___<\/p>\n
P2 Public Affairs names three new partners \u2014 P2 Public Affairs is elevating Chris Hartline, Andrew Romeo and Scott Paradise to partner. \u201cOver the past three years, Chris, Andrew, and Scott have distinguished themselves in how they lead, how they think, and how they perform when the pressure is highest,\u201d P2 President Generra Peck said. \u201cThey deliver for clients in the moments that matter most, and they make everyone around them better.\u201d Hartline and Paradise have been with P2 since 2023, with the former coming aboard after serving as a campaign adviser to U.S. Sen. Rick Scott and the latter running Herschel Walker\u2019s unsuccessful 2022 Senate campaign. Romeo, meanwhile, joined in 2024 after running comms at Elon Musk\u2019s America PAC and serving as campaign director for Gov. Ron DeSantis\u2019 2024 campaign.<\/p>\n
___<\/p>\n
Lauren Book is on the move! \u2014 Today, the Walk heads to Marianna with Gulf Coast Children\u2019s Advocacy Center, continuing the final push toward Tallahassee, joined by Jackson County Tax Collector Mary Carol Murdock, Jackson County School Board Member Chephus Granberry, and Marianna Police Chief Hayes Baggett. As the Walk nears its finish, The Voices Project is capturing powerful stories from survivors across Florida \u2014 voices that will carry far beyond these final miles. Don\u2019t miss the big Tallahassee finish \u2014 register at LaurensKidsWalk.org<\/a>!<\/p>\n \u2014 SITUATIONAL AWARENESS \u2014<\/p>\n Tweet, tweet:<\/p>\n Tweet, tweet:<\/p>\n \u2014@SusieWiles47: I\u2019m joining X to share occasional updates about the work we do at the White House. We are relentlessly focusing on advancing President (Donald) Trump\u2019s agenda and delivering on promises to the American people. I welcome different viewpoints. Follow along for insights and information.<\/p>\n Tweet, tweet:<\/p>\n \u2014@NLVWarren: Sen. (Jennifer) Bradley is giving every Dem an excellent lesson in how to ask effective questions. Hope they\u2019re paying attention (based on today, they need the lesson).<\/p>\n \u2014@BernyJacques: Last week, I was with @GovRonDeSantis<\/a> for the signing of the bill I co-sponsored that bans DEI in local government. Today, I sent letters to the local governments (Pinellas County, Largo, Pinellas Park, Seminole) in my district to place them on notice and to ensure compliance once this law goes into effect. To achieve this, I initiated a public records request to uncover any existing\/recent DEI programs. I will do my part to make sure that DEI goes to DIE in House District 59!<\/p>\n \u2014 DAYS UNTIL \u2014<\/p>\n F1 Miami begins \u2014 3; \u2018The Punisher: One Last Kill\u2019 premieres on Disney+ \u2014 13; \u2018Yellowstone\u2019 spinoff \u2018Dutton Ranch\u2019 premieres \u2014 16; French Open begins \u2014 22; \u2018Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu\u2019 premieres \u2014 23; new mission for \u2018Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run\u2019 premieres at Disney World \u2014 23; Marvel\u2019s \u2018Spider-Noir\u2019 arrives on Amazon Prime \u2014 28; Rafa Nadal documentary \u2018Rafa\u2019 premieres on Netflix \u2014 30; MLB Lou Gehrig Day \u2014 34; Florida Tech & Innovation Summit \u2014 35; \u2018Masters of the Universe\u2019 premieres \u2014 37; \u2018Cape Fear\u2019 series premieres on Apple TV \u2014 37; 2026 Florida Chamber Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit \u2014 40; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) \u2014 40; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City \u2014 43; Steven Spielberg\u2019s \u2018Disclosure Day\u2019 premieres \u2014 44; Qualifying Period ends for Federal, Governor, Cabinet, State and local offices \u2014 44; the Octagon on the White House South Lawn: UFC Freedom 250 \u2014 46; Flag Day \u2014 46; Trump\u2019s 80th birthday \u2014 46; \u2018Toy Story 5\u2019 premieres \u2014 51; \u2018Supergirl\u2019 premieres \u2014 58; Florida GOP Sunshine State Showdown debates \u2014 58; live-action \u2018Moana\u2019 premieres \u2014 63; Primary Election UOCAVA ballot deadline \u2014 66; Primary Election domestic ballot deadline \u2014 71; MLB All-Star Game \u2014 76; Domestic Primary Election VBM deadline \u2014 78; Primary Election voter registration deadline \u2014 82; \u2018Spider-Man: Brand New Day\u2019 premieres \u2014 93; \u2018Ted Lasso\u2019 season 4 premieres \u2014 98; Primary Election ballot request deadline \u2014 99; Early voting period begins \u2014 101; Primary Election Day \u2014 111; NFL regular season kicks off \u2014 133; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia \u2014 134; Yankees host the Mets for 9\/11 anniversary \u2014 135; MLB Roberto Clemente Day \u2014 139; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline \u2014 143; General Election domestic ballot deadline \u2014 148; Domestic General Election VBM deadline \u2014 155; General Election voter registration deadline \u2014 159; Early Voting General Election begins \u2014 178; General Election \u2014 188; \u2018Godzilla Minus Zero\u2019 premieres \u2014 191; \u2018The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping\u2019 premieres \u2014 205; \u2018Dune: Part 3\u2019 premieres \u2014 233; \u2018Avengers: Doomsday\u2019 premieres \u2014 233; untitled Star Wars movie premieres \u2014 233; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas \u2014 271; Super Bowl LXI \u2014 291; Tampa Mayoral Election \u2014 307; 2027 Oscars \u2014 319; Jacksonville First Election \u2014 328; Jacksonville General Election \u2014 384; \u2018Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse\u2019 premieres \u2014 402; \u2018MIAMI VICE\u2019 reboot premieres \u2014 464; \u2018Bluey the Movie\u2019 premieres \u2014 464; \u2018The Batman 2\u2019 premieres \u2014 520; \u2018Avengers: Secret Wars\u2019 premieres \u2014 597; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans \u2014 635; 2028 Oscars \u2014 676; \u2018Lilo & Stitch 2\u2019 premieres \u2014 758; \u2018Incredibles 3\u2019 premieres \u2014 779; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony \u2014 807; U.S. Presidential Election \u2014 923; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa \u2014 999; Avatar 4 premieres \u2014 1,323; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami \u2014 1,363; Avatar 5 premieres \u2014 2,054.<\/p>\n \u2014 TOP STORY \u2014<\/p>\n \u201cDaniel Perez says House won\u2019t deliberate on AI regulations or vaccine requirements, drawing Ron DeSantis\u2019 fury<\/a>\u201d via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics \u2014 Gov. DeSantis and Florida House leaders are openly at odds after lawmakers declined to advance key parts of his agenda during a Special Session. The conflict underscores deepening divisions within Republican leadership in Tallahassee.<\/p>\n House Speaker Perez said the chamber would not take up proposals on artificial intelligence regulation or eliminating school vaccine mandates, noting no bills were filed. He said the House position has been consistent since both ideas failed to move during the Regular Session.<\/p>\n DeSantis quickly criticized the House on X, accusing Republicans of failing to deliver for voters. He called the inaction \u201ctypical political shenanigans\u201d and argued lawmakers missed a chance to push back against what he described as Big Tech and the healthcare system\u2019s overreach.<\/p>\n Perez defended the decision, telling reporters the House had already vetted both issues and saw no reason to revisit them. He also expressed discomfort about ending long-standing childhood vaccine requirements that have been in place in Florida for decades.<\/p>\n The vaccine debate has been fueled by Joseph Ladapo, who has advocated eliminating mandates altogether, intensifying the policy divide among Republicans.<\/p>\n Lawmakers will instead focus on redistricting, the original purpose of the Special Session, before adjourning. The standoff highlights the House asserting greater independence from the Governor, signaling a shift in how power is exercised within state government.<\/p>\n \u2014\u201dSenate passes \u2018AI Bill of Rights\u2019 despite GOP rift and House refusal<\/a>\u201d via Michelle Vecerina of Florida\u2019s Voice<\/p>\n \u2014\u201cSenate postpones consideration of \u2018medical freedom\u2019 bill after House refuses to hear it<\/a>\u201d via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics<\/p>\n \u2014 SPECIAL SESSION \u2014<\/p>\n \u201cHouse Redistricting Committee advances DeSantis\u2019 proposed congressional map<\/a>\u201d via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics \u2014 The House Redistricting Committee has advanced DeSantis\u2019 proposed congressional map on a party-line vote. Jason Poreda, a senior government analyst in DeSantis\u2019 office, gave a walkthrough of how each district on the map was crafted. While the Committee, also on a party-line vote, declined to put staff under oath, Poreda answered questions primarily from Democratic lawmakers. \u201cI drew this map as a race-neutral map,\u201d Poreda said, arguing he consciously avoided any racial considerations. Mohammad Jazil, an attorney for the Governor who successfully defended maps also drawn by DeSantis\u2019 staff, said there was legal justification to revisit cartography, both because of a Florida Supreme Court ruling upholding the current map and a pending Supreme Court case regarding racial motivation in mapmaking.<\/p>\n \u2014\u201cFlorida House stands by DeSantis redistricting plan, legal justification<\/a>\u201d via Romy Ellenbogen, Lawrence Mower and Alexandra Glorioso of the Tampa Bay Times <\/p>\n \u2014\u201cRedistricting plan could get quick OK amid legal questions<\/a>\u201d via Jim Saunders of State Affairs<\/p>\n \u2014\u201cAshley Moody says Florida\u2019s congressional redistricting effort uniquely \u2018justified\u2019<\/a>\u201d via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics <\/p>\n \u201cYou can fiddle with DeSantis\u2019 congressional map all the way down to your house<\/a>\u201d via the Miami Herald \u2014 Floridians may find when they go to vote this Summer and Fall that the contours of their congressional districts have changed. They might not even be in the same district anymore, or represented by the same person, if the state Legislature approves the new U.S. House map proposed by the Governor. Thankfully, the Florida Senate released an interactive map that allows you to zoom in and see what district you\u2019re in. Check out the map<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cEmily Gregory, Hilary Holley, Samantha Scott sworn into House seats during Special Session<\/a>\u201d via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics \u2014 Democrat Gregory and Republicans Holley and Scott officially took their House seats Tuesday after being sworn in during a brief floor Session. Bradenton Republican Rep. Will Robinson initiated a motion for the three new lawmakers to be sworn in, noting certifications of their respective March 24 victories by Secretary of State Cord Byrd\u2019s Office. The chamber unanimously approved it, after which Florida Supreme Court Justice Adam Tannenbaum administered the oath of office.<\/p>\n \u201cHouse holds moment of silence to honor Nancy Metayer Bowen<\/a>\u201d via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics \u2014 House lawmakers honored slain Coral Springs Vice Mayor Metayer Bowen during a short floor Session, holding a roughly 20-second moment of silence after brief comments about her accomplishments and legacy. Speaker Pro Tempore Wyman Duggan of Jacksonville delivered the remarks before members marked their attendance. \u201cEarlier this month, we tragically lost Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen. Elected in 2020 at just 32 years old, she quickly became a respected leader and dedicated public servant in her community. As an environmental scientist, she championed environmental and public health initiatives. More importantly, she was deeply devoted to her family and friends,\u201d he said. \u201cShe was a friend to many in this House, and her legacy will never be forgotten.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJason Pizzo shares threatening voicemail he calls \u2019emblematic\u2019 of Legislative Session<\/a>\u201d via Frank Kopylov of Florida\u2019s Voice \u2014 Sen. Pizzo shared a threatening voicemail on social media, describing it as the most emblematic message he received during the Legislative Session. The recording features an unidentified caller making repeated violent threats while criticizing elected officials over voting rights and political issues. Pizzo, who represents District 37 and is running for Governor as an independent in 2026, did not indicate whether the message was reported to law enforcement. The incident comes amid heightened political tensions in Florida, including disputes over election policies and candidate access. Such threats are generally prohibited under state law, and the episode underscores growing concerns about hostility and security risks facing public officials.<\/p>\n \u2014 LEG SKED. \u2014<\/p>\n 9:30 a.m.<\/p>\n House Session, Chamber.<\/p>\n 10 a.m.<\/p>\n Senate Session, Chamber.<\/p>\n \u2014 2026 \u2014<\/p>\n Florida FarmPAC endorses Wilton Simpson\u2019s re-election bid \u2014 The Florida Farm Bureau Federation\u2019s political committee is supporting Simpson\u2019s bid for a second term as Agriculture Commissioner. The Florida Farm Bureau Federation is the state\u2019s largest agricultural organization with more than 132,000 members. \u201cAs a fifth-generation farmer and President of the Florida Farm Bureau, I know how critical strong leadership is to protecting Florida agriculture. Wilton Simpson isn\u2019t just an advocate \u2014 he\u2019s a farmer who understands what\u2019s at stake,\u201d said Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb Smith. \u201cHe\u2019s consistently fought to protect our farmland, support farmers and ranchers, and strengthen our food security. That\u2019s why Florida Farm PAC is proud to endorse him for Commissioner of Agriculture.\u201d Simpson, who recently filed for re-election, previously announced endorsements from 61 county sheriffs and Trump.<\/p>\n \u2014 MORE ELECTIONS \u2014<\/p>\n First on #FlaPol \u2014 \u201cDan Webster to retire from Congress, plans to devote \u2018precious time\u2019 to family<\/a>\u201d via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics \u2014 U.S. Rep. Webster is not seeking re-election to Florida\u2019s 11th Congressional District, according to a statement from his office first shared with Florida Politics. The Clermont Republican made clear his decision is not related to congressional redistricting plans, but rather to spend more time with his family. \u201cAfter much prayerful consideration and discussion with my beloved wife Sandy, I have decided not to seek re-election to the United States House of Representatives,\u201d Webster said. \u201cIt has been an honor and a privilege to represent my beloved state in the U.S. House of Representatives. I\u2019ve never taken for granted my responsibility to Florida\u2019s hardworking taxpayers and families to advance common sense reforms and principled policy.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnthony Sabatini confirms he filed to succeed Webster in CD 11<\/a>\u201d via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics \u2014 The Lake County Commissioner said he has filed to run to succeed Webster. The Republican, who boasts a social media following with the far-right, said he filed in Florida\u2019s 11th Congressional District. He notably challenged Webster in the Republican Primary in that seat last election cycle, though he dropped out after Trump endorsed the Clermont Republican. He instead ran for Lake County Commission, unseating Republican incumbent Doug Shields. Webster announced on Tuesday that he would not seek another term because of family health reasons. Sabatini, within a couple of hours, announced he was exploring a bid.<\/p>\n \u201cVeteran Keith Gross lands major endorsements from five former members of Congress<\/a>\u201d via Michelle Vecerina of Florida\u2019s Voice \u2014 Congressional candidate Gross announced endorsements from five former U.S. House members as he seeks the Republican nomination in Florida\u2019s 2nd Congressional District. Supporters include former Reps. John Sweeney, Dan Burton, Gregory Laughlin, David Rivera and Steve Buyer, who highlighted his military background and legal experience. The endorsements follow a campaign finance report showing more than $5.65 million in cash on hand, described as a strong position for the seat. Gross, a Florida native, is running on a platform focused on lowering costs and economic growth, as his campaign seeks to build momentum in a competitive Republican Primary.<\/p>\n Ryan Elijah launches campaign in CD 7 \u2014 Republican Elijah, a former WOFL FOX 35 news anchor, announced he is entering the race for Florida\u2019s 7th Congressional District, the Seminole- and Volusia-based District currently held by U.S. Rep. Cory Mills. \u201cWe must have a Representative in Washington who puts your needs first. I have raised my family in the District for 14 years and will make hardworking families, small businesses and safe communities my No. 1 priority,\u201d Elijah said. Elijah said he decided to file following \u201cdozens of phone calls with local leaders.\u201d Mills, also a Republican, is facing calls to resign over sexual misconduct allegations. Elijah is the first Republican to announce that they will challenge the incumbent in the Primary.<\/p>\n \u2014 STATEWIDE \u2014<\/p>\n \u201cIf DeSantis wants a spot in Donald Trump\u2019s Cabinet, he may have to pull a Marco Rubio<\/a>\u201d via Mary Anna Mancuso of the Miami Herald \u2014 As DeSantis approaches the end of his term, questions are emerging about his political future and how he might remain relevant ahead of a potential 2028 presidential run. Recent public-facing efforts, including a restaurant-focused video series, highlight attempts to maintain visibility, but his next move remains uncertain. One option could involve joining the Trump administration, though their strained relationship following the 2024 Primary adds uncertainty. Reports suggest DeSantis has explored potential roles, while continuing to influence Florida politics through initiatives like a Special Session on redistricting. Despite maintaining support within the state, his long-term path on the national stage remains unclear.<\/p>\n \u201cAs new law looms, allies defend DeSantis\u2019 CAIR ban before appeals court<\/a>\u201d via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics \u2014 In an amicus brief, Holtzman Vogel lawyers Mark Pinkert and Jason Torchinsky advised the court to rule in favor of DeSantis\u2019 appeal of a March 4 injunction, which blocked his December executive order denying CAIR state or local contracts, employment or funding and pressuring third parties to do the same. Pinkert and Torchinsky filed the brief on behalf of the National Jewish Advocacy Center, Middle East Forum and Network Contagion Research Institute. The brief, dated Monday, cites court records from the Holy Land Foundation terrorism-financing case, FBI-wiretapped meeting materials, prior civil and criminal cases, and outside research to argue that DeSantis\u2019 order was supported by substantial evidence. CAIR denies those allegations and, notably, has not been federally designated as a terrorist organization.<\/p>\n New and renewed lobby registrations<\/p>\n Joshua Aubuchon, Delegal Aubuchon Consulting: One Alliance North America<\/p>\n Brian Ballard, Christina Brodeur, Adrian Lukis, Eileen Stuart, Ballard Partners: Equifax<\/p>\n Teye Carmichael, Steve Crisafulli, David Daniel, Jeff Hartley, Lisa Hurley, Jonathan Rees, SBM Partners: ISF<\/p>\n Eric Prutsman, Prutsman & Associates: Boston Scientific<\/p>\n \u2014 D.C. MATTERS \u2014<\/p>\n \u201cRepublicans brace for brutal Midterms as Trump\u2019s popularity slips<\/a>\u201d via Shane Goldmacher of The New York Times \u2014 Trump\u2019s approval ratings are down. Gas prices are up. Congressional Republicans are heading to the exits in record numbers. And Democratic enthusiasm is cresting. With a little more than six months until the Midterm Elections, anxious Republicans are confronting a foreboding political climate that party leaders fear could lead to a wipeout in the Fall if it does not improve. The House is now favored to fall into Democratic hands while control of the Senate \u2014 not so long ago seen as a GOP bulwark \u2014 is increasingly up for grabs as Democratic candidates up and down the ballot build substantial war chests. In private, Republican political strategists are grimly trading synonyms to describe the darkening environment: sour, ugly, bad, bleak.<\/p>\n \u201cTrump administration secures new indictment against James Comey<\/a>\u201d via Devlin Barrett and Tyler Pager of The New York Times \u2014 The Justice Department has secured a new indictment of Comey, the former FBI Director, over a social media post, after an indictment effort spurred by Trump last year ended in failure. An indictment filed in North Carolina charged Comey with making a threat against the President and transmitting a threat across state lines, according to court records. The new case represents another twist in the Department\u2019s tortured efforts to satisfy the demands of Trump to pursue criminal charges against Comey, a longtime target of the President\u2019s wrath. The first indictment against Comey was thrown out by a judge, and other prosecutorial efforts against Trump targets have faltered before grand juries or judges.<\/p>\n \u201cFCC orders a review of ABC\u2019s broadcast licenses<\/a>\u201d via Jim Rutenberg and John Koblin of The New York Times \u2014 Federal regulators have ordered a review of all station licenses owned by ABC, an extraordinary move to pressure a major television network whose programming has frequently angered Trump. The agency overseeing the review, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), said in a filing that the review was related to an investigation into ABC\u2019s diversity and inclusion policies. But it came in the middle of a fight this week between Trump and the network\u2019s late-night host, Jimmy Kimmel, that prompted the President to demand that ABC fire Kimmel. The FCC action represented an escalation by the Trump administration and the President to punish major media outlets for their coverage.<\/p>\n \u201cDisney \u2018confident\u2019 amid FCC review of broadcast TV licenses<\/a>\u201d via Alex Weprin of the Hollywood Reporter \u2014 \u201cWe have received the Federal Communications Commission\u2019s order initiating an accelerated review of the licenses held by ABC\u2019s owned television stations,\u201d a Disney spokesperson tells THR. \u201cABC and its stations have a long record of operating in full compliance with FCC rules and serving their local communities with trusted news, emergency information, and public-interest programming. We are confident that record demonstrates our continued qualifications as licensees under the Communications Act and the First Amendment and are prepared to show that through the appropriate legal channels. Our focus remains, as always, on serving viewers in the local communities where our stations operate.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIs the Supreme Court coming apart at the seams?<\/a>\u201d via Jesse Wegman for The New York Times \u2014 For most of American history, Supreme Court Justices have done their best to stay out of the news. But more often in recent years, as the court itself has become a political lightning rod, Justices have drawn scrutiny \u2014 for questionable ethical conduct, for perceived spats among their ranks or for what were seen as overtly political remarks. In the past few weeks, two Supreme Court Justices have offered comments that have been greeted with outrage and condemnation. The episodes were unrelated, but together they offer a revealing glimpse of the Supreme Court, on the verge of momentous rulings in the weeks ahead. Only one Justice issued a public apology \u2014 the wrong Justice.<\/p>\n \u201cMAHA moms are protesting against pesticides<\/a>\u201d via Sabrina Siddiqui and Sara Ashley O\u2019Brien of The Wall Street Journal \u2014 Protests over the herbicide glyphosate are intensifying as activists aligned with the Make America Healthy Again movement rally against federal policies supporting its production. Demonstrators gathered outside the Supreme Court during a major case involving Bayer, which faces claims its Roundup product causes cancer, though the company and regulators maintain it is safe when used as directed. Critics argue the chemical is too prevalent in food, while supporters cite scientific reviews backing its safety. The issue has created tension within conservative circles, as some activists oppose recent federal actions promoting domestic production. The debate highlights broader concerns about food safety, regulatory standards, and political divisions over public health policy.<\/p>\n \u2014 LOCAL: S. FL \u2014<\/p>\n Breaking late Tuesday \u2014 \u201cShlomo Danzinger defeats Tina Paul in extended Runoff for Surfside Mayor<\/a>\u201d via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics \u2014 With a full tally of ballots, Danzinger took 50.54% of the vote to defeat Vice Mayor Tina Paul following an extended Runoff race in which many voters cast ballots weeks ago on Election Day, but then had to wait until Tuesday to learn who won. Danzinger\u2019s margin of victory on Tuesday was 22 votes. Almost 59% of Surfside\u2019s 3,446 registered voters participated in the Runoff, according to the Miami-Dade Supervisor of Elections website. Danzinger again replaces outgoing Mayor Charles Burkett, whom he swapped places with in 2022 and 2024.<\/p>\n \u201c2,500-acre wildfire closes parts of Everglades. Will drivers be affected?<\/a>\u201d via Devoun Cetoute and David Goodhue of the Miami Herald \u2014 The wildfire began in the northeastern corner of Everglades National Park, with U.S. Wildland Fire Services crews working the fire on the ground and from the air, the agency said on Tuesday. The park closed the area between the L-67 Canal on the west and the L-31 Canal on the east from U.S. Route 41 south to several miles north of Mahogany Hammock. It includes all parking lots, facilities and navigable waterways within those areas. The National Weather Service is monitoring possible smoky conditions, but as of Tuesday afternoon, the fire is not affecting road visibility.<\/p>\n \u201cMiami Beach says Fontainebleau still needs Board approval for water park, despite new law<\/a>\u201d via Aaron Leibowitz of the Miami Herald \u2014 When the Fontainebleau Hotel faced a skeptical city Board and a wave of community opposition to a plan to add water slides to its pool deck, the hotel\u2019s billionaire owner pushed successfully for a change to state law to move the project forward. But while the bill signed by DeSantis removed some red tape, the city of Miami Beach is maintaining that the Fontainebleau still needs approval from the local Historic Preservation Board \u2014 the exact type of roadblock the hotel was trying to circumvent. In response to a building permit application filed by the hotel\u2019s development team, city planning staff said earlier this month that the Fontainebleau must first get a \u201ccertificate of appropriateness\u201d from the Historic Preservation Board.<\/p>\n \u201cTwo more Miami Beach Commissioners endorse Vicki Lopez for Miami-Dade Commission<\/a>\u201d via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics \u2014 Miami-Dade County Commissioner Lopez secured endorsements from a majority of the Miami Beach Commission as she seeks to retain her District 5 seat. City Commissioners Laura Dominguez and Monica Matteo-Salinas joined Tanya Katzoff Bhatt and Alex Fernandez in backing her campaign, citing her work on housing, condo safety and collaboration with local leaders. Lopez, appointed last year, reported raising nearly $589,000 in the last quarter, significantly ahead of challenger Joe Sanchez. The race, technically nonpartisan, will appear on the Aug. 18 Primary ballot, with a Runoff scheduled Nov. 3 if no candidate wins a majority.<\/p>\n \u201cDiscipline case against judge over Katherine Fernandez Rundle texts in murder case will move forward<\/a>\u201d via Grethel Aguila of the Miami Herald \u2014 Judge Morris Silberman, an appellate judge in St. Petersburg who is presiding over the disciplinary case, rejected Judge Bronwyn Miller\u2019s efforts to dismiss disciplinary charges brought by a state judicial investigative panel over the content of the messages she sent to Miami-Dade State Attorney Rundle during the resentencing phase of notorious killer Corey Smith. At a hearing last week, Sandy Bohrer, Miller\u2019s attorney, argued that she was merely exercising her First Amendment rights by sending the texts and was not interfering with the case against Smith. Miller, Bohrer said, \u201cdid nothing in her official capacity\u201d as an appellate judge when she texted Rundle.<\/p>\n \u201cBroward Tax Collector agrees to $4K fine over campaign misconduct<\/a>\u201d via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel \u2014 Broward County Tax Collector Abiodun \u201cAbbey\u201d Ajayi has agreed to pay a $4,000 fine to settle an Inspector General\u2019s complaint that she misused the resources of her previous county job while campaigning two years ago. At the time of the alleged misconduct, Ajayi was the operations manager of the County\u2019s Records, Taxes and Treasury Division and was forbidden from using her office or promoting her campaign during working hours. According to an Inspector General\u2019s report last year, Ajayi violated policy by appearing on a podcast as a candidate from her office during a weekday afternoon when she should have been on the job. She also admitted to using her county email address on campaign business.<\/p>\n \u201cRobot boats take on drug war in Navy experiment off Key West<\/a>\u201d via Above The Fold \u2014 The boat left the Key West waterfront without a sailor at the helm. A Tsunami unmanned surface vehicle went underway during Fleet Experimentation 2026, a weeklong Navy exercise off Key West that tests how robotic vessels, artificial intelligence and traditional manned platforms can work together against drug trafficking networks. The exercise, known as FLEX 2026, began April 24 and runs through April 30. It is hosted by U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command\/U.S. 4th Fleet and integrates commercially developed unmanned systems and artificial intelligence with traditional manned naval platforms. The offshore maneuver space includes Navy exercise areas south and southeast of Key West that the Coast Guard lists as hazardous to surface vessels until further notice.<\/p>\n \u2014 LOCAL: C. FL \u2014<\/p>\n \u201cSt. Cloud\u2019s experiment in outdoor drinking downtown gets a new boost<\/a>\u201d via Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel \u2014 Letting people walk around downtown with an alcoholic drink in hand \u2014 a rarity in Central Florida \u2014 was a bold gambit for St. Cloud. But five years later, the city says the move has been so successful that it is doubling down. Earlier this month, the Osceola County city passed an ordinance extending outdoor alcohol consumption within its downtown entertainment district to seven days a week, up from Wednesdays through Saturdays. Now, downtown bakery owner Laura Figueroa plans to start selling alcohol to take advantage of the new ordinance, hoping to attract more customers. \u201cMy customers have been asking for mimosas, so I\u2019m going to work on getting my alcohol license,\u201d said Figueroa, owner of Cakes Pastries & More.<\/p>\n \u201cBob Henriquez to make decision on Tampa mayoral bid in \u2018coming weeks\u2019<\/a>\u201d via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics \u2014 Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Henriquez said he will decide in the coming weeks whether to run for Tampa Mayor in 2027, signaling growing interest in the race. Henriquez, now in his fourth term and not up for re-election until 2028, praised several declared candidates but suggested the current field may not reflect what many residents want. The race already includes multiple contenders, with Bob Buckhorn preparing a bid and Tampa City Council members Bill Carlson and Lynn Hurtak running. Henriquez emphasized a desire for less political conflict and more focus on issues like transportation, neighborhoods and economic opportunity as he weighs his decision.<\/p>\n \u201cSuspect in USF student killings to remain jailed, judge says<\/a>\u201d via Tony Marrero and Dan Sullivan of the Tampa Bay Times \u2014 A suspect charged in the deaths of two University of South Florida graduate students will remain in custody without bond as the case moves forward. During a court hearing, a judge approved holding Hisham Abugharbieh after prosecutors sought pretrial detention. Authorities say Zamil Limon\u2019s body was found near the Howard Frankland Bridge, while a second set of remains discovered nearby has not yet been formally identified but is believed to be Nahida Bristy. Investigators allege evidence links the suspect to the crimes, including digital records and travel data. Friends and classmates attended the hearing, expressing grief and a desire for justice, while university community members plan memorials and tributes for the victims.<\/p>\n \u201cPort Tampa Bay lands $24M federal grant to expand capacity<\/a>\u201d via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics \u2014 The grant, from the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s Maritime Administration (MARAD) Port Infrastructure Development Program, will support the port\u2019s Berth 300 Extension Project at Port Redwing. The port covers $16 million of the total $40 million project to extend berth 300 by 800 feet. The expansion will create a 1,300-foot berth and establish 2,800 contiguous linear feet of berth space. \u201cThis investment enhances Port Tampa Bay\u2019s capacity to support Florida\u2019s position among the world\u2019s top economies, while improving supply chain efficiency and resilience across regional and national markets,\u201d Port Tampa Bay President and CEO Paul Anderson said.<\/p>\n \u201cScientology resubmits request for South Garden Avenue in Clearwater<\/a>\u201d via Cobi Edmonds of the Tampa Bay Times \u2014 The Church of Scientology has renewed a request to acquire a portion of South Garden Avenue downtown, alongside new proposals to vacate parts of Laura and Grove streets, an alleyway, and a city-owned parcel for a planned entertainment complex. The earlier Garden Avenue request drew legal and public scrutiny, with AG James Uthmeier warning that restricting the transfer could violate state law. City officials and residents have expressed concerns over undeveloped properties tied to the church, while a local coalition proposed alternatives to preserve community interests. The latest filings revive debate over ownership, development plans, and public transparency as city leaders weigh next steps on the roadway and land requests.<\/p>\n First on #FlaPol \u2014 \u201cCity Manager Reese Goad announces resignation ahead of pivotal election<\/a>\u201d via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat \u2014 Tallahassee City Manager Goad announced he will step down after nearly a decade in the role, with his retirement effective Sept. 30 or upon appointment of a successor. The move follows earlier reports that he did not plan to resign and comes amid ongoing political tensions within the City Commission. Goad\u2019s departure opens the possibility for current Commissioners to select a replacement ahead of the November election, which could shift the balance of power. During his tenure, Goad oversaw significant growth, major infrastructure projects and a roughly $1 billion budget, while also facing criticism over management decisions and controversial development and healthcare initiatives that divided city leaders and residents.<\/p>\n \u201cHe died in a Florida jail. The company in charge should have sent him to the hospital, experts say<\/a>\u201d via Nichole Manna of the Florida Trib \u2014 For 30 minutes, Brian Tracey lay naked and unable to breathe on the floor of the medical ward at the St. Johns County Detention Center. It was Dec. 15, 2023, the day Tracey was supposed to be released from jail. By the time deputies noticed him, it was too late. His girlfriend, who\u2019d posted bond for Tracey after nine days, waited outside for him but was instead greeted by a deputy and chaplain, who told her Tracey was dead. Four experts who reviewed available detention and autopsy records determined that Tracey should have been hospitalized based on symptoms he showed at the jail, which were later determined by an autopsy to be caused by pneumonia with COVID. He never was.<\/p>\n \u2014 TOP OPINION \u2014<\/p>\n \u201cCharlie Gray left a legacy of integrity<\/a>\u201d via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board \u2014 In Central Florida\u2019s modern history, a handful of names recur across the region\u2019s defining moments. Among them, Gray stands out for the breadth and durability of his influence. Gray, who died last week at 94, helped shape the trajectory of the Orlando area through law, infrastructure and economic development, leaving an imprint still visible in daily life.<\/p>\n Gray\u2019s fingerprints are on some of the region\u2019s most consequential milestones. He played a key role in efforts that brought Walt Disney World to Central Florida and championed a shift toward a year-round tourism economy. He also helped lay the groundwork for what became the University of Central Florida, now one of the largest universities in the nation.<\/p>\n His public service extended to transportation, where, as head of the Florida Turnpike Authority, he influenced the road network that supports the region\u2019s growth. The connection of Florida\u2019s Turnpike and Interstate 4 proved critical in solidifying Disney\u2019s decision to locate in the area, underscoring how infrastructure decisions can drive economic transformation.<\/p>\n A defining moment came in 1965, when Gray backed long-shot gubernatorial candidate Haydon Burns. After Burns\u2019 victory, Gray asked for support to fund a state university in Orlando, a request that ultimately led to the creation of Florida Technological University, later UCF. Burns also appointed Gray to lead the Turnpike Authority.<\/p>\n Over time, Gray built an extensive network as a lawyer and public official, including service as Orange County\u2019s attorney. While such influence sometimes drew scrutiny, supporters say he used it to broker solutions and bridge divides, even with former adversaries.<\/p>\n Tributes following his death highlight not only his accomplishments but his approach \u2014 pragmatic, collaborative and focused on long-term civic benefit. Those qualities helped shape a region and remain central to his legacy.<\/p>\n \u2014 MORE OPINIONS \u2014<\/p>\n \u201cCalling Trump a tyrant is not a call to violence<\/a>\u201d via Jonathan Chait of The Atlantic \u2014 Debate intensified after a recent attempt on Trump\u2019s life, with some conservatives arguing that harsh criticism of the President contributes to political violence, a claim disputed by critics. The argument centers on whether labeling Trump as authoritarian rhetoric encourages violent acts, though opponents say such claims conflate political speech with incitement. Analysts note that democratic systems provide nonviolent means to oppose leaders, and historical comparisons suggest political violence stems from more complex factors. The discussion also highlights broader concerns about escalating rhetoric across the political spectrum, the role of public figures in shaping discourse, and how violent incidents are interpreted and politicized in an increasingly polarized environment.<\/p>\n \u201cThe ballroom truthers have a theory<\/a>\u201d via Kaitlyn Tiffany of The Atlantic \u2014 Misinformation spread rapidly online after a shooting at the White House Correspondents\u2019 Dinner, with thousands of social media posts falsely claiming the incident was staged. Viral clips, misinterpreted remarks, and partial video feeds fueled speculation, while competing narratives emerged across political lines. Some suggested the event was orchestrated for political purposes, while others alleged external plots. Experts noted that social media amplifies conspiracy theories without necessarily reflecting widespread belief, and that public opinion can be difficult to measure accurately. Historical comparisons show that past assassination attempts often generate less speculation. Analysts also point to broader distrust in institutions and the influence of political rhetoric as factors driving rapid and persistent misinformation following high-profile incidents.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida enters the gerrymandering war \u2014 against its own voters<\/a>\u201d via Nick Weston for Florida Politics \u2014 Florida\u2019s escalating redistricting fight highlights broader concerns about political polarization and democratic stability, as new congressional maps threaten to reshape the state\u2019s electoral landscape. Critics argue the process undermines the Fair Districts Amendment, a voter-approved constitutional safeguard against partisan gerrymandering, while accelerating a national trend of drawing safe districts that reward ideological extremes. The piece connects these structural changes to rising political tensions, warning that rhetoric portraying elections as rigged can contribute to radicalization and even violence. While both parties bear responsibility for gerrymandering nationwide, Florida\u2019s situation stands out due to its constitutional constraints. The result, the argument goes, is a system that discourages compromise, weakens governance, and deepens divisions among citizens who share far more in common than politics suggests.<\/p>\n \u201cCory Mills should resign. Really, voters never should\u2019ve elected him<\/a>\u201d via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel \u2014 By most any definition, Mills is a trainwreck. The Republican Congressman from Florida has generated one embarrassing and scandalous headline after another, facing accusations of misrepresenting his service record, improperly mixing private business with his public job and making threats of revenge porn against a former girlfriend. This doesn\u2019t sound like a guy most people would want in their weekly poker group, much less the United States House of Representatives. Even if you want to believe all those accusations are unfair or unfounded \u2014 which Mills says they are \u2014 it\u2019s tough to ignore the court and police records.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s broken housing ladder<\/a>\u201d via Jeff Brandes for Florida Politics \u2014 Florida\u2019s housing market is increasingly out of reach for first-time buyers, particularly in places like Tampa, where rising prices and costs have erased traditional entry points into homeownership. A typical home price has climbed from about $250,000 in 2019 to nearly $400,000 today, far outpacing wage growth. While higher-end properties continue to sell, the middle market is tightening, and entry-level options have largely vanished. Renters are growing faster than homeowners, with many spending over half their income on housing, limiting savings for down payments. The result is delayed homeownership, longer commutes, workforce challenges, and slowing migration. Addressing the issue will require expanding housing supply, easing regulations, and rebuilding attainable pathways into ownership.<\/p>\n \u201cMoney for stadiums but not for Tampa\u2019s real priorities. How is that?<\/a>\u201d via Larry Clifton for the Tampa Bay Times \u2014 Local governments in the Tampa Bay region face scrutiny over how public funds are allocated, particularly in comparing investments in public safety and proposed stadium projects. A proposed $2.3 billion ballpark for the Tampa Bay Rays includes requests for more than $1 billion in public contributions. At the same time, police, fire and emergency services continue to manage rising costs, staffing needs and operational demands, often requiring detailed justification for budget increases. Public safety funding has generally grown alongside population and service needs, yet large development proposals tied to sports franchises frequently move forward with less resistance. The debate highlights broader questions about priorities, infrastructure, and the balance between economic development initiatives and essential government services.<\/p>\n \u201cChild abuse prevention starts long before a crisis<\/a>\u201d via Jewel Photopolus for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel \u2014 \u201cIf you see something, say something.\u201d It\u2019s a phrase most of us know well \u2014 and when it comes to protecting children, it matters. But if we are serious about preventing child abuse, we must be honest: True prevention goes deeper than reporting harm after it happens. It starts long before a situation reaches that point. True prevention means when you see something, you do something. Nearly 70% of children removed from their homes in the United States are taken due to neglect. In most cases, children are not being harmed because their parents don\u2019t care. They are being put at risk because their parents are overwhelmed, isolated and lacking the support they need to keep their families stable.<\/p>\n \u2014 INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY \u2014<\/p>\n \u2014 ALOE \u2014<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/WIMS-4.28.26-640x427.jpg\")
<\/a>Lauren Book continues the Walk in Marianna, nearing Tallahassee finish while amplifying survivor voices across Florida.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Sunburn-Ad.gif\")
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<\/a>Daniel Perez rebuffs Ron DeSantis\u2019 agenda items during Special Session, highlighting growing rift within Republican leadership in Tallahassee.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/teco_ad.jpg\")
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<\/a>Mohammad Jazil, an attorney for Ron DeSantis, right, and Jason Poreda, an analyst, present the Governor\u2019s congressional redistricting plan to the Senate Rules Committee.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/METAYER-BOWEN-1.webp.webp\")
<\/a>The House honors Nancy Metayer Bowen with a moment of silence, recognizing her leadership and lasting impact on the community and public service.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/moore_ad.jpg\")
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<\/a>Four more years: Wilton Simpson is ready for another term.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/thankyou-feca-v2.png\")
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<\/a>Dan Webster announces retirement from Congress, stepping away from re-election bid to spend more time with family.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/PP-EMAIL-600x400-1.jpg\")
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<\/a>Ron DeSantis weighs next political move, including potential Trump Cabinet role amid uncertain national trajectory.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/samsara_ad.jpg\")
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<\/a>Republicans face a challenging Midterm outlook as Donald Trump\u2019s approval dips and Democratic momentum builds nationwide.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/2026-Florida-Politics-Sunburn-1-e1773436524457.png\")
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<\/a>Shlomo Danzinger wins Surfside Mayor Runoff by a narrow margin, defeating Tina Paul after an extended vote count.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Abbey-Ajayi-BLUE-ART-640x360.jpg\")
<\/a>Abiodun Ajayi agrees to a $4,000 fine to settle a campaign misconduct complaint involving the misuse of county resources.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777450116_779_ad-for-sunburn-sadowski.png\")
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<\/a>Laura Figueroa eyes alcohol sales as St. Cloud expands downtown outdoor drinking to seven days a week. Image via the Orlando Sentinel.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/UCF-Gaming-600x400-1.gif\")
<\/a>\u2014 LOCAL: TB \u2014<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/bob-henriquez-BLUE-ART-640x360.jpg\")
<\/a>Bob Henriquez weighs a decision on a Tampa mayoral bid in the coming weeks as the 2027 race begins to take shape.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Ad-DiCeglie-Delivering-Results_2.jpg\")
<\/a>\u2014 LOCAL: N. FL \u2014<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/reese-goad-copy-640x464.jpg\")
<\/a>Reese Goad announces resignation as Tallahassee City Manager ahead of the election, opening the path for a leadership change.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Graphic-Abbott-Delivering-Results-600x400jpg.jpg\")
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<\/a>Nik Wallenda to headline New College commencement, bringing Sarasota high-wire icon to 2026 graduation ceremony.<\/p>\n