Over the past few months, there has been much anxiety in the Thoroughbred racing community about legislation working its way through Tallahassee that would strip Florida’s racing permit holders of their obligation to host live races, turning them into nothing more than gaming facilities. Those of us fortunate enough to work in this industry understand that it’s a partnership, a bond, a tradition – it’s a vital part of what has defined us and this state for generations.

The proposed legislation, HB 105/SB 408, is being touted as a solution to “save” Florida Thoroughbreds. As a top trainer at Gulfstream Park, I’m here to tell you Florida racing is alive and well – but this bill could kill it.

Our $3.24 billion racing industry speaks to the way Florida-bred horses consistently appear in winners’ circles across the nation. Florida racing brings in tourists and it draws talent, with as much as 75% of all juvenile Thoroughbreds training right here in the Sunshine State.

Countless visitors attend Gulfstream Park for the Florida Derby, a key race to identify contenders amongst the dreamers in the chase for a spot in the prestigious Kentucky Derby starting gate.

These numbers illustrate Florida racing’s economic significance, but they fail to capture the true essence of what this industry means to those of us who dedicate our lives to it.

My passion for racing is about the life I’ve built alongside these extraordinary animals and the community that surrounds them. A single horse’s journey involves a dedicated team of grooms, blacksmiths, veterinarians, riders and countless others who nurture, train, and care for them.

Every day we rise early to feed, tack and train before sunup, and finish with sunsetting cool-outs, feed, and night checks – all in the pursuit of shared triumph at the finish line on Saturday. We put our hearts into these horses, and in return they teach us resilience, trust, and the deepest forms of loyalty.

To me, a horse isn’t just an athlete on a track; a horse is a best friend. There’s that indescribable bond you’ve nurtured, and the mutual trust earned. They rely on you just as much as you rely on them, and we have each other's back throughout. And when you’ve earned that trust, that’s a loyalty that can’t be matched.

That’s why it’s impossible to swallow this bill, which is being pushed under the dual falsehood of “reform” and “industry supported”. HB 105 casts racing aside in favor of slot machines and card rooms, replacing the beauty of live racing with the cold, impersonal world of gaming machines.

This bill threatens an entire industry that has long been a feather in Florida’s cap, and it undercuts years of hard work by so many of us who have dedicated our lives to these majestic animals. It’s going to hurt people like me and my family for whom the horse is lifestyle, passion and, finally, a way to make a living.

Decoupling — severing live horse racing from Florida gaming venues — undermines our commitment to these animals and the entire industry. This bill is an insult to everything we stand for. The future of Florida racing is on the line. Let’s stand together to protect it.

Saffie Joseph Jr. is a prominent trainer at Gulfstream Park, where he has trained multiple stakes-winning Thoroughbreds and remains a passionate advocate for the future of Florida horse racing.

The post Slot Machines Over Stallions? Florida’s Horse Racing Future Is at Risk appeared first on The Floridian.

Representative Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) is introducing legislation aimed at tightening the rules for claiming asylum in the United States in response to large numbers of illegal aliens abusing the system under the Biden Administration.

Named the Refugees Using Legal Entry Safely (RULES) Act, Rep. Luna's bill modifies asylum laws in several ways, including a rule that entering the United States to claim asylum can only be done through a legal port of entry.

Additionally, applicants must remain in federal custody until their cases are adjudicated, not released or paroled into the country. Third, individuals previously denied asylum cannot reapply, nor can individuals who had previously entered the United States illegally claim asylum.

Rep. Luna's legislation is the House companion bill to the Senate version introduced by Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH), whom she referenced in her press release statement.

"The days of open-border chaos are over. I'm joining Senator Moreno in introducing the RULES Act to put an end to the rampant fraud and abuse in our asylum system. America is a nation of law and order—not a free-for-all for illegal aliens gaming the system," the Florida Congresswoman declared.

Moreover, she added, "If you want asylum in the greatest country on Earth, you follow our rules, period. No more loopholes, no more catch-and-release, no more second chances for lawbreakers. We are taking our border back."

Luna has been a ferocious critic of the Biden Administration's border policies, saying in October 2023 that the lax enforcement of laws could enable a terrorist attack on American soil.

The following December, she posted a video urging for the drafting, passage, and enforcement of a bill to secure the border unattached to other pieces of the legislature as news circulated of a migrant caravan heading north from Mexico, saying, "So to hear that this is somehow a humanitarian thing, and we need to just blanket wave these people in. One, it is stupid, but also it is a political talking point. And let me be clear about something. We absolutely have the ability to stop this, and we should."

In 2024, Luna further denounced Biden's policies, likening the June executive order the former President issued to "being in an abusive relationship with the federal government because this is an issue of [Biden's] own creation."

Later in October, the Florida Congresswoman said Vice President Kamala Harris "needs to have a talk with God" for her apparent enabling of human trafficking perpetrated along the border.

The post Luna Introduces Bill Tightening Asylum Admission Rules appeared first on The Floridian.

MIAMI - Miami-Dade County Democratic Mayor Daniella Levine Cava congratulated Rep. Daniel "Danny" Perez, R-Miami, on becoming Florida Speaker of the House on Tuesday.

Congratulations to Miami-Dade’s own Representative @Daniel_PerezFL on being named Florida Speaker of the House," Levine Cava said. "I look forward to continuing our partnership to build a stronger, brighter future for #OurCounty. Thank you for your leadership and dedication."

Perez represents House District 116, which covers part of Miami-Dade County. In the general election, Perez handily defeated Democratic candidate Nicolas Ramos by 38 points in HD 116 to win reelection.

He was first elected to HD 116 in 2017. The 37-year-old also has served as the vice-chair for the Gaming Control Subcommittee.

Recently, Perez honored multiple House members for their service on Veterans Day. He also announced his proposed House Committee Structure and House Leadership Team for the upcoming 2024-2026 legislative term.

Originally from New York City, Perez received a bachelor's degree from Florida State University and his law degree from Loyola University New Orleans College. Outside of politics, Perez is an attorney and has lived in Miami since 2020.

Levine Cava's recognition comes after Republicans dominated Miami-Dade County in the 2024 general election. Among the results, the county elected its first sheriff in nearly 60 years in Republican Rosie Cordero-Stutz.

Other results included Miami-Dade County Republican Party Chairman Alex Rizo, R-Hialeah, winning 73% of the vote in House District 112 and Fabian Basabe, R-Miami Beach, in House District 106 with 51% of the vote.

In addition, President-elect Donald Trump carried Miami-Dade County by over 11 points. Notably, it was the first time a Republican presidential candidate won the county since George H.W. Bush in 1988.

However, Levine Cava won her reelection bid over Republican candidates Manny Cid and Alexander Otaola in the 2024 Miami-Dade County mayor election with 58% of the vote.

The 69-year-old was first elected the mayor of Miami-Dade County in 2020. Previously, Levine Cava was a Miami-Dade County Commissioner from 2014 until her election as mayor.

Other Miami-Dade County Democratic candidates to win on election night included Kevin Chambliss, D-Homestead, in House District 117, and Jason Pizzo, D-Hollywood, in Senate District 37, which includes Broward County.

The 2025 Florida Legislative Session begins on March 4 and ends on May 2 in Tallahassee.

The post Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava congratulates Danny Perez on House speakership appeared first on The Floridian.

Human trafficking remains a great evil in the present day, and the State Department's recent 2024 Trafficking in Persons report only reflects its grim prevalence. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) expressed outrage in a recent statement responding to the report: "The concerns listed in this report for these heinous crimes must transcend into tangible actions to counter these abuses."

The latest report detailed how traffickers are harnessing technology to their advantage and how efforts by government and private institutions are fighting back. Secretary of State Antony Blinken gave examples during his address at the release, using encryption to reach victims through social media, dating apps, and gaming platforms.

Many have turned to forcing their victims to participate in online scams, such as the incident of a man from India who was forcibly starved until he cooperated.

"It's outrageous that we're seeing an increase in the evil practice of human trafficking around the globe. With the advancement of technologies, we are seeing this category of human rights violation proceed at a quicker pace," said Sen. Rubio.

Additionally, the Florida Senator brought attention to government-sponsored trafficking operations, referencing the "medical brigades" of Cuba, the "illegal mass migration hub" of Nicaragua, and the usage of forced labor by Uyghurs and other minorities within China, along with the failure of Venezuela to address trafficking in their country.

"The criminal Cuban regime, through its so-called medical brigades, continues to lead a modern-day slavery scheme that subjects medical personnel to forced labor and unimaginable hardships. Venezuela's narco-regime, now a Tier 3 country, has failed to prove any commitment to counter human trafficking in our region. The Nicaraguan authoritarian dynasty has transformed its nation into an illegal mass migration hub. Communist China's modern-day slavery scheme, as it continues with its acts of genocide against the Uyghurs and other minorities, reaffirms that Beijing continues to benefit from forced labor and seeks to taint our supply chain," Sen. Rubio continued.

In April 2023, Representative Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) called for an investigation into the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) for its supposed enabling of Cuba's doctor-trafficking system.

Multiple members of Florida's Congressional delegation, including Rubio, have raised the alarm about the prevalence of imported Chinese products made with Uyghur slave labor, calling for stricter oversight and greater transparency from the Chinese government.

"The concerns listed in this report for these heinous crimes must transcend into tangible actions to counter these abuses," Rubio concluded.

The post Rubio Says Increase in 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report 'Outrageous' appeared first on The Floridian.

TALLAHASSEE, FL—The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected casino operators' bid to break up a gaming compact between Florida and the Seminole Tribe, effectively guaranteeing exclusive sports betting rights to the Seminole tribe.

"The Seminole Tribe of Florida applauds today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to decline consideration of the case involving the Tribe’s Gaming Compact with the State of Florida," a spokesperson for the Tribe said soon after the decision Monday morning.

“It means members of the Seminole Tribe and all Floridians can count on a bright future made possible by the Compact.”

According to the SCOTUS release, the writ of certiorari—or plea to review a lower court's decision—was denied. Justice Brett Kavanaugh was the sole Justice amenable to reviewing the case.

"Having shepherded the compact through the House as Chair of the Select Committee on Gaming, I am happy to see the legal uncertainties come to an end," Republican Rep. Randy Fine, the compact's legislative sponsor during the 2021 Session, told The Floridian of the decision.

Brought by the parimutuels of West Flagler Associates, which owns Miami's Magic City Casino and Bonita Springs' Poker Room, the lawsuit hoped to strike down part of a 2021 gaming compact allowing the Seminole Tribe to conduct sports betting both on and off of tribal lands.

In return, the tribe would pay the state a minimum of $2.5 billion for the first five years of the deal. The compact, which is set to be in place until 2051, is estimated to generate over $20 billion for the state. West Flagler argued that the off-land betting violates a 2018 constitutional amendment requiring authorized casino gambling to be approved by Florida voters.

In addition, they claimed the state was guilty of an "abuse of authority" for allowing sports betting off tribal lands. The Florida Supreme Court dismissed the lawsuit in March, so the plaintiffs appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court—a move that caught President Joe Biden's attention, whose administration asked the Court to dismiss the case.

The billions annually received by the state from the Seminole Tribe will be partially allocated to Florida's wildlife corridor and other environmental projects, due to a new bill passed this session. Sponsored by Republican Sen. Travis Hutson, the measure ascribes an "indeterminate" revenue to these initiatives.

The post Seminole Tribe to Have Exclusive Betting Rights Until 2051, SCOTUS Decides appeared first on The Floridian.

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL—Amidst a looming—and dramatic—sheriff election, interim Police Chief Richard Del Toro is innocent of alleged Hatch Act violations, the U.S. Office of Special Counsel told him in a letter, prompted by their months-long investigation kickstarted by an anonymous January complaint.

“This letter is in response to a complaint the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) received alleging that you are violating the Hatch Act by being a candidate in the 2024 partisan election for St. Lucie County Sheriff,” the letter begins. Erica Hamrick, Deputy Chief of the Hatch Act Unit at OSC, continues, “OSC investigated this allegation and as explained below, concluded that you are not violating the Hatch Act.”

The remainder of the two-page letter lists the allegations in the debunked complaint and systematically dismisses each claim against Del Toro, closing with, “OSC has concluded that you did not violate the Hatch Act as alleged. Therefore, we are closing this matter without further action.”

In December 2023, Del Toro came under fire for releasing an e-vite alleging that law enforcement leaders backed his candidacy for St. Lucie County Sheriff. One said she did not—citing the 1939 Hatch Act preventing unelected officials from using their "official authority" to "affect the results of an election or a nomination for office," the National Sheriffs Association states.

Another listed leader said that while he supported Del Toro personally, in deference to the Hatch Act he didn't want his name on a flier listing his endorsement.

A month later, an anonymous complaint alleging that Del Toro could not run for sheriff nor serve as interim chief because he violated the Hatch Act was filed with the OSC. Sources close to Del Toro's campaign believe that embattled, DeSantis-appointed Sheriff Keith Pearson—his Republican primary opponent for the 2024 election—orchestrated the "trumped-up" charges against Del Toro.

But...why?

Pearson is no stranger to controversy—to the point that some have speculated that Republicans do not want him to be their nominee come August. In the 2020 race for St. Lucie Sheriff, he was the subject of a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) investigation into allegations of election fraud, in which he was found to have facilitated a “ghost” candidate scheme to help incumbent Democrat Sheriff Ken Mascara.

Interestingly, Mascara suddenly retired last year after 23 years—causing DeSantis to appoint Pearson in his stead until the 2024 elections.

The FDLE Investigative Summary states “Keith Pearson, knowingly conspired, confederated, abetted, and aided Ken Mascara while he was the incumbent St. Lucie County Sheriff…to siphon votes from established Republican candidate Rich Williams in the 2020 St. Lucie County Sheriff Race.”

Pearson was asked about his role in the ghost candidacy scheme at a press conference shortly after being appointed Sheriff in December.  Pearson responded, stuttering, “The report speaks for itself.”

A reporter followed up, asking if Pearson thought he did anything wrong in the 2020 election scandal, to which Pearson said, “Nah, I don’t.”

Keith Pearson, Richard Del Toro, Rich Williams, and Preston DiFrancesco will face off for the Republican nomination for St. Lucie County Sheriff on August 20th. The winner will face the Democratic nominee on November 5th,

The post Interim Police Chief Richard Del Toro Cleared of Alleged Hatch Act Violation appeared first on The Floridian.

Tiger King in Florida

Yes, we are writing about the Tiger King. He's still in prison but was recently in Florida on a civil case... MUST READ

Squatters Beware!

Florida Signs First in the Nation Anti-Squatter Bill Into Law—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Following jarring stories of squatters residing in and destroying homeowners' properties, Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation Wednesday afternoon removing squatters'...

Ron DeSantis-Other states are allowing squatters to take over homes, and those states even side with the squatters.

Not in Florida.

We are ending the squatters scam once and for all.

Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick-Weapons trafficking by way of the U.S. is a major contributor to Haiti’s gang crisis and instability. I introduced the CATCH Act with @ChrisMurphyCT , @SenTimKaine, and @JoaquinCastrotx to help curb illicit arms trafficking from the U.S. to the Caribbean

Ted Cruz-Chuck Todd was a Dem staffer.

Tim Russert was a Dem staffer.

George Stephanoupolos was a senior Dem WH staffer.

Jen Psaki was a senior Dem WH staffer.

But, NBC hired a Republican??!!?!

'Tiger King' Joe Exotic is Back in Santa Rosa County Jail For...Music? —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—

Donalds Calls on Gallagher to 'Finish the Job' Before Leaving...—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Republicans barely have a majority before the 2024 election, and this is cause for concern the GOP as they look to expand their political influence. When Wisconsin Rep. Mike Gallagher (R)

Trump Calls Kennedy-Shanahan Ticket as 'Radical Left' —By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—

Mast Exposes Government Funding Bill, Providing Rationale for 'No' Vote —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—

Ashley Moody Secures 15-Year Sentence For Human Trafficker —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—

Scott Introduces Bill Forbidding CBP One App as ID —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—

Rubio Breaks News of Aborted Children Fetal Tissue Trafficking, Demands Retribution—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) has sent a letter to U.S. Department of Justice Attorney General Merrick Garland demanding an investigation...

Mast Exposes Government Funding Bill, Providing Rationale for 'No' Vote—By Jackson Bakich—Representative Brian Mast (R-FL) provided a rationale for his “nay” vote against the $1.2 trillion government funding package. Only six Florida Republicans voted...

Ashley Moody Secures 15-Year Sentence For Human Trafficker—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—A human trafficker who forced two New York women into sex work has just received a 15-year prison sentence, thanks to Attorney General Ashley Moody’s prosecution...

US Post Office Could be Renamed to Honor Jimmy Buffett Thanks to Gimenez Bill—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Representative Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) has filed a bill to rename the Federal Post Office located in Key West, Florida, as the...

Buchanan, Soto Urge Biden Administration to Reverse Course Regarding Medicare Program—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and Darren Soto (D-FL) announced they led a letter with 18 House Members urging President...

Florida’s Leadership in Technology Is Critical to U.S. National Security—Opinion—Technology has always advantaged some societies over others. The Manhattan Project is one example that is under popular debate again, following the blockbuster Oppenheimer...

Scott Introduces Bill Forbidding CBP One App as ID—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Part of what has allowed the ongoing border crisis to occur is the acceptance of the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) CBP One asylum processing app as a valid...

'Full of Racists': Florida Democrats Slam Democratic Party Leadership for Ousting Black County Chairs—By the Floridian's Javier Liv Caputo—PALM BEACH, FL—The Florida Democratic Party is under fire from some African American members accusing its Central Committee of racism for ousting two embattled black county chairs but choosing to keep a third white one in office.

Scott Calls Out Mucarsel-Powell for Supporting Cuban Appeasement —By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) joined freedom fighters on the campaign trail in Miami calling for freedom and democracy in Cuba. Within those demands, Sen. Scott condemned President Joe Biden and his administration’s...

Top Trump Surrogate DC Draino may Run for Congress Against Lee in Florida —By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres—One of former President Donald Trump’s top presidential surrogates and political influencers, Rogan O’Handley, aka DC Draino, may be considering a run for the U.S. Congress against Republican Rep. Laurel Lee in Florida’s 15th District.

Scott Drafts Senate Resolution Proposing Measures to Secure Southern Border —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) filed a resolution outlining policy measures President Joe Biden could adopt to manage the ongoing crisis at the southern border.

Rep. Leek Earns Four Sheriff Endorsements Amidst Senate Bid —By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—State Representative Tom Leek (R-Ormond Beach) is running for Florida State Senate District 7 as State Senator Travis Hutson (R-FL-7)...

Mast Attributes UN Resolution to Biden Appeasing Far-Left —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—The United Nations Security Council has called on an immediate ceasefire in the war between Israel and Gaza, also calling on the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages...

Luna Discusses Motion to Oust Speaker, Says Nothing Except 'Swamp Alive and Well'—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Earlier this week, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) filed a motion to vacate Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) after the passage...

Castor Introduces Bill Looking to Curb Youth Mental Health Crisis—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) introduced bipartisan legislation known as the Early Action and Responsiveness Lifts Youth (EARLY) Minds Act, a bill...

Frost Introduces Another Gun Bill Aimed at Stopping Straw Purchasers—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Much like an over-21 sibling or relative buying alcohol on behalf of their below-21 friends or relatives, people will purchase firearms on behalf of people...

Trump Rallies Against Laurel Lee—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—President Donald Trump (R) scored some breathing room this week as his $454 million bond was reduced to $175 million. Though his poll numbers continue to surge, Republicans face the threat...

Mast Attributes UN Resolution to Biden Appeasing Far-Left—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—The United Nations Security Council has called on an immediate ceasefire in the war between Israel and Gaza, also calling on the immediate and unconditional release...

Veterans for Trump Endorses Meg Weinberger in Key State House Race —By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres—The five-person Republican primary race in Florida's 94th House District is beginning to ramp up weeks after the 2024 legislative session wrapped up. Philanthropist Meg Weinberger ...

Waltz Accuses Biden Administration of Making 'Political Pig' Out of Israel-Hamas War —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—As Israel continues its war against Hamas by advancing into Rafah, Gaza, Vice President Kamala Harris recently spoke with ABC News against the measure, saying there would be "consequences" if the Jewish State continued. Representative Mike Waltz (R-FL)...

Salazar Demands Direct US Involvement in Haiti to 'Restore Order and Peace' —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Trump Responds to Reduced Bond and 'Biden Trial' —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—The race was on for President Donald Trump (R) to pay a $454 million bond, which was significantly reduced to $175 million this morning. In light of the announcement, President Trump...

New Proposal Could Lower Florida Power & Light Customer Bills —By the Floridian's Jim McCool

Mexico's President Won't go After Cartels, Cites 'Mexico First' Agenda —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Tension between the United States and Mexico continues to increase, and the southern border has only exacerbated concerns. Lawmakers have long questioned why Mexico’s...

Rubio Discusses How U.S. Can Aid in 'Apocalyptic' Haiti Crisis—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The ongoing crisis in Haiti has sparked discussion in the United States, such as potential aid and how to deal with the expected mass migration of fleeing Haitians...

Florida Counties to Receive AT&T-BlackRock Fiber Network—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Gigapower – the joint venture between AT&T and BlackRock – has announced that it is expanding its “state-of-the-art” fiber network to Okaloosa County, Crestview...

Four Sheriffs Endorse Tom Leek for Senate District 7—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—All four local sheriffs representing Florida's Senate District 7 have endorsed Republican Rep. Tom Leek for the newly vacant Senate seat in the Republican...

Marco Rubio's Loyalty to Trump Could Land him VP Spot —By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres— With former President Donald Trump all but becoming the presumptive Republican presidential nominee in the 2024...

Watered-Down Child Labor Bill Signed into Law, But...Why Was it Softened? —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Governor Ron DeSantis signed a Republican-led, watered-down bill loosening child labor laws on Friday afternoon...

Reinstatement of Trump-Era Pride Flag Ban Prompts Rubio Bill —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

DeSantis Awards Millions to Saving Florida's Reefs —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Governor Ron DeSantis has awarded $9.5 million toward restoring the struggling third largest barrier reef system in the world—Florida's own coral reefs.

Passidomo's Low-Profile Budget Item Provides Funding to Afterschool Charity Programs —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—An education priority of Senate President Kathleen Passidomo has gone mostly unnoticed in the state's budget, providing funding to afterschool programs allowing children to earn money for learned skills, and then donate the money to a charity of their choice.

MTG Files Motion to Oust Speaker Johnson —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—House Speaker Mike Johnson (R) already faced backlash for rushing a vote on what Republicans have called the "Swamp Omnibus." With the spending package now having passed, some Republicans are pursuing a response. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene ...

House Republicans Repeal Greenhouse Gas Reduction 'Slush' Fund —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich— During the last House session for the month, House Republicans overwhelmingly voted in favor of repealing a portion of the Clean Air Act, creating the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. The final vote was 209 in favor of passing the repeal, with 204 opposed, making it a narrow victory for Republicans as the bill passed along party lines.

DeSantis Touts Florida's 40-Month, Lower-Than-the-Nation Unemployment Rate —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

Nikki Fried to DeSantis: Don't 'Take Credit' For Low Unemployment, Focus on Costs—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Chairwoman of the Democratic Party Nikki Fried torched Governor Ron DeSantis' praise of Florida's low unemployment rate, urging the Governor...

Mills Rescues 13 More Americans From Haiti in Second Mission—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—With the crisis in Haiti continuing to deteriorate, Representative Cory Mills (R-FL) once again went above and beyond the call of duty, undergoing...

Waltz Declares Joe and Hunter Biden 'Worst Corruption Scandal in Our History'—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The House Oversight Committee recently held a hearing with Hunter Biden's former business associate Tony Bobulinski and others as...

Florida Supreme Court Sides With Seminole Tribe in Sports Betting Case—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—The Florida Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Seminole Gaming Compact Thursday morning, allowing the Seminole Tribe to continue online...

DeSantis to Sign Newest Form of Social Media Ban for Kids—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Governor Ron DeSantis has just received the controversial bill banning some minors on social media platforms, indicating its signage into law may be...

Buchanan Requests Transparency Following Massive Cyberattack Against Healthcare Provider—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) – the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee – led a letter with 19 other congressmen to address...

State Department Promotions Could Face Increased Scrutiny Thanks to Rubio Bill—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—A new bill introduced by US Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) would alter the promotion process for members of the US Department...

DeSantis Nominates Budget Director Chris Spencer as New State Board of Administration Director—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Friday morning Governor Ron DeSantis nominated his long-time aide and Budget Director to become the next Executive Director of the State Board of Administration, which...

DeSantis Touts Florida's Low Unemployment Rate—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) continues to tout the success of the sunshine state. Florida has been ranked as one of the best-performing states in the...

VERDAD Reauthorization Act Moves Forward With Support—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R) and Florida Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar's (R) VERDAD Reauthorization Act has passed a markup in the House Foreign...

Castor Rails Against Republicans' Refusal to Support Energy-Efficient Standards—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) blamed Republicans for “ripping into your wallets” as they allegedly do not support standards...

Senate Republicans Join Scott in Responding to Unprecedented Biden Energy Tax Hike—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) was joined by a delegation of Senate Republicans this week in an effort to oppose President Joe Biden’s...

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Jim McCool, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post Juice🍊—3.28.2024—DeSantis Squashes Squatters With New Law—Tiger King on Loose in Florida—More... appeared first on The Floridian.

Nikki Fried, Florida Democrats Called 'Racists' by Fellow Democrats After Black Chairmen are Ousted

PALM BEACH, FL—The Florida Democratic Party is under fire from some African American members accusing its Central Committee of racism for ousting two embattled black county chairs but choosing to keep a third white one in office.

MUST READ

Evan Power-No Republican, not even Ronna McDaniel is welcome at NBC, this should show everyone how extreme they have become

Jared Moskowitz-This is the right move by @POTUS

! The President can declare it a disaster area under @fema just like @JoeBiden did for Surfside collapse for the cleanup. Congress can fund the rebuild!

Byron Donalds-Fmr Acting SecDef Miller told @GOPoversight:

Trump authorized National Guard on 1/4

Follow-up call was held on 1/5

Once he testified, Pelosi shut down our 1/6 investigation.

Pelosi's @January6thCmte was a farce that hid & deleted evidence–now the FACTS are coming to light.

Shevrin “Shev” Jones-I guess DEI is the new “N” word.

Correction: @MayorBMScott was elected overwhelmingly by the people of Baltimore.

'Full of Racists': Florida Democrats Slam Democratic Party Leadership for Ousting Black County Chairs—By the Floridian's Javier Liv Caputo—PALM BEACH, FL—The Florida Democratic Party is under fire from some African American members accusing its Central Committee of racism for ousting two embattled black county chairs but choosing to keep a third white one in office.

Scott Calls Out Mucarsel-Powell for Supporting Cuban Appeasement —By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) joined freedom fighters on the campaign trail in Miami calling for freedom and democracy in Cuba. Within those demands, Sen. Scott condemned President Joe Biden and his administration’s...

Top Trump Surrogate DC Draino may Run for Congress Against Lee in Florida —By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres—One of former President Donald Trump’s top presidential surrogates and political influencers, Rogan O’Handley, aka DC Draino, may be considering a run for the U.S. Congress against Republican Rep. Laurel Lee in Florida’s 15th District.

Scott Drafts Senate Resolution Proposing Measures to Secure Southern Border —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) filed a resolution outlining policy measures President Joe Biden could adopt to manage the ongoing crisis at the southern border.

Rep. Leek Earns Four Sheriff Endorsements Amidst Senate Bid —By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—State Representative Tom Leek (R-Ormond Beach) is running for Florida State Senate District 7 as State Senator Travis Hutson (R-FL-7)...

Mast Attributes UN Resolution to Biden Appeasing Far-Left —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—The United Nations Security Council has called on an immediate ceasefire in the war between Israel and Gaza, also calling on the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages...

Luna Discusses Motion to Oust Speaker, Says Nothing Except 'Swamp Alive and Well'—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Earlier this week, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) filed a motion to vacate Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) after the passage...

Castor Introduces Bill Looking to Curb Youth Mental Health Crisis—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) introduced bipartisan legislation known as the Early Action and Responsiveness Lifts Youth (EARLY) Minds Act, a bill...

Frost Introduces Another Gun Bill Aimed at Stopping Straw Purchasers—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Much like an over-21 sibling or relative buying alcohol on behalf of their below-21 friends or relatives, people will purchase firearms on behalf of people...

Trump Rallies Against Laurel Lee—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—President Donald Trump (R) scored some breathing room this week as his $454 million bond was reduced to $175 million. Though his poll numbers continue to surge, Republicans face the threat...

Mast Attributes UN Resolution to Biden Appeasing Far-Left—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—The United Nations Security Council has called on an immediate ceasefire in the war between Israel and Gaza, also calling on the immediate and unconditional release...

Veterans for Trump Endorses Meg Weinberger in Key State House Race —By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres—The five-person Republican primary race in Florida's 94th House District is beginning to ramp up weeks after the 2024 legislative session wrapped up. Philanthropist Meg Weinberger ...

Waltz Accuses Biden Administration of Making 'Political Pig' Out of Israel-Hamas War —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—As Israel continues its war against Hamas by advancing into Rafah, Gaza, Vice President Kamala Harris recently spoke with ABC News against the measure, saying there would be "consequences" if the Jewish State continued. Representative Mike Waltz (R-FL)...

Salazar Demands Direct US Involvement in Haiti to 'Restore Order and Peace' —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Trump Responds to Reduced Bond and 'Biden Trial' —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—The race was on for President Donald Trump (R) to pay a $454 million bond, which was significantly reduced to $175 million this morning. In light of the announcement, President Trump...

New Proposal Could Lower Florida Power & Light Customer Bills —By the Floridian's Jim McCool

Mexico's President Won't go After Cartels, Cites 'Mexico First' Agenda —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Tension between the United States and Mexico continues to increase, and the southern border has only exacerbated concerns. Lawmakers have long questioned why Mexico’s...

Rubio Discusses How U.S. Can Aid in 'Apocalyptic' Haiti Crisis—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The ongoing crisis in Haiti has sparked discussion in the United States, such as potential aid and how to deal with the expected mass migration of fleeing Haitians...

Florida Counties to Receive AT&T-BlackRock Fiber Network—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Gigapower – the joint venture between AT&T and BlackRock – has announced that it is expanding its “state-of-the-art” fiber network to Okaloosa County, Crestview...

Four Sheriffs Endorse Tom Leek for Senate District 7—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—All four local sheriffs representing Florida's Senate District 7 have endorsed Republican Rep. Tom Leek for the newly vacant Senate seat in the Republican...

Marco Rubio's Loyalty to Trump Could Land him VP Spot —By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres— With former President Donald Trump all but becoming the presumptive Republican presidential nominee in the 2024...

Watered-Down Child Labor Bill Signed into Law, But...Why Was it Softened? —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Governor Ron DeSantis signed a Republican-led, watered-down bill loosening child labor laws on Friday afternoon...

Reinstatement of Trump-Era Pride Flag Ban Prompts Rubio Bill —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

DeSantis Awards Millions to Saving Florida's Reefs —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Governor Ron DeSantis has awarded $9.5 million toward restoring the struggling third largest barrier reef system in the world—Florida's own coral reefs.

Passidomo's Low-Profile Budget Item Provides Funding to Afterschool Charity Programs —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—An education priority of Senate President Kathleen Passidomo has gone mostly unnoticed in the state's budget, providing funding to afterschool programs allowing children to earn money for learned skills, and then donate the money to a charity of their choice.

MTG Files Motion to Oust Speaker Johnson —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—House Speaker Mike Johnson (R) already faced backlash for rushing a vote on what Republicans have called the "Swamp Omnibus." With the spending package now having passed, some Republicans are pursuing a response. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene ...

House Republicans Repeal Greenhouse Gas Reduction 'Slush' Fund —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich— During the last House session for the month, House Republicans overwhelmingly voted in favor of repealing a portion of the Clean Air Act, creating the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. The final vote was 209 in favor of passing the repeal, with 204 opposed, making it a narrow victory for Republicans as the bill passed along party lines.

DeSantis Touts Florida's 40-Month, Lower-Than-the-Nation Unemployment Rate —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

Nikki Fried to DeSantis: Don't 'Take Credit' For Low Unemployment, Focus on Costs—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Chairwoman of the Democratic Party Nikki Fried torched Governor Ron DeSantis' praise of Florida's low unemployment rate, urging the Governor...

Mills Rescues 13 More Americans From Haiti in Second Mission—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—With the crisis in Haiti continuing to deteriorate, Representative Cory Mills (R-FL) once again went above and beyond the call of duty, undergoing...

Waltz Declares Joe and Hunter Biden 'Worst Corruption Scandal in Our History'—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The House Oversight Committee recently held a hearing with Hunter Biden's former business associate Tony Bobulinski and others as...

Florida Supreme Court Sides With Seminole Tribe in Sports Betting Case—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—The Florida Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Seminole Gaming Compact Thursday morning, allowing the Seminole Tribe to continue online...

DeSantis to Sign Newest Form of Social Media Ban for Kids—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Governor Ron DeSantis has just received the controversial bill banning some minors on social media platforms, indicating its signage into law may be...

Buchanan Requests Transparency Following Massive Cyberattack Against Healthcare Provider—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) – the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee – led a letter with 19 other congressmen to address...

State Department Promotions Could Face Increased Scrutiny Thanks to Rubio Bill—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—A new bill introduced by US Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) would alter the promotion process for members of the US Department...

DeSantis Nominates Budget Director Chris Spencer as New State Board of Administration Director—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Friday morning Governor Ron DeSantis nominated his long-time aide and Budget Director to become the next Executive Director of the State Board of Administration, which...

DeSantis Touts Florida's Low Unemployment Rate—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) continues to tout the success of the sunshine state. Florida has been ranked as one of the best-performing states in the...

VERDAD Reauthorization Act Moves Forward With Support—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R) and Florida Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar's (R) VERDAD Reauthorization Act has passed a markup in the House Foreign...

Castor Rails Against Republicans' Refusal to Support Energy-Efficient Standards—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) blamed Republicans for “ripping into your wallets” as they allegedly do not support standards...

Senate Republicans Join Scott in Responding to Unprecedented Biden Energy Tax Hike—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) was joined by a delegation of Senate Republicans this week in an effort to oppose President Joe Biden’s...

Mills' Embassy Construction Integrity Act Clears House, Heads to Senate —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—

Lobbyists with Chinese Connections Targeted in New Rubio Bill —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the CCP Lobbying Divestment Act to counter American Defense contractors’ potential conflicts of interest.

Me Too, Unless You’re a Jew—Opinion—Since the Israel-Hamas war, the slogan “Me Too Unless You’re a Jew” has circulated to highlight the blatant hypocrisy of the feminist movement and feminist organizations when it comes to acknowledging...

DeSantis Signs New Bill to Clean up Florida's Homelessness Problem—By the Floridian's Jim McCool—This week, Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL)signed HB 1365, a bill aimed to address homelessness and to clean up Florida's streets...

Frost Introduces Bill to Close 'Zombie Gun' Loophole—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Reducing or preventing mass shootings and other acts of gun violence remains a priority of Democrats, seeking means of preventing the next shooter...

Juice—3.21.2024—DeSantis Flies Americans out of Haiti—'Me too' and Jews—More...—By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres—A Florida-chartered plane holding 14 U.S. citizens is set to return tonight from the collapsing and gang-ridden Haiti, Gov. Ron.

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Jim McCool, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post Juice🍊—3.27.2024—Nikki Fried, Democratic Leadership Called 'Racists' by Fellow Democrats—More... appeared first on The Floridian.

Florida Republicans Continue to Welcome President Trump's Endorsement.

A Trump endorsement is a Trump endorsement and just about every Republican running for elected office would cut off their arm to have it. Considering how important Florida is, could former President Donald Trump be on the verge of engaging in races that would build the supermajority in the Florida Legislature? READ MORE

Debbie Wasserman Schultz-So amazing to join and help fire up @browarddems’ Obama Roosevelt Gala! Our amazing #PeopleOverPolitics record, an agenda to keep bringing down costs and our fight to protect women’s abortion access will turn the Sunshine state blue in 2024!

Byron Donalds—Following Hurricane Ian, builders have played an essential role in the restoration of our Southwest Florida community & are a catalyst for economic growth across the Sunshine State.

Paul Renner-The internet has become a dark alley for our children where predators target them and dangerous social media leads to higher rates of depression, self-harm, and even suicide.

Jay Collins-Today we recognize the brave men and women who have received our nation’s highest award for valor, the Medal of Honor.

These individuals bravely put their lives on the ragged edge of freedom to protect the ideas, ideals, and principles of this great Nation.

We are forever grateful

Veterans for Trump Endorses Meg Weinberger in Key State House Race —By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres—The five-person Republican primary race in Florida's 94th House District is beginning to ramp up weeks after the 2024 legislative session wrapped up. Philanthropist Meg Weinberger ...

Waltz Accuses Biden Administration of Making 'Political Pig' Out of Israel-Hamas War —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—As Israel continues its war against Hamas by advancing into Rafah, Gaza, Vice President Kamala Harris recently spoke with ABC News against the measure, saying there would be "consequences" if the Jewish State continued. Representative Mike Waltz (R-FL)...

Salazar Demands Direct US Involvement in Haiti to 'Restore Order and Peace' —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Trump Responds to Reduced Bond and 'Biden Trial' —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—The race was on for President Donald Trump (R) to pay a $454 million bond, which was significantly reduced to $175 million this morning. In light of the announcement, President Trump...

New Proposal Could Lower Florida Power & Light Customer Bills —By the Floridian's Jim McCool

Mexico's President Won't go After Cartels, Cites 'Mexico First' Agenda —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Tension between the United States and Mexico continues to increase, and the southern border has only exacerbated concerns. Lawmakers have long questioned why Mexico’s...

Rubio Discusses How U.S. Can Aid in 'Apocalyptic' Haiti Crisis—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The ongoing crisis in Haiti has sparked discussion in the United States, such as potential aid and how to deal with the expected mass migration of fleeing Haitians...

Florida Counties to Receive AT&T-BlackRock Fiber Network—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Gigapower – the joint venture between AT&T and BlackRock – has announced that it is expanding its “state-of-the-art” fiber network to Okaloosa County, Crestview...

Four Sheriffs Endorse Tom Leek for Senate District 7—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—All four local sheriffs representing Florida's Senate District 7 have endorsed Republican Rep. Tom Leek for the newly vacant Senate seat in the Republican...

Marco Rubio's Loyalty to Trump Could Land him VP Spot —By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres— With former President Donald Trump all but becoming the presumptive Republican presidential nominee in the 2024...

Watered-Down Child Labor Bill Signed into Law, But...Why Was it Softened? —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Governor Ron DeSantis signed a Republican-led, watered-down bill loosening child labor laws on Friday afternoon...

Reinstatement of Trump-Era Pride Flag Ban Prompts Rubio Bill —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

DeSantis Awards Millions to Saving Florida's Reefs —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Governor Ron DeSantis has awarded $9.5 million toward restoring the struggling third largest barrier reef system in the world—Florida's own coral reefs.

Passidomo's Low-Profile Budget Item Provides Funding to Afterschool Charity Programs —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—An education priority of Senate President Kathleen Passidomo has gone mostly unnoticed in the state's budget, providing funding to afterschool programs allowing children to earn money for learned skills, and then donate the money to a charity of their choice.

MTG Files Motion to Oust Speaker Johnson —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—House Speaker Mike Johnson (R) already faced backlash for rushing a vote on what Republicans have called the "Swamp Omnibus." With the spending package now having passed, some Republicans are pursuing a response. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene ...

House Republicans Repeal Greenhouse Gas Reduction 'Slush' Fund —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich— During the last House session for the month, House Republicans overwhelmingly voted in favor of repealing a portion of the Clean Air Act, creating the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. The final vote was 209 in favor of passing the repeal, with 204 opposed, making it a narrow victory for Republicans as the bill passed along party lines.

DeSantis Touts Florida's 40-Month, Lower-Than-the-Nation Unemployment Rate —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

Nikki Fried to DeSantis: Don't 'Take Credit' For Low Unemployment, Focus on Costs—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Chairwoman of the Democratic Party Nikki Fried torched Governor Ron DeSantis' praise of Florida's low unemployment rate, urging the Governor...

Mills Rescues 13 More Americans From Haiti in Second Mission—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—With the crisis in Haiti continuing to deteriorate, Representative Cory Mills (R-FL) once again went above and beyond the call of duty, undergoing...

Waltz Declares Joe and Hunter Biden 'Worst Corruption Scandal in Our History'—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The House Oversight Committee recently held a hearing with Hunter Biden's former business associate Tony Bobulinski and others as...

Florida Supreme Court Sides With Seminole Tribe in Sports Betting Case—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—The Florida Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Seminole Gaming Compact Thursday morning, allowing the Seminole Tribe to continue online...

DeSantis to Sign Newest Form of Social Media Ban for Kids—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Governor Ron DeSantis has just received the controversial bill banning some minors on social media platforms, indicating its signage into law may be...

Buchanan Requests Transparency Following Massive Cyberattack Against Healthcare Provider—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) – the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee – led a letter with 19 other congressmen to address...

State Department Promotions Could Face Increased Scrutiny Thanks to Rubio Bill—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—A new bill introduced by US Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) would alter the promotion process for members of the US Department...

DeSantis Nominates Budget Director Chris Spencer as New State Board of Administration Director—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Friday morning Governor Ron DeSantis nominated his long-time aide and Budget Director to become the next Executive Director of the State Board of Administration, which...

DeSantis Touts Florida's Low Unemployment Rate—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) continues to tout the success of the sunshine state. Florida has been ranked as one of the best-performing states in the...

VERDAD Reauthorization Act Moves Forward With Support—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R) and Florida Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar's (R) VERDAD Reauthorization Act has passed a markup in the House Foreign...

Castor Rails Against Republicans' Refusal to Support Energy-Efficient Standards—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) blamed Republicans for “ripping into your wallets” as they allegedly do not support standards...

Senate Republicans Join Scott in Responding to Unprecedented Biden Energy Tax Hike—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) was joined by a delegation of Senate Republicans this week in an effort to oppose President Joe Biden’s...

Mills' Embassy Construction Integrity Act Clears House, Heads to Senate —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—

Lobbyists with Chinese Connections Targeted in New Rubio Bill —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the CCP Lobbying Divestment Act to counter American Defense contractors’ potential conflicts of interest.

Me Too, Unless You’re a Jew—Opinion—Since the Israel-Hamas war, the slogan “Me Too Unless You’re a Jew” has circulated to highlight the blatant hypocrisy of the feminist movement and feminist organizations when it comes to acknowledging...

DeSantis Signs New Bill to Clean up Florida's Homelessness Problem—By the Floridian's Jim McCool—This week, Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL)signed HB 1365, a bill aimed to address homelessness and to clean up Florida's streets...

Frost Introduces Bill to Close 'Zombie Gun' Loophole—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Reducing or preventing mass shootings and other acts of gun violence remains a priority of Democrats, seeking means of preventing the next shooter...

Juice—3.21.2024—DeSantis Flies Americans out of Haiti—'Me too' and Jews—More...—By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres—A Florida-chartered plane holding 14 U.S. citizens is set to return tonight from the collapsing and gang-ridden Haiti, Gov. Ron.

Frost Announces $12 Million for Central Florida Housing and Infrastructure —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The State of Florida has become one of the nation's fastest-growing states, but making sure everyone who moves in has a place to live remains a problem. ...

Florida Legislators Demand New Sanctions Package Against Cuba —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Florida legislators are urging colleagues support the passage of the Denying Earnings to the Military Oligarchy in Cuba and Restricting Activities of the Cuban Intelligence Apparatus (DEMOCRACIA) Act.

Rubio Reaffirms That 'Marxism Always Fail' —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R) has shared his support for the protests in Cuba. As the Cuban people take to the streets to protest the Castro regime, lawmakers in the United States...

Wasserman Schultz Pushes Back Against Antisemites in Op-Ed

—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina

DeSantis' Haiti Rescue Flight Returns 14 Americans to Florida—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—SANFORD, FL—A Florida-chartered plane holding 14 U.S. citizens is set to return tonight from the collapsing and gang-ridden Haiti, Gov. Ron DeSantis told reporters Wednesday afternoon.

Waltz Accuses Biden Administration of 'Living in Fantasy Land' During Afghanistan Withdrawal—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The House Foreign Affairs Committee recently held a hearing with Generals Mark Milley (Ret.) and Kenneth McKenzie...

'We're Actually Trying to Win': Trump Team Swipes at DeSantis—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

Charges Filed Against Theft Ringleader Who Stole Half Million From Home Depot—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—The Florida Attorney General announced criminal charges would be filed against the leader of an organized theft ring for stealing almost half a million dollars in heavy equipment from Home Depot.

Fried Reports Positive Election Night for Democrats, Power Vehemently Disagrees—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Jim McCool, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post Juice🍊—3.26.2024—Trump May Look to Influence Florida's State Legislature in Key House District—Waltz on Israel—Haiti—More... appeared first on The Floridian.

Marco Rubio's Loyalty to Trump Could Land him VP Spot

We have been saying it for some time—Senator Rubio is the sleeper 2028 Presidential candidate. Now that he is on President Trump's shortlist to be vice president, all bets are off in 2028.

If Trump picks Rubio, and if Trump wins in November, Rubio could be the odds on favorite to be the 2028 Republican presidential nominee and not Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Do you agree? Here is a pretty good breakdown >>> READ MORE

Rick Scott- It’s been 170 days since these precious kids were with their family.

I have a milk carton with Ariel’s face on it in my office as a reminder to everyone who passes by that we cannot stop fighting to bring these two, every American citizen and all those being held hostage home.

Maxwell Alejandro Frost-Six years ago, one of the largest youth-led mobilizations in the history of our country changed the world. I’m proud to have come from the @AMarch4OurLives

movement and will continue to fight like hell to end gun violence. #RepostYourRage

Evan Power-Liberal media is so out of touch with our actual voters it’s scary

November is coming and together we will make our cities great again.

Marco Rubio's Loyalty to Trump Could Land him VP Spot —By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres— With former President Donald Trump all but becoming the presumptive Republican presidential nominee in the 2024...

Watered-Down Child Labor Bill Signed into Law, But...Why Was it Softened? —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Governor Ron DeSantis signed a Republican-led, watered-down bill loosening child labor laws on Friday afternoon...

Reinstatement of Trump-Era Pride Flag Ban Prompts Rubio Bill —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

DeSantis Awards Millions to Saving Florida's Reefs —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Governor Ron DeSantis has awarded $9.5 million toward restoring the struggling third largest barrier reef system in the world—Florida's own coral reefs.

Passidomo's Low-Profile Budget Item Provides Funding to Afterschool Charity Programs —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—An education priority of Senate President Kathleen Passidomo has gone mostly unnoticed in the state's budget, providing funding to afterschool programs allowing children to earn money for learned skills, and then donate the money to a charity of their choice.

MTG Files Motion to Oust Speaker Johnson —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—House Speaker Mike Johnson (R) already faced backlash for rushing a vote on what Republicans have called the "Swamp Omnibus." With the spending package now having passed, some Republicans are pursuing a response. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene ...

House Republicans Repeal Greenhouse Gas Reduction 'Slush' Fund —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich— During the last House session for the month, House Republicans overwhelmingly voted in favor of repealing a portion of the Clean Air Act, creating the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. The final vote was 209 in favor of passing the repeal, with 204 opposed, making it a narrow victory for Republicans as the bill passed along party lines.

DeSantis Touts Florida's 40-Month, Lower-Than-the-Nation Unemployment Rate —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

Nikki Fried to DeSantis: Don't 'Take Credit' For Low Unemployment, Focus on Costs—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Chairwoman of the Democratic Party Nikki Fried torched Governor Ron DeSantis' praise of Florida's low unemployment rate, urging the Governor...

Mills Rescues 13 More Americans From Haiti in Second Mission—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—With the crisis in Haiti continuing to deteriorate, Representative Cory Mills (R-FL) once again went above and beyond the call of duty, undergoing...

Waltz Declares Joe and Hunter Biden 'Worst Corruption Scandal in Our History'—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The House Oversight Committee recently held a hearing with Hunter Biden's former business associate Tony Bobulinski and others as...

Florida Supreme Court Sides With Seminole Tribe in Sports Betting Case—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—The Florida Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Seminole Gaming Compact Thursday morning, allowing the Seminole Tribe to continue online...

DeSantis to Sign Newest Form of Social Media Ban for Kids—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Governor Ron DeSantis has just received the controversial bill banning some minors on social media platforms, indicating its signage into law may be...

Buchanan Requests Transparency Following Massive Cyberattack Against Healthcare Provider—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) – the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee – led a letter with 19 other congressmen to address...

State Department Promotions Could Face Increased Scrutiny Thanks to Rubio Bill—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—A new bill introduced by US Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) would alter the promotion process for members of the US Department...

DeSantis Nominates Budget Director Chris Spencer as New State Board of Administration Director—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Friday morning Governor Ron DeSantis nominated his long-time aide and Budget Director to become the next Executive Director of the State Board of Administration, which...

DeSantis Touts Florida's Low Unemployment Rate—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) continues to tout the success of the sunshine state. Florida has been ranked as one of the best-performing states in the...

VERDAD Reauthorization Act Moves Forward With Support—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R) and Florida Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar's (R) VERDAD Reauthorization Act has passed a markup in the House Foreign...

Castor Rails Against Republicans' Refusal to Support Energy-Efficient Standards—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) blamed Republicans for “ripping into your wallets” as they allegedly do not support standards...

Senate Republicans Join Scott in Responding to Unprecedented Biden Energy Tax Hike—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) was joined by a delegation of Senate Republicans this week in an effort to oppose President Joe Biden’s...

Mills' Embassy Construction Integrity Act Clears House, Heads to Senate —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—

Lobbyists with Chinese Connections Targeted in New Rubio Bill —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the CCP Lobbying Divestment Act to counter American Defense contractors’ potential conflicts of interest.

Me Too, Unless You’re a Jew—Opinion—Since the Israel-Hamas war, the slogan “Me Too Unless You’re a Jew” has circulated to highlight the blatant hypocrisy of the feminist movement and feminist organizations when it comes to acknowledging...

DeSantis Signs New Bill to Clean up Florida's Homelessness Problem—By the Floridian's Jim McCool—This week, Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL)signed HB 1365, a bill aimed to address homelessness and to clean up Florida's streets...

Frost Introduces Bill to Close 'Zombie Gun' Loophole—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Reducing or preventing mass shootings and other acts of gun violence remains a priority of Democrats, seeking means of preventing the next shooter...

Juice—3.21.2024—DeSantis Flies Americans out of Haiti—'Me too' and Jews—More...—By the Floridian's Javier Manjarres—A Florida-chartered plane holding 14 U.S. citizens is set to return tonight from the collapsing and gang-ridden Haiti, Gov. Ron.

Frost Announces $12 Million for Central Florida Housing and Infrastructure —By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The State of Florida has become one of the nation's fastest-growing states, but making sure everyone who moves in has a place to live remains a problem. ...

Florida Legislators Demand New Sanctions Package Against Cuba —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Florida legislators are urging colleagues support the passage of the Denying Earnings to the Military Oligarchy in Cuba and Restricting Activities of the Cuban Intelligence Apparatus (DEMOCRACIA) Act.

Rubio Reaffirms That 'Marxism Always Fail' —By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R) has shared his support for the protests in Cuba. As the Cuban people take to the streets to protest the Castro regime, lawmakers in the United States...

Wasserman Schultz Pushes Back Against Antisemites in Op-Ed

—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina

DeSantis' Haiti Rescue Flight Returns 14 Americans to Florida—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—SANFORD, FL—A Florida-chartered plane holding 14 U.S. citizens is set to return tonight from the collapsing and gang-ridden Haiti, Gov. Ron DeSantis told reporters Wednesday afternoon.

Waltz Accuses Biden Administration of 'Living in Fantasy Land' During Afghanistan Withdrawal—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The House Foreign Affairs Committee recently held a hearing with Generals Mark Milley (Ret.) and Kenneth McKenzie...

'We're Actually Trying to Win': Trump Team Swipes at DeSantis—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

Charges Filed Against Theft Ringleader Who Stole Half Million From Home Depot—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—The Florida Attorney General announced criminal charges would be filed against the leader of an organized theft ring for stealing almost half a million dollars in heavy equipment from Home Depot.

Fried Reports Positive Election Night for Democrats, Power Vehemently Disagrees—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Zieglers Sue to Keep Their Phone Records Private From the Media —By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

Laurel Lee Rips Into Biden's Fiscal Budget Proposal: Americans 'Cannot Keep Up' —By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Laurel Lee (R-FL) ripped into President Joe Biden’s (D) Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) budget proposal.

FIU Hosts Climate Change Conference —By the Floridian's Jim McCool

One Man Race as Florida Hosts Presidential Primary —By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

15 New Bills Reach Governor's Desk—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

Dems Condemn Arsonist Attack on Jewish Community Center—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—FORT LAUDERDALE, FL—After a transient arsonist set fire to a Rabbi's van outside a Jewish Community Center, Democratic leaders are speaking out on spiking levels of antisemitism in the wake of the October 7th terrorist attack on Israel.

Rubio Condemns Passage of Article 23 in Hong Kong—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina

Moskowitz Calls for Hearing on Haiti as Americans Remain Stranded—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

Donalds Believes Democratic Party has 'Radicalized Beyond Recognition'—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL) appeared on Newsmax to share his thoughts concerning the changing party politics within America, specifically relating to the Democratic Party.

Wade Resigns as Trump Struggles to Pay a Half-Billion Bond—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Jim McCool, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post Juice🍊—3.25.2024—VP WATCH: Marco Rubio's Strong Loyalty to Trump a Big Plus—Passidomo—Child Labor Law— Pride Flag–More... appeared first on The Floridian.

U.S. House Passes $1.2 Trillion Spending Bill, 'Hardline" Republicans Like Gaetz and Mills Pushback

With a total vote count of 286-134, the U.S of Representatives passed another omnibus spending bill to avert a government shutdown, but “hardline” House Republicans like...READ MORE

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick: "The stability of Haiti is in the national security interest of the United States."

Former CEO of Texas Public Policy Foundation Kevin Roberts: "Once again, the Uniparty has betrayed the American people."

.

Nikki Fried to DeSantis: Don't 'Take Credit' For Low Unemployment, Focus on Costs—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Chairwoman of the Democratic Party Nikki Fried torched Governor Ron DeSantis' praise of Florida's low unemployment rate, urging the Governor...

Mills Rescues 13 More Americans From Haiti in Second Mission—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—With the crisis in Haiti continuing to deteriorate, Representative Cory Mills (R-FL) once again went above and beyond the call of duty, undergoing...

Waltz Declares Joe and Hunter Biden 'Worst Corruption Scandal in Our History'—By the Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The House Oversight Committee recently held a hearing with Hunter Biden's former business associate Tony Bobulinski and others as...

Florida Supreme Court Sides With Seminole Tribe in Sports Betting Case—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—The Florida Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Seminole Gaming Compact Thursday morning, allowing the Seminole Tribe to continue online...

DeSantis to Sign Newest Form of Social Media Ban for Kids—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Governor Ron DeSantis has just received the controversial bill banning some minors on social media platforms, indicating its signage into law may be...

Buchanan Requests Transparency Following Massive Cyberattack Against Healthcare Provider—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) – the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee – led a letter with 19 other congressmen to address...

State Department Promotions Could Face Increased Scrutiny Thanks to Rubio Bill—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—A new bill introduced by US Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) would alter the promotion process for members of the US Department...

DeSantis Nominates Budget Director Chris Spencer as New State Board of Administration Director—By the Floridian's Liv Caputo—Friday morning Governor Ron DeSantis nominated his long-time aide and Budget Director to become the next Executive Director of the State Board of Administration, which...

DeSantis Touts Florida's Low Unemployment Rate—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) continues to tout the success of the sunshine state. Florida has been ranked as one of the best-performing states in the...

VERDAD Reauthorization Act Moves Forward With Support—By the Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R) and Florida Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar's (R) VERDAD Reauthorization Act has passed a markup in the House Foreign...

Castor Rails Against Republicans' Refusal to Support Energy-Efficient Standards—By the Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) blamed Republicans for “ripping into your wallets” as they allegedly do not support standards...

Senate Republicans Join Scott in Responding to Unprecedented Biden Energy Tax Hike—By the Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—US Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) was joined by a delegation of Senate Republicans this week in an effort to oppose President Joe Biden’s...

The Last Squeeze is presssed by Javier Manjarres, Jim McCool, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post Last Squeeze🍊—3.22.2024—U.S. House Passes $1.2 Trillion Spending Bill—Nikki Fried Pushes Back Against DeSantis—More... appeared first on The Floridian.

TALLAHASSEE, FL—The Florida Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Seminole Gaming Compact Thursday morning, allowing the Seminole Tribe to continue online sports betting.

“This is a major victory for the people of the State of Florida, who can count on billions of dollars over the coming years to fund important state needs,” Seminole Tribe spokesman Gary Bitner said.

“Floridians and visitors can enjoy statewide sports betting and expanded casino games, now and into the future.  And it means the Seminole Tribe of Florida can have confidence in the future.”

The as-of-now failed lawsuit was brought against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis by the pari-mutuels of West Flagler Associates, which owns Miami's Magic City Casino and Bonita Springs' Poker Room.

The pari-mutuels wanted to strike down part of a 2021 deal between the state and the tribe that allowed gamblers to place mobile sports bets, even if they were off tribal property. In return, the tribe paid the state a minimum of $2.5 billion for the first five years of the three decade deal.

West Flagler argued that the off-land betting violates a 2018 constitutional amendment, requiring authorized casino gambling to be approved by Florida voters. In addition, they claimed DeSantis was guilty of an "abuse of authority" for allowing sports betting off tribal lands.

“The amendment is an enduring grant to the people themselves — and only them — to authorize new gambling in Florida,” West Flagler argued. “The constitutional provision should be interpreted for sports betting as it exists today.”

However, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody's office—on behalf of the state—contended, and ultimately proved, that sports betting is not casino gambling.

A lower court initially ruled in the pari-mutuels favor, striking down the contested sports betting portion of the deal. An appellate court reversed, allowing the tribe to restart their mobile system in the fall—though the U.S. Supreme Court may still take up the decision on appeal.

The Florida Supreme Court's Thursday ruling found that West Flagler's petition "is not the proper vehicle to obtain a declaration as to the substantive constitutionality of an enacted law", thereby denying the parimutuels on the grounds of quo warranto—the reasoning behind the petition.

The billions annually received by the state from the Seminole Tribe will be partially allocated to Florida's wildlife corridor and other environmental projects, due to a new bill passed this session. Sponsored by Republican Sen. Travis Hutson, the measure ascribes an "indeterminate" amount of revenue to these initiatives.

The post Florida Supreme Court Sides With Seminole Tribe in Sports Betting Case appeared first on The Floridian.

The James Madison Institute has long advocated for principles of conservative governance, especially fiscally.  Now, JMI's Senior Fellow Bartlett Cleland is making an unconventional argument for free markets in the Institute's new backgrounder.

In his writing, Cleland likens economics to online gaming.  Cleland stated, "From a strictly entertainment angle, it can make sports fans of non-fans, and it can make better fans of sports fans" adding, "From a fiscal angle, there currently exists an expansive gaming market in the United States in the hundreds of billions of dollars. That level of activity requires a commitment on the part of policymakers to protect competition and ensure that dominant players (monopolies/duopolies) are not engaged in anticompetitive behavior."

"Too often we see companies gaining a comfortable market position and then, instead of working hard to secure that position, they turn to government to encourage regulations that block out new competitors. Government should not be part of the equation for private sector success – rather, winning over consumers should dominate," summarized Cleland.

It is with these sentiments that Cleland advocates for the massive economic opportunities online gambling, and calls on policymakers to protect this type of natural market competition.

The post JMI Releases New Backgrounder on Gambling Market appeared first on The Floridian.

Florida 'Crack Bears' to go to Rehab?

TALLAHASSEE, FL—A Republican Lawmaker is no longer targeting Florida's "crack bears" in his bill allowing people to kill bears in self-defense...READ MORE

Rick Scott-Disturbing the Met Gala would allow TikTok’s CEO to be an “honorary” chair.

This guy leads the CCP’s effort to spy on your kids and feed them information. Every Met attendee and co-chair should be asked if they’re okay with that.

Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick-.@POTUS’ latest student debt plan would give financial breathing room to Floridians who need it the most and make relief more accessible.

This is another tremendous step forward in tackling the student debt crisis.

Trump v. Haley on Florida GOP Top Priority Issues —By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

'Crack Bears Do Not Exist': FL Democrats Poke Fun at Lawmaker Targeting Bears High on Crack —By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A Republican Lawmaker is no longer targeting Florida's "crack bears" in his bill allowing people to kill bears in self-defense. On the House Floor Thursday, the sponsor explained his bill is meant to protect families against all bears on their property—not just ones high on crack.

Luna Files Bill Forcing Lawmakers Supporting Ukraine to Enlist in Military —By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—US Representative Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) has filed a bill that would compel all lawmakers advocating for US military support of Ukraine’s war with Russia to enlist in the military.

Frost, Moskowitz Introduce Gun Sale Legislation —By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—On the sixth anniversary of the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas school shooting, Representatives Maxwell Frost (D-FL) and Jared Moskowitz (D-FL)...

Mills Say's U.S. was Safer Under President Trump —By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Cory Mills (R-FL) sat down for an exclusive interview with The Floridian to discuss recent developments...

Rep. Alina Garcia Will Not Seek Reelection to Florida House—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—Florida Rep. Alina Garcia (R) has decided to not seek reelection to the Florida House of Representatives in the 2024 presidential election cycle, and will instead run for Miami-Dade County Supervisor of Election.

Florida Parents Overwhelmingly Oppose Social Media ban for Teenagers—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—The controversial legislative measure that passed in the Florida House of Representatives that calls for an all-out Social Media ban for children under the age of 16...

No Sign of Improvement in Red Sea as CENTCOM Intercepts Weapons Shipment—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported having intercepted an Iranian ship carrying lethal weapons destined for the Houthis in Yemen.

Senate Passes $95 Billion Foreign Aid Package Despite Conservative Resistance—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Putin Endorses Biden Over Trump—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Gimenez Repeats Claim Border Crisis is Intentional After Mayorkas Impeachment—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina

Governor and First Lady DeSantis Put $20 Million Towards Cancer Research—By The Floridian's Jim McCool—Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) and First Lady Casey DeSantis have announced that they are awarding cancer researchers $20 million towards the Cancer Innovation Fund.

Ingoglia to Congress on Border Crisis: 'Get Off Your Butts and Fix it' —By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—In a Valentine's Day voice vote, the Florida Senate is demanding Congress enforce immigration laws, secure the border, and protect against...

George Floyd-Era Police Review Boards to Come to an End Under New Bill—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A Republican-led bill would abolish civilian police review boards from the state. Mostly founded after the death of George Floyd,...

Three Florida U.S. Representatives Nearly Caused Another GOP Impeachment Embarrassment —By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Three U.S. lawmakers from the state of Florida nearly caused another embarrassing loss for House Republicans...

Venezuelan Plane Seized by DOJ in Florida, Pressure Increases for More Sanctions—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—The US Department of Justice (DOJ) announced it had successfully seized a Venezuelan Boeing 747 originally owned by Iran and subsequently sold to the former.

Steube 'Happy' Senate Foreign Aid Package Will Not Pass House—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—The Senate recently passed a bill authorizing $95 billion in foreign aid with no domestic attachments. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has signaled it would not be voted upon in the House. Representative Greg Steube...

Mast Introduces Bill to Name VA Medical Center After Vietnam Veteran—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Brian Mast (R-FL) has introduced a bill to name the West Palm Beach VA (Veterans Affairs) medical center as the “Thomas H. Corey Health Care System of West Palm Beach.”

DeSantis Supports New Legislation to Crack Down on Retail Theft—By The Floridian's Christian Pitten—In an effort to boost more law and order in the state, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis came out supporting legislation to “protect

Floridians from retail theft and porch pirates.” only" or "only 7 remaining!"

Florida Reworks Gaming Laws, Cracks Down on Fantasy Sports Businesses—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres

House Republicans Impeach Homeland Secretary Mayorkas in Narrow Vote—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—The House of Representatives voted to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas on Tuesday night. The vote tally was 214-213.

Lee Introduces FISA Reforms to Prevent Politicization—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) has been under fire from House Republicans...

Ga. Judge Floats “Possible” Disqualification of Willis from Trump Case—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Scott Says Democrats Must 'Find Somebody Better' Than Biden After Special Counsel Report—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The report by Special Counsel Robert Hur declining to charge President Biden for taking classified documents on the grounds of senility...

Bilirakis Introduces Legislation to Fight Congenital Heart Disease—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) has reached across the aisle to introduce the Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2024. The bill “reauthorizes funding for critical...”

Buchanan Calls Out Biden for Launching TikTok Account—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) chastised President Joe Biden (D) on social media for banning TikTok on government devices while also launching an account for his campaign.

Senate Unanimously Approves Scott Resolution Honoring Parkland Victims—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Florida Bill Would Protect and House Pregnant Homeless Women—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A new bill seeks to provide resources and housing for pregnant homeless women in Florida. Through a new grant program within the Department of Children and Families, the measure hopes to temper the state's homeless crisis.

DeSantis-Appointed Communist Task Force to Revamp Florida School Curriculums—By The Floridian's Liv

Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A new bill would add an anti-communism curriculum to Florida schools, creating a communist task force of Governor-appointed officials. The bill faced Democratic resistance, with liberal lawmakers calling it divisive and "hurtful".

Gaetz Introduces Bill Affirming States' Right to Protect Borders—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich

Rubio Reacts to Trump NATO Comments, Points Out Biden Swearing at Netanyahu—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Gimenez Blasts American Firms Investing in Chinese AI Development—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina—

Senate Democrats Vote Against Scott's Anti-Hamas Bill—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Rubio Says U.S. Needs 'Third Country' Asylum Processing to Fixed Border Crisis—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Jim McCool, and Daniel Molina

The post Juice🍊—2.16.2024—Florida has 'Crack Bears?'— Pro-War American Lawmakers to be Forced to Enlist in Military —More... appeared first on The Floridian.

Governor and First Lady DeSantis Continue Efforts to Combat Cancer

First Lady Casey DeSantis beat breast cancer, but that doesn't mean she was going to stop the fight. Since her recovery, Mrs. DeSantis has been the tip of the spear in Florida in raising money and awareness of the disease that afflicts millions of Americans every year.

At an event in the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee, DeSantis announced that she was...READ MORE

Life at Casa DeSantis

From the looks of it in this image we took at the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee, Gov. DeSantis is instilling baseball in his little whippersnappers.

A football is on the front porch, but we all know that "Futbol" i a real man's sport.

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL!!!

Shevrin “Shev” Jones-Today, we must remember the lives lost in the tragic MSD Parkland Shooting. Each name represents a story cut short and futures were stolen way too soon. Let us honor their memory by taking preventative action towards such heinous acts of gun violence.

May we strive to create a world where schools are sanctuaries of learning and safety. It is our job to ensure that students can pursue their education without fear.

We will Never Forget.

Maxwell Alejandro Frost-The government shuts down on March 1st and Speaker Johnson is cancelling session for Friday. That gives us tomorrow and three days at the end of the month in DC to keep the government open.

Byron Donalds-If a federal agency has been spying on the American people, their funding must be tied.

We can have disagreements but government cannot be wielded as a tool against political opponents.

America is the greatest country known to man.

This will destroy it.

We CANNOT tolerate this.

Governor and First Lady DeSantis Put $20 Million Towards Cancer Research—By The Floridian's Jim McCool—Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) and First Lady Casey DeSantis have announced that they are awarding cancer researchers $20 million towards the Cancer Innovation Fund.

Ingoglia to Congress on Border Crisis: 'Get Off Your Butts and Fix it' —By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—In a Valentine's Day voice vote, the Florida Senate is demanding Congress enforce immigration laws, secure the border, and protect against...

George Floyd-Era Police Review Boards to Come to an End Under New Bill—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A Republican-led bill would abolish civilian police review boards from the state. Mostly founded after the death of George Floyd,...

Three Florida U.S. Representatives Nearly Caused Another GOP Impeachment Embarrassment —By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Three U.S. lawmakers from the state of Florida nearly caused another embarrassing loss for House Republicans...

Venezuelan Plane Seized by DOJ in Florida, Pressure Increases for More Sanctions—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—The US Department of Justice (DOJ) announced it had successfully seized a Venezuelan Boeing 747 originally owned by Iran and subsequently sold to the former.

Steube 'Happy' Senate Foreign Aid Package Will Not Pass House—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—The Senate recently passed a bill authorizing $95 billion in foreign aid with no domestic attachments. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has signaled it would not be voted upon in the House. Representative Greg Steube...

Mast Introduces Bill to Name VA Medical Center After Vietnam Veteran—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Brian Mast (R-FL) has introduced a bill to name the West Palm Beach VA (Veterans Affairs) medical center as the “Thomas H. Corey Health Care System of West Palm Beach.”

DeSantis Supports New Legislation to Crack Down on Retail Theft—By The Floridian's Christian Pitten—In an effort to boost more law and order in the state, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis came out supporting legislation to “protect

Floridians from retail theft and porch pirates.” only" or "only 7 remaining!"

Florida Reworks Gaming Laws, Cracks Down on Fantasy Sports Businesses—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres

House Republicans Impeach Homeland Secretary Mayorkas in Narrow Vote—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—The House of Representatives voted to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas on Tuesday night. The vote tally was 214-213.

Lee Introduces FISA Reforms to Prevent Politicization—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) has been under fire from House Republicans...

Ga. Judge Floats “Possible” Disqualification of Willis from Trump Case—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Scott Says Democrats Must 'Find Somebody Better' Than Biden After Special Counsel Report—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The report by Special Counsel Robert Hur declining to charge President Biden for taking classified documents on the grounds of senility...

Bilirakis Introduces Legislation to Fight Congenital Heart Disease—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) has reached across the aisle to introduce the Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2024. The bill “reauthorizes funding for critical...”

Buchanan Calls Out Biden for Launching TikTok Account—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) chastised President Joe Biden (D) on social media for banning TikTok on government devices while also launching an account for his campaign.

Senate Unanimously Approves Scott Resolution Honoring Parkland Victims—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Florida Bill Would Protect and House Pregnant Homeless Women—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A new bill seeks to provide resources and housing for pregnant homeless women in Florida. Through a new grant program within the Department of Children and Families, the measure hopes to temper the state's homeless crisis.

DeSantis-Appointed Communist Task Force to Revamp Florida School Curriculums—By The Floridian's Liv

Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A new bill would add an anti-communism curriculum to Florida schools, creating a communist task force of Governor-appointed officials. The bill faced Democratic resistance, with liberal lawmakers calling it divisive and "hurtful".

Gaetz Introduces Bill Affirming States' Right to Protect Borders—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich

Rubio Reacts to Trump NATO Comments, Points Out Biden Swearing at Netanyahu—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Gimenez Blasts American Firms Investing in Chinese AI Development—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina—

Senate Democrats Vote Against Scott's Anti-Hamas Bill—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Rubio Says U.S. Needs 'Third Country' Asylum Processing to Fixed Border Crisis—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres

Mast Accuses Biden Admin of Speaking From 'Both Sides' of the Mouth Once Again—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Brian Mast (R-FL) appeared on Fox News’ “Mornings with Maria” to discuss the border crisis as well as President Joe Biden...

Rubio Files Border Enforcement Amendments to Sweeping Spending Bill—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—A $95 billion foreign aid package containing aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan surmounted a key procedural vote on Superbowl Sunday.

Drug Cartels Can 'Drive a Mack Truck Filled With Fentanyl' Through Biden Immigration Bill—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Republicans are turning on President Biden's bipartisan immigration bill, claiming the measure will lead to increased immigration and drug trafficking into the country.

EXCLUSIVE: Ingoglia Says House Republicans Fought Themselves on Mayorkas Impeachment—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Congressional Republicans failed last week to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, a member of Biden's Cabinet, over the ongoing illegal immigration surge at the U.S.-Mexico border. In an interview with The Floridian, Sen. Blaise Ingoglia...

Florida Has Bipartisan Support for Securing Texas Border—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—As Governor Ron DeSantis prepares to send thousands of National and State Guardsmen...

Ban on Lab-Grown Meat Leads to Fears of a Boosted Chinese Economy—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A sweeping Florida bill is facing backlash over its proposed ban on lab-grown meat, with opponents fearing limited consumer choices, a weakened American economy, and an increase in Chinese jobs.

Scott Seeks to Prevent Biden from Halting Lawful Cross-Border Trade in New Bill—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) joined Sen. Ted Cruz (R-FL) in introducing the Keeping International Land Ports of Entry Open Act to prevent the closure of commercial ports of entry late last week.

RPOF Endorses Trump, Scott—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina

Rubio Chastises Senators Who Ignore Border for Ukraine—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Jim McCool, and Daniel Molina

The post Juice🍊—2.15.2024—First Lady DeSantis Steps up Against Cancer, Again— What's on DeSantis's Front Porch?—House Republicans Dodge Another Bullet —More... appeared first on The Floridian.

Ingoglia to Congress on Border Crisis: 'Get Off Your Butts and Fix it'

TALLAHASSEE, FL—In a Valentine's Day voice vote, the Florida Senate is demanding Congress enforce immigration laws, secure the border, and protect...READ MORE

Lauren Book-For the rest of the country, Valentine’s Day is about love and friendship — but for our Broward County community, it’s also a day of loss and remembrance. Six years ago today, a gunman entered Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School — opening fire to shoot 34, kill 17, and forever change the lives of thousands more. And so today — and every single day since February 14, 2018 — we remember and honor the victims and survivors with love, care, and a deep commitment to keeping our schools and communities safe. For Alyssa, Scott, Martin, Nicholas, Aaron, Jaime, Chris, Luke, Cara, Gina, Joaquin, Alaina, Meadow, Helena, Alex, Carmen, and Peter.

Ingoglia to Congress on Border Crisis: 'Get Off Your Butts and Fix it' —By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—In a Valentine's Day voice vote, the Florida Senate is demanding Congress enforce immigration laws, secure the border, and protect against...

George Floyd-Era Police Review Boards to Come to an End Under New Bill—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A Republican-led bill would abolish civilian police review boards from the state. Mostly founded after the death of George Floyd,...

Three Florida U.S. Representatives Nearly Caused Another GOP Impeachment Embarrassment —By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Three U.S. lawmakers from the state of Florida nearly caused another embarrassing loss for House Republicans...

Venezuelan Plane Seized by DOJ in Florida, Pressure Increases for More Sanctions—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—The US Department of Justice (DOJ) announced it had successfully seized a Venezuelan Boeing 747 originally owned by Iran and subsequently sold to the former.

Steube 'Happy' Senate Foreign Aid Package Will Not Pass House—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—The Senate recently passed a bill authorizing $95 billion in foreign aid with no domestic attachments. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has signaled it would not be voted upon in the House. Representative Greg Steube...

Mast Introduces Bill to Name VA Medical Center After Vietnam Veteran—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Brian Mast (R-FL) has introduced a bill to name the West Palm Beach VA (Veterans Affairs) medical center as the “Thomas H. Corey Health Care System of West Palm Beach.”

DeSantis Supports New Legislation to Crack Down on Retail Theft—By The Floridian's Christian Pitten—In an effort to boost more law and order in the state, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis came out supporting legislation to “protect Floridians from retail theft and porch pirates.”

Juice—2.14.2024—House Democrats Win NY Seat— Florida Gaming Issue in Spotlight—Mayorkas Impeached...

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Jim McCool, and Daniel Molina

The post Last Squeeze🍊—2.14.2024—DeSantis' Florida: Where Retail Theft Goes to Die—FL Senate Rips Congress Over Immigration, Border—More... appeared first on The Floridian.

House Republicans Impeach Homeland Secretary Mayorkas in Narrow Vote

The House of Representatives voted to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas on Tuesday night. The vote tally was 214-213...READ MORE

Florida Reworks Gaming Laws, Cracks Down on Fantasy Sports Businesses

TALLAHASSEE, FL—Florida Republicans are revamping gaming laws this session, with a series of new measures addressing fantasy sports, gaming licenses, and the Seminole Tribe. The legislation follows a series of court rulings, angry betters, and Gov. Ron DeSantis granting the Seminole Tribe exclusive sports betting rights. READ MORE

Marco Rubio-America is being invaded and we have a crime wave that is only going to get worse

Florida Democrats-Congressman @MaxwellFrostFL: “True justice is when no parent no person, no child has to grow up knowing that in their country, the most likely reason that they would be killed is with bullets. We’ll continue to fight and honor these lives with action.”

Florida GOP-Overall prices are up 17.9% since Biden took office with inflation rising faster than expected in January.

We can't afford @JoeBiden

Florida Reworks Gaming Laws, Cracks Down on Fantasy Sports Businesses—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres

House Republicans Impeach Homeland Secretary Mayorkas in Narrow Vote—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—The House of Representatives voted to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas on Tuesday night. The vote tally was 214-213.

Lee Introduces FISA Reforms to Prevent Politicization—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) has been under fire from House Republicans...

Ga. Judge Floats “Possible” Disqualification of Willis from Trump Case—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Scott Says Democrats Must 'Find Somebody Better' Than Biden After Special Counsel Report—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—The report by Special Counsel Robert Hur declining to charge President Biden for taking classified documents on the grounds of senility...

Bilirakis Introduces Legislation to Fight Congenital Heart Disease—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) has reached across the aisle to introduce the Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2024. The bill “reauthorizes funding for critical...”

Buchanan Calls Out Biden for Launching TikTok Account—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) chastised President Joe Biden (D) on social media for banning TikTok on government devices while also launching an account for his campaign.

Senate Unanimously Approves Scott Resolution Honoring Parkland Victims—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Florida Bill Would Protect and House Pregnant Homeless Women—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A new bill seeks to provide resources and housing for pregnant homeless women in Florida. Through a new grant program within the Department of Children and Families, the measure hopes to temper the state's homeless crisis.

DeSantis-Appointed Communist Task Force to Revamp Florida School Curriculums—By The Floridian's Liv

Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A new bill would add an anti-communism curriculum to Florida schools, creating a communist task force of Governor-appointed officials. The bill faced Democratic resistance, with liberal lawmakers calling it divisive and "hurtful".

Gaetz Introduces Bill Affirming States' Right to Protect Borders—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich

Rubio Reacts to Trump NATO Comments, Points Out Biden Swearing at Netanyahu—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Gimenez Blasts American Firms Investing in Chinese AI Development—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina—

Senate Democrats Vote Against Scott's Anti-Hamas Bill—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Rubio Says U.S. Needs 'Third Country' Asylum Processing to Fixed Border Crisis—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres

Mast Accuses Biden Admin of Speaking From 'Both Sides' of the Mouth Once Again—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Brian Mast (R-FL) appeared on Fox News’ “Mornings with Maria” to discuss the border crisis as well as President Joe Biden...

Rubio Files Border Enforcement Amendments to Sweeping Spending Bill—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—A $95 billion foreign aid package containing aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan surmounted a key procedural vote on Superbowl Sunday.

Drug Cartels Can 'Drive a Mack Truck Filled With Fentanyl' Through Biden Immigration Bill—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Republicans are turning on President Biden's bipartisan immigration bill, claiming the measure will lead to increased immigration and drug trafficking into the country.

EXCLUSIVE: Ingoglia Says House Republicans Fought Themselves on Mayorkas Impeachment—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—Congressional Republicans failed last week to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, a member of Biden's Cabinet, over the ongoing illegal immigration surge at the U.S.-Mexico border. In an interview with The Floridian, Sen. Blaise Ingoglia...

Florida Has Bipartisan Support for Securing Texas Border—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—As Governor Ron DeSantis prepares to send thousands of National and State Guardsmen...

Ban on Lab-Grown Meat Leads to Fears of a Boosted Chinese Economy—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—TALLAHASSEE, FL—A sweeping Florida bill is facing backlash over its proposed ban on lab-grown meat, with opponents fearing limited consumer choices, a weakened American economy, and an increase in Chinese jobs.

Scott Seeks to Prevent Biden from Halting Lawful Cross-Border Trade in New Bill—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) joined Sen. Ted Cruz (R-FL) in introducing the Keeping International Land Ports of Entry Open Act to prevent the closure of commercial ports of entry late last week.

RPOF Endorses Trump, Scott—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina

Rubio Chastises Senators Who Ignore Border for Ukraine—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina

Trump Releases ‘Super Bowl’ ad Against Haley—By The Flordian's Daniel Molina—President Donald Trump (R) has released a “Super Bowl” themed advertisement. The advertisement criticizes Ambassador Nikki Haley (R) over past comments she’s made regarding raising the retirement age.

The Lounge—2.10.2024—Florida Lawmakers Focus on DEI, Social Media, Defamation—More...

Taylor Swift: Florida Democrats' Newest Political Strategy—By The Flordian's James McCool—Over the past several years, Democrats have watched the state of Florida slip away from a competitive swing state, to a blood-red conservative state. Now, Democrats are changing up their political strategy by banking on Taylor Swift to help them perform well in Florida the next election cycle.

Global farmer protests should be a wake-up call for America—By Rep Kat Cammack—Around the world, farmers are waking up to the realities of top-down overregulation, climate extremism and rising input costs...

Moskowitz Says Keeping Classified Documents is Bipartisan Problem—By The Flordian's Grayson Bakich—Security of classified documents seems to have become a bipartisan concern for Democrats and Republicans alike, especially after the Department of Justice's (DOJ) recent ruling on the Joe Biden scandal...

Salazar Secures Over $1 Million for Nicklaus Children's Hospital—By The Flordian's Daniel Molina—Florida Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R) celebrated the securement of $1.45 million in funds for Miami’s Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Earlier this week, she announced that she would be visiting Nickalus Children’s Hospital for a check presentation ceremony for two projects.

Widespread Hacking of US Healthcare Prompts Rubio Cybersecurity Bill—By The Flordian's Mateo Guillamont—Increased reports of healthcare data breaches across the United States are gaining the attention of lawmakers seeking to protect Americans’ personal health information.  Currently, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is investigating nearly one thousand different breaches of healthcare data systems.

Republican Lawmaker Wants to Ban 'Identity Politics' in Teacher Prep Courses—By The Flordian's Liv Caput0

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Jim McCool, and Daniel Molina

The post Juice🍊—2.14.2024—House Democrats Win NY Seat— Florida Gaming Issue in Spotlight—Mayorkas Impeached... appeared first on The Floridian.

TALLAHASSEE, FL—Republican Sen. Travis Hutson has introduced SB 1566, requiring the Florida Gaming Control Commission to both oversee fantasy sports businesses and mandate they be licensed. According to the legislative measure, businesses must pay an application fee of up to $1 million and an annual renewal fee of up to $250,000. Hutson's other bill, SB 1568, adds a definition of "fantasy sports" to state law.

According to the summary of Hutson’s bill, here are the requirements: Fees/Fantasy Sports Contest Operator; Requiring applicants for a fantasy sports contest operator license to pay a specified application fee; requiring contest operators to pay a specified annual license renewal fee; prohibiting such fees from exceeding a specified amount; requiring applicants and contest operators to provide certain written evidence; requiring contest operators to remit certain fees, etc.

The continued focus on sports gambling comes on the heels of Fanduel’s parent company Flutter listing on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in late January. Fanduel’s entry into the NYSE comes after DraftKing’s shares on the NYSE were up over 150% in the last 12 months.

The rapid growth of companies like DraftKings and Fanduel shows that the financial industry has a strong interest in sports gambling, but legislative roadblocks remain in Florida and across the country.

"I don't think that we need it," said former Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber. "Our economy is thriving, people are coming here, and we have a wonderful hospitality industry. All casinos do is cannibalize everybody else to usually just the benefit of a single person or business."

Cesar Fernandez, the former political operative and senior advisor to gubernatorial candidate Charlie Crist in 2014, is the tip of the spear for Fanduel's online gaming efforts.

Fernandez worked hard to get where he is now, joining Fanduel to oversee multi-state lobbying for the firm.

Climbing the ranks in Florida, Fernandez ground it out at Converge Government Affairs before joining Uber Technologies' government affairs department.

During his stint with Uber, Fernandez was involved in the Tallahassee City Hall bribery scandal, where former Tallahassee City Commissioner Scott Maddux was sentenced to five years for his involvement in the criminal case.

Maddux was recently released from prison after serving only 18 months.

According to the Tallahassee Democrat, the media outlet of record in the state capitol, Fernandez was “listed in leaked federal court documents as a witness for the government” against Maddux.

According to reports, Fernandez met with Maddux in 2014 to discuss ordinances to regulate taxi cabs and ride-share companies like Uber and Lyft.

Fernandez couldn’t get Maddux to budge but appears to have eventually succeeded in influencing the now-convicted former city commissioner after Maddux suggested Uber retain an associate, Paige Carter-Smith, to help move the process along.

Uber later paid Carter-Smith a $5,000-a-month retainer to help in the process.

According to the reporting, “an email” between Maddux’s associate and “an Uber rep forms the basis of the wire fraud count that she and Maddox pleaded guilty to in court.”

Who was the Uber representative?

Leaked federal court documents show that Fernandez was listed as a witness for the government.

Sources within the Florida Legislature have told The Floridian that Hutson's measure is gaining traction and could find its way to the Senate floor for a full vote.

The post Florida Reworks Gaming Laws, Cracks Down on Fantasy Sports Businesses appeared first on The Floridian.