Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) has sent a letter to Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) urging them to oppose any Democratic resistance to President Donald Trump (R) and Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative. The goal of the initiative is to cut waste and abuse in the federal government.

The letter, which comes as the government funding deadline quickly approaches, was sent alongside a multitude of Sen. Scott's colleagues in the Republican Conference of both chambers. It begins by providing a rationale to defend DOGE and its goals.

"President Trump campaigned on a promise to the American people to reduce the size and scope of the federal government, and his resounding victory last November confirms he has been given a mandate by our constituents to make good on that promise," began Sen. Scott and his colleagues. "His clear message that taxpayers deserve to know not only how their money is being spent, but also that it is being spent responsibly, resonated with voters."

Later in the letter, Scott and his cohorts shared that they are "deeply concerned" with the prospect of Democrats maintaining the "unsustainable status quo" related to DOGE's government spending efforts with the deadline less than two weeks away.

"Rather than negotiating in good faith to find a solution that keeps the government open, we understand that Democrats are insisting that any government funding deal include policy provisions that would tie the hands of the President and prohibit DOGE from continuing their efforts to promote transparency and accountability in government spending," the Republicans wrote. "It has become clear that many Congressional Democrats would prefer a government shutdown rather than even attempt to rein in bloated federal bureaucracies."

The Republicans then told their party leadership that they would not support a funding package that would "be weaponized against President Trump" and that they should reject any effort aimed at diminishing DOGE.

They concluded their correspondence by saying the United States of America cannot allow the left side of the aisle to interfere with Trump and Musk's initiative.

"A bloated federal bureaucracy and unsupervised, unaccountable federal spending have contributed to the existential fiscal threat our country faces, with a $36 trillion national debt growing because of perennial budget deficits. Our country cannot afford to allow Democrats to frustrate President Trump’s work to rein in government spending and bring needed and long-overdue accountability to Washington. We look forward to working with you to resist these attempts, and ensure that the President can continue to deliver on his mandate," the letter concludes.

Senator Scott and Representative Andy Harris (R-MD) were joined by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Mike Lee (R-UT), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), along with Representatives Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Sheri Biggs (R-SC), Andrew Clyde (R-GA), Clay Higgins (R-LA), Paul Gosar (R-AZ), Brandon Gill (R-TX), Mark Harris (R-NC), Andy Ogles (R-TN), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Barry Moore (R-AL) and Ralph Norman (R-SC).

The post Scott, Colleagues Urge GOP Leadership to Support DOGE appeared first on The Floridian.

Fresh off an immigration battle with GOP leaders, Gov. Ron DeSantis is now asking the Legislature to greenlight open carry and repeal provisions of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Act, a gun-tightening package passed after Florida's deadliest school shooting.

But, bucking the governor, Republican Senate President Ben Albritton is pushing back against DeSantis's request for more Second Amendment protections. This would include open carry, lowering the rifle-buying age to 18, and nixing Florida's red flag laws, which allow courts to temporarily confiscate a gun owner's firearms if they're deemed a threat to themselves or others.

"I'm under the impression after spending time with law enforcement that they feel like [red flag laws are] working," Albritton said Tuesday, noting that he's still opposed to open carry legislation. "If we can stop the next Nikolas Cruz, I say we just hold tight and let the thing work. It appears to be working."

Still "working through" whether to support lowering the gun-buying age, Albritton's beliefs draw a stark contrast with DeSantis' urgings. At his State of the State address on Tuesday, kicking off the 60-day legislative session, and at a press conference directly after, DeSantis claimed that Florida needs to take action on gun laws to truly become a conservative bastion and the "Free State of Florida."

But parts of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Act, named for the high school where 17 Floridians were massacred on Valentine's Day 2018, are standing in the way.

"We need to be a strong Second Amendment state," DeSantis said.  "I don't know what the Legislature is going to do in those respects, but I can tell you that we, in spite of us saying we're the free state...We've definitely lagged on that issue."

Albritton, along with House Speaker Danny Perez, led the rare conservative revolt charge against DeSantis in January, opposing his call for a special session to address illegal immigration. They adjourned the governor's session 15 minutes after it began before starting their own starring a different, Legislature-drafted immigration bill.

Though the measure passed, DeSantis promised to veto it—leading the legislative leaders to engage in week-long discussions to call a third—and final—special session featuring a compromise bill. It passed resoundingly, seemingly sealing up the month-long discord throughout the GOP supermajority.

But gun laws are showing signs of being the next Republican fight.

GOP lawmakers, who enjoy a solid supermajority in both chambers, are largely in agreement with one of his three gun requests: lowering the gun-buying age from 21 to 18. Of the 11 conservative bills filed to loosen gun laws, including expanding the areas Floridians can conceal carry and legalizing bump stocks, three tackle the gun-purchasing age.

"That is something I support, whether it passes the House or not," said House Speaker Danny Perez, who dodged questions on if he backed open carry or the repeal of red flag laws, considering none of the filed bills address red flag or open carry laws.

Since the sweeping Marjorie Stoneman Douglas Act was bipartisanly approved in 2018, the calls for its more restrictive elements to be struck have only grown. Last year, the House approved a bill lowering the gun-buying age to 18, though no companion bill was filed in the Senate. President Albritton in December said he wasn't ready to "pick sides" on whether or not to amend the gun-buying age.

On Feb. 14, 2018, 19-year-old gunman Nikolas Cruz opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School with his AR-15 rifle. 14 students and 3 teachers were killed, making it the second-deadliest mass shooting in the state's history. In response, the Legislature under Gov. Rick Scott called a special session to pass massive gun reform legislation.

The post 'Stop the Next Nikolas Cruz': GOP Leader Pushes Back on DeSantis' Open Carry, Red Flag Ideas appeared first on The Floridian.

President Donald Trump’s Treasury Department recently announced that it will not enforce the Corporate Transparency Act’s (CTA) beneficial ownership information reporting rule (BOI). 

BOI rules, originally designed to combat illicit business transactions, fraud, and money laundering by requiring businesses to disclose their ownership’s identity, have faced criticism for being allegedly unconstitutional and burdensome for small businesses. 

Specifically, businesses have complained BOI rules’ ambiguity causes uncertainty over who qualifies as an owner, exposing businesses to an undue burden of fines, penalties, and potential prosecution if they make a mistake when disclosing required information. 

Moreover, the CTA’s overall constitutionality faced legal challenges as impacted businesses claimed the federal government does not have the authority to proscribe such economic regulations. 

President Trump criticized BOI rules as “outrageous and invasive” via a Truth Social post where he also promised further action to definitively eliminate BOI. 

“This Biden rule has been an absolute disaster for Small Businesses Nationwide,” said Trump.  “Furthermore, Treasury is now finalizing an Emergency Regulation to formally suspend this rule for American businesses. The economic menace of BOI reporting will soon be no more.”

The BOI rule enforcement suspension will be limited to companies registered in the US. 

Treasury Department Secretary Scott Bessent qualified the move as “common sense.”

“Today’s action is part of President Trump’s bold agenda to unleash American prosperity by reining in burdensome regulations, in particular for small businesses that are the backbone of the American economy,” said Secretary Bessent. 

Trump has pledged to support American small businesses and has lobbied for Congress to pass measures such as enshrining the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) and no taxes on tips. 

The TCJA mainly reduces personal income and corporate taxes among other regulatory tax reforms.

A recent study conducted on behalf of the National Federation of Independent Business found making the TCJA permanent would create 1 million jobs annually.

The post Trump Continues Pro-Small Business Approach, Guts BOI Rules appeared first on The Floridian.

Conservative lawmakers in Washington have condemned Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro’s latest threats and repressive tactics against Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. 

Machado recently reported Dictator Maduro sent undercover agents that attempted to break into her private residence in Caracas, Venezuela.

The agents, who arrived in a silver SUV without a license plate, allegedly threatened to arrest Machado’s neighbors as well as her home’s security guard. 

Shortly following Machado’s alerts, Republican lawmakers publicly criticized the agents’ threats and intimidation attempts. 

Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) and Representative Maria Elvira-Salazar (R-FL), two long-time Machado supporters and allies, excoriated Maduro for sending the agents. 

“Maduro and his thugs are so scared of losing power that they’re resorting to raiding Machado’s home and threatening her neighbors,” said Senator Scott. “This cruel behavior is a desperate attempt to distract from what the world already knows—he’s an illegitimate dictator whose days in power are numbered.”

Representative Salazar echoed Scott’s message and alluded to Maduro facing consequences for “playing with fire.”

“Only 24 hours have passed since the announcement to cancel Chevron's license in Venezuela & dictator Maduro has already sent his thugs to the house of Machado,” stated Salazar. “Her life is in danger like never before.”

Maduro’s threats against Machado occurred shortly after the latter supported President Donald Trump’s recent economic measures crippling Venezuela’s oil exports. 

President Trump canceled former President Joe Biden’s Venezuelan oil export licenses earlier this week. 

President Trump’s license cancellation effectively reimposes sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector that had been levied on Venezuela during Trump’s first term. 

President Biden lifted such sanctions in the ‘Barbados Agreement’ in exchange for assurances from Dictator Maduro that he would host free and fair elections. 

Despite promises of allowing free and fair elections, the Venezuelan regime barred Machado from participating in the same.

However, Machado invested her political capital into former Venezuelan Ambassador Edmundo Gonzalez, who subsequently won the presidential elections.

Subsequently, Gonzalez was forced to seek political asylum in Spain after the Maduro regime rejected the election results and threatened to arrest him.

The post Lawmakers Denounce Maduro Threats Towards Machado appeared first on The Floridian.

The US Department of the Treasury has announced new sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong companies allegedly helping build Iranian military drones. 

The latest sanctions were described as part of President Donald Trump’s “maximum pressure campaign on Iran.”

Six entities operating out of China and Hong Kong were sanctioned for reportedly supplying critical components of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), i.e., drones, to Iranian company Pishtazan Kavosh Gostar Boshra (PKGB) and its subsidiary Narin Sepehr Mobin Isatis (NSMI).

According to the Treasury Department, PKGB and NSMI are major suppliers for Iran’s drone and ballistic missile programs.

“Iran continues to try to find new ways to procure the key components it needs to bolster its UAV weapons program through new front companies and third-country suppliers,” said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent.

President Trump previously issued executive orders during his first term and earlier this month to undermine Iran’s drone and ballistic missile programs. 

“Treasury remains committed to disrupting the schemes that enable Iran to send its deadly weapons abroad to its terrorist proxies and other destabilizing actors,” continued Secretary Bessent. 

US-Iran tensions have reached unprecedented levels, as the latter has increased hostile activity against the former and its allies since Hamas’ October 7th attacks.

Trump has repeatedly stated he will leverage US military, financial, and diplomatic strength to deter Iran from executing and financing its destabilizing agenda.

Earlier this week, the Trump administration announced a series of measures tightening sanctions on Iran’s illicit oil sales via its ‘Ghost Fleet.’

Iran has recently expanded efforts to circumvent US-imposed oil exports by covertly shipping Iranian oil through a network of foreign tankers colloquially referred to as Iran’s ‘Ghost Fleet.’

According to the Treasury Department, Iran has harnessed its illicit oil trade to generate billions of dollars that it subsequently funnels to its military and proxy groups.

Sanctions target oil brokers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Hong Kong, tanker operators and managers in India and the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the head of Iran’s National Iranian Oil Company, and the Iranian Oil Terminals Company (IOTC).

The post US Sanctions Chinese and Hong Kong Companies Helping Build Iranian Drones appeared first on The Floridian.

New FIU President Jeanette Nunez Vows to Continue Effort to Stomp Out DEI, Antisemitism

As Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is erased out of Washington through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), new Florida International President (FIU) Jeanette Nuñez is vowing to continue to eradicate the practice in her new role at the school...READ MORE

Rick Scott-No family should be put through this.

513 days - bring them all home!.

Debbie Wasserman Schultz-This Women’s History Month, we honor all those courageous women who educate and inspire the next generation to fight for America’s highest ideals.

New FIU President Jeanette Nunez Vows to Continue Effort to Stomp Out DEI, Antisemitism—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines

Lee Introduces Bill Increasing Scrutiny and Transparency of DHS—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Laurel Lee (R-FL) has introduced legislation to place the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under greater scrutiny and demand greater transparency.

Venezuelan Opposition Leader Machado Hails 'Huge Step' Trump Venezuelan Oil Sanctions—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

DeSantis to Accused Rapist Andrew Tate: 'Florida is Not a Place Where You're Welcome'—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis didn't know that right-wing podcaster Andrew Tate, facing rape and trafficking charges in Romania, was flying to Florida...

Cammack Introduces Bill to Defund NPR—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Kat Cammack has introduced legislation to defund National Public Radio, saying, "Federal funds shouldn't be available to NPR." Specifically, Rep. Cammack's bill...

Rubio Forecasts Trump Will Not Be 'Blackmailed' by Maduro—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—During a recent Fox News interview, Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently expressed his belief that, under President Donald Trump’s leadership, the US’ foreign...

Haridopolos Holds Hearing on Artemis Space Program and Future Missions—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Mike Haridopolos hosted a Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee hearing on the Artemis space program and future missions with George...

Rep. Michelle Salzman Named Combined Workgroup Manager on Hemp by Speaker Danny Perez—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida House Speaker Danny "Daniel" Perez on Wednesday named Rep. Michelle Salzman to lead a new Combined Workgroup...

Coral Gables' Kirk Menendez's Financial Management Skills Questioned—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—In a recent exposé, the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Association, a nonprofit organization led by Kirk Menendez, has come under...

Cruz Calls Out Democrats for Refusing to Support DOGE Initiative—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senator Ted Cruz appeared on Sean Hannity's show to discuss national political strategy and Democrats' appearing to not alter their ways, such as supporting...

Trump Reverses Biden's Venezuelan Oil Policy, Revokes Oil Licenses From Maduro—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Pressure is mounting on Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro as US President Donald Trump has cancelled former President Joe Biden’s...

For the People? TV Attorney John Morgan Launching New Political Party—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Orlando attorney and Democratic megadonor John Morgan recently announced he was forming a new political party amidst rumors that he's running for governor of Florida.

Danny Burgess Files Bill Establishing Pilot Program for Phone Free Schools—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Sen. Danny Burgess (R-Zephyrhills) filed a bill on Wednesday that would direct the Florida Department of Education to start a pilot program to implement a policy prohibiting the use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices by students in school.

Poll: Majority of Americans Disagree with RFK Jr., Rubio Over Using Food Stamps to Buy Soft Drinks—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

DeSantis to Accused Rapist Andrew Tate: 'Florida is Not a Place Where You're Welcome'—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis didn't know that right-wing podcaster Andrew Tate, facing rape and trafficking charges in Romania, was flying to Florida...

Cammack Introduces Bill to Defund NPR—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Kat Cammack has introduced legislation to defund National Public Radio, saying, "Federal funds shouldn't be available to NPR." Specifically, Rep. Cammack's bill...

Rubio Forecasts Trump Will Not Be 'Blackmailed' by Maduro—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—During a recent Fox News interview, Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently expressed his belief that, under President Donald Trump’s leadership, the US’ foreign...

Haridopolos Holds Hearing on Artemis Space Program and Future Missions—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Mike Haridopolos hosted a Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee hearing on the Artemis space program and future missions with George...

Rep. Michelle Salzman Named Combined Workgroup Manager on Hemp by Speaker Danny Perez—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida House Speaker Danny "Daniel" Perez on Wednesday named Rep. Michelle Salzman to lead a new Combined Workgroup...

Coral Gables' Kirk Menendez's Financial Management Skills Questioned—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—In a recent exposé, the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Association, a nonprofit organization led by Kirk Menendez, has come under...

Cruz Calls Out Democrats for Refusing to Support DOGE Initiative—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senator Ted Cruz appeared on Sean Hannity's show to discuss national political strategy and Democrats' appearing to not alter their ways, such as supporting...

Trump Reverses Biden's Venezuelan Oil Policy, Revokes Oil Licenses From Maduro—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Pressure is mounting on Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro as US President Donald Trump has cancelled former President Joe Biden’s...

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Daniel Molina, and Michael Costeines

The post JUICE🍊—3.3.2025—FIU President Nuñez Continues Cracking Down on DEI and Antisemitism—Trump's Oil Sanctions—Much More.. appeared first on The Floridian.

Venezuelan Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado commended President Donald Trump’s recent decision to impose sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector by revoking oil export licenses. 

Machado made her comments during an interview with Donald Trump Jr where she discussed Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro’s repressive regime. 

President Trump cancelled former President Joe Biden’s Venezuelan oil export licenses, effectively reimposing sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector that had been levied during Trump’s first term. 

Trump cited concerns regarding immigration enforcement and Dictator Maduro’s failure to permit free and fair elections as justifying the revocations.

“This is a huge step, and it sends a clear, firm message that Maduro is in huge trouble, and President Trump is with the Venezuelan people, with security, with freedom, with prosperity and peace for the whole region,” said Machado. 

President Biden had granted the oil export licenses in the ‘Barbados Agreement’ in exchange for assurances from Maduro he would host free and fair elections. 

Despite promises of allowing free and fair elections, the Venezuelan regime barred opposition leader Machado from participating in the same despite winning a landslide primary elections victory.

However, Machado invested her political capital into former Venezuelan Ambassador Edmundo Gonzalez, who subsequently won the presidential elections.

Subsequently, Gonzalez was forced to seek political asylum in Spain after the Maduro regime rejected the election results and threatened to arrest him.

Instead of Biden’s conciliatory approach, Trump’s cabinet and close allies, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have lobbied for a hardline strategy to Venezuela with the ultimate goal of a democratic transition rather than negotiating with Maduro to help the US economy.  

“I send my gratitude to President Trump,” continued Machado. “This is the correct thing to do, its the right thing to do, the right moment to do it, and I am sure that this will have consequences in the very short term and I am very sure that the Venezuelan people feel right now secured that we are not alone.”

The post Venezuelan Opposition Leader Machado Hails 'Huge Step' Trump Venezuelan Oil Sanctions appeared first on The Floridian.

Lay off my Coke! Most Americans Want Gov't to Allow Them to Buy Sodas With Food Stamps

Lay off my Coke! In the latest polling from Public Opinion Strategies, a majority of Americans, including Trump voters, support the usage of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, commonly referred to as food stamps) for soft drinks...READ MORE

Ron DeSantis-We re-established the Florida State Guard in 2022 to act as a force multiplier for state, local, and federal public safety and emergency response efforts. Today at Camp Blanding, I was proud to highlight their accomplishments and thank them for their service over the last two years.

They have exceeded our expectations and cemented themselves as an integral part of our state.

From search and rescue to disaster clean up, the @FLStateGuard has demonstrated immense value for the past three years. We look forward to the continued growth of our State Guard and all the good work they will do for our people

Blaise Ingoglia-My commitment to end illegal immigration DOES NOT STOP!!

Today, I filed SB 1498, a ZERO TOLERANCE anti-illegal immigration bill that holds employers accountable for adding to the destruction of our communities.

Sen. Jason Pizzo-Not sure where the time went, but I’m sure of this - tonight, I said goodbye to a tough, brave and loyal young man, who will give the @USMC his very best. He’s one of the few, and I’m one of the very proud. I love you, Jack.

For the People? TV Attorney John Morgan Launching New Political Party—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Orlando attorney and Democratic megadonor John Morgan recently announced he was forming a new political party amidst rumors that he's running for governor of Florida.

Danny Burgess Files Bill Establishing Pilot Program for Phone Free Schools—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Sen. Danny Burgess (R-Zephyrhills) filed a bill on Wednesday that would direct the Florida Department of Education to start a pilot program to implement a policy prohibiting the use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices by students in school.

Poll: Majority of Americans Disagree with RFK Jr., Rubio Over Using Food Stamps to Buy Soft Drinks—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

DeSantis to Accused Rapist Andrew Tate: 'Florida is Not a Place Where You're Welcome'—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis didn't know that right-wing podcaster Andrew Tate, facing rape and trafficking charges in Romania, was flying to Florida...

Cammack Introduces Bill to Defund NPR—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Kat Cammack has introduced legislation to defund National Public Radio, saying, "Federal funds shouldn't be available to NPR." Specifically, Rep. Cammack's bill...

Rubio Forecasts Trump Will Not Be 'Blackmailed' by Maduro—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—During a recent Fox News interview, Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently expressed his belief that, under President Donald Trump’s leadership, the US’ foreign...

Haridopolos Holds Hearing on Artemis Space Program and Future Missions—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Mike Haridopolos hosted a Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee hearing on the Artemis space program and future missions with George...

Rep. Michelle Salzman Named Combined Workgroup Manager on Hemp by Speaker Danny Perez—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida House Speaker Danny "Daniel" Perez on Wednesday named Rep. Michelle Salzman to lead a new Combined Workgroup...

Coral Gables' Kirk Menendez's Financial Management Skills Questioned—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—In a recent exposé, the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Association, a nonprofit organization led by Kirk Menendez, has come under...

Cruz Calls Out Democrats for Refusing to Support DOGE Initiative—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senator Ted Cruz appeared on Sean Hannity's show to discuss national political strategy and Democrats' appearing to not alter their ways, such as supporting...

Trump Reverses Biden's Venezuelan Oil Policy, Revokes Oil Licenses From Maduro—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Pressure is mounting on Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro as US President Donald Trump has cancelled former President Joe Biden’s...

Fried Blasts Byron Donalds After Florida Governor Announcement—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried criticized U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds on Tuesday after he formally announced his Florida governor run.

DeSantis Brushes Off Donalds' Run for Governor, Wants to Focus on 2024 Election—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Following rumors that Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis might run for governor, Gov. Ron DeSantis declined to comment Wednesday on Byron Donalds' newly launched bid to succeed him, claiming he's more focused on creating results from the 2024 elections.

Sen. Joe Gruters Files Bill to Rename Tamiami Trail to ‘Gulf of America' Trail—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) filed a bill on Monday to rename part of U.S. Highway 41 between S.R. 60 and U.S. 1, commonly known as Tamiami Trail, to the "Gulf of America Trail", following suit with the Trump administration's namesake of the new "Gulf of America" across the country.

Donalds Introduces Bill to Abolish the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL) is introducing legislation to abolish the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), accusing the Bureau of being "a left-wing tool to stifle domestic economic growth, target political opponents, and prevent the development of competition."

Poll: Property Insurance Costs Remain Top Issue for Florida Voters—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines

Rubio Expands Visa Restrictions For Cubans Affiliated With Forced Labor Exports—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Marco Rubio’s 2007 Property Tax Plan Laid Groundwork for DeSantis' New Goal—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Nearly two decades before becoming President Donald Trump's Secretary of State, then-Speaker of the Florida House Marco Rubio laid the groundwork...

Pro-Life Florida Senator Refiles Controversial Fetal Wrongful Death Bill—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—The Florida Senate's leading pro-life advocate, Erin Grall, refiled a controversial bill on Wednesday that would expand the state's wrongful death statute...

Trump Treasury Department Constricts Iran's 'Ghost Fleet'—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—President Donald Trump’s Treasury Department, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, has announced a series of measures tightening sanctions on Iran’s illicit...

Blaise Ingoglia Files Amendment to Freeze Property Taxes Against Homes Affected by Natural Disasters—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Sen. Blaise Ingoglia filed a proposed amendment on Tuesday that would authorize the legislature to freeze in place...

Rep. Jeff Holcomb Files Bill Allowing Off-Duty LEO to Conceal Carry at Sporting Events—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Rep. Jeff Holcomb filed a bill on Tuesday that would allow off-duty law enforcement officers to carry concealed weapons or firearms...

Bilirakis Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill Preventing Medicaid Payments to the Deceased—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Gus Bilirakis has reintroduced bipartisan legislation with Representative Angie Craig to prevent Medicaid capitation...

Van Duyne Defends Elon Musk's DOGE Initiative, Role in White House—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Beth Van Duyne held a press conference just outside the Capitol on Tuesday and defended President Donald Trump and Elon Musk...

House Republicans Planning Official IIlegal Immigration Enforcement Trip to Guantanamo Bay—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—The House Armed Services Committee is quietly planning an official congressional trip to the U.S. Naval base in Guantanamo...

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Daniel Molina, and Michael Costeines

The post JUICE🍊—2.28.2025—John Morgan's Third Political Party—Soft Drinks and Food Stamps—Phone Free Schools?—Much More.. appeared first on The Floridian.

Trump Reverses Biden's Venezuelan Oil Policy, Revokes Oil Licenses From Maduro

Pressure is mounting on Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro as US President Donald Trump has cancelled former President Joe Biden’s Venezuelan oil export licenses. President Trump’s license cancellation...READ MORE

Rep. Jared Moskowitz: "Massie wears a debt clock, he is the @FlavorFlav of Congress."

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna: "I nor the task force were given or reviewed the Epstein documents being released today… A NY Post story just revealed that the documents will simply be Epstein's phonebook. THIS IS NOT WHAT WE OR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ASKED FOR and a complete disappointment."

Sen. Rick Scott: "On my way to the White House for a Senate @DOGE Caucus meeting with President @realDonaldTrump and @ElonMusk."

FL Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith: "Public-private partnerships are critical to ensuring taxpayer-funded tourism promotion truly aligns w/industry needs + efficiently uses public dollars."

DeSantis to Accused Rapist Andrew Tate: 'Florida is Not a Place Where You're Welcome'—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis didn't know that right-wing podcaster Andrew Tate, facing rape and trafficking charges in Romania, was flying to Florida...

Cammack Introduces Bill to Defund NPR—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Kat Cammack has introduced legislation to defund National Public Radio, saying, "Federal funds shouldn't be available to NPR." Specifically, Rep. Cammack's bill...

Rubio Forecasts Trump Will Not Be 'Blackmailed' by Maduro—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—During a recent Fox News interview, Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently expressed his belief that, under President Donald Trump’s leadership, the US’ foreign...

Haridopolos Holds Hearing on Artemis Space Program and Future Missions—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Mike Haridopolos hosted a Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee hearing on the Artemis space program and future missions with George...

Rep. Michelle Salzman Named Combined Workgroup Manager on Hemp by Speaker Danny Perez—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida House Speaker Danny "Daniel" Perez on Wednesday named Rep. Michelle Salzman to lead a new Combined Workgroup...

Coral Gables' Kirk Menendez's Financial Management Skills Questioned—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—In a recent exposé, the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Association, a nonprofit organization led by Kirk Menendez, has come under...

Cruz Calls Out Democrats for Refusing to Support DOGE Initiative—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senator Ted Cruz appeared on Sean Hannity's show to discuss national political strategy and Democrats' appearing to not alter their ways, such as supporting...

Trump Reverses Biden's Venezuelan Oil Policy, Revokes Oil Licenses From Maduro—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Pressure is mounting on Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro as US President Donald Trump has cancelled former President Joe Biden’s...

The Last Squeeze is published by  by Javier Manjarres, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post Last Squeeze🍊—2.27.2025—Trump Revokes Maduro Oil Licenses—DeSantis Says Andrew Tate 'Not Welcome' in Florida—Much More... appeared first on The Floridian.

Pressure is mounting on Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro as US President Donald Trump has cancelled former President Joe Biden’s Venezuelan oil export licenses. 

President Trump’s license cancellation effectively reimposes sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector that had been levied on Venezuela during Trump’s first term. 

Such sanctions were lifted by President Biden in the ‘Barbados Agreement’ in exchange for assurances from Dictator Maduro he would host free and fair elections. 

Despite promises of allowing free and fair elections, the Venezuelan regime barred opposition leader Maria Corina Machado from participating in the same.

However, Machado invested her political capital into former Venezuelan Ambassador Edmundo Gonzalez, who subsequently won the presidential elections.

Subsequently, Gonzalez was forced to seek political asylum in Spain after the Maduro regime rejected the election results and threatened to arrest him.

“We are hereby reversing the concessions that Crooked Joe Biden gave to Nicolás Maduro, of Venezuela, on the oil transaction agreement, dated November 26, 2022, and also having to do with Electoral conditions within Venezuela, which have not been met by the Maduro regime,” stated Trump. 

Trump’s cabinet and close allies, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have lobbied for a hardline approach to Venezuela with the ultimate goal of a democratic transition rather than negotiating with Maduro to help the US economy.  

Trump had also alluded shortly after his November election victory that he would seek to end Venezuelan exports of oil to the US. 

“We have more energy than anybody else. We're going to use it. We don't have to buy energy from Venezuela when we have 50 times more than they do. It's just insane what we're doing,” said Trump. 

Venezuelan government officials criticized the oil export restriction, claiming that “in reality the US is self-inflicting damage to its people and businesses.”

Florida Republicans Maria Elvira-Salazar, Mario Diaz-Balart, and Carlos Gimenez released a joint statement commending Trump’s license revocation. 

“When it comes to defending the cause of freedom in illegitimate regimes like Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua, there is no greater ally than President Donald J. Trump,” reads the statement. 

“President Trump is keeping his promise. The days of appeasing regimes that are hostile to the United States, coddling dictators, and sidelining our national security interests are over,“ continued the Florida lawmakers.

The post Trump Reverses Biden's Venezuelan Oil Policy, Revokes Oil Licenses From Maduro appeared first on The Floridian.

Representative Mike Haridopolos (R-FL) hosted a Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee hearing on the Artemis space program and future missions with George Washington University's Dr. Scott Pace and Purdue's Dan Dumbacher.

With the Artemis program, NASA intends to put humans back on the Moon for longer-term study, hoping to establish a precedent for manned missions to Mars someday.

Rep. Haridopolos began his questions with Dr. Pace, asking, "Each Artemis mission is a complex web of independent systems. Would any changes to the current Artemis mission architecture get us there faster, or are there more likely to be delays in how we return to the Moon?"

Dr. Pace answered that "the architecture itself" and "the policy direction is fine, [but] where I was particularly pointing at is the need for more sustainable, more reusable systems for going from the Earth to the Moon."

However, he did not suggest modifying the cores of Artemis II and III, as this "would produce more delays."

From there, Rep. Haridopolos turned to Dumbacher. His next question was, "NASA has faced a lot of challenges with Artemis. What lessons could we learn from our private partners who have had so much success over the last few years?"

"One of the lessons we can learn that would be most beneficial would be applying the rapid urgency and focus that we see from our private companies, the ability to solve and rectify problems in a very timely manner," Dumbacher replied, further noting that, as Dr. Pace suggested, "let's the tools in the toolbox we already have. The hardware [is] online with Artemis, and we might have to build a lander. We might have to scale down the current lander opportunities, examples that we have in work so that we can get to that 2030 landing."

Turning back to Dr. Pace, the Florida Congressman asked, "How can the US continue to leverage commercial partnerships to outpace international rivals in lunar exploration and beyond?"

Pace said international and private partners are necessary compared to the Apollo program in the current age.

"So we need our international partners to shape the environment. We need commercial partners to actually provide the innovation necessary to, in an affordable and sustainable way, make progress toward the Moon and Mars. I think the partnership there is not just simply one of money going back and forth and who builds what, but also in terms of just cutting down the kind of regulatory oversight that does not really always add value," Pace concluded.

The post Haridopolos Holds Hearing on Artemis Space Program and Future Missions appeared first on The Floridian.

During a recent Fox News interview, Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently expressed his belief that, under President Donald Trump’s leadership, the US’ foreign policy towards Venezuela and Dictator Nicolas Maduro will be stricter than in previous years. 

Secretary Rubio’s interview follows his efforts to broker an agreement where Venezuela agreed to accept deported Venezuelan illegal immigrants from the US as well as release six American hostages. 

Rubio rejected critic’s arguments that negotiating with the Venezuelan regime legitimized its autocratic rule, stating that Venezuela has a legal obligation to accept its repatriated nationals. 

“Remember, Venezuela stopped taking migration flights, deportations, because they wanted to blackmail Joe Biden,” said Rubio.

Conversely, Rubio assured “President Trump is not going to be blackmailed.”

Trump’s cabinet and close allies, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have lobbied for a hardline approach to Venezuela with the ultimate goal of a democratic transition rather than negotiating with Maduro.

Shortly after Rubio’s statements, Trump announced the revocation of Venezuelan oil export licenses due to Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro’s refusal to host free and fair elections and cooperate in illegal immigrant deportation flights. 

“We are hereby reversing the concessions that Crooked Joe Biden gave to Nicolás Maduro, of Venezuela, on the oil transaction agreement, dated November 26, 2022, and also having to do with Electoral conditions within Venezuela, which have not been met by the Maduro regime,” stated Trump. 

President Biden granted the licenses as part of the ‘Barbados Agreement’ in exchange for assurances from Dictator Maduro he would host free and fair elections.

The licenses effectively lifted sanctions imposed by Trump on Venezuela during his first presidency. 

Yet, despite promises of allowing free and fair elections, the Venezuelan regime barred opposition leader Maria Corina Machado from participating in the same.

However, Machado invested her political capital into former Venezuelan Ambassador Edmundo Gonzalez, who subsequently won the presidential elections.

Subsequently, Gonzalez was forced to seek political asylum in Spain after the Maduro regime rejected the election results and threatened to arrest him.

Consequently, Trump ordered the sanctions relief enjoyed by Venezuela in the form of oil licenses to end as of March 1st. 

The post Rubio Forecasts Trump Will Not Be 'Blackmailed' by Maduro appeared first on The Floridian.

DeSantis Brushes Off Donalds' Run for Governor, Wants to Focus on 2024 Election

Following rumors that Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis might run for governor, Gov. Ron DeSantis declined to comment Wednesday on Byron Donalds' newly launched bid to succeed him, claiming he's more focused on creating results from the 2024 elections...READ MORE

The gubernatorial race between Rep. Byron Donalds and Casey DeSantis hasn't even officially started, but fireworks are already going off between the two campaign camps.

Kat Cammack-@NPR is a propaganda wing of the DNC.

They covered up Hunter Biden’s laptop, ignored an assassination attempt on Justice Kavanaugh, and smeared President Trump—all while being subsidized by the federal government.

Now they’re under federal investigation. Time to #DefundNPR

Debbie Wasserman Schultz-Republicans let home insurance companies rip us off. The companies cry poverty, hike prices, then send huge profits to spinoffs.

What’s the MAGA response? Roll over, pass laws to protect the companies, and ignore climate threats that make it worse.

Blaise Ingoglia-Did you know, under FL law, there is currently no way to give property tax “rebates” back to Floridians?

Today, I filed a bill that allows counties and cities to give part of their property tax windfall back to YOU!

It’s YOUR hard earned money, not theirs. Let’s keep government small and accountable.

Fried Blasts Byron Donalds After Florida Governor Announcement—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried criticized U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds on Tuesday after he formally announced his Florida governor run.

DeSantis Brushes Off Donalds' Run for Governor, Wants to Focus on 2024 Election—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Following rumors that Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis might run for governor, Gov. Ron DeSantis declined to comment Wednesday on Byron Donalds' newly launched bid to succeed him, claiming he's more focused on creating results from the 2024 elections.

Sen. Joe Gruters Files Bill to Rename Tamiami Trail to ‘Gulf of America' Trail—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) filed a bill on Monday to rename part of U.S. Highway 41 between S.R. 60 and U.S. 1, commonly known as Tamiami Trail, to the "Gulf of America Trail", following suit with the Trump administration's namesake of the new "Gulf of America" across the country.

Donalds Introduces Bill to Abolish the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL) is introducing legislation to abolish the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), accusing the Bureau of being "a left-wing tool to stifle domestic economic growth, target political opponents, and prevent the development of competition."

Poll: Property Insurance Costs Remain Top Issue for Florida Voters—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines

Rubio Expands Visa Restrictions For Cubans Affiliated With Forced Labor Exports—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont

Marco Rubio’s 2007 Property Tax Plan Laid Groundwork for DeSantis' New Goal—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Nearly two decades before becoming President Donald Trump's Secretary of State, then-Speaker of the Florida House Marco Rubio laid the groundwork...

Pro-Life Florida Senator Refiles Controversial Fetal Wrongful Death Bill—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—The Florida Senate's leading pro-life advocate, Erin Grall, refiled a controversial bill on Wednesday that would expand the state's wrongful death statute...

Trump Treasury Department Constricts Iran's 'Ghost Fleet'—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—President Donald Trump’s Treasury Department, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, has announced a series of measures tightening sanctions on Iran’s illicit...

Blaise Ingoglia Files Amendment to Freeze Property Taxes Against Homes Affected by Natural Disasters—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Sen. Blaise Ingoglia filed a proposed amendment on Tuesday that would authorize the legislature to freeze in place...

Rep. Jeff Holcomb Files Bill Allowing Off-Duty LEO to Conceal Carry at Sporting Events—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Rep. Jeff Holcomb filed a bill on Tuesday that would allow off-duty law enforcement officers to carry concealed weapons or firearms...

Bilirakis Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill Preventing Medicaid Payments to the Deceased—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Gus Bilirakis has reintroduced bipartisan legislation with Representative Angie Craig to prevent Medicaid capitation...

Van Duyne Defends Elon Musk's DOGE Initiative, Role in White House—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Beth Van Duyne held a press conference just outside the Capitol on Tuesday and defended President Donald Trump and Elon Musk...

House Republicans Planning Official IIlegal Immigration Enforcement Trip to Guantanamo Bay—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—The House Armed Services Committee is quietly planning an official congressional trip to the U.S. Naval base in Guantanamo...

Trump-Endorsed Byron Donalds Announces Run for Florida Governor—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo

Rep. Lauren Melo Thanks Passidomo for SD 28 Endorsement—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—House Republican Lauren Melo (R-Naples) thanked former Senate President Kathleen Passidomo after she endorsed Melo for her Senate District 28 on Saturday.

Rep. Berny Jacques Files Bill Requiring E-Verify for all Private Employers—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Rep. Berny Jacques (R-Seminole) filed a bill on Monday that would require all private employers in Florida to use E-Verify to confirm the eligibility of potential new hires, thus ensuring that only legal U.S. citizens can work in the country.

Dunn Introduces Bill Empowering Vehicle Owners with Crucial Data Access—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Neal Dunn (R-FL) is introducing legislation to allow vehicle owners access to important repair and diagnostic data needed for auto repairs.

Scott Reintroduces Bill to Fight Online Fentanyl Sales—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Franklin Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill Protecting Good Samaritans Using Defibrillators—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representatives Scott Franklin (R-FL) and Gerald Connolly (D-VA) have reintroduced the bipartisan Cardiac Arrest Survival Act, which establishes nationwide standards for legally protecting the usage of defibrillators outside of hospitals during cardiac emergencies.

Nikki Fried: DeSantis Needs to 'Shut His Damn Mouth' on Florida DOGE—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried didn't mince words on Monday after Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a state version of Elon...

Congressional Republican Lawmakers Continue Praise of Musks' DOGE—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—With Democrats up in arms over the aggressive and transparent nature of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency in support of President...

Trump Pushes To End Ukraine War in Ukraine-Centric G7 Summit—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—President Donald Trump joined heads of state in a recent Group of Seven summit that primarily focused on the war in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Vlodymyr...

Fabian Basabe Calls Out Miami Beach Pride Over Exclusion—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina—As Miami Beach Pride prepares to return from March 27^th to April 6^th, 2025, past controversies surrounding political participation in the event have resurfaced. State...

Kristi Noem Celebrates Low Illegal Apprehensions at U.S. Border—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem shared Monday that U.S. Customs and Border Protection encountered just 200 aliens at the southern border...

Ramaswamy to Run For Ohio Governor—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy recently announced his candidacy for Ohio’s governorship. Ramaswamy's announcement comes as Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s term nears...

Cammack Reintroduces Bipartisan Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Act—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Kat Cammack is reintroducing the bipartisan Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act...

Cruz Praises Attorney General Pam Bondi for Performance so far—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senator Ted Cruz recently praised U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi for her work just weeks after taking the oath of office as the head of the Department of Justice...

DeSantis Takes on 'Bedwetting' Media Over Sympathy for Workers Fired by DOGE—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday excoriated "legacy media" for sympathizing with the scores of federal workers fired by a new department in Donald...

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Daniel Molina, and Michael Costeines

The post JUICE🍊—2.27.2025—2026 DeSantis vs Donalds Fued Continues—Gulf of America Trail—Much More.. appeared first on The Floridian.

House Republicans Planning Official Illegal Immigration Enforcement Trip to Guantanamo Bay

The House Armed Services Committee is quietly planning an official congressional trip to the U.S. Naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba as more illegal aliens are being detained and...READ MORE

President Donald Trump: "I'm very disappointed...four bodies came in today...We got a lot of hostages back, but it's very sad what happened to those people...This is a vicious group of people, and Israel's going to have to decide what they're doing."

FL Sen. Joe Gruters: "Time to Ride the GOAT! (Gulf of America Trail) What are your thoughts? Should we follow the GOAT President @POTUS @realDonaldTrump and rename Tamiami Trail?"

Rep. Maxwell Frost: "They're gutting your healthcare to fund billionaire tax cuts and then hoping you don’t notice the grift. It's a betrayal and a damn shame."

FL Rep. Angie Nixon: "It’s wild to me that Republican Ron DeSantis is advocating to defund the police by eliminating property taxes. WOW."

Marco Rubio’s 2007 Property Tax Plan Laid Groundwork for DeSantis' New Goal—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Nearly two decades before becoming President Donald Trump's Secretary of State, then-Speaker of the Florida House Marco Rubio laid the groundwork...

Pro-Life Florida Senator Refiles Controversial Fetal Wrongful Death Bill—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—The Florida Senate's leading pro-life advocate, Erin Grall, refiled a controversial bill on Wednesday that would expand the state's wrongful death statute...

Trump Treasury Department Constricts Iran's 'Ghost Fleet'—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—President Donald Trump’s Treasury Department, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, has announced a series of measures tightening sanctions on Iran’s illicit...

Blaise Ingoglia Files Amendment to Freeze Property Taxes Against Homes Affected by Natural Disasters—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Sen. Blaise Ingoglia filed a proposed amendment on Tuesday that would authorize the legislature to freeze in place...

Rep. Jeff Holcomb Files Bill Allowing Off-Duty LEO to Conceal Carry at Sporting Events—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Rep. Jeff Holcomb filed a bill on Tuesday that would allow off-duty law enforcement officers to carry concealed weapons or firearms...

Bilirakis Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill Preventing Medicaid Payments to the Deceased—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Gus Bilirakis has reintroduced bipartisan legislation with Representative Angie Craig to prevent Medicaid capitation...

Van Duyne Defends Elon Musk's DOGE Initiative, Role in White House—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representative Beth Van Duyne held a press conference just outside the Capitol on Tuesday and defended President Donald Trump and Elon Musk...

House Republicans Planning Official IIlegal Immigration Enforcement Trip to Guantanamo Bay—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—The House Armed Services Committee is quietly planning an official congressional trip to the U.S. Naval base in Guantanamo...

The Last Squeeze is published by  by Javier Manjarres, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post Last Squeeze🍊—2.26.2025—House Republicans Planning Trip to Guantanamo—Marco Rubio Property Tax Plan Laid Groundwork for DeSantis—Much More... appeared first on The Floridian.

Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) has reintroduced bipartisan legislation with Representative Angie Craig (D-MN) to prevent Medicaid capitation payments from going to deceased enrollees.

Named the "Leveraging Integrity and Verification of Eligibility for (LIVE) Beneficiaries" Act, Rep. Bilirakis's bill requires states to refer to Social Security's Death Master File database quarterly to ensure that Medicaid capitation payments are correctly received by living enrollees.

If deceased enrollees are still found to receive payments, state Medicaid programs must remove those names from their rolls.

A November 2023 audit report from 14 states found that over $249 million in Medicaid capitation payments were made to Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) for enrollees no longer living.

In his press release, Rep. Bilirakis said, "As we work to ensure the long-term solvency of critical safety net programs, like Medicaid and Medicare, we have an obligation to ensure we are serving as good stewards of taxpayer dollars. This means we must prevent fraud, waste, and abuse whenever possible. By implementing simple safeguards like the ones in this bill, we can strengthen these programs and help ensure they are meeting their intended purpose of providing access to quality care for our most vulnerable citizens."

Similarly, Rep. Craig added, "Minnesotans deserve to know that their tax dollars are being spent as they were intended, and it's our job as Members of Congress to root out wasteful spending. That's why I'm proud to lead this commonsense, bipartisan bill with Rep. Bilirakis to improve our Medicaid system and ensure taxpayers' dollars are well-spent."

In recent weeks, President Donald Trump and Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) chief Elon Musk claimed that deceased individuals were still receiving Social Security benefits, with supposed enrollees being up to 150 years old (or even older).

However, CBS noted that the exact nature of these supposed payments to deceased (or somehow immortal) people is more nuanced: Social Security uses an ancient programming language (COBOL) that lacks date types. "This means that some entries with missing or incomplete birth dates will default to a reference point of more than 150 years ago," CBS explained.

Moreover, reports from the Social Security Inspector General found that deaths were not properly logged, but that did not mean benefits were still going out to these impossibly old enrollees.

The post Bilirakis Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill Preventing Medicaid Payments to the Deceased appeared first on The Floridian.

President Donald Trump’s Treasury Department, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, has announced a series of measures tightening sanctions on Iran’s illicit oil sales via its ‘Ghost Fleet.’

Iran has recently expanded efforts to circumvent US-imposed oil exports by covertly shipping Iranian oil through a network of foreign tankers colloquially referred to as Iran’s  ‘Ghost Fleet.’

The latest measures come after Secretary of State Marco Rubio imposed a number of sanctions on the Ghost Fleet earlier this February. 

According to the Treasury Department, Iran has harnessed its illicit oil trade to generate billions of dollars that it subsequently funnels to its military and proxy groups.

“Iran continues to rely on a shadowy network of vessels, shippers, and brokers to facilitate its oil sales and fund its destabilizing activities,” said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. “The United States will use all our available tools to target all aspects of Iran’s oil supply chain, and anyone who deals in Iranian oil exposes themselves to significant sanctions risk.”

Secretary Bessent explained the latest sanctions are designed to deprive Iran of revenue from its petroleum and petrochemical sectors and are part of President Trump’s ‘maximum pressure’ policy on Iran and its proxies.

Sanctions target oil brokers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Hong Kong, tanker operators and managers in India and People’s Republic of China (PRC), the head of Iran’s National Iranian Oil Company, and the Iranian Oil Terminals Company (IOTC).

The US previously sanctioned Iran’s oil sector in 2018 to dissuade the country from financing terrorist organizations like Hezbollah and Hamas, cartel activity, and perfidious nuclear development.

However, Iran has managed to skirt such sanctions through its ‘Ghost Fleet,’ prompting initial sanctions from President Joe Biden and the State Department’s actions earlier this February. 

One report from the United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) nonprofit outlines the extent of the ‘Ghost Fleet’ scheme, which includes nearly 200 Panamanian vessels.

Secretary Rubio previously led congressional efforts to combat the ghost fleet. 

Then-Senator Rubio and Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) communicated Iran’s illegal operation to Panamanian authorities, which began to investigate and remove suspected ships from Panamanian ports.

US-Iran tensions have reached unprecedented levels, as the latter has increased hostile activity against the former and its allies since Hamas’ October 7th attacks.

The post Trump Treasury Department Constricts Iran's 'Ghost Fleet' appeared first on The Floridian.

Sen. Blaise Ingoglia (R-Spring Hill) filed a proposed amendment on Tuesday that would authorize the legislature to freeze in place property taxes to homes affected by natural disasters.

The bill, SJR 1190, is designed to ease the burden on Floridians by lowering homeowners insurance premiums. It bill is implemented from SB 1192, which Blaise Ingoglia also filed on Tuesday.

"Today, I filed a proposed constitutional amendment to help lower homeowners insurance premiums across the state," Ingoglia said. "Most homes damaged in storms are older homes, built at sea level at old wind code standards."If you raise and harden your home it gets reassessed with much higher property taxes."

"My proposal: Let’s incentivize resiliency by freezing current property taxes for 20 years for those who elevate and harden their homes. Government shouldn’t be the beneficiary of home hardening. Homeowners and premium payers should," Ingolia added.

Specifically, SJR 1190 would limit property tax collection on a homestead property which includes mitigation of potential flood damage from natural disasters in the
determination of the property’s assessed value.

The bill added it would also limit the transfer of such value to a new homestead property.

SB 1192 would prohibit the assessed value of an elevated homestead property from exceeding a specified amount for 20 years when its square footage does not exceed 130 percent elevation.

Under this rule, Ingoglia mentioned Floridians get reassessed with higher property taxes. He added that most damaged homes built around sea level are older and comply to old wind code standards.

If approved by 60% of state voters, SJR 1190 would take effect on Jan. 1, 2027. The bill would also approve SB 1192 on the effective date of the amendment to the State Constitution.

The post Blaise Ingoglia Files Amendment to Freeze Property Taxes Against Homes Affected by Natural Disasters appeared first on The Floridian.

It's Official: Trump-Endorsed Byron Donalds Announces Run for Florida Governor

Florida Rep. Byron Donalds announced his campaign for governor Tuesday night, prompted by President Donald Trump urging him to run last week...READ MORE

Byron Donalds-I arrived in the Sunshine State at 17 years old on a Greyhound bus, with a trunk full of clothes and a dream.

Now is the time to keep the best state in the country as the best state in the country.

Tonight, I am proud to announce my candidacy to be the next governor of Florida.

Erika Donalds-My husband @ByronDonalds

is the American dream personified.

Faith in God, grit, kindness, character & a heart of service brought him to this moment in history.

He was instrumental in Trump’s victory. Now he will faithfully steward Florida’s future.

I couldn’t be more proud.

Sen. Jason Pizzo-Not sure where the time went, but I’m sure of this - tonight, I said goodbye to a tough, brave and loyal young man, who will give the @USMC

his very best. He’s one of the few, and I’m one of the very proud. I love you, Jack.

Trump-Endorsed Byron Donalds Announces Run for Florida Governor—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo

Rep. Lauren Melo Thanks Passidomo for SD 28 Endorsement—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—House Republican Lauren Melo (R-Naples) thanked former Senate President Kathleen Passidomo after she endorsed Melo for her Senate District 28 on Saturday.

Rep. Berny Jacques Files Bill Requiring E-Verify for all Private Employers—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Rep. Berny Jacques (R-Seminole) filed a bill on Monday that would require all private employers in Florida to use E-Verify to confirm the eligibility of potential new hires, thus ensuring that only legal U.S. citizens can work in the country.

Dunn Introduces Bill Empowering Vehicle Owners with Crucial Data Access—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Neal Dunn (R-FL) is introducing legislation to allow vehicle owners access to important repair and diagnostic data needed for auto repairs.

Scott Reintroduces Bill to Fight Online Fentanyl Sales—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Franklin Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill Protecting Good Samaritans Using Defibrillators—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representatives Scott Franklin (R-FL) and Gerald Connolly (D-VA) have reintroduced the bipartisan Cardiac Arrest Survival Act, which establishes nationwide standards for legally protecting the usage of defibrillators outside of hospitals during cardiac emergencies.

Nikki Fried: DeSantis Needs to 'Shut His Damn Mouth' on Florida DOGE—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried didn't mince words on Monday after Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a state version of Elon...

Congressional Republican Lawmakers Continue Praise of Musks' DOGE—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—With Democrats up in arms over the aggressive and transparent nature of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency in support of President...

Trump Pushes To End Ukraine War in Ukraine-Centric G7 Summit—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—President Donald Trump joined heads of state in a recent Group of Seven summit that primarily focused on the war in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Vlodymyr...

Fabian Basabe Calls Out Miami Beach Pride Over Exclusion—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina—As Miami Beach Pride prepares to return from March 27^th to April 6^th, 2025, past controversies surrounding political participation in the event have resurfaced. State...

Kristi Noem Celebrates Low Illegal Apprehensions at U.S. Border—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem shared Monday that U.S. Customs and Border Protection encountered just 200 aliens at the southern border...

Ramaswamy to Run For Ohio Governor—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—Tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy recently announced his candidacy for Ohio’s governorship. Ramaswamy's announcement comes as Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s term nears...

Cammack Reintroduces Bipartisan Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Act—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Kat Cammack is reintroducing the bipartisan Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act...

Cruz Praises Attorney General Pam Bondi for Performance so far—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senator Ted Cruz recently praised U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi for her work just weeks after taking the oath of office as the head of the Department of Justice...

DeSantis Takes on 'Bedwetting' Media Over Sympathy for Workers Fired by DOGE—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday excoriated "legacy media" for sympathizing with the scores of federal workers fired by a new department in Donald...

Trump Congratulates Conservatives For Victory in Germany, Germans Call For 'Independence' From US —By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—President Donald Trump has congratulated Germany’s center-right party, the Christian Democrats (CDU), for their recent electoral victory in Germany’s parliamentary elections.

Byron Donalds Responds to Ron DeSantis's 2026 Gubernatorial Dig Against him —By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—WASHINGTON—Hours after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis appeared to dismiss President Donald Trump’s 2026 gubernatorial endorsement of Rep. Byron Donalds...

Waltz Says Trump 'Expects to Get This Deal Done' as Russia-Ukraine War Reaches 3rd Anniversary —By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich

Senate Leader Jason Pizzo Maligns Anti-Illegal Immigration Bill on MSNBC —By The Floridian's Michael Costeines

Cartels Designated As Foreign Terror Organizations Could Face US Military Action—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—President Donald Trump recently designated sundry drug cartels operating in Mexico as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO).

Cammack Introduces Bipartisan Bill Improving Public Safety Communications—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Kat Cammack (R-FL) is introducing bipartisan legislation to improve public safety communications for first responders, which she said is "critical."

Kobe Bryant to be Honored in National Garden of American Heroes—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines

Castor Introduces Bill to Expand Access to SBA Loans After Hurricanes—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) has introduced legislation expanding access to Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, making rebuilding efforts cheaper.

Scott, GOP Colleagues Introduce Bill to End the Death Tax—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

'No Thanks': Rep. Angie Nixon Brushes Off Bryon Donalds' Potential run at Florida Governor—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—House Democratic Rep. Angela "Angie" Nixon (D-Jacksonville) didn't appear thrilled after Florida Congressman Byron Donalds asserted that he would keep "Florida Great" after President Donald Trump endorsed his potential run for governor.

Cherfilus McCormick Argues Against Removal of TPS Status for Haitians—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Rep. Juan Porras Praises Trump's Endorsement of Byron Donalds, Jabs at DeSantis—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines

Descovich: Senate Will 'Have a Hard Time' Rejecting Her After DeSantis Reappointment—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday reappointed Moms for Liberty co-founder Tina Descovich to the state ethics commission months after Republican...

Trump Endorses Byron Donalds For Florida Governor—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—President Donald Trump has endorsed Representative Byron Donalds for Florida Governor. Through a post on Truth Social, President Trump lauded Representative...

DeSantis Closes Out Legislative Battle, Vetoes Controversial TRUMP Act—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis on Thursday vetoed the TRUMP Act, a divisive illegal immigration bill, officially slamming the door on the month-long tumult within the...

Reps. Berny Jacques, Chase Tramont Look to Safeguard State Election System—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida Reps. Berny Jacques and Chase Tramont filed a bill Thursday that would safeguard the integrity of the state's electoral system while...

Cory Mills and Alleged Victim Categorically Deny Any Physical Assault Took Place—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—Florida Rep. Cory Mills has categorically denied he did anything wrong after Washington Metropolitan Police officers responded to his residence...

The Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Daniel Molina, and Michael Costeines

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