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Good Friday morning.
Breaking in a single day — “Donald Trump clinches win at U.S. Virgin Islands Caucus, which defied Republican Party rules” through Dánica Coto of The Related Press — The Caucus is the third Republican contest held this election season with delegates at stake, with Trump receiving 73.98% of the votes and Nikki Haley 26.02%. “I need to thanks all. We had an incredible victory,” Trump stated briefly remarks by cellphone to those that gathered in St. Thomas to listen to the outcomes. “We anticipated to win, however we didn’t count on to win by that a lot. You might be unbelievable individuals I’ll always remember.” Republican Celebration officers within the U.S. Virgin Islands stated they opted to carry the competition early to make sure the U.S. territory performed an necessary position within the nomination of a candidate.
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A coalition of labor unions is launching a digital advert marketing campaign portray a bleak image of Florida teenagers’ future if lawmakers transfer ahead with a plan to loosen the state’s youngster labor legal guidelines.
The marketing campaign launched on Feb. 7, only a handful of days after the state Home handed HB 49 alongside occasion strains. The laws, panned by most educators and employee unions, would 16- and 17-year-olds to work greater than 30 hours every week and as late as 11 p.m. on a faculty night time.
Opponents have additionally criticized the laws for permitting minors to work in “harmful environments,” comparable to building websites.
“To be sincere, I can’t consider we’re having this combat. Principally, since children stopped shedding limbs in farm implements in the course of the Nineteen Twenties and 30s, it’s been settled that teenagers must be within the classroom, not in farm fields, manufacturing facility flooring or on building websites. Now, a bunch of rich firms and excessive politicians need to relitigate a battle settled a century in the past? They need WHAT precisely?” Florida AFL-CIO Director of Politics and Public Coverage Wealthy Templin stated, emphasis his personal.
The Florida AFL-CIO marketing campaign used an AI picture generator to create pictures of what a post-HB 49 work surroundings may seem like — a picture included alongside the marketing campaign announcement exhibits two excessive school-age building staff leaning on high-rise scaffolding.
The advertisements will likely be proven in Tallahassee and across the capital, in addition to in key districts throughout the state represented by legislators whose votes may stymie the invoice.
“The reality is that the photographs created by the AI present extra widespread sense out of a pc than appears to be going by means of some politicians’ heads,” Templin stated.
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Halfway by means of the 2024 Legislative Session, public affairs company Moore has launched its annual “Session on Social” rankings exhibiting which lawmakers have probably the most traction on social media.
Although Democrats maintain superminority standing in each chambers, they continue to be a dominating drive on X and Fb.
Democratic Rep. Anna Eskamani of Orlando was the far-and-away No. 1, with a whopping 14.1 million impressions on X throughout 153 tweets. She likewise held the highest spot on Fb with 21,000-plus engagements on 347 posts.
Democratic Rep. Angie Nixon held a distant second place on X, with 4.9 million impressions, adopted by Sen. Shevrin Jones, additionally a Democrat, at 1.3 million. No different lawmaker cracked seven figures on the positioning previously often known as Twitter. Rep. Chip LaMarca posted the GOP’s prime exhibiting with about 633,000 impressions.
If one units apart Eskamani’s curve-breaking stats, the battle was nearer on Meta’s premier platform. The No. 2 general on Fb was Republican Sen. Danny Burgess of Zephyrhills at 1,800 engagements, adopted by Port Orange GOP Rep. Chase Tramont at 1,700 or so.
Rep. Rita Harris was the next-highest Democrat behind Eskamani with about 1,500 impressions.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@NateSilver538: There’s not any intelligent tactical manner out of the (President Joe) Biden age and psychological health questions as a result of voters can consider it with their very own eyes and ears. In truth, some techniques may backfire if it seems such as you’re not being forthright. You simply should hope voters suppose (Donald) Trump is worse.
Tweet, tweet:
Thread: Hur report contains many images of Biden’s dealing with of labeled docs.
Hur writes that Biden’s practices “current critical dangers to nationwide safety” and that Biden “willfully retained and disclosed labeled supplies after his vice presidency”https://t.co/YE4RVfpPOE pic.twitter.com/OF5nTvSqrf— Alex Thompson (@AlexThomp) February 8, 2024
—@SundayDivine: I really feel sorry for Mike Johnson. Earlier than he grew to become Speaker, solely a handful of individuals knew what an fool he was. Now, just a few hundred million individuals know.
Tweet, tweet:
.@RonDeSantis, Madison, and Mason are having fun with a day on the Florida State Truthful!
Life is sweet within the Free State of Florida 🌴 pic.twitter.com/YHG6jUOMmp
— Casey DeSantis (@CaseyDeSantis) February 8, 2024
—@Fineout: Proper earlier than the beginning of right now’s session Home Speaker @Paul_Renner is up on the dais holding up a purple solo cup. The Home has been enjoying Toby Keith songs within the chamber earlier than they gavel in
—@AA_Malave: Crimson Solo Cups are nice for all kinds of drinks, together with Speaker’s favourite mint tea
—@BSFarrington: The Florida Legislature is a extremely, actually upsetting place for these good residents who hate when individuals use make the most of #justuseuse #savethesyllables
Tweet, tweet:
Paris 2024 has revealed the medals for the upcoming Olympics…
What makes them particular – they’re incrusted with an 18-gram piece of unique iron from the Eiffel Tower! 🇫🇷
Your fav athlete taking one residence? 🥇🥈🥉 pic.twitter.com/RB1yfbTs8Q
— Bastien Fachan (@BastienFachan) February 8, 2024
— DAYS UNTIL —
Tremendous Bowl LVIII — 2; Ninth Annual Fits for Session begins — 11; Season 6 of ‘Drive To Survive’ premieres on Netflix — 14; South Carolina Republican Main — 15; Michigan Democratic Main — 18; James Madison Institute’s ‘Crimson, White and Bluegrass’ dinner — 19; ‘Dune: Half Two’ premieres — 21; Michigan/Idaho/Missouri GOP Primaries — 22; Netflix to stream “The Netflix Slam,” Rafael Nadal/Carlos Alcaraz faceoff — 23; Tremendous Tuesday — 25; State of the Union handle — 27; final day of Common Session, if Legislature completes work in 60 days — 28; 2024 Oscars — 30; Georgia Democratic Main — 32; Arizona/Florida/Illinois/Kansas/Ohio Primaries — 39; James Madison Institute’s ‘2024 Naples Dinner’ with keynote speaker Laura Ingraham — 41; ‘3 Physique Downside’ premieres on Netflix — 41; The Supreme Courtroom will hear arguments within the mifepristone/abortion tablet case — 46; Main League Baseball’s (MLB) 2024 season — 48; March Insanity Last 4 (girls’s) begins — 55; March Insanity Last 4 (males’s) — 58; Florida TaxWatch’s Spring Assembly — 62; The Masters start — 63; Kentucky Derby — 86; 2024 Management Convention on Security, Well being & Sustainability — 91; ‘Bridgerton’ new season (half one) premieres on Netflix — 96; French Open begins — 101; ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ premieres — 103; Dave Matthews Band 2024 Summer season Tour begins in Tampa — 103; Monaco Grand Prix — 107; the 2026 World Cup begins — 123; ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ premieres — 141; Republican Nationwide Conference begins — 157; the 2026 World Cup ends — 161; 2024 MLS All-Star Sport — 166; Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Video games on NBC/Peacock — 168; Alien: Romulus’ premieres — 186; Democratic Nationwide Conference begins — 192; Georgia Tech to face Florida State in 2024 opener in Dublin — 197; Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour stops in Miami — 252; 2024 Florida Chamber Annual Assembly & Way forward for Florida Discussion board — 252; 2024 Presidential Election — 267; Las Vegas Grand Prix — 283; MLS Cup 2024 — 301; ‘Captain America: Courageous New World’ premieres — 371; ‘Moana’ premieres — 504; ‘Thunderbolts’ premieres — 532; ‘Blade’ reboot premieres — 637; ‘Implausible 4’ reboot premieres — 637; ‘Avatar 3’ premieres — 679; ‘Avengers: The Kang Dynasty’ premieres — 816; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ film premieres — 832; One other untitled ‘Star Wars’ film premieres — 1,043; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 1,183; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 2,142; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2,864.
— TOP STORY —
“‘We’re in good shape’: DeSantis speaks at Florida State Fair in Tampa” through Sara Filips of WFLA — In response to DeSantis, Florida has the bottom debt per capita within the nation. The federal debt is at $34 trillion, factored out to round $100,00 per U.S. citizen. Floridians’ share of the state’s debt is just $600 per Floridian. Because the state will get extra web in-migration, DeSantis stated that quantity will drop.
Florida has been operating down debt, operating surpluses and chopping taxes. The state additionally has the bottom quantity of state staff per capita within the U.S.
“In 10, 15, 20, 25 years, I believe we’re constructed to do very properly over this time period,” DeSantis added. “So long as we proceed sound management.”
DeSantis additionally emphasised Florida’s dedication to public security.
“When you commit crimes, we’re gonna maintain you accountable,” DeSantis stated, as he emphasised the significance of backing native regulation enforcement. These going into regulation enforcement in Florida will obtain a $5,000 sign-on bonus to encourage recruitment.
The Governor additionally touched on the homeless inhabitants and stated he would guarantee Florida has “open and clear streets.”
“I’m tasked to carry my 3-year-old a Barbie funnel cake,” DeSantis stated relating to the whimsical truthful meals provided this yr. “I’m going to do a Florida quesadilla.”
— HOUSE PASSES $115.5B BUDGET —
The Florida Home handed its $115.5 billion price range on Thursday, touting it as a “balanced” spending plan that can “spend money on crucial infrastructure wants, repay state money owed early, fund schooling choices for all Florida college students, enhance well being care entry and affordability and assist public security.”
The chamber’s price range spotlight reel included boosts of $224 million for the KidCare program and $805 million for Medicaid caseloads and value stage will increase, $350 million for performance-based college funding and $42 million to harden PreK-12 faculties.
“At this time, we delivered a fiscally accountable price range that honors Florida’s taxpayers. As Florida’s economic system continues to broaden and develop, we should be fiscally conservative to make sure our state is ready for any future downturn within the economic system,” Home Speaker Paul Renner stated in a information launch, including that Price range Subcommittee Chairs “deserve nice credit score for assembly the problem of prudent and strategic investments to arrange our state for a vivid future.”
Home Price range Chief Tom Leek added, “Florida’s financial energy is constructed on a technology of not spending greater than we soak up and making sound, strategic investments towards long-term resilience and progress. This price range displays the realities of a post-pandemic Florida balanced with making crucial investments in the environment, infrastructure, schooling, public security and long-term progress. I recognize Speaker Renner’s management and the work of our Appropriations Chairs and workers to supply a price range that delivers for all Floridians.”
— MORE LEGISLATIVE —
“Senate bill requiring supermajority vote for local millage hikes advances” through A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — One other group of Senate lawmakers is shifting ahead with laws that will impose a better threshold on localities searching for increased property taxes. The Senate Finance and Tax Committee superior Chair Blaise Ingoglia’s measure (SB 1322). The laws now has one cease to go on the Senate facet. The “taxpayer safety invoice” would go into impact in July, imposing the supermajority requirement for any millage enhance after this yr ought to it change into regulation. The laws has already accomplished the committee course of within the Home. That measure (HB 1195) was sponsored by GOP Rep. Sam Garrison. Senators added an modification Thursday to line the invoice up with Garrison’s model.
“THC cap bill postponed at last House committee stop” through A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — The Legislature’s push to manage a possible adult-use hashish market is paused for the second. HB 1269 was quickly postponed in Thursday’s Well being and Human Providers Committee. This delay doesn’t imply the invoice gained’t be heard ever, but it surely gained’t be heard this week. Rep. Ralph Massullo, the sponsor of the invoice, stated “we’re nonetheless tweaking it” when requested in regards to the postponement. A proposed modification forward of the committee ended up not being heard because of this. The proposal was for a 1g restrict on THC per vape cart.
“Fantasy sports bills headed to Senate floor” through A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — On Wednesday, the Senate Fiscal Coverage Committee superior Sen. Travis Hutson’s Fantasy Sports activities Contest Amusement Act to the Senate ground. The invoice authorizing fantasy contests moved ahead with amendments, and a few proposed adjustments had been withdrawn earlier than being heard. The St. Johns County Republican’s SB 1568 legalizes industrial fantasy sports activities for these aged 21 and up and purports to “guarantee public confidence within the integrity of fantasy sports activities contests and contest operators.” The invoice would enable anybody legally sufficiently old to drink to take part in industrial fantasy sports activities, however with caveats.
“Senate passes update to Live Local Act with more clarity, preemption, Hometown Heroes funding” through Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — An replace to final yr’s monumental Reside Native Act to spice up reasonably priced housing is on its option to the Home after clearing the Legislature’s higher chamber by a unanimous vote. The measure (SB 328) contains new preemptions on native improvement controls and clearer particulars for the way some initiatives ought to rise. It additionally contains particular issues for Florida’s southernmost county and a late-added exemption for short-term trip leases. It was inevitable that the Reside Native Act would want fine-tuning, stated Sen. Alexis Calatayud, who carried the unique laws and the present measure.
“‘Doomsday scenario’: Legislative Session could blast city of Tallahassee budget” through Arianna Otero of the Tallahassee Democrat — The most important potential budget-buster is laws (HB 1195/SB 1322) that will require a two-thirds vote of a Metropolis Fee to boost the native property tax fee. However that’s not all. Others (HB 1277/SB 1510) goal to limit normal fund transfers, regardless of related laws failing final yr. Which means cities with municipally owned utilities wouldn’t be capable of increase their budgets with as a lot utility income as earlier than. Different proposals look to extend homestead exemptions from $50,000 to $75,000, which might put more cash in residents’ pockets — and fewer in metropolis governments’ coffers. The legislative push is a part of what analysts name a red-state crackdown on blue cities.
“Senate panel OKs preemption bill making state the hub for regulating grub apps” through A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — The state of Florida could have some enter into future DoorDash, Uber Eats and Grubhub orders quickly. SB 676, filed by GOP Sen. Jennifer Bradley, would preempt the regulation of “meals supply platforms” that corral orders from a number of eating places to the federal government in Tallahassee. The laws is supported by the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Affiliation, Grubhub, the Related Industries of Florida, the Florida Chamber, TechNet and the James Madison Institute. Bradley makes use of these apps typically whereas in Tallahassee, lauding the “nice comfort” of them whereas noting the necessity for “constant requirements for transparency, consent and communication between the platforms, eating places and shoppers.”
— EVEN MORE LEGISLATIVE —
“Will lawmakers include DeSantis’ insurance tax cut in tax package bill?” through Grey Rohrer of Florida Politics — Legislators are nonetheless creating plans for a tax-cut bundle, but it surely’s unclear whether or not one of many main items of DeSantis’ really helpful tax plan will make the lower. Home and Senate leaders each say they’re nonetheless contemplating the proposal however have additionally warned the tax lower invoice will seemingly be smaller than the present yr. DeSantis pitched the concept of exempting houses with as much as $750,000 value of protection from taxes, charges, and assessments for one yr as a part of his price range suggestions to lawmakers. That a part of the plan would save policyholders $409 million, and a everlasting premium tax exemption on flood insurance policies would save $22 million. DeSantis touted the plan as a manner to assist householders save on insurance coverage premiums, which have skyrocketed in recent times, however lawmakers have been lukewarm of their embrace of the concept.
“Florida lawmakers are calling for stricter penalties for street racing” through Adrian Andrews of WFSU — A invoice designed to hit the brakes on unlawful road racing is accelerating within the Florida Senate. Over time, in Florida, younger drivers have participated in what they name “road takeovers,” the place stay contributors and viewers on social media reward drag racing, stunt driving and burnouts on public roads. A brand new invoice filed by State Sen. Jason Pizzo goals to place an finish to the criminality as soon as and for all. “Persons are getting severely injured and it’s a really coordinated and arranged scheme,” Pizzo stated Tuesday in entrance of a state Senate Transportation Committee. “It has resulted in deaths in my district and full cities together with the one I stay in.”
“How and why lawmakers are pushing to end civilian police watchdog agencies” through Alyssah Johnson of the Miami Herald — Civilian oversight companies, or COAs, are citizen-led teams that present exterior oversight to native police departments. Some conduct impartial investigations into the complaints of misconduct in opposition to law enforcement officials. The laws seeks to place an finish to these investigations. Opponents of Home Invoice 601 and Senate Invoice 576 say that the laws may upend progress made towards police accountability and establishing belief between residents and their native police departments. Nevertheless, proponents say that civilian oversight companies throughout the state lack uniformity and that there are different environment friendly measures in place to evaluate police misconduct.
“Senate panel OKs chiropractic ‘dry needle’ bill after prickly debate” through Christine Jordan Sexton of Florida Politics — Chiropractors’ effort to get the inexperienced mild to “dry needle” was met with some critics attempting to poke holes within the proposed laws. Members of the Senate Well being Coverage Committee debated SB 1474 at size earlier than voting 9-1 to go the invoice. Filed by GOP Sen. Jay Trumbull, the invoice expands chiropractors’ scope of follow by authorizing them to carry out dry needling, a method that includes inserting skinny needles into or close to set off factors within the muscle to alleviate ache and enhance vary of movement. The invoice additionally creates a licensure pathway for chiropractic physicians who obtained their bachelor’s diploma outdoors america to follow in Florida.
“Senate Committee advances total ban on cultivated meat” through Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A ban on cultivated meat superior within the Senate regardless of issues from buyers within the rising expertise. Sen. Jay Collins stated Florida doesn’t want to attend for federal steerage to impose a whole ban on the sale or manufacture of meat in laboratory settings. If officers really feel extra assured within the product sooner or later, he stated lawmakers can revisit the matter then. “We need to ban it and you’ll reduce from there,” he stated. “Let’s go to probably the most invasive. We are able to come again because the science exhibits that that is protected.”
“Cultivated meat businesses push back against Florida proposal to ban their product” through Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — Two California firms can now supply lab-grown meat in eating places and ultimately supermarkets following approval of their merchandise by the U.S. Division of Agriculture final June. However those self same merchandise can be banned in Florida if lawmakers approve a proposal shifting by means of the Legislature. The invoice by Collins (SB 1084) would make it illegal for anybody to fabricate, promote, maintain or supply on the market, or distribute “cultivated” meat in Florida. A violator might be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor. Moreover, the invoice would topic any restaurant, retailer, or different enterprise to having their license suspended for providing the product. Collins says his motivation is to guard Florida shoppers.
“Balloon ban bills still afloat while container pre-emption measure appears canned in Senate” through Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — Payments that will ban the discharge of balloons to forestall litter are shifting by means of the Legislature — however on the similar time, one other that critics say would enhance the litter downside appeared lifeless within the Senate. The Senate Committee on Neighborhood Affairs quickly handed the invoice that will preempt native governments from banning a variety of foods and drinks containers, together with these manufactured from Styrofoam and plastic, and baggage. However opponents stated with no different conferences of the committee scheduled earlier than the top of the Legislative Session, they hope the preemption invoice targeted on Styrofoam and plastic is lifeless.
“Could Florida limit electric vehicle stations in parking lots?” through Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — An agriculture invoice contains provisions that might prohibit builders from dedicating too many parking areas for electrical automobiles. Language in laws (SB 1084) superior by the Senate would preempt native governments from requiring a better variety of parking zone areas to be reserved for electrical automobiles. As a substitute, state rules can be the one threshold imposed. However throughout Committee dialogue, Sen. Collins, a Tampa Republican carrying the invoice, made clear the measure would outlaw further areas even when builders need to put them in. The Florida Division of Agriculture and Client Providers may have management over setting thresholds.
American Civil Liberties Union blasts Senate ‘schooling censorship’ invoice — The ACLU of Florida derided a invoice (SB 1372) authorized Thursday by the Senate Appropriations Committee on Training for lecturers from discussing matters comparable to sexism or systemic and institutional racism with different adults in trainer coaching packages. “This authorities censorship invoice, like a number of different unconstitutional censorship payments from prior classes, prohibits educating, discussing, and studying about matters associated to id politics, systemic racism, and oppression in trainer coaching packages,” ACLU of Florida Legislative Director Kara Gross stated. “ … As a substitute of pursuing significant policymaking to enhance Floridians’ lives, lawmakers are misusing their legislative powers to go dangerous legal guidelines that broaden the federal government’s attain into our every day lives.”
Insurers applaud Senate panel for passing torts invoice — The American Property Casualty Insurance coverage Affiliation cheered the Senate Committee on Fiscal Coverage for greenlighting a invoice (SB 1276) that will crack down on third-party litigation financing. It requires legal professionals who enter into third-party litigation agreements to reveal that info to their purchasers in addition to the court docket, opposing counsel, and any recognized particular person, comparable to an insurer, with a pre-existing contractual obligation to indemnify or defend a celebration to the motion. “SB 1276 is a vital client safety invoice that can carry transparency to a extremely predatory business. We once more echo our because of Sen. Jay Collins for sponsoring the invoice,” stated APCIA Vice President of State Authorities Relations Logan McFaddin, including that, if handed, “Florida would be part of different states who’re on the forefront of efforts to guard shoppers and enhance transparency round (third occasion litigation financing).”
— THE SKED —
— 9 a.m. The Senate holds a ground Session. Senate Chambers.
— WEEKEND TV —
ABC Action News Full Circle with Paul LaGrone on Channel 10 WFTS: Political analyst Dr. Susan MacManus; Ryan Gorman, host of the “Ryan Gorman Present” on WFLA; Main Common (Ret.) Bob Dees; Republican presidential candidate Ryan Binkley.
Facing South Florida with Jim DeFede on CBS 4 in Miami: The Sunday present supplies viewers with an in-depth take a look at politics in South Florida and different points affecting the area.
In Focus with Allison Walker on Bay Information 9/CF 13: A take a look at Florida’s agricultural business affect of strawberries and the way it’s an financial driver within the state. Becoming a member of Walker are U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee; Nick Wishnatzki, public relations supervisor, Want Farms; and Kyle Robinson, president of the Florida Strawberry Pageant.
Political Connections on Bay Information 9 in Tampa/St. Pete and Political Connections on CF 13 in Orlando: The weekly Sunday present is launching as a joint weeknight present airing Monday by means of Friday at 7 p.m.
The Usual Suspects on WCTV-Tallahassee/Thomasville (CBS) and WJHG-Panama Metropolis (NBC): Pre-empted by protection of Tremendous Bowl LVIII.
This Week in Jacksonville with Kent Justice on Channel 4 WJXT: Secretary of State Wire Byrd, UNF Public Opinion Analysis Lab Director Dr. Michael Binder,
— THE TRAIL —
“Inside Donald Trump’s takeover of the RNC: ‘In 2024, daddy’s home.’” through Marc Caputo of The Bulwark — The Republican Presidential Main just isn’t technically over, however Trump is the occasion’s seemingly nominee. And now his Common Election staff is beginning to take form. Right here’s the order of battle: Tony Fabrizio, longtime Trump pollster and adviser, might be dropped at the marketing campaign as a senior adviser within the coming weeks from the pro-Trump MAGA Inc. tremendous PAC. Danielle Alvarez, former Republican Nationwide Committee communications director, plans to hitch the marketing campaign’s communication staff subsequent week. Chris LaCivita will stay one of many marketing campaign’s co-chairs with Susie Wiles. Brian Hughes will spherical out the senior communication staff with Steven Cheung, Jason Miller, Karoline Leavitt, and Alvarez. James Blair, the political director for the marketing campaign overseeing its area operations and floor sport, has been taking over these duties on the RNC in latest weeks.
“Nikki Haley hauls in $1.7 million in fundraising during swing through Super Tuesday state” through Paul Steinhauser, Jamie Vera and Amanda Day of Fox Information — It was a profitable two days for Haley in California. The Republican presidential candidate hauled in $1.7 million throughout in-person fundraising occasions on Tuesday and Wednesday in California, the Haley marketing campaign shared first with Fox Information. Whereas in California, the previous two-term South Carolina governor who later served as U.N. ambassador throughout Trump’s administration additionally held a pair of marketing campaign occasions, her first in one of many 15 states that maintain nominating contests on Tremendous Tuesday in early March.
PAC calls Trump ‘rooster’ for ducking debates — An excellent PAC supporting Haley’s presidential marketing campaign is asking Trump a “rooster” for refusing to debate his last rival within the GOP nomination contest. The 30-second advert from SFA Fund isn’t narrated — its full runtime consists of a rooster clucking whereas messages fade out and in, together with one asking the septuagenarian is “too previous and unfit” for workplace. “Donald Trump continues to rooster out from a debate with Nikki Haley, and Individuals ought to ask themselves why,” SFA spokesperson Preya Samsundar stated in a information launch. “Is Trump afraid of pulling a Joe Biden onstage and complicated Nikki Haley for Nancy Pelosi once more or is he extra involved that he gained’t be capable of clarify why he didn’t safe the border throughout his first time period as President?”
To observe the advert, please click the image below:
“‘Birdbrain,’ ‘DeSanctimonious’: Even Trump supporters say they dislike candidates’ nicknaming tactic for opponents” through GQLShare — Voters, together with Republican supporters of Trump, don’t just like the follow of candidates making use of nicknames to their political opponents. Greater than three-quarters of voters surveyed in a nationwide Florida Atlantic College ballot launched Wednesday stated it’s unacceptable to name competing candidates nicknames. And two-thirds stated it’s unacceptable to assault competing candidates by disparaging their private traits. The questions had been written to be impartial, and so didn’t point out Trump by identify. However there’s no mistaking who has employed the follow of assigning unflattering — or nasty — nicknames to political foes.
— MORE 2024 —
“Democrats sound alarm, take action against Joe Biden’s third-party threats” through Michael Scherer of The Washington Publish — Democratic alarm over third-party challengers spoiling Biden’s re-election has been rising in latest weeks, prompting a brand new push each contained in the occasion and amongst allied outdoors teams to step up their efforts combating again. The Democratic Nationwide Committee employed a brand new communications adviser final month to counter the third-party candidates, whereas outdoors teams working for Biden’s election have been having discussions a few new group that might coordinate in regards to the big selection of threats. A latest five-way nationwide ballot by Quinnipiac College that named Biden, former Trump, lawyer Robert F. Kennedy Jr., scholar Cornel West and activist Jill Stein confirmed the mixed third-party candidates drawing practically 1 in 5 voters.
— OTHER STATEWIDE —
“An earthquake occurred off Florida’s east coast. Here’s what to know.” through Michaela Mulligan of the Tampa Bay Instances — An earthquake (sure, an precise earthquake) was recorded about 100 miles off Florida’s east coast Wednesday night time. The uncommon prevalence was confirmed by america Geological Survey. The magnitude 4 quake brought on no harm or accidents, but it surely did create a little bit of a stir. America Geological Survey had acquired a number of inquiries in regards to the earthquake by Thursday afternoon, stated Paul Earle, a seismologist for the geological survey. Unsurprisingly so, as earthquakes in or close to Florida are uncommon.
“Christian Ziegler wants to use Marsy’s Law. Police say he’s not a victim.” through Justin Garcia of the Tampa Bay Instances — Ziegler, the previous Chair for the Republican Celebration of Florida who’s underneath felony investigation, is citing a regulation that protects victims in a bid to cease the discharge of extra info from his cellphone. However police say Ziegler just isn’t the sufferer of a criminal offense. The Sarasota Police Division opened an investigation into Ziegler after a lady accused him in October of sexually assaulting her. Police opted in opposition to charging him with sexual assault after they discovered a video they stated appeared to indicate consensual sexual exercise between Ziegler and his accuser. However police forwarded a associated investigation into Ziegler for video voyeurism to the State Lawyer’s Workplace for the twelfth Judicial Circuit.
Excessive court docket denies rehearing for demise row inmate — A request for a rehearing by a person convicted of killing an Orlando police officer was denied by the Florida Supreme Courtroom. The excessive court docket didn’t clarify why it rejected the movement for a rehearing, which was filed by Markeith Loyd’s protection attorneys late final yr. The Florida Supreme Courtroom beforehand upheld the conviction ruling and sentencing. Justices who voted to reject the rehearing included Carlos Muniz, the Chief Justice, in addition to Charles Canady, Jorge Labarga, John Couriel and Renatha Francis.
“People First or People Last? State’s antiquated HR system will put Florida behind other states and at a disadvantage in competing for talent” through Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — The state of Florida has relied on the Individuals First system to offer HR, payroll and advantages options for greater than 20 years. The system is constructed on antiquated SAP software program. There may be widespread consensus amongst state companies that the system has outlived its helpful life and it’s time to maneuver to cloud computing to scale back prices, enhance HR course of effectivity and shield the state’s worker information with fashionable cybersecurity controls. Nevertheless, there’s a buzz across the Capitol that the deep state within the Home of Representatives prefers the established order. In truth, within the Home proposed language in HB 5003 that was not heard by a single committee that will stop modernization of the Individuals First answer and legislatively direct DMS to resume the incumbent’s contract for a five-year interval.
— D.C. MATTERS —
“Biden cleared in documents case; report raises concerns about his memory” through Glenn Thrush of The New York Instances — Robert Ok. Hur, the particular counsel, stated in his extremely unflattering report that Biden had left the White Home after his vice presidency with labeled paperwork about Afghanistan and notebooks with handwritten entries “implicating delicate intelligence sources and strategies” taken from inner White Home briefings. The report stated that Biden had shared the content material of the notebooks with a ghostwriter who helped him on his 2017 memoir, “Promise Me, Dad” though he knew a few of it was labeled. Whereas Hur determined to not prosecute Biden, a few of his causes for doing so are prone to elevate new questions in regards to the President’s conduct and his psychological state, portraying him as unable in interviews to recollect key dates of his personal vice presidency — and even exactly when his son Beau had died.
“‘A nightmare’: Special counsel’s assessment of Biden’s mental fitness triggers Democratic panic” through Peter Nicholas of NBC Information — Biden sidestepped any felony expenses because the investigation into his dealing with of labeled paperwork concluded, however the political blowback from the particular counsel’s report Thursday may show much more devastating, reinforcing impressions that he’s too previous and impaired to carry the very best workplace. Particular counsel Hur’s portrait of a person who couldn’t keep in mind when he served as Barack Obama’s Vice President or the yr when his beloved son Beau died, dealt a blow to Biden’s argument that he’s nonetheless sharp and match sufficient to serve one other four-year time period. It was powerful sufficient for Biden to reassure voters about his heath earlier than Hur’s report hit like a thunderclap Thursday afternoon, prompting members of his personal occasion to query whether or not he may stay the nominee in November.
“Biden says ‘my memory is fine,’ disputes special counsel’s report in national address” through Dan Mangan of CNBC — Biden in a televised handle Thursday night disputed a particular counsel’s claims that he willfully retained labeled materials at his Delaware residence, and that he exhibited poor reminiscence throughout an investigation of that materials. “My reminiscence has not gotten worse,” Biden instructed reporters hours after the discharge of particular counsel Hur’s report. “My reminiscence is ok.” Biden was visibly indignant at Hur’s declare that he couldn’t keep in mind the yr his son Beau died, saying that when he was requested a query about that yr “I believed to myself [it] wasn’t any of their rattling enterprise.” “I don’t want anybody. I don’t want anybody to remind me when he handed away,” Biden stated.
“Marco Rubio files legislation to expand hospital at-home programs” through Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Rubio has filed bipartisan laws within the U.S. Senate aimed to extend entry to well being care. The At HOME Providers Act of 2024 will create a pilot program that expands hospital at-home packages to incorporate sufferers requiring statement. “Addressing our well being care challenges requires progressive options,” Rubio stated. “The At HOME Providers Act builds on the success of the hospital-at-home program to decrease prices and burdens and enhance affected person outcomes and satisfaction.” Well being care programs throughout the nation, initiated care packages at residence in recent times underneath the Acute Hospital Care At House Waiver. One such program is run by Tampa Common Hospital, the place sufferers are accessing hospital care within the consolation and privateness of their very own houses.
— DOWN BALLOT —
Taking place tonight:
— LOCAL: S. FL —
“FAU Chair steps down in latest fallout from troubled presidential search” through Andrew Marra of the Palm Seaside Publish — Florida Atlantic College’s (FAU) Chair stepped down from his place, two weeks after the state Board of Governors issued a vote of no confidence in him over what they known as procedural mishaps tied to the varsity’s seek for a brand new President. The transfer was the newest fallout from monthslong rigidity between FAU’s leaders and state officers over the varsity’s seek for a brand new President. Brad Levine, Chair of the varsity’s Board of Trustees, stated serving within the position had been an honor however that “sadly I’ve personally change into part of this narrative” created by state college leaders. “The scholars deserve a story that’s free from such distractions,” he stated.
“Broward school district expands transgender athlete investigation” through Scott Travis of the South Florida Solar-Sentinel — A personnel investigation associated to a transgender athlete at Monarch Excessive has been expanded to now embrace that pupil’s participation in center faculty sports activities. However whereas the Broward Faculty District launched in late November the names of 5 workers on the Coconut Creek Excessive Faculty who had been reassigned pending the end result of an investigation, officers at the moment are tight-lipped about who else is going through questions. A kind of is Vernicca Wynter, the principal at Lyons Creek Center in Coconut Creek, in response to Lisa Maxwell, who represents Wynter by means of the Broward Principals and Assistants Affiliation. Maxwell stated some assistant principals on the faculty are also being questioned, however she wouldn’t identify them.
“Court says Boca Raton violated public records law as developer aimed for beachfront project” through Abigail Hasebroock of the South Florida Solar-Sentinel — A yearslong conflict between Boca Raton and a developer has resulted in a choose ruling that the town didn’t correctly fulfill public data requests. The requests had been made by Azure Growth LLC, the entity behind an endeavor to construct on a parcel of land at 2600 N. Ocean Blvd., which is on the east facet of State Highway A1A. The battle for public data started after Azure argued it confronted resistance from metropolis officers. And now, as the town faces the authorized end result, Azure says it intends to nonetheless pursue a constructing plan. Azure filed an preliminary criticism in March 2019.
“Black historians, Holocaust survivors: Miami schools seek parent consent for more events” through Ana Ceballos and Jimena Tavel of the Miami Herald — Two years in the past, when historian Marvin Dunn wished to speak to a Pinecrest classroom about Black historical past, his go to didn’t require a lot planning. However when he returned final week to provide a lecture on his private expertise with segregation, solely Palmetto Center Faculty college students with signed permission slips had been in a position to attend. The change is a stark instance of how a state regulation signed by DeSantis in 2022 is impacting a minimum of one faculty district in Florida — Miami Dade County Public Faculties — as native faculty officers attempt to adjust to broad state rules that search to provide dad and mom larger management over their youngsters’s schooling.
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Tourist-tax collections down again in Orlando area” through Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — December collections of vacationer taxes dropped from a yr in the past, persevering with a nine-month downward pattern. Collections totaled $29.8 million for the month, about 4% or $1.4 million decrease than December 2022. December was the eighth month of the previous 9 wherein month-to-month revenues dropped year-over-year, stated Comptroller Phil Diamond, whose workplace tracks the county’s 6% surcharge on lodge rooms and different short-term leases. Regardless of the pattern, revenues have been robust, averaging greater than $28 million a month over that point span. If collections proceed on the similar stride over the following 9 months, the county will rake in $336.5 million, the second-highest whole within the historical past of the tax.
“Brevard County will move forward with $6.2M in wetland protection spending under EELs” through Tyler Vazwuez of Florida At this time — Brevard County Commissioners authorized $6.2 million in spending on initiatives for the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program, generally often known as EELs. With the Board’s approval, the county will transfer ahead, issuing $3.2 million in bonds to pay for capital enhancements to present EEL lands, with an extra $3 million to amass land in areas that can instantly profit the Indian River Lagoon for a complete of $6.2 million. In 2022, 70% of voters authorized extending the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. The transfer licensed the county to subject as much as $50 million in bonds to purchase delicate lands over 20 years.
“New pedestrian crossing device installed at Ormond’s A1A, Rockefeller Drive intersection” through Brenno Carillo of the Daytona Seaside Information-Journal — In an effort to boost pedestrian security, the Florida Division of Transportation opened a pedestrian hybrid beacon at a busy State Highway A1A intersection in Ormond Seaside. The intersection of A1A and Rockefeller Drive is now outfitted with “an progressive overhead site visitors system that continues to be inactive till a pedestrian prompts the beacon by pushing a button on the sign pole,” the division stated in a information launch. “With a mean of 18,600 motorists touring down this hall every day, the set up of the pedestrian hybrid beacon represents a major step towards safeguarding the Ormond Seaside group,” the discharge stated.
“‘I was considered less than’ Black 81-year-old remembers 1960 DeLand lunch counter sit-in” through Eileen Zaffiro-Kean of the Daytona Seaside Information-Journal — When Joyce Cusack was rising up in west Volusia County, Black and White infants had been born in separate wings of Halifax Hospital, and pores and skin shade decided the place individuals lived, went to highschool, worshipped, labored, dined, socialized, shopped and had been buried. By early 1960, when Cusack was a 17-year-old highschool senior on the solely DeLand faculty Black children may attend, she and dozens of her classmates had been fed up with going to downtown lunch counters and being ordered to drink their bottles of Coca-Cola outdoors whereas White individuals had been in a position to sit down inside and luxuriate in a calming soda, milkshake or sandwich. So about 25 or 30 of the Black teenagers gathered on Woodland Boulevard one afternoon.
— LOCAL: TB —
“In the race for Clearwater Mayor, sharp attacks and a door-to-door push” through Tracey McManus of the Tampa Bay Instances — Metropolis Council member Kathleen Beckman and lawyer Bruce Rector are the one two candidates operating for Mayor, however there’s a third particular person in the course of the race. In a letter mailed to houses by the Rector marketing campaign final week, former Mayor Frank Hibbard listed his the reason why residents shouldn’t vote for Beckman. “The primary and most necessary,” he wrote, was Beckman’s place final March on a brand new Metropolis Corridor, a debate that prompted Hibbard to resign from workplace in frustration throughout a Council dialogue on the matter. Then final Thursday, Hibbard appeared on the Council assembly and took one other shot. The previous Mayor introduced he was submitting a criticism in opposition to Beckman with the Florida Elections Fee, alleging she used metropolis workers time and sources to ship a letter about flooding to focused voters that commingled together with her marketing campaign. She denies the letters had been improper.
“3 Pinellas County Commissioners endorse Adam Ross for Tax Collector” through Janelle Irwin Taylor of Southeast Politics — Three Pinellas County Commissioners — all Republicans — are endorsing Adam Ross for Pinellas County Tax Collector. The endorsements come from Dave Eggers, the longest-serving Commissioner of the three, Chris Latvala and Brian Scott. All three touted Ross’ capability to be a superb steward of taxpayer {dollars}. “Adam Ross is a trusted conservative who will guard our tax {dollars},” Latvala stated in an announcement. “He’ll proceed the good customer support our residents are accustomed to within the Pinellas Tax Collector’s workplace.” Ross is a former Assistant State Lawyer for Pinellas and Pasco counties who now serves as Government Director of the workplace. He additionally serves as Chair of the Pinellas GOP. He’s operating to switch incumbent Tax Collector Charles Thomas, who’s backing Ross as his most well-liked successor.
“Pasco County takes hard-line stance against DeSantis’ Live Local Act” through Ashley Gurbal-Kritzer of The Tampa Bay Enterprise Journal — Pasco County has taken a hard-line stance in opposition to the Reside Native Act, telling two builders to withdraw their functions for tax exemptions — or not apply in any respect — to “keep away from the time and expense” of litigation. The county despatched letters to The Richman Group of Florida and California-based Passco Cos. on Wednesday, the identical day the Florida Senate voted unanimously to approve amendments to the laws that Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into regulation in March 2023. The amendments handed Wednesday don’t embrace adjustments proposed by Pasco County leaders.
“Hillsborough leaders end program that encourages creation of affordable housing” through Chad Mills of ABC Motion Information — In a slim 4-to-3 vote, commissioners ended an nearly 30-year program that incentivizes builders to construct reasonably priced housing. This system, often known as the Reasonably priced Housing Aid Program, waives sure affect charges for eligible builders. Through the Tuesday assembly, supporters of this system identified that this system has helped create 1,248 reasonably priced houses over the previous 5 years with a comparatively small value to taxpayers. “It’s so de minimis in our contribution to this,” argued Commissioner Pat Kemp. “It’s all the time de minimis when it’s with different individuals’s cash,” Commissioner Joshua Wostal shot again. Wostal and Commissioner Michael Owen argued this system isn’t a superb deal for county taxpayers who pay for the waived affect charges by means of property taxes.
“Is the Gas Plant redevelopment’s benefits package enough?” through Mark Parker of the St. Pete Catalyst — After six conferences, together with a five-hour finale, a committee determined that group advantages supplied by redeveloping 65 acres of prime St. Petersburg actual property warranted the related public subsidies. A nine-person Neighborhood Advantages Advisory Council debated the Historic Fuel Plant District challenge’s advantages bundle — and a number of other proposed revisions — till 10:30 p.m. Tuesday. The group, encompassing eight appointees and Metropolis Council Chair Deborah Figgs-Sanders, authorized the proposal in a 7-2 vote. The advisory council voted to extend penalties from $25,000 to $150,000 if the event staff fails to satisfy off-site reasonably priced and workforce housing necessities. That rises to $175,000 for on-site models. The council additionally needs the primary 300 reasonably priced housing models constructed by 2028 quite than 2030.
“St. Pete among top U.S. cities for the ‘new normal’ corporate office” through Breanne Williams of The Tampa Bay Enterprise Journal — St. Petersburg is among the prime cities within the U.S. for the “new regular” company workplace, in response to a report from The Boyd Co., a company web site choice agency. John Boyd, principal of The Boyd Co., instructed the Tampa Bay Enterprise Journal that Tampa Bay stands out due to Florida’s general optimistic enterprise local weather. The report recognized the nation’s 40 prime suburban workplace markets for the present distant and hybrid working tendencies. 4 Florida cities made the listing: St. Pete, Bonita Springs, Palm Bay and Lakeland. The leaders of the return-to-office motion are typically within the monetary service business, expertise or life sciences — all main industries in Tampa Bay. Boyd stated distant working has “hit its peak.”
“A fatal shooting riles a Tampa dog park. Was it self-defense or more sinister?” through Tony Marrero and Lesley Cosme Torres of the Tampa Bay Instances — The day earlier than a person fatally shot John Walter Lay in his favourite Tampa canine park, Lay stood within the park and recorded a video. He had simply had a run-in with a person who had been harassing him on the park for months, hurling homophobic slurs and threatening him. The subsequent morning, on the similar park and at about the identical time because the earlier morning’s encounter, the person shot Lay lifeless. He was 52. The Sheriff’s Workplace confirmed that 65-year-old Gerald Declan Radford was the shooter. In a textual content message, Radford indicated he shot Lay in self-defense. Lay and Radford had been initially on pleasant phrases. However after Radford discovered about Lay’s politics, and that he was brazenly homosexual, Meyer stated he started to focus on Lay, calling him slurs when he was strolling within the park.
— LOCAL: N. FL —
“Florida State wants dismissal of ACC lawsuit in North Carolina” through Matt Baker of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida State has requested a North Carolina court docket to dismiss the ACC’s lawsuit in opposition to the college — the newest authorized step because the Seminoles discover a possible exit from their convention. The ACC initially filed this case in December, a day earlier than FSU’s Board of Trustees authorized their lawsuit in opposition to the convention. That timeline is a key a part of one of many authorized arguments FSU made in a movement to dismiss filed Wednesday in Mecklenburg County Superior Courtroom. Florida State known as the ACC’s preemptive swimsuit “an admitted ‘race to the courthouse’ to safe what it hoped would show to be a extra favorable discussion board.” FSU contends that authorized race got here at a price: the ACC’s members by no means took the required vote to approve the swimsuit in opposition to the ’Noles. Within the movement and corresponding temporary, FSU additionally stated the ACC sued Florida State “earlier than an precise or justiciable controversy arose” — it was all theoretical till FSU’s trustees authorized and filed their swimsuit in Leon County Circuit Courtroom.
“Jacksonville exotic dancers lost their jobs to prevent sex trafficking: Did it work?” through Alexandria Mansfield of the Florida Instances-Union — Twenty-one-year-old Lola has a automotive cost. She has an condominium she rents and a handful of pets to deal with. She pays taxes, takes nursing programs and sends what cash she will to her much less lucky relations. Lola misplaced her job in 2023, and the monetary burdens that got here together with her unemployment have prolonged all through her household — together with to her disabled father, whom she was supporting and who suffers from ankylosing spondylitis, a sort of arthritis that targets the joints and ligaments within the backbone. However nobody appears to care when a stripper loses her job.
— LOCAL: SW. FL —
“Ed Brodsky charges former Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes with three felony charges” through Jesse Mendoza of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Hopes has been charged with three felony expenses, together with notary fraud, grand theft and fraudulent use of public data. State Lawyer Brodsky issued a report of the submitting to the press outlining expenses in opposition to Hopes. The primary rely claims Hopes fraudulently made a certificates whereas serving as a notary public. The second rely claims that between April 1, 2021, and Dec. 31, 2022, Hopes obtained U.S. forex within the worth of $10,000 or extra, however lower than $20,000, from the county for his personal use. The third rely claims throughout that point interval Hopes additionally unlawfully supplied false info that grew to become part of public report to facilitate the fee of a felony theft.
“City officials in Sarasota and Manatee eye proposed state policies on vacation rentals” through Jesse Mendoza of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Native officers are leery of how proposed restrictions that cap the charges cities can cost for trip rental registration may affect native ordinances already on the books. Trip leases have been a hot-button subject amongst native and state officers for years, and legislators have proposed new restrictions that cap registration charges, define most penalties, and preempt different rules to the state. Proposals “grandfather” native insurance policies governing trip leases that had been in place earlier than June 2011, leaving native officers with questions on how the brand new state legal guidelines would affect ordinances like these adopted in Sarasota and Bradenton, and island cities like Anna Maria and Holmes Seaside, which all have authorized their very own insurance policies.
“Zero buffer? New Manatee County rules may let Aqua by the Bay developer impact wetlands” through Ryan Ballogg of the Bradenton Herald — After Manatee County Commissioners voted to scale back native wetland buffer zones, a outstanding developer needs to construct elements of a big housing complicated nearer to the wetlands bordering Sarasota Bay. Plans for Aqua by the Bay, a challenge by developer Carlos Beruff’s Medallion House, embrace over 2,300 multifamily models and over 500 single-family houses alongside El Conquistador Parkway in Bradenton. However earlier than the county’s wetland adjustments have been finalized, Beruff is asking state officers to approve an exception that will enable elements of his 529-acre improvement to incorporate minimal or no wetland buffers — a transfer that might hurt the bay’s ecosystem, native consultants say.
“Naples City Council takes first step toward beautifying the ‘Miracle Mile’” through Laura Layden of the Naples Day by day Information — Whereas there’s a lengthy highway forward, the Naples Metropolis Council has taken its first flip towards reimagining the “Miracle Mile.” Not less than, what the town has management over. The Council voted unanimously to rent Agnoli, Barber & Brundage Inc. to supply a conceptual grasp plan to rebuild the “public realm,” on a 1.3-mile stretch of Gulf Shore Boulevard North. The stretch of highway, laborious hit by Hurricane Ian, is ready to see main adjustments within the aftermath of the near-Class 4 storm, which has triggered extra redevelopment. Ian created new alternatives for builders with the sale of storm-ravaged rental buildings by their homeowners. A handful of older buildings have already been demolished to make manner for brand spanking new building.
“NCH gets approval for new 87-foot tall heart center at Baker Hospital campus” through Liz Freeman of the Naples Day by day Information — The Naples Metropolis Council has authorized rezoning NCH’s Baker Hospital campus for a brand new coronary heart and stroke middle at 87 toes in peak and a brand new 30-foot parking storage. The rezoning of 13.72 acres that encompasses the principle block of the hospital campus from “medical” to the town’s “public providers” zoning handed 4 to 1 with Vice Mayor Terry Hutchison casting the lone “no” vote. A companion conditional use software to permit for the five-story coronary heart middle at 87 toes and different circumstances handed 3 to 2 with Hutchison and Councilwoman Beth Petrunoff dissenting. A web site improvement plan handed 4 to 1 with Hutchison voting in opposition to it.
“Marco Island continues affordable housing discussion” through J. Kyle Foster of the Naples Day by day Information — A plan to assist Marco Island companies present reasonably priced housing to their workers will likely be heard by Metropolis Council members at their Feb. 20 assembly. Marco Island Planning Board members requested metropolis workers in January to make adjustments to the proposed ordinance and heard these updates on Feb. 2. The Board, by a vote of 5-1, is recommending approval of a Land Growth Code modification to permit a course of for homeowners of multistory industrial buildings to rework higher ranges for workforce housing. Board member Geoff Fahringer was on the assembly however left for an appointment earlier than the vote, stated Chair Jason Bailey.
“Nora Patterson, former Sarasota County Commissioner, dies” through the Venice Gondolier — Former Sarasota County Commissioner Patterson died Thursday, in response to county officers. She was 79. Patterson was first elected to the County Fee in 1998 and stayed on the Board till November 2014. She served three years because the Board Chair. Earlier than operating for County Fee, Patterson served eight years on the town of Sarasota’s Fee, together with a time period as Mayor. Patterson grew up in New York Metropolis and obtained a Bachelor of Arts diploma in psychology from Duke College. She earned her Grasp of Training diploma from the College of Florida in instructional psychology. She was a former trainer, small-business proprietor and Realtor. She and her husband, John, moved to Sarasota County in 1970.
“‘Jeopardy!’ clue shines spotlight on Naples for being ‘capital of the world’ for this” through Mark H. Bickel of the Naples Day by day Information — Naples, Florida has been known as the ‘capital of the world’ for this paddle sport rising in reputation. There was a quick pause. Then, contestant Lisa Sriken, a lawyer from New York Metropolis, hit the buzzer first and answered appropriately. “What’s pickleball?” Getting the right reply netted Sriken $600, but it surely wasn’t sufficient for her to win the episode. She misplaced in Last Jeopardy! failing to give you the right reply for a clue about “The Wonders of the Historical World.”
— TOP OPINION —
“Biden has openings for a comeback on two weak points” through Nate Cohn of The New York Instances — For the primary time for the reason that 2022 Midterms, Biden has an unmistakable political opening. If he can’t capitalize within the months forward, it would heighten doubts about his political viability.
The 2 massive developments have come on what voters say are Biden’s greatest weaknesses on the problems: the economic system and the border.
Over the past three months, client confidence has surged to the very best stage since July 2021. Decrease inflation, sustained progress and Fed statements have introduced the belief {that a} tender touchdown is at hand. The inventory market has additionally made large positive aspects — the S&P 500 is now round 20% increased than over the past wave of New York Instances/Siena School battleground state polls in late October.
It is likely to be too quickly to count on the enhancing financial image to assist Biden within the polls. Even now, most voters nonetheless don’t say the economic system is sweet or glorious. They only consider it isn’t so unhealthy and isn’t getting worse.
Second, there’s immigration. Voters more and more fee immigration as a prime downside going through the nation and overwhelmingly say Trump would do a greater job dealing with it. The problem is so difficult for Biden that it has been laborious to see how he may defend himself.
Now, his protection is obvious. On Sunday, a bipartisan group of Senate Democrats and Republicans excessive — however there’s no proof that pugnacity, provocation or a potty mouth is the proper one. And there’s peril in these instructions. I perceive the temptation to provide a bully a dose of his personal bullying and the argument for answering nasty with nasty — that might certainly challenge toughness, seize consideration and goad Trump. However there’s an equally compelling case in opposition to it. There’s but yet another disadvantage to a condemn-and-curse sport plan: If it succeeds and also you win, you need to run a rustic much more polarized and rancorous than earlier than. To the musty maxim that you simply marketing campaign in poetry and govern in prose, I’d add this adage: When you marketing campaign in profanity, chances are you’ll not be capable of govern in any respect.
— OPINIONS —
“Trash-talking Florida legislators push a pro-litter bill” through Craig Pittman of Florida Phoenix — Have you ever ever picked up trash from a seashore, a park, or a roadside? I’ve. And earlier than you ask, no it was NOT as a result of a choose sentenced me to group service. I believe each Floridian ought to do some litter cleanup, if solely as a result of it might make everybody much less prone to litter once more. Plus, whenever you choose up trash in Florida, you might be liable to search out some treasure. Final month, some children visiting from Missouri had been cleansing particles from the mangroves on Massive Pine Key once they chanced on a kilo of cocaine. On the times I used to be selecting up rubbish I didn’t discover something like that. I did see lots of plastic — extra plastic than was on view within the “Barbie” film, the truth is. There have been discarded plastic baggage, plastic bottles, and cigarette butts, that are plastic too. Apparently, we’ve some lawmakers who’re OK with plastic trash — the truth is, they’d wish to see extra.
“If social media legislation is in, carveouts should be out” through Patrick Theisen for Florida Politics — Florida’s taxpayers, firms, and courts don’t deserve a regulation that will likely be litigated, struck down, and go away the Florida Legislature — historically the champion of parental rights and the free market — with nothing to indicate for his or her efforts to offer larger oversight of social media for teenagers. As a substitute, the Legislature ought to cease attempting to choose winners and losers, and as a substitute protect free market competitors and a stage enjoying area for all. Good regulation of the fashionable economic system ought to entail constant fostering of innovation coupled with vigorous client safety. A patchwork of guidelines and rules and carving out winners and losers accomplish neither — it stifles innovation and exposes shoppers. Florida can do higher than Home Invoice 1.
“Has civility disappeared in political discussion and government?” through J. Kyle Foster of the Naples Day by day Information — Have Individuals thrown out The Golden Rule: deal with others as you need to be handled? It appears so: That was the conclusion at a panel of former elected officers, a retired newspaper writer, an promoting government and a minister who mentioned civility and rancor in america throughout a Larger Naples Management discussion board Wednesday on the Naples United Church of Christ. “I believe our democracy is in actual hassle,” stated Dick Gephardt, a former Democratic U.S. Congressman from Missouri who lives in Naples and Washington D.C. “So many Individuals hate so many different Individuals as a result of they disagree so violently on so many points.”
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— ALOE —
What Frank Mayernick is studying — “FWC staff formally recommend 40-day scalloping season in Pasco County” through Chris Hurst of 10 Tampa Bay — Everlasting adjustments are seemingly coming for a well-liked leisure exercise in Pasco County that brings in tens of millions of tourism {dollars}. Later this month, Florida Fish and Wildlife commissioners are set to extend the bay scallop season in Pasco from 10 to 40 days. The captains we spoke with who supply charters in Pasco County say make no mistake, the previous couple of years have been nice for his or her backside line however now there are issues that increasing this season completely from 10 to 40 days may result in overharvesting. Since 2018, it’s been a 10-day season in Pasco for bay scallops. Then final yr, an government order from DeSantis made it 37 days.
“Disney shares notch best day in more than three years after earnings bonanza” through Jenni Reid of CNBC — Disney shares spiked greater than 11% Thursday, headed for the inventory’s greatest day since December 2020, after the corporate’s fiscal first quarter earnings beat estimates and it introduced a slew of main offers and upcoming occasions. In its most eye-catching information, CEO Bob Iger stated the corporate would take its greatest step but into gaming with a $1.5 billion stake in Epic Video games, the maker of blockbuster Fortnite. Disney stated the partnership would see it work along with Epic to create new video games utilizing its mental property, together with Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and Avatar.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Glad birthday to former U.S. Rep. Patrick Rooney, former state Rep. Fred Costello, Nancy Heffley, and our buddy, Todd Jennings, former Chair of the Pinellas County Republican Government Committee.
___
Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.
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