The firm tapped Kara Lindenberger, an assistant trainer based in Tallahassee, as its first sponsored equestrian athlete. With the firm’s backing, she competed in July’s World Equestrian Center Summer Series — and won. She also appears in the inaugural episode of the firm’s new podcast, The Tack Room. The show’s second episode features Lisa Lazarus, CEO of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority. Public Affairs Adviser Tori Deal said the podcast will dig into everything from Florida’s ongoing decoupling debate and anti-doping rules to tax, fraud and real estate issues tied to show horses, farms and training facilities.
Kara Lindenberger becomes Holland & Knight’s first sponsored rider as the firm launches a new equine podcast.
“UCF may host Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts bowls and Florida Classic at Bounce House Stadium” via Matt Murschel of the Orlando Sentinel — The University of Central Florida’s Board of Trustees (BOT) is expected to discuss and possibly vote Thursday whether or not to host the Cheez-It Citrus and Pop-Tarts bowls, plus the Florida Classic at Acrisure Bounce House Stadium next season. The vote was listed on the agenda for the BOT’s meeting, scheduled for Thursday. Florida Citrus Sports, which hosts all three events, is seeking a temporary venue while Camping World Stadium undergoes a $400 million renovation set to begin in February 2026. It’s expected to be completed ahead of the 2027 season. UCF athletic director Terry Mohajir and UCF associate AD of Facilities Operations and Capital Projects will present the proposal to the Board.
“4547 Whiskey launches holiday bundle to support veterans and first responders” via Anita Padilla of Florida’s Voice — 4547 Whiskey’s Dean Burden said the liquor was created as a tribute to Trump — the 45th and 47th President — and crafted as a 92-proof American whiskey aimed at supporters who “love their country.” He described the limited edition as smooth and approachable, with notes of toasted coconut, almond and butterscotch and a “clean finish.” “We wanted to do something special, so we made a patriotic edition,” Burden said. “We wanted to honor those patriots. So, if you love your country, drink this fine whiskey.” Burden said the team recently attended a Helping a Hero gala at the Mar-a-Lago Club, where their table alone raised more than $138,000 for severely wounded service members.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Celebrating today are Sen. Debbie Mayfield, former Rep. Larry Crow, Sarah Criser Elwell, and Joey Redner.
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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.