President-Elect Trump Names Florida Lawmakers to Key Administration Positions & Florida Sued Over Lack of Air Conditioning in Prisons
November 14, 2024 — This Week's Top Stories in Florida
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President-Elect Trump Names Florida Lawmakers to Key Positions
In a move signaling significant political implications for the Sunshine State, President-elect Donald Trump has chosen several Florida lawmakers to fill key positions in his future administration. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio and Congressmen Matt Gaetz (R-Crestview) and Mike Waltz (R-Palm Coast) have all been nominated by Trump to serve alongside him in the White House, making the high-profile announcements a week after the former president’s landmark election victory. Marco Rubio, the state's senior U.S. senator, was named as pick to be the next secretary of state, culminating a political career that spans over two decades. Rubio’s political trajectory — from Miami’s city commission to Florida House speaker to the U.S. Senate, and now potentially a top cabinet role — has been shaped by ambition and adaptability. He rose rapidly through Florida’s ranks, later gaining national attention for his work on the Senate Intelligence Committee and his focus on Latin American foreign policy. Despite past friction with then-candidate Trump during a contested 2016 Republican presidential primary contest, Rubio has aligned more closely with the former president as he’s reshaped the GOP, becoming an enthusiastic supporter. If Florida’s senior senator assumes the role as America’s top diplomat, he’ll vacate his Senate seat, allowing Governor Ron DeSantis to appoint a replacement. Who would be named as the appointed replacement is sparking widespread speculation with names like the governor’s chief of staff James Uthmeier, Lt. Governor Jeanette Nunez, and Attorney General Ashley Moody rising to the top of the list. The appointee would serve until a 2026 special election, then the winner would complete the final two years of Rubio's term which expires in 2028.
Another Floridian named by President-elect Trump is his most surprising and controversial pick so far in the White House transition. Congressman Matt Gaetz, the four-term firebrand lawmaker from Florida’s 1st congressional district, has been announced as the former president’s choice for U.S. Attorney General. The news sent shockwaves through Washington and sparked mixed reactions from lawmakers, with many expressing skepticism about Gaetz’s success through the confirmation process. The 42-year-old Republican is a staunch supporter of Trump, but a contentious pick that garners concerns over his lack of qualifications and an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation. Meanwhile, Trump praised Gaetz’s commitment to reforming the Justice Department and addressing perceived political bias within the justice system. Gatez resigned his House seat, effective immediately, just hours after receiving the nod for attorney general. His resignation effectively kills the House Ethics Committee’s ongoing investigation into the Florida congressman as the panel has no jurisdiction to investigate individuals who no longer serve in the legislative body. The Ethics Committee was reported to meet on Friday to vote on whether to release the report about Gaetz, which can still be published despite his resignation.
Representative Mike Waltz of Florida’s 6th congressional district, representing the state’s east coast from the Jacksonville suburbs to South Daytona Beach, has been selected to serve as the incoming president’s national security adviser. The retired Army Green Beret and staunch China critic has served in Congress since 2019 and will be responsible for briefing Trump on pressing security issues and coordinating with various federal agencies. His appointment doesn't require Senate confirmation. Waltz is likely to push for a stronger U.S. stance in the Asia-Pacific region to prevent China’s dominance and continue advocating for America’s support of Israel. Trump praised Waltz on social media as an “expert on the threats posed by China, Russia, Iran and global terrorism” and a “champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of peace through strength.”
Florida Sued Over Lack of Air Conditioning in Prisons
A class-action lawsuit has been filed against the Florida Department of Corrections over the lack of air conditioning at the Dade Correctional Institution, which allegedly contributed to the deaths of four inmates. The lawsuit, filed by the Florida Justice Institute, argues that extreme heat at the facility has severely impacted older and disabled prisoners, including an 81-year-old wheelchair-bound inmate, who died after struggling to breathe in sweltering, unventilated conditions. The filing made on behalf of three prisoners, claims that the lack of air conditioning in the facility violates the Eighth Amendment's protection against cruel and unusual punishment, as well as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act. The Florida Justice Institute stated that the lawsuit was necessary due to the prison officials' failure to address concerns raised by inmates and advocates. Nearly 75% of Florida’s correctional prison units lack air conditioning. The state faces similar lawsuits as those filed in Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico on related grounds. Advocates hope the legal action will establish consistent safety standards for incarcerated individuals at risk of heat-related illnesses, especially as climate change intensifies the threat to an aging prison population.
Duke Energy Says Hurricanes Cost Company Up to $1.3B
Duke Energy Florida is facing a staggering $1.1 to $1.3 billion in power restoration costs following three devastating hurricanes that struck the state this year. The utility, which incurred significant expenses after Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton, plans to seek approval from the Florida Public Service Commission to pass these costs on to consumers, potentially impacting bills as early as March 2025. The bulk of the costs, estimated between $700 million and $850 million, stem from Hurricane Milton, which made landfall as a Category 3 storm in Sarasota County and caused widespread damage across areas of Florida served by Duke Energy. The utility is exploring various options to mitigate the impact on customers, including insurance claims, Duke’s $100 million storm reserve, and potential securitization of costs, rate increases are expected. Florida Power & Light (FPL) – the state’s largest electricity provider – has also requested approval to recover $1.2 billion in storm restoration expenses and replenish its storm reserve fund. If approved, the temporary surcharge would impact FPL customers’ bills beginning in January 2025. Utilities typically recover storm-related costs from customers that are included in larger rate agreements approved by the Public Service Commission. Duke Energy plans to submit a formal request to state regulators in December, outlining its proposed cost recovery strategy.
DeSantis' Gets Political Boost by Abortion and Marijuana Amendment Failures
Ron DeSantis is entering his final two years as Florida’s governor with significant political leverage after two high-profile ballot measures he opposed — legalizing recreational marijuana and expanding abortion rights — were defeated on Election Day. Though each measure garnered majority support, they fell short of the 60% needed for approval in Florida. DeSantis led an intense campaign against both initiatives, utilizing taxpayer-funded ads and leveraging state resources to challenge them. While criticized by opponents for abusing his power, the strategy proved effective in maintaining the state’s conservative bent. His political influence carried to local races, where four out of six school board candidates he endorsed won their runoff elections, but one of two state attorneys he had suspended for what he argued was not upholding state law emerged victorious. The governor’s success is likely to shape his final years in office and potentially position him for future political endeavors, including a widely speculated return to the national stage in 2028 as a presidential candidate. As Florida has charted its own course, defying national trends on hot-button issues, and transforming the Sunshine State into a reliably Republican state, DeSantis gets the credit. The results on Election Day further cement his legacy, but whether his positions resonate nationally in the long term remains in doubt by some political insiders.
St. Petersburg Construction Raises Concerns on Crane Safety
In downtown St. Petersburg, as construction booms, safety concerns over tower cranes have intensified as the City Council considers the new 49-story Waldorf Astoria condo, set to become the city’s tallest building. During a nine-hour meeting Thursday, residents expressed anxiety and urged council members to address crane safety following Hurricane Milton, which toppled a crane that severely damaged an adjacent office building. A recent Tampa Bay Times investigation revealed Florida lacks specific laws addressing crane safety during high winds, even in hurricane-prone areas. The construction industry's influence has led lawmakers to pass state laws preventing local governments from enacting safety rules. While federal regulations on cranes exist, they primarily focus on worker safety–not risks to public safety–and they do not set standards for high winds. In St. Pete, City Council member Gina Driscoll proposed a future discussion on crane safety, which was approved by the council and supported by the St. Petersburg Downtown Neighborhood Association. In response to these concerns, developers of the Waldorf Astoria project voluntarily pledged to use tower cranes rated to withstand sustained winds of 149 mph, exceeding the previous standard of 110 mph. They also committed to additional safety measures like structural braces and stabilizing the crane’s foundation during hurricane watches. Meanwhile, as St. Pete continues to grow vertically, the city attorney’s office is tasked with exploring options to enhance crane safety regulations, despite state limitations on local government’s authority. One proposed solution includes requiring towering projects to carry an umbrella insurance policy that would protect surrounding properties and the city from liability and insurance claims.
Florida Political Insider Named as Trump’s Chief of Staff
Susie Wiles, a veteran Florida political consultant, has been named as President-elect Donald Trump's incoming White House chief of staff, making her the first woman to hold this position. Trump announced her appointment following his victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. Wiles, 66, has been a key figure in Trump's political success, serving as his de facto campaign manager and playing crucial roles in his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. Known for shunning the limelight, she is well-regarded across Florida’s political landscape for being tough, smart, and pragmatic. Wiles’ political career spans decades, with her work instrumental in shaping the careers of other prominent Florida Republicans, including Governor Ron DeSantis’ 2018 victory and during Rick Scott’s first gubernatorial campaign in 2010. News of her hire as Trump’s chief of staff drew praise from notable Florida politicians and fellow consultants across the state. “Congratulations to Susie!” Sen. Scott posted about the hire. “She is the perfect person for this role. She’s been a friend since I ran back in 2010 when she ran my first race for Governor. She knows how to build a great team, is a true leader, a trusted advisor, and a brilliant tactician.” Democrat Congressman Jared Moskowitz (D-Parkland) even applauded the news, noting he worked with Wiles in Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration during his tenure as director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “She is brilliant, tough, strategic. She will serve the country well,” Moskowitz wrote.
DeSantis Orders Investigation into FEMA for Politically Motivated Hurricane Aid Directive
A Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) employee has been terminated following allegations of instructing disaster relief workers to bypass homes displaying support for President-elect Donald Trump in hurricane-affected areas of Florida. The controversial incident, which occurred in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, has prompted Gov. Ron DeSantis to order an investigation by Florida's Division of Emergency Management (FDEM). The Republican governor characterized the action as "targeted discrimination" against Trump supporters and criticized what he perceives as broader partisan behavior within federal agencies. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell condemned the incident as "reprehensible" and a violation of the agency's core principles. She assured the public that the agency upholds its commitment to assisting all disaster victims regardless of political affiliation and pledged to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Tampa Bay Abortion Fund Sees Surge in Calls For Help After Florida's Six-Week Ban
The Tampa Bay Abortion Fund has reported a staggering triple-digit increase in calls for help since Florida's six-week abortion ban took effect in May 2024. The nonprofit organization has seen an increase in requests from women, frequently referred by health clinics and gynecologists, who are seeking financial support for out-of-state travel to access safe and legal abortion services. The Tampa Bay Abortion Fund has provided $710,000 for travel, accommodations, and clinic fees to approximately 150 women for out-of-state abortions since the law took effect. Many of the women are distressed, lacking the funds to receive health care outside of Florida or the resources to raise a child. The state’s recent six-week abortion laws have sharply shifted the nonprofit's role, as they previously supported women traveling into Florida for services from other southern states with more restrictive rules on women. The fund expects to set a record for assistance provided by year's end. Meanwhile, the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration is reporting the number of pregnancy terminations is on the decline, with roughly over 50,000 abortions recorded this year, down from more than 84,000 abortions recorded in 2023.
Hurricane Debris Removal to Cost Small Beach Community $1.5M
Officials in the small beach community of Indian Rocks Beach, on the Gulf Coast of Pinellas County, are projecting debris removal following Hurricanes Helene and Milton is expected to cost $1.5 million. The city of just over 3,600 residents and 3,422 housing units, according to the 2020 U.S. Census Bureau data, approved a Fiscal Year 2025 budget of $10.593 million in September, including a general fund of $5.38 million. The $1.5 million cost of debris removal efforts will be funded from the city's reserves which was reported at $5.4 million in July 2024. Indian Rocks Beach officials reported that 25,000 cubic yards of waste have been removed at the end of October, requiring an increase from 8 to 38 debris removal trucks. The city’s recovery efforts, discussed at a recent news conference, included relocating essential equipment and official documents before the storms hit, potentially saving $750,000. State Sen. Nick DiCeglie (R-Indian Rocks Beach) praised the city's leadership and expressed concern about maintaining the community's character during rebuilding. Officials plan to aggressively pursue FEMA reimbursements to aid in recovery efforts. It is expected that the back-to-back hurricanes will deal a significant blow to local government finances, especially for the small barrier island communities. The property damage and destruction will lead to decreased property tax revenue, as home values decline and assessments are lowered. Additionally, business closures and economic disruption can reduce sales tax revenue. Under the state’s property tax relief bill passed into law following Hurricanes Ian and Nicole in 2022, homes that experience damage to the extent they are deemed uninhabitable for 30 days or longer, homeowners may be eligible for a prorated refund on their property taxes.
Hurricane Debris Removal Contractors Raise Rates
Debris removal contractors across Florida have increased prices on local governments, leaving cities to decide between paying the higher costs or risking delays in cleanup. The increased rates charged to municipalities is prompting local officials to authorize amendments to existing agreements with contractors as they aim to complete debris removal within 90 days to meet FEMA’s 100% reimbursement requirements. However, there remains uncertainty about whether FEMA reimbursement will apply to the higher per-cubic-yard rates being charged by contractors. In the Pinellas County municipality of Seminole, where officials estimate debris collection could reach $500,000, fees have nearly doubled. Rising from $9 per cubic yard for vegetation removal to $14.98, and from $9.50 to $18 for construction and demolition debris. Across Florida, municipalities are grappling with similar price increases as contractors cite higher operational costs and increased demand for their services. The situation has put local governments in a difficult position, as they must balance the need for swift cleanup with budget constraints, especially as it remains unclear whether the increased contractor rates will be fully covered by FEMA. As many local communities face similar situations, they have considered alternatives like bidding out collection or legal action against contractors, but these options could delay cleanup by 12-18 months. Meanwhile, the higher rates being paid by coastal communities and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) are causing delays in debris pickup for other counties as contractors prioritize areas paying more. This is leaving some counties like Alachua, Okeechobee, and Orange counties short-staffed and facing challenges in procuring equipment amid high demand for these resources. Alachua County has recently stepped up to match the increased per-cubic-yard rates paid by FDOT and other regional municipalities. In Orange County, officials say debris removal will take “until at least Christmas” due to delays, reporting that only 10% of the estimated storm debris has been removed since Hurricane Milton.
A Battle for Big Cypress National Preserve
Big Cypress National Preserve, spanning 727,000 acres between Miami and Naples, is celebrated for its rich ecosystems and deep cultural significance, but its future hangs in the balance. The federal government, which manages and oversees the land, is proposing a designation that would protect the preserve’s pristine wilderness, drawing controversy from those who traverse the freshwater wetlands the most – hunters, air boaters, conservationists, and the Miccosukee Tribe. The National Park Service is reevaluating application of the government’s strictest land protection to one-quarter of Big Cypress National Preserve’s acreage, a designation derived from the Wilderness Act of 1964 that would bar any recreation, building structures, and motor vehicles and equipment from the vast area. Currently, the federally protected preserve classification allows some recreational activities like hunting, fishing, off-roading, air boating, and indigenous tribal practices to continue, striking a balance between conservation efforts and traditional land use. Furthermore, existing private property rights remain, and oil and gas exploration within the preserve’s boundaries are permitted. However, applying the more restrictive wilderness designation would limit access to much of the swampland and hinder critical management efforts. Florida government agencies, lawmakers, state officials, and nonprofit organizations have even voiced opposition to the potential changes.
Most impacted would be the federally-recognized Miccosukee Tribe, whose history on the land dates to the 19th century – long before Big Cypress was established as the first U.S. national preserve by then-President Gerald Ford in 1974. Hundreds of tribe members live among the wetlands, carrying forward their traditional practices, ceremonies, and even burials on sprawling acres that they consider sacred. The Miccosukee Tribe argues the designation threatens their culture and traditional way of life. Meanwhile, state agencies like the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), along with environmental organizations, have raised concerns about the designation's impact on land management, invasive species control, and Everglades restoration efforts. They argue limiting access to swaths of acreage needed for activities like species restoration and research, including combating the loss of biodiversity posed by nonnative vegetative and wildlife species on the local ecosystem, could have detrimental effects. Similarly, FDEP says the restricted access brought by the wilderness designation could hamper fire suppression activities like controlled burns regularly administered within the preserve to reduce the risk of wildfires. These land management activities improve the health of the habitat and help avoid the potential ecological losses that could be permanent, FDEP argues. The South Florida Water Management District also voiced concerns, highlighting the potential challenges to Everglades restoration efforts. A wilderness designation could impede the construction and maintenance of water infrastructure, data collection, and restoration projects. While the fate of Big Cypress National Preserve remains uncertain, alternatives, including co-management with federal agencies, have been proposed to protect the land and ensure the continuity of existing practices and conservation efforts. The outcome will have significant implications for the environment, the local community, and future generations.
Florida Voters Overwhelmingly Back Public Education
The recent election results in Florida revealed voters demonstrated a bipartisan approach to school-related issues, rejecting a proposed amendment to make school board elections partisan and overwhelmingly supporting tax measures for public education. The proposed constitutional amendment to reintroduce partisan school board elections failed to reach the required 60% threshold, garnering only 55% of votes. This outcome suggests that Floridians prefer to keep education separate from party politics. Even school board candidates closely aligned with party leaders and political groups, including 13 of 23 contenders endorsed by Gov. DeSantis lost their elections between the August primary and the 2024 General Election. Voters also approved nearly all local tax measures supporting public education. Of 22 counties proposing to renew or raise school funding through property or sales taxes, 21 received approval — even in predominantly Republican areas. These measures, which include property and sales tax increases or renewals, passed by wide margins and go toward supporting teacher pay and school improvements. Education experts and political consultants attribute the popularity of impartial, pro-education measures to voters' personal connections with local schools, which most view as non-partisan issues that directly impact their communities. The results indicate that when it comes to schools, Floridians are willing to set aside ideological stances and focus on what they believe is best for students and teachers.
USF Breaks Ground on $340M Football Stadium
The University of South Florida marked a historic milestone last week with the groundbreaking ceremony for its new on-campus stadium. Set to open in 2027, the $340 million facility will seat 35,000 fans and serve as home to both the football and women's lacrosse teams. The stadium, featuring luxury suites and state-of-the-art amenities, is designed to elevate USF's athletic program and campus life. The school’s football team currently plays home games offsite at Raymond James Stadium, the home of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Beyond sports, the venue will host concerts and other events that aim to foster a vibrant campus atmosphere. The university strives to complete construction by spring 2027, with the inaugural game scheduled against Louisville on September 4, 2027. USF President Rhea Law highlighted the impact of an on-campus stadium on admissions, funding, and recruitment, anticipating a transformed campus experience.
Red Bull’s Aviation Oddity Competition Returns to Tampa
The Red Bull Flugtag competition returned to Tampa on Saturday for the first time in 13 years, drawing a crowd upwards of 80,000 to watch the quirky aviation spectacle. Flugtag, meaning “flying day” in German, is a unique free-to-attend event in which amateur teams launch homemade flying machines off a 27-foot platform over the water. Just outside the Tampa Convention Center, 28 different teams, with their own themes, costumes, theatrics, and music, descended on the Hillsborough River to take flight in their unconventional flying contraptions. They were judged on flight distance, craft creativity, and pre-flight showmanship, aiming to glide as far as possible before splashing into the river below. In 2011, the last time the competition took over Tampa, Willy Wonka’s Amazing Flying Flugtag Adventure soared to victory. This year's competition delivered another round of outlandish inventions and spectacular splashdowns, continuing the tradition of pushing the boundaries of human-powered flight. Orlando’s Flug Shag team was the 2024 winner, traveling a distance of 51 feet.
Voodoo Brewing Co. Opens St. Pete Location
Voodoo Brewing Co. has officially opened its doors in St. Petersburg, ending years of anticipation and marking a vibrant addition to the local craft beer scene. Located at 220 Fourth St. N, the brewery offers a diverse selection of craft beers, seltzers, and cocktails, alongside a full food menu. The 7,300-square-foot brewery is Voodoo’s third location in Florida, joining taprooms in Jacksonville and Fort Myers. The brewery features 26 taps, half dedicated to Voodoo’s brews and the other half showcasing guest selections, including local favorites. The venue combines industrial and traditional design elements, with a second-floor area for dining and entertainment that aims to set it apart from the city’s bustling craft beer scene.
St. Petersburg's Prominent Seafood Restaurant to Close After Nearly a Decade
After nearly 10 years of serving upscale seafood in downtown St. Petersburg, Sea Salt restaurant will close its doors on December 31. The announcement was made by owners Ingrid Aielli and partners, expressing gratitude to the community for its support. The restaurant's lease at Sundial is set to expire, prompting the closure. Sea Salt opened in 2015, boasting a 12,000-square-foot space with a sprawling patio and garnering accolades for its extensive wine collection. The new owners of Sundial plan significant upgrades for the outdoor complex, including new eateries and spaces, including an Italian restaurant and outdoor bar. The closure follows other high-profile restaurant closures in Tampa Bay, including Cena and Capogna's Dugout in Clearwater.
ZooTampa Welcomes Endangered Siamang Baby
An endangered siamang ape was born at ZooTampa on October 27, marking a significant event for conservation efforts of the species. Siamangs, the largest of the lesser apes, are native to Southeast Asia and unique for their complex family structures, with both parents involved in raising young, and their unique vocalizations used to communicate. The endangered primates play a crucial role in forest ecosystems but face threats from habitat loss and poaching. ZooTampa's Chief Zoological Officer, Chris Massaro, expressed excitement about the birth, saying “every birth is critical” and calling it "a sign of hope for the species." The baby joins 3-year-old sister Kazuki and parents Hutan and Sensei. Visitors to ZooTampa can view the new addition in the Primate Area, offering a rare glimpse of these endangered animals and highlighting ongoing conservation efforts.
St. Pete Pier's "Bending Arc" Sculpture Removed After Hurricane Damage
The iconic "Bending Arc" sculpture at St. Pete Pier is being temporarily removed due to hurricane damage. Created by artist Janet Echelman and installed in 2020, the sculpture suffered repeated damage to its netting and attachments from a series of recent hurricanes. Initially, a twine-like material was used to fix the structural and artistic net, but this proved inadequate. City officials decided to remove “Bending Arc” to assess its condition and explore more resilient installation methods, enlisting The Net House, a Cocoa-based firm specializing in net repair, to remove, inspect, and reattach the piece securely. The City of St. Petersburg hopes to find a sustainable solution that will allow the artwork to withstand future storms after previous repair attempts failed to address the sculpture's vulnerability. Former Mayor Rick Kriseman had raised $1.65 million in private funds for the sculpture, installation, and lighting.
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