Unlike Gotham, we have our reasons: a late-running Legislative Session, back-to-back Special Sessions, the late signing of the state budget, and the intensity of the St. Petersburg mayoral race, to which I am the chief volunteer.<\/p>\n
Two pieces of housekeeping. If you\u2019ve purchased an ad and need to switch out your copy, please get the new version to us by Aug. 17. And if you\u2019re being featured in this edition, look for me to be in touch to make sure everything in your story is still current.<\/p>\n
At least you won\u2019t have to wait until 2028.<\/p>\n
___<\/p>\n
Please consider my latest \u201cFrom the Eddy\u201d column for FloridAI<\/a>. This is a rundown of what I read about AI recently, with one-stamp verdicts. Back after a long gap with nine verdicts, one Greek Summer, and a new rule of thumb. Healthcare was government in the 90s. AI is government now. Read the column here<\/a>.<\/p>\n ___<\/p>\n Mary Clare Hubbard is trading the Governor\u2019s Office for the private sector, taking over as HCA Florida Healthcare\u2019s top government affairs executive in the state.<\/p>\n Hubbard joins the health system as vice president of Government Relations, Florida, where she will oversee legislative advocacy, political strategy, and government affairs across HCA Healthcare\u2019s operations in the company\u2019s largest market.<\/p>\n Hubbard most recently served as Legislative Affairs Director in Gov. Ron DeSantis\u2018 office, a role she took over in May 2025. There, she managed the Governor\u2019s legislative agenda, served as the administration\u2019s primary liaison to the Legislature, and advised senior officials on policy and political priorities.<\/p>\n Before that, she was Deputy Legislative Affairs Director in the Executive Office of the Governor, Legislative and Cabinet Affairs Director at the Florida Department of Commerce and held government relations positions with TECO Energy.<\/p>\n \u201cMary Clare is an excellent addition to our team,\u201d said Cat O\u2019Mara, HCA Healthcare\u2019s vice president of Government Relations. \u201cShe brings a deep understanding of Florida\u2019s policy landscape, strong political instincts, and a proven ability to build lasting relationships.\u201d<\/p>\n The move drew praise from top state officials who have worked alongside Hubbard.<\/p>\n \u201cMary Clare has been an invaluable member of the Governor\u2019s team and a trusted adviser on many of Florida\u2019s most significant legislative priorities,\u201d said Jason Weida, Chief of Staff to DeSantis. \u201cWhile we will certainly miss her, I know she will continue making a meaningful impact for HCA Florida Healthcare and the patients and communities it serves.\u201d<\/p>\n Sen. Jim Boyd called Hubbard \u201cone of Florida\u2019s most respected public policy professionals,\u201d while House Speaker-designate Sam Garrison said she has earned \u201cthe respect of my colleagues in the House\u201d and will be \u201can outstanding addition to the HCA Florida leadership team.\u201d<\/p>\n HCA Florida Healthcare operates more than 670 sites of care statewide, including 50 hospitals, freestanding emergency departments, ambulatory surgery centers, physician practices, and urgent care centers.<\/p>\n POLITICO Florida\u2019s Kimberly Leonard previously reported Hubbard was exiting the EOG, though her private sector destination wasn\u2019t known until now.<\/p>\n ___<\/p>\n New-car dealers are handing the keys to just their fifth president in 106 years \u2014 and the pick comes straight from the Governor\u2019s Office.<\/p>\n The Florida Automobile Dealers Association announced Peter Cuderman as its next president, effective Aug. 1. He succeeds retiring President Ted Smith, who has led the association since 2001, and takes charge of a trade group whose more than 850 member dealerships generate over $110 billion in annual sales and more than $6 billion in state sales tax \u2014 roughly 15% of total collections and the state\u2019s single largest source.<\/p>\n Cuderman comes to FADA after serving as Gov. DeSantis\u2019 Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs Director, where his portfolio included franchise-protection legislation and day-to-day coordination with lawmakers, constitutional officers, and state agencies. A Marine Corps veteran and lawyer with a master\u2019s degree in public administration from Harvard University, he also sits on the Florida Gaming Control Commission.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s franchised dealers are the backbone of Main Street in every one of our 67 counties \u2014 they employ hundreds of thousands of Floridians, put roofs over Little League dugouts, and generate the sales tax that pays for our roads and schools,\u201d Cuderman said. FADA Board Chair Chris Kraft called him a unanimous pick with \u201cdeep policy experience, a track record on dealer-protection legislation, and the kind of executive judgment\u201d to build on Smith\u2019s legacy.<\/p>\n CFO Blaise Ingoglia and Attorney General James Uthmeier vouched for the incoming president as well \u2014 Ingoglia called him \u201cone of the hardest working individuals I\u2019ve had the pleasure to work with,\u201d and Uthmeier said he\u2019s confident Cuderman \u201cwill provide top-notch representation to Florida\u2019s auto dealers.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 SITUATIONAL AWARENESS \u2014 <\/p>\n \u2014 @RealDonaldTrump: Iranian Leadership is unbelievably duplicitous! They ask for a meeting, some would say \u201cbeg,\u201d talks begin, with more scheduled in the immediate future, and they say, openly and proudly, that they\u2019re not having any discussions, that nothing is being talked about, and they\u2019re only dealing with \u201cOman.\u201d They then go on to give their usual blather in saying, the Strait of Hormuz will be operated powerfully by them, when it is already completely controlled by the United States Navy and our \u201cBlockade\u201d or, as some say, \u201cThe United States Wall of Steel!\u201d Nothing gets through to Iran unless we want it to, and nothing will get through unless a Deal, or Total Surrender, is accomplished. Whether Iran wants to admit it or not, we are, in fact, talking of a solution to a problem that they have caused, for decades. It is very simple: IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON! Thank you for your attention to this matter.<\/p>\n \u2014 @Acyn: Reporter: Why is the U.S. intervening to support the Japanese yen at this time? (President Donald) Trump: Japan\u2019s been very good to us, with the exception, of course, of Pearl Harbor.<\/p>\n \u2014 @MarcACaputo: The GOP has struggled to attract nonwhite voters, which has been well-covered due largely to the racism of a vocal portion of the conservative base. Less covered: the Dem Party has a photo-negative risk: The more the left trashes whites, the more they can drift rightward<\/p>\n \u2014 @MegForFlorida: David Jolly called (Anthony) Fauci\u2019s record \u201cunimpeachable.\u201d That alone should make him unelectable.<\/p>\n \u2014 @DKThomp: Marvelous examination of how to spot 2026-era AI writing, via the Economist \u2014 AI likes long sentences with less punctuation; \u201cand\u201d is its most overused word \u2014 relatedly, lists of three things, which drives up use of \u201cand\u201d as well \u2014 polysyllabic adjectives: \u201csignificant,\u201d \u201cincreasingly\u201d \u2014 scientific jargon (\u201crate-limiting,\u201d \u201cparameter\u201d) \u2014 nominalizations (making nouns from verbs: e.g., \u201cexpansion\u201d from \u201cexpand\u201d) \u2014 ofc, everyone\u2019s favorite: \u201cit\u2019s not X, it\u2019s Y\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 @TheTennisLetter: Aryna Sabalenka says she supports WTA\u2019s Mandatory Gene Test \u201cThe WTA recently announced that the players will take a one-time gender test. How do you feel about that, the first pro league to go in that direction?\u201d Aryna: \u201cI think it\u2019s really important to keep the fairness in our tour. It\u2019s obviously, biologically, the men are way stronger than women, so I feel like it would be not really fair for the woman to compete against biological man. I believe it took them a little while to make this decision and, yeah, I support it. But for me, I\u2019m focusing on myself, on my goals, you know, whatever it takes. If they want to test us all, I\u2019m happy to do that; it\u2019s pretty fair, and let\u2019s keep it that way.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 @CollegeFBonX: Mondays can be tough but just remember that on a day very soon from now you\u2019ll wake up to a crisp mid-50 degree Fall morning, turn on your TV to College Gameday while drinking your coffee and then sit on your couch for the next 14 hours watching college football nonstop.<\/p>\n \u2014 DAYS UNTIL \u2014 <\/p>\n \u2018Ted Lasso\u2019 season 4 premieres \u2014 1; Primary Election ballot request deadline \u2014 2; Mandatory Primary early voting begins \u2014 4; \u2018Lanterns\u2019 premieres on HBO \u2014 12; Primary Election Day \u2014 14; \u2018The Dog Stars,\u2019 directed by Ridley Scott, premieres \u2014 24; Florida TaxWatch Government Productivity Awards \u2014 28; NFL regular season kicks off \u2014 36; Republican National Midterm Convention \u2014 36; San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in the first-ever NFL regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia \u2014 38; Yankees host the Mets for the 9\/11 anniversary \u2014 38; MLB Roberto Clemente Day \u2014 42; General Election UOCAVA ballot deadline \u2014 46; Tampa Bay Buccaneers home opener against the Cleveland Browns \u2014 47; General Election domestic ballot send window begins \u2014 51; General Election domestic ballot send deadline \u2014 58; \u2018Digger,\u2019 with Tom Cruise, directed by Alejandro G. I\u00f1\u00e1rritu, premieres \u2014 59; General Election voter registration deadline \u2014 62; \u2018The Social Network\u2019 sequel, with Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison, premieres \u2014 66; Optional General early voting begins \u2014 76; \u2018Six Kings Slam\u2019 on Netflix \u2014 78; Florida TaxWatch Fiscal Accountability Leadership Summit begins \u2014 78; General Election ballot request deadline \u2014 79; Mandatory General early voting begins \u2014 81; General Election \u2014 91; \u2018Godzilla Minus Zero\u2019 premieres \u2014 94; \u2018Wild Horse Nine\u2019 premieres \u2014 94; Florida Automated Vehicles Summit \u2014 99; \u2018Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol\u2019 starring Johnny Depp premieres \u2014 101; Joe Biden\u2019s memoir, \u2018Promise Me,\u2019 releases \u2014 105; New legislator training sessions \u2014 105; Senate convenes for general organization and selection of officers \u2014 105; \u2018The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping\u2019 premieres \u2014 108; \u2018The Adventures of Cliff Booth,\u2019 with Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, premieres \u2014 113; \u2018Madden\u2019 premieres \u2014 114; Committee Week #1 \u2014 118; Untitled \u2018Star Wars\u2019 movie premieres \u2014 136; \u2018Avengers: Doomsday\u2019 premieres \u2014 136; \u2018Dune: Part 3,\u2019 directed by Denis Villeneuve, premieres \u2014 136; Committee Week #2 \u2014 153; Committee Week #3 \u2014 160; College Football Playoff national championship game in Las Vegas \u2014 174; Grammys \u2014 187; Committee Week #5 \u2014 188; Super Bowl LXI \u2014 194; Committee Week #6 \u2014 195; Opening day of the 2027 Regular Legislative Session \u2014 210; Tampa Mayoral Election \u2014 210; \u2018The Thomas Crown Affair,\u2019 directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan premieres \u2014 213; Oscars \u2014 222; Jacksonville First Election \u2014 231; Democratic Mayors Association 2027 annual summit in Miami begins \u2014 253; Jacksonville General Election \u2014 287; \u2018Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse\u2019 premieres \u2014 305; \u2018Bluey the Movie\u2019 premieres \u2014 367; \u2018Miami Vice\u2019 reboot premieres \u2014 367; \u2018The Batman Part II\u2019 premieres \u2014 423; \u2018Avengers: Secret Wars\u2019 premieres \u2014 500; College Football Playoff national championship game in New Orleans \u2014 538; Oscars \u2014 579; \u2018Lilo & Stitch 2\u2019 premieres \u2014 661; \u2018Incredibles 3\u2019 premieres \u2014 682; 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony \u2014 710; 2028 U.S. Presidential Election \u2014 826; \u2018Black Panther 3\u2019 directed by Ryan Coogler premieres \u2014 864; College Football Playoff national championship game in Tampa \u2014 902; \u2018Avatar 4\u2019 premieres \u2014 1,226; College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami \u2014 1,266; \u2018Avatar 5\u2019 premieres \u2014 1,957.<\/p>\n \u2014 TOP STORY \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cFlorida Sheriffs \u2018significantly concerned\u2019 over property tax amendment<\/a>\u201d via Jim Rosica of USA Today Network \u2014 Florida \u2014 The Florida Sheriffs Association, which bills itself as \u201cthe nation\u2019s largest \u2026 law enforcement association,\u201d issued a statement of \u201cconcern\u201d about the proposed property tax amendment on the November statewide ballot.<\/p>\n The group posted on X Monday that it was \u201csignificantly concerned with Constitutional Amendment 3.\u201d<\/p>\n The ballot initiative, according to the post, \u201cpotentially allows Tallahassee to control your local budgets, creates longer law enforcement response times, limits communities\u2019 abilities to provide road repairs and stormwater removal \u2013 these are a few of the things voters deserve to be aware of.\u201d<\/p>\n The announcement follows the group\u2019s recent Summer conference, which featured an appearance from DeSantis \u2014 the original main backer of the amendment.<\/p>\n It also follows outright opposition from the Florida State Fraternal Order of Police, Florida Professional Firefighters and the Florida Fire Chiefs Association.<\/p>\n \u2014 2026 \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cByron Donalds says he\u2019ll set Flock camera rules with sheriffs, police chiefs<\/a>\u201c via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics \u2014 Donalds says that if he is elected in November, he will work with law enforcement leadership to set parameters around Flock cameras and related technology. Donalds, who previously called for a \u201cfull and immediate pause\u201d on the adoption of Flock and similar systems, signaled a more gradual approach after a recent conversation with the Florida Sheriffs Association. More than 100 law enforcement agencies in the state use Flock license plate reader (LPR) cameras. \u201cWhat we want to do is work with the Sheriffs Association and Police Chiefs and say, all right, what\u2019s in the wheelhouse of possibilities? And let\u2019s be very clear and direct about what the limitations are, what the policies are around that. We are not going to tolerate abuse of these programs,\u201d Donalds said on the \u201cBald Eagles\u201d podcast.<\/p>\n \u201cDon Gaetz: Next Governor should review KidCare challenge before continuing Ron DeSantis\u2019 fight<\/a>\u201c via Christine Sexton of Florida Phoenix \u2014 Sen. Gaetz talks to reporters outside Senate chambers on March 10, 2026. DeSantis has spent two years in court arguing with the federal government over a requirement that Florida ensure children enrolled in a Medicaid-funded safety-net healthcare program remain continuously eligible for one year. With DeSantis leaving office in five months, a leading Senate Republican says Florida\u2019s next Governor should take a close look at the legal challenges and consider dropping them. So, the state turned down the approval, and instead the DeSantis administration challenged CMS in federal court. \u201cThere has to be an examination, it would seem to me, by the new Governor. And I don\u2019t think when [Republican gubernatorial hopeful] Byron Donalds is sworn in that he necessarily would pursue inherited litigation without examining it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJay Collins still waiting on DeSantis endorsement<\/a>\u201d via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics \u2014 With just 15 days remaining before the Republican Primary, Collins says DeSantis has yet to endorse a candidate for Governor but notes he remains the only contender the Governor has \u201cnot said no\u201d to. Collins pointed to his selection as DeSantis\u2019 Lieutenant Governor as evidence their relationship remains strong, despite continued speculation about the missing endorsement. During an interview with Jim DeFede, Collins dismissed reports that tensions exist between him and DeSantis, saying political observers should not rely on insider chatter. The unanswered endorsement question comes as Collins continues to face allegations that he made threatening remarks about former DeSantis political adviser Taryn Fenske, claims that were not raised during the interview.<\/p>\n \u201cJames Fishback admits \u2018oversight\u2019 after lawsuit claims he stiffed debate champ out of $8,000<\/a>\u201c via Frank Kopylov of Florida\u2019s Voice \u2014 Fishback is being sued in Broward County small claims court for $8,000 in unpaid scholarship money promised to a former high school debate champion who competed in a program he founded. In response, Fishback told Florida\u2019s Voice the matter was \u201can oversight on our part\u201d and said, \u201cwe are fixing it.\u201d Briana Vanessa Whatley filed the lawsuit July 27 against Fishback and Incubate Foundation Inc., which does business as Incubate Debate. The suit seeks the remaining balance of an $11,000 scholarship package Whatley says she earned during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, plus interest, court costs and attorney\u2019s fees. Court filings include text messages in which Fishback acknowledged dropping the ball. In one, he wrote, \u201cI totally dropped the ball on this.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 MORE ELECTIONS \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cRedrawn districts boost GOP voter registration edge<\/a>\u201d via Jim Saunders of State Affairs Florida \u2014 Republicans now hold voter registration advantages in four newly redrawn congressional districts after the Legislature and DeSantis approved a rare mid-decade redistricting plan aimed at strengthening the GOP\u2019s position in the battle for the U.S. House. The biggest shift came in Central Florida\u2019s District 9, where Darren Soto now faces a nearly 60,000-voter Republican registration advantage after the District was expanded into more conservative counties. Similar changes reshaped districts represented by Kathy Castor, Lois Frankel and Debbie Wasserman Schultz, while Jared Moskowitz is running in the newly configured District 25, which election analysts rate as a toss-up because of its large number of no-party-affiliated voters.<\/p>\n Tim Sheehy, Connie Mack III back Dan Green in CD 9 \u2014 Republican Green is adding two Senate endorsements in his bid for CD 9, announcing support from Sen. Sheehy of Montana and former U.S. Sen. Mack. Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL, served alongside Green in Afghanistan. \u201cDan Green and I served in some of the most dangerous and unforgiving battlefields of Afghanistan, where leading from the front and working as a team made the difference between life and death,\u201d Sheehy said. \u201cHe is exactly the kind of conservative fighter and patriot we need in Congress. I have no doubt Dan will deliver results for hard-working Floridians and families across the country, and I\u2019m proud to give him my support.\u201d Mack added: \u201cDan Green is the true conservative fighter we need in Congress. Dan is all about service to country and getting the job done. He is the leader and team player Florida and America needs.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMajor healthcare union backs \u2018battle-tested\u2019 Shevrin Jones in competitive CD 24 race<\/a>\u201c via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics \u2014 A major healthcare workers\u2019 union is backing state Sen. Jones\u2018 campaign in Florida\u2019s 24th Congressional District, where he hopes to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson. 1199SEIU Florida, which represents more than 25,000 healthcare employees in hospitals and nursing homes throughout the state, is endorsing Jones based on his track record of fighting for working families and expanding healthcare access. \u201cSouth Florida is ground zero for the affordability crisis and so many other serious issues facing working families in our state, and we need a dedicated champion like Shevrin Jones standing up for us in the U.S. House of Representatives. As a state Senator and Representative in Tallahassee for almost 15 years, he\u2019s battle-tested in the fight for everyday Floridians while greedy billionaires and big business use their connections to cheat the system,\u201d said Coy Jones, political director of 1199SEIU Florida.<\/p>\n \u2014 EVEN MORE ELECTIONS \u2014 <\/p>\n Ashley Gantt debuts first ad in SD 34 race \u2014 The campaign for state Rep. Gantt, a Miami Democrat running for Senate District 34, launched a new ad highlighting her commitment to putting families and communities first, protecting public education and fighting back against \u201cpolitical distractions.\u201d \u201cWhile Ron DeSantis chose fights over culture wars, I\u2019ve stayed focused on what families and Miami-Dade County actually need,\u201d Gantt says in the 90-second spot. \u201cIn the Florida House, I saw Ron DeSantis play politics with our kids\u2019 classrooms, while the real problems go ignored. I proudly stood up to that agenda, fighting for our schools, our families and our freedom to live our lives. Now, I\u2019m ready to take that fight to the Florida Senate. Family first. Community first. That\u2019s how I\u2019ll lead in the Senate.\u201d<\/p>\n Watch the ad here:<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 STATEWIDE \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cLegislature sets 2027 Session dates, with Committee meetings beginning this Fall<\/a>\u201c via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics \u2014 The Legislature has set its schedule for Committee hearings ahead of the 2027 Legislative Session. The Regular Session for the Senate and House won\u2019t get underway until March 2. But there are several weeks of Committee meetings scheduled well before that. Senate Secretary Tracy C. Cantella released the interim schedule on Monday. Initially, the Senate will convene on Nov. 17 for \u201cgeneral organization and selection of officers.\u201d The first item of work for legislators in both chambers will be training sessions that will run from Nov. 17 through Nov. 19. Legislative Committees will then begin work on addressing and formulating bills and other issues on Nov. 30. \u201cThis schedule is intended to provide ample time for Committee work, while allowing time in December for family and holiday celebrations,\u201d Cantella said.<\/p>\n \u201cSworn testimony: Another House aide, son of former MLB star, said Fabi\u00e1n Basabe propositioned him for sex<\/a>\u201c via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics \u2014 Many South Florida voters have heard by now about multiple accusations of sexual impropriety by Rep. Basabe, but sworn deposition testimony Florida Politics acquired shows the son of a former baseball star saying Basabe propositioned him for three-way sex. Jackson Damon, a lobbyist who at the time worked as an aide to Montverde Republican Rep. Taylor Yarkosky, also claimed Basabe propositioned him in a newly uncovered deposition Nov. 13, 2024. He is the son of retired MLB player Johnny Damon. Damon, a friend of Frevola\u2019s, testified that during an outing with lawmakers and aides, possibly a dinner, Basabe suggested Damon should join him and his boyfriend, Renato Freitas, in the bedroom. \u201cI believe he said, \u2018You should have a threesome with Renato and I,\u2019\u201d Damon said. \u201cI kind of ignored it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBasabe told voters when he\u2019d resign. That time has come<\/a>\u201d via Mary Anna Mancuso of the Miami Herald \u2014 Basabe should resign. Two weeks ago, a jury found Basabe liable in a civil case involving sexual harassment, battery and defamation claims by two former legislative staffers. Basabe, who is not a lawyer, represented himself. He was ordered to pay $450,000 in damages to the men. For most elected officials, that verdict would immediately raise serious questions about their fitness to serve. In Basabe\u2019s case, there aren\u2019t even any questions about what he should do, because he already told his constituents. He said \u2014 on video \u2014 that he\u2019d resign if the allegations were proven true.<\/p>\n \u2014 D.C. MATTERS \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cDonald Trump pressures oil giants over gas prices<\/a>\u201d via James Bikales of POLITICO \u2014 Trump publicly rebuked Exxon Mobil and Chevron after both companies reported strong quarterly profits, arguing they are benefiting from higher gasoline prices while Americans struggle at the pump. Trump urged the companies to lower retail fuel prices, saying they are \u201cmaking too much money\u201d because of supply disruptions tied to the Middle East conflict. The comments come as average U.S. gasoline prices hover around $4.10 per gallon and the administration faces mounting political pressure ahead of the Midterm Elections. Chevron declined to comment, while the American Petroleum Institute said fuel prices are driven by global supply, demand and shipping disruptions rather than any single company. Exxon did not immediately respond to requests for comment.<\/p>\n \u201cTodd Blanche clears key Senate confirmation hurdle<\/a>\u201d via Michael Gold and Andrew Duehren of The New York Times \u2014 Blanche secured the support of Republican Sens. John Cornyn and Thom Tillis after the Justice Department formally abandoned parts of a controversial settlement tied to Trump\u2019s lawsuit against the IRS. Blanche issued a memo rescinding a proposed $1.8 billion \u201canti-weaponization fund\u201d and narrowed audit protections for Trump, his sons and the Trump Organization, addressing concerns that had threatened his confirmation. The move clears the way for the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance Blanche\u2019s nomination as Attorney General. Democrats continue to criticize the revised agreement, arguing it still provides unprecedented benefits to Trump and fails to resolve broader concerns about the settlement.<\/p>\n \u201cSenate advances stopgap funding bill toward passage<\/a>\u201d via Katherine Tully-McManus of POLITICO \u2014 The Senate overwhelmingly voted 89-4 to advance a stopgap spending bill that would fund the federal government through Dec. 11, positioning lawmakers to avoid an Oct. 1 shutdown before leaving for the August recess. The bipartisan measure now heads toward a final Senate vote but faces a potential showdown with the House because the chambers passed different versions. The Senate bill would temporarily block the Trump administration from shifting grant approval authority to political appointees and prevent additional funding for Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement beyond current levels. Senate leaders must still reach a bipartisan agreement to expedite final passage before lawmakers depart for recess.<\/p>\n \u201cDOJ says it\u2019s not investigating Anna Paulina Luna for alleged insider trading<\/a>\u201c via Shauna Muckle of Tampa Bay Times \u2014 GOP Rep. Luna publicized a letter from the Department of Justice that says the department has not investigated her for allegations involving insider trading in prediction markets. Luna has for weeks strenuously denied a July Wall Street Journal report in which an unnamed source alleged that Luna said she shared insider information, divulging Trump\u2019s pick for Vice President to a GOP influencer. Luna said Rogan O\u2019Handley, known online as D.C. Draino, used her tip to place a winning bet on Polymarket, a political betting platform. Luna posted the letter from the Justice Department, dated July 22 and written by Associate Deputy Attorney General Diego Pestana. \u201cLet\u2019s set the record straight: This disgusting attempt to politically smear me fell flat on its face because it was based on lies,\u201d Luna posted on X Monday.<\/p>\n \u2014 LOCAL: S. FL \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cBay of Pigs Veterans Association chapter backs Vicki Lopez for Miami-Dade Commission<\/a>\u201c via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics \u2014 A Cuban exile veterans\u2019 group is getting behind Miami-Dade Commissioner\u00a0Lopez\u2019s\u00a0effort to keep her District 5 seat at County Hall. The Bay of Pigs Veterans Association, Brigade 2506, whose new museum opened this year, endorsed Lopez in a letter thanking her for years of friendship and support, highlighting her efforts to recognize its members\u2019 service and participation in commemorative events. \u201cThe heroes of Brigade 2506 represent extraordinary courage and an unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom,\u201d she said. \u201cThroughout my time in public service, it has been a privilege to stand alongside these veterans, honor their sacrifices, and help preserve their legacy. I will always be grateful for their friendship and remain committed to ensuring that future generations never forget their service or the values they fought to defend.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cActivists renew calls for Miami to end ICE agreement. Eileen Higgins is in support<\/a>\u201d via Tess Riski of the Miami Herald \u2014 With thousands of Haitians in South Florida facing uncertainty after losing their work authorizations last week, activists are renewing their calls to Miami\u2019s elected officials to rescind the city\u2019s immigration enforcement agreement with ICE. About a dozen organizers gathered outside City Hall to call on Mayor Higgins and City Commissioners to end the 287(g) agreement the city entered into last Summer despite overwhelming public outcry. The federal program empowers local law enforcement officers to conduct immigration enforcement actions.<\/p>\n \u201cBroward hospitals expand partnership, eye possible merger<\/a>\u201d via Michelle Marchante of the Miami Herald \u2014 Shane Strum says Broward Health and Memorial Healthcare System are deepening their collaboration to improve access to care across Broward County while leaving open the possibility of a future merger if state lawmakers approve. The public hospital systems are expanding shared services, physician leadership and specialty care, including cancer treatment, neuroscience and pediatrics, while planning more than a dozen new facilities over the next several years. Strum also envisions creating Florida\u2019s largest pediatric network by partnering with Nicklaus Children\u2019s Health System and Joe DiMaggio Children\u2019s Hospital. He said negotiations with Florida Blue are progressing and expressed optimism that the insurer and Broward Health could soon reach an agreement restoring in-network coverage for patients.<\/p>\n \u2014 LOCAL: C. FL \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cAlicia Farrant, Angie Gallo face off in Orange County School Board Chair race with big stakes<\/a>\u201c via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics \u2014 Orange County voters will elect the next School Board Chair in the August Primary, but the race carries implications that extend far beyond the four-year term. Whoever wins the contest \u2014 either Gallo or Farrant \u2014 will lead a rookie School Board in hiring the next Superintendent to run Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), the eighth-largest school system in the country. The District is facing uncertain times since current Superintendent Maria Vazquez, who has led since 2022, announced her retirement, effective at the end of the upcoming 2026-27 school year. \u201cIt\u2019s really going to be important to have a courageous leader at the helm to make sure that we are selecting a Superintendent who\u2019s focused on wholesome foundational education and really keeping the District focused on what matters most, which is education,\u201d Farrant said.<\/p>\n \u201cLeague of Women Voters, Central Florida Urban League plan get-out-the-vote volunteer day in Orlando<\/a>\u201c via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics \u2014 The League of Women Voters of Orange County (LWVOC), the Central Florida Urban League and other organizations are rallying Saturday to help get out the vote among Generation Z and millennial voters in one Orlando precinct known for lower turnout. Saturday\u2019s \u201cUnite & Rise for Voting Rights\u201d Day of Action is part of a national effort to encourage voter participation. The Orlando coalition is focusing on Precinct 603, which had nearly 54% turnout in the 2024 General Election. \u201cDemocracy doesn\u2019t defend itself \u2014 people do,\u201d said Celina Stewart, CEO of the National League of Women Voters. \u201cOn Aug. 8, communities across the country are coming together to send a clear message: our democracy belongs to the people. This Day of Action is a declaration that voters are ready to protect the fundamental right that makes all others possible \u2014 the freedom to vote.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cVolusia budget fight exposes School Board tensions<\/a>\u201d via Mark Harper of the Daytona Beach News-Journal \u2014 A contentious debate over Volusia County Schools\u2019 tentative $1.1 billion budget and property tax rate exposed political divisions on the School Board ahead of the Aug. 18 elections. Superintendent Carmen Balgobin warned that delaying approval could jeopardize $196 million in state education funding, trigger staff layoffs and disrupt the school year. After initially threatening to vote no, Board members Jamie Haynes and Jessie Thompson ultimately backed the proposals, citing the consequences for students and teachers. Donna Brosemer remained opposed to both the tax rate and budget, while Krista Goodrich voted against the spending plan. The final tax rate and budget are scheduled for adoption Sept. 8.<\/p>\n \u201cTourist sues Disney after she says she fractured ribs, got traumatic brain injury on Tron<\/a>\u201c via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics \u2014 A California tourist is suing Disney after she said she fractured her ribs and suffered a traumatic brain injury riding Tron Lightcycle Run at the Magic Kingdom in March. Donna Christine Sole and her husband, of Glendale, California, filed the lawsuit last month in Orange County Circuit Court. Sole, who is 5 feet tall, wasn\u2019t able to properly position herself on the roller coaster because of her petite size. \u201cBecause of Plaintiff\u2019s stature, she was required to fully extend her body forward in order to properly position herself on the ride vehicle and reach the handlebars, causing her body to assume an unnatural forward-leaning riding position throughout the ride,\u201d the lawsuit said, describing the ride as having \u201csubstantial acceleration, deceleration, banking, turning, vibration.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cUCF student sounds the alarm that School Psychologist training program lost accreditation<\/a>\u201d via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics \u2014 A University of Central Florida student is raising the alarm that the university\u2019s school psychology program lost its accreditation, a change the student warned carries enormous consequences. The student\u2019s anonymous ethics complaint was released to Florida Politics following a public records request. School documents said UCF Senior Vice Provost of Academic Affairs Timothy Letzring interviewed students about the school psychology program, then wrote a February email about his review to explain what\u2019s happening to the program in the future. On July 15, Florida Politics requested that email and records from his student interviews. Three weeks later, UCF failed to produce any records despite repeated questions from Florida Politics.<\/p>\n \u2014 LOCAL: TB \u2014 <\/p>\n \u2014 \u201c6 things (at least) I think about the latest poll of the St. Pete mayoral race<\/a>\u201c via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics<\/p>\n \u2014 \u201cCharlie Crist says executive experience will end St. Petersburg\u2019s pattern of failed development deals<\/a>\u201c via Emma Behrmann of Tampa Bay Business Journal<\/p>\n \u2014 \u201cCrist grows fundraising lead, again, by a lot<\/a>\u201c via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics<\/p>\n \u201cTampa General to launch emergency blood drone network<\/a>\u201d via Chuck Merlis of Tampa Bay Business and Wealth \u2014 Tampa General Hospital plans to launch what it says is the nation\u2019s first emergency medical services-operated drone network to deliver whole blood directly to trauma scenes. Developed with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, USF Health, OneBlood and other partners, the program will station drones at two fire stations covering about 70 square miles, with average delivery times of less than three minutes. Officials say the system will allow first responders to request blood while en route to severe trauma calls, improving survival odds for patients experiencing life-threatening blood loss. The program is expected to begin in October, pending Hillsborough County Commission approval on Sept. 2, with expansion possible if the pilot proves successful.<\/p>\n \u2014 LOCAL: N. FL \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cKaren Feagins named new leader of Jacksonville\u2019s WJCT public broadcasting outlets<\/a>\u201c via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics \u2014 Feagins has been named president and CEO of WJCT, the home of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and National Public Radio (NPR) broadcasting outlets for the First Coast well into South Florida. Feagins is filling the position that was vacated by David McGowen, who retired in April. Geri Cirillo filled that slot on an interim basis until Feagins was given the nod. Bill Hendrich, Chair of the WJCT Public Media Board of Trustees and Chair of WJCT\u2019s Executive Search Committee, said Feagins is the right fit for the top slot. \u201cKaren represents exactly what we were looking for as the next leader for WJCT Public Media. She is a talented executive who has a passion for public media and serving the community in which she lives,\u201d Hendrich said.<\/p>\n \u201cLake City leaders to debate Flock cameras, possible citywide vote in November<\/a>\u201d via Chris Will of News4Jax \u2014 The Lake City City Council is set to take up a debate playing out in communities across the country: the use of camera and sensor technology that can track vehicles and collect data \u2014 and whether it\u2019s a public safety tool or an overreach. According to the resolution, voters would be asked whether the City of Lake City or its contractors should continue installing and maintaining automatic license plate readers and cameras that collect and store license plate and other vehicular data. City documents also stress the result would be nonbinding \u2014 meaning the vote would not automatically change city policy without further action by city leaders, but it would show where voters stand.<\/p>\n \u201cAirplane makes emergency landing on Interstate 10<\/a>\u201d via the Pensacola News-Journal \u2014 A small airplane made an emergency landing on Interstate 10 on Monday morning, according to the Escambia County Sheriff\u2019s Office. The incident occurred around 9:55 a.m. near mile marker 14 of the interstate. A pilot and flight student reported a mechanical issue that forced an emergency landing on the eastbound lane of the interstate in the area between Davis Highway and Scenic Highway. No injuries were reported, according to the Sheriff\u2019s Office. The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed no other vehicles were involved. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the emergency landing was necessitated by an engine failure.<\/p>\n \u2014 LOCAL: SW. FL \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cRecords raise questions about Jim DeNiro complaint<\/a>\u201d via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics \u2014 Newly released public records raise new questions about the origins of a Florida Elections Commission complaint filed against DeNiro, a Sarasota County Commission candidate challenging Joe Neunder. The records show Neunder contacted Sarasota County Property Appraiser Bill Furst the same day the office began reviewing DeNiro\u2019s homestead records, while an email seeking information about DeNiro\u2019s exemption came days later from an address linked to Neunder\u2019s wife. A public Neunder supporter then filed the Elections Commission complaint advancing the same residency theory. Although the records do not prove Neunder directed the complaint, they contradict his characterization that it originated solely with a third party and leave several unanswered questions about how the allegation developed.<\/p>\n \u201cLee County School Board candidates look to preserve conservative majority in <\/a>Primary<\/a>\u201c via Michelle Vecerina of Florida\u2019s Voice \u2014 Control of the Lee County School Board is on the line in the upcoming Primary Election, as four conservative candidates look to defend their majority in a District overseeing a nearly $3 billion budget and tens of thousands of students. The local races come four years after voters flipped the Board\u2019s balance of power, shifting the District\u2019s focus toward parental rights, fiscal accountability, and expanded school safety measures. Now, conservative incumbents and newcomers are facing off against challengers backed by local progressive groups and teachers\u2019 unions who are hoping to steer the Board in a different direction. In District 6, incumbent Board member Jada Langford-Fleming is running countywide to secure a second term. \u201cFour years ago, we were in a completely chaotic situation here in Lee County at the School District level,\u201d Langford-Fleming said.<\/p>\n \u2014 TOP OPINION \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cDemocrats are gaining the Midterm advantage<\/a>\u201d via Nate Silver and Eli McKown-Dawson of Silver Bulletin \u2014 Democrats have every reason to feel increasingly confident about the Midterm Elections. The political environment has shifted steadily in their favor as Trump\u2019s approval ratings continue to weaken, concerns about the economy persist, and the conflict in Iran remains a drag on the White House. While forecasting models are still evolving, the available data increasingly points toward Democrats entering the campaign\u2019s final months with momentum in the fight for the House and a credible opportunity to reclaim the Senate.<\/p>\n The House remains the more likely Democratic pickup because history, presidential approval and generic ballot polling all point in the same direction. Republicans can still hold their majority, but doing so would likely require several favorable developments to occur at once, including a meaningful economic turnaround, lower gasoline prices and Democratic nominees who underperform in competitive districts.<\/p>\n The Senate picture is more competitive but no longer favors Republicans as comfortably as it once did. Democratic opportunities have expanded as several Republican-held seats have become increasingly competitive, while the GOP has identified relatively few realistic pickup opportunities of its own. That combination leaves the party defending more ground than many expected just months ago.<\/p>\n Michigan illustrates the broader debate inside the Democratic Party. Abdul El-Sayed continues to lead despite establishment support for Haley Stevens, offering another test of whether progressive candidates can prevail statewide in competitive elections. The outcome could influence Democratic strategy well beyond one Senate race.<\/p>\n Fundraising trends reinforce the broader political picture. Democrats continue to dominate small-dollar donations, reflecting sustained grassroots enthusiasm that often translates into stronger volunteer engagement and campaign infrastructure. At the same time, regional dynamics remain important, meaning statewide races will not necessarily mirror national polling.<\/p>\n Nothing about November is predetermined. Campaigns can falter, economic conditions can improve, and world events can reshape voter priorities. But the burden has shifted to Republicans to change the trajectory. Unless the political environment improves substantially for the GOP, Democrats appear positioned to enter Election Day with the advantage in the races that will determine control of Congress.<\/p>\n \u2014 MORE OPINIONS \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cCould Republicans lose both chambers?<\/a>\u201d via Byron York of the Washington Examiner \u2014 Republicans already face difficult odds of keeping the House, but the Senate is becoming increasingly competitive as Democrats eye multiple pickup opportunities. Trump\u2019s low approval ratings, economic concerns, the war in Iran and historical Midterm trends continue to weigh on the GOP. Democrats need four Republican-held seats to secure Senate control, with North Carolina, Iowa, Ohio, Maine, Alaska and Texas all emerging as potential targets. Republicans\u2019 best opportunity remains Michigan, while New Hampshire appears more likely to stay Democratic. Even if Republicans capture Michigan, Democrats could still assemble a Senate majority by winning five competitive GOP seats. The political landscape could shift before November, but Republicans no longer have reason to assume the Senate is safely in hand.<\/p>\n \u201cTrump administration backs Florida growers with policy changes<\/a>\u201d via Ryan Gill for Florida Politics \u2014 Florida agriculture has endured years of setbacks from citrus greening, unfavorable trade policies and extreme weather, but recent actions by the Trump administration offer growers renewed optimism. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced an FDA rule lowering the minimum sugar content required for juice to qualify as orange juice, a change expected to boost citrus production and revenues. A Federal Trade Commission settlement with John Deere expands farmers\u2019 right to repair equipment, reducing costly downtime during harvest. Meanwhile, U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody and Florida\u2019s congressional delegation continue pressing for stronger trade protections as the administration pursues changes to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, aiming to improve competitiveness and strengthen Florida agriculture\u2019s long-term future.<\/p>\n \u201cGovernment shouldn\u2019t use power to punish speech<\/a>\u201c via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board \u2014 There\u2019s no denying that rhetoric over the bear hunt, which was approved by the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission last Summer, boiled over. In the face of this kind of criticism, some officials become just as scathing in response. What\u2019s not OK: Using the investigative power of the FWC to dig through confidential records and hint at the potential of criminal prosecutions for people who have committed no crime. Then, instead of admitting wrongdoing when news of the surveillance came to light, the FWC doubled down, releasing a page of cutouts of social-media posts, stripped of context and identity. Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith has requested an official probe of FWC\u2019s actions by the state Office of Inspector General. That investigation is sorely needed.<\/p>\n \u201cLitigation lobby threatens the Boom Belt\u2019s legal edge<\/a>\u201d via Doug Wheeler for Florida Politics \u2014 Florida and Texas did not become economic leaders by accident. Decades of civil justice reforms created a more predictable legal climate that encouraged businesses to invest, expand and relocate by reducing litigation uncertainty without eliminating the right to seek relief in court. That competitive advantage now faces growing pressure as trial lawyers increasingly pursue legislative and political strategies to weaken those reforms. At the same time, third-party litigation financing has grown into a multibillion-dollar industry that allows outside interests to fund lawsuits with little public transparency. Florida\u2019s SB 1396 sought to require disclosure of those arrangements but failed to advance. Protecting legal predictability while increasing transparency around litigation financing remains essential to preserving the Boom Belt\u2019s economic momentum and continued business investment.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida should take noise pollution more seriously<\/a>\u201d via Ren\u00e9 Rabeder of Florida Politics \u2014 Florida should stop treating excessive noise as an unavoidable side effect of growth and start recognizing it as a quality-of-life issue with measurable health and economic consequences. Transportation noise, booming development and late-night disturbances increasingly erode residents\u2019 well-being, while existing laws often leave enforcement dependent on complaints rather than proactive action. Studies link chronic noise to stress, sleep disruption and reduced productivity, and several Florida cities already rank among the nation\u2019s noisiest. Stronger enforcement against modified exhausts, better planning around roads and airports, improved building standards and greater accountability for repeat offenders can help preserve neighborhood livability without slowing growth. A thriving state should not force residents to sacrifice rest simply because more people choose to live, work and visit here.<\/p>\n \u2014 INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY \u2014 <\/p>\n \u2014 ALOE \u2014 <\/p>\n \u201cChristopher Nolan got his Helen of Troy casting exactly right<\/a>\u201d via Patrick Ryan of USA Today Network \u2014 Spoiler alert! We\u2019re discussing important details about the plot of \u201cThe Odyssey.\u201d Stop reading if you haven\u2019t seen it yet and don\u2019t want to know what happens. If you\u2019re casting a face that could launch a thousand ships, you can\u2019t go wrong with Lupita Nyong\u2019o. The Oscar winner appears in dual roles in Nolan\u2019s three-hour epic \u201cThe Odyssey,\u201d playing Helen of Troy, the world\u2019s most gorgeous woman, and her twin sister, Clytemnestra. There\u2019s no arguing that Nyong\u2019o is impossibly stunning: Not only has she been a Lanc\u00f4me and Chanel ambassador, but she was also name-checked for her beauty in the Beyonc\u00e9 song \u201cBrown Skin Girl.\u201d And yet, her casting as a literal demigoddess sparked outcry from a racist throng on social media.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/MC-Hubbard-Upscale-640x361.jpg\")
<\/a>Mary Clare Hubbard trades the Governor\u2019s Office for HCA Florida Healthcare\u2019s government affairs operation. Image via HCA Florida Healthcare.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Peter-Cuderman-Art-640x360.jpg\")
<\/a>Peter Cuderman shifts from the Governor\u2019s Office into the driver\u2019s seat at Florida\u2019s auto dealers association. Image via FADA.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/ad-for-sunburn-tiger-bay-1280x855.png\")
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<\/a>Florida Sheriffs put their property tax amendment concerns in writing. Image via X.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/cammack-ad.jpg\")
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<\/a>Byron Donalds puts Flock camera policy on the negotiating table with law enforcement. Image via the campaign.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/realtors_ad.jpg\")
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<\/a>Darren Soto\u2019s familiar District suddenly comes with far more Republican neighbors.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Ad-600x400-FPP-Website.jpg\")
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<\/a>Fabi\u00e1n Basabe faces another allegation as sworn testimony adds to his political troubles. Image via the Miami Herald.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Singer-600x400DigitalAd.jpg\")
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<\/a>Donald Trump tells profitable oil giants to pump the brakes on gas prices. Image via The Associated Press.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/FHA_Innovation_FP-Ads-copy600x400-community.png\")
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<\/a>Vicki Lopez adds Bay of Pigs veterans to her re-election coalition. Image via Key Biscayne Independent.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Jake-Ad-August-2026-e1785176489124.jpeg\")
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<\/a>Alicia Farrant and Angie Gallo compete to lead an Orange County School Board entering a major transition.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/IMG_6200-e1784726516935.jpeg\")
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<\/a>Charlie Crist says executive experience can finally move St. Petersburg development deals out of neutral.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Ad-DiCeglie-Delivering-Results_2.jpg\")
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<\/a>Karen Feagins takes the microphone as WJCT Public Media\u2019s next leader. Image via WJCT.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Graphic-Abbott-Delivering-Results-600x400jpg.jpg\")
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<\/a>Jim DeNiro\u2019s residency complaint now raises more questions about the people behind it. Image via the candidate.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Hurricane-Season-FL-Politics-600x400-2.png\")
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<\/a>Lupita Nyong\u2019o launches a thousand ships \u2014 and nearly as many online arguments.<\/p>\n