Members phkrause Posted April 8 Author Members Posted April 8 DeSantis signs bill allowing state officials to issue domestic ‘terrorist’ designations TAMPA — Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation Monday that will allow just a handful of government officials to designate domestic terrorist organizations in Florida and expel college students who “promote” them. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/06/desantis-signs-bill-allowing-state-officials-to-issue-domestic-terrorist-designations/? DeSantis plays down lack of Supreme Court opinion in justifying congressional redistricting effort Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has previously said that one of the reasons why Florida must conduct an unusual mid-decade congressional redistricting this year is because the state would likely be “forced” into compliance with an expected U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the constitutionality of key provision of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/06/desantis-plays-down-lack-of-supreme-court-opinion-in-justifying-congressional-redistricting-effort/? Data center dilemma: Why money isn’t winning over communities At least 37 states offer some sort of financial incentives to businesses building data centers. The incentives aren’t just a drop in the bucket either. In Virginia, for instance, the state has notched up about $1.6 billion in data center tax breaks. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/06/repub/data-center-dilemma-why-money-isnt-winning-over-communities/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 9 Author Members Posted April 9 Intact but not in use: Florida’s AIDS drug formulary advisory panel The Florida Department of Health limited access to life-saving drugs for people with HIV without consulting its hand-picked advisory committee charged with maintaining and updating the list of available drugs for the state’s AIDS Drug Assistance Program. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/08/intact-but-not-in-use-floridas-aids-drug-formulary-advisory-panel/? Advocates fear Florida’s domestic terrorist law could reach beyond Muslim groups TAMPA — One day after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation (HB 1471) granting a handful of public officials power to designate a domestic terrorist organization, members of a likely target of the law warned it could reach beyond Muslim organizations. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/07/advocates-fear-floridas-domestic-terrorist-law-could-reach-beyond-muslim-groups/? Is ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ under federal control? Answer could decide environmental groups’ case Proving that the federal government controls the Everglades immigrant detention camp the state calls “Alligator Alcatraz” could be key to whether environmental groups’ case to shutter the facility survives, a chief appellate judge indicated Tuesday. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/07/is-alligator-alcatraz-under-federal-control-answer-could-decide-environmental-groups-case/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 12 Author Members Posted April 12 Retaliation? Provider loses $3.5M in state contracts after fighting HIV cuts The state Department of Health notified the AIDS Healthcare Foundation that it would not renew five of its contracts to test and treat people with HIV and stop the spread of the sexually transmitted infection (STI). https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/10/retaliation-provider-loses-3-5m-in-state-contracts-after-fighting-hiv-cuts/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 14 Author Members Posted April 14 Brian Nathan says he’s ready to fight for the working class as he heads to Tallahassee Florida’s 14th Senate District in western Hillsborough County went without representation during the past regular legislative session in Tallahassee, so newly elected Democrat Brian Nathan says his first responsibility is to make sure the district doesn’t get slighted when House and Senate leaders resume negotiations on the state budget later this spring. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/10/brian-nathan-says-hes-ready-to-fight-for-the-working-class-as-he-heads-to-tallahassee/? DeSantis administration touts Medicaid, Hope Florida at press conference Representatives of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ health care agencies came together Friday to recognize April as National Child Abuse Awareness Prevention Month. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/10/desantis-administration-touts-medicaid-hope-florida-at-press-conference/? Uthmeier using the Rooney Rule to stir grievance, grease re-election It is no accident that Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier is suddenly concerned about the National Football League’s hiring practices. Twenty-three years after the Rooney Rule was established, he sent a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressing his profound concerns about the rule. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/13/uthmeier-using-the-rooney-rule-to-stir-grievance-grease-re-election/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 15 Author Members Posted April 15 Poll: NPAs giving Florida Democrats a legitimate chance in November A month after Florida Democrats scored upset victories in two special legislative elections, a new survey shows their top candidates for statewide offices are either in a statistical tie or leading against GOP opponents. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/13/poll-npas-giving-florida-democrats-a-legitimate-chance-in-november/? Bob Buckhorn, running to ‘finish what I started,’ announces run for Tampa mayor TAMPA — Saying he wants to build a city that “is the envy of the nation,” former Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn filed paperwork Monday to become a candidate to return to lead City Hall. https://floridaphoenix.com/briefs/bob-buckhorn-running-to-finish-what-i-started-announces-run-for-tampa-mayor/? Anti-abortion lawmakers seek to redefine ‘abortion’ to exclude medical treatment Some anti-abortion state lawmakers are pushing to revise the definition of “abortion” so abortion bans don’t apply to cases in which the death of an “unborn child” is the result of medical care provided to the pregnant woman. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/14/repub/anti-abortion-lawmakers-seek-to-redefine-abortion-to-exclude-medical-treatment/? Florida Bar passage rate lower than a year ago Aspiring attorneys taking the Florida Bar exam for the first time in February passed at a rate 3% lower than last year’s winter administration of the exam. https://floridaphoenix.com/briefs/florida-bar-passage-rate-lower-than-a-year-ago/? DeSantis: Congressional redistricting special session may be delayed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis insisted Tuesday that a special session on congressional redistricting will take place, although maybe not beginning Monday as originally scheduled. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/14/desantis-congressional-redistricting-special-session-may-be-delayed/? Jose Javier Rodriguez raises objections to some of James Uthmeier’s campaign contributions First-quarter fundraising totals for state candidates have now been reported, and Florida Democratic attorney general candidate José Javier Rodríguez is taking issue with a couple of financial contributions received by the man he hopes to replace in November, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier. https://floridaphoenix.com/briefs/javier-rodriguez-takes-aim-at-james-uthmeiers-campaign-contributions/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 16 Author Members Posted April 16 DeSantis delays redistricting special session, expands it to AI, vaccines Gov. Ron DeSantis delayed Wednesday a long-anticipated special session to redraw the state’s congressional maps, pushing it back by one week and expanding the call to address artificial intelligence and vaccine mandates. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/15/desantis-delays-redistricting-special-session-expands-it-to-ai-vaccines/? Slipshod investigation of famous Florida eagle’s death ruffles feathers Florida is truly a land of mystery. Often, things aren’t what they seem. You may wind up with more questions than answers. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/16/slipshod-investigation-of-famous-florida-eagles-death-ruffles-feathers/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 20 Author Members Posted April 20 Alleged FSU shooter consulted ChatGPT on when to attack, sexual scenarios with a minor Two hours before he went on a shooting rampage, Phoenix Ikner had a question for ChatGPT. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/15/alleged-fsu-shooter-consulted-chatgpt-on-when-to-attack-sexual-scenarios-with-a-minor/? DeSantis promises special session on property taxes, but when? Gov. Ron DeSantis has previously indicated that he’s holding back on offering his own proposal to reduce taxes on homestead properties until the moment is “ripe” — and it doesn’t appear that’ll be anytime soon. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/17/desantis-promises-special-session-on-property-taxes-but-when/? ‘God Squad’ withdrawal of protection for Gulf species draws another challenge Environmental groups are joining an effort to block rules from President Donald Trump’s administration exempting energy companies drilling in the Gulf of Mexico from legal protections for endangered species. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/15/god-squad-withdrawal-of-protection-for-gulf-species-draws-another-challenge/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 21 Author Members Posted April 21 DeSantis administration gets pushback for its child health policies The DeSantis administration is getting pushback for its children’s health care policies and its decision to remove tens of thousands of children from a subsidized health insurance program. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/17/desantis-administration-gets-pushback-for-its-child-health-policies/? Florida to dole out $105 million in federal dollars for FIFA World Cup security A panel of the Florida Legislature agreed Friday to distribute more than $105 million in federal dollars to shield FIFA World Cup matches in Miami from unmanned drones and other attacks. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/17/florida-to-dole-out-105-million-in-federal-dollars-for-fifa-world-cup-security/? Florida’s leaders see terrorists behind every bush Rejoice, Florida: Domestic terrorism is about to be terrorized, thanks to a terrific team headed by our triumphant governor, the talented Cabinet, and our tough law enforcement hombres. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/20/floridas-leaders-see-terrorists-behind-every-bush/? Uthmeier in Tampa appearance talks Hope Florida, UF teaching position, guns TAMPA — For a man who’s been in his job for 14 months, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has had the uncanny ability to generate an inordinate amount of headlines, sometimes for some quite controversial decisions. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/17/uthmeier-in-tampa-appearance-talks-hope-florida-uf-teaching-position-guns/? The 28 state colleges remove sociology as a general education course The Florida Board of Education has removed sociology from the 28 state college general education lists, following the example of the 12 state universities. https://floridaphoenix.com/briefs/the-28-state-colleges-remove-sociology-as-a-general-education-course/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 24 Author Members Posted April 24 DeSantis pressures House to pass AI Bill of Rights, references FSU shooting Four days before a special legislative session in part to debate regulation of artificial intelligence, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday pressured the Florida House to fetter the technology’s power — a topic members have avoided in deference to the White House. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/22/desantis-pressures-house-to-pass-ai-bill-of-rights-references-fsu-shooting/? Way down upon this Florida river, pollution and water withdrawals spell double trouble If you’re an old canoe paddler like me, Florida offers a delightful assortment of rivers to navigate or just plain contemplate. They range from the laidback Blackwater in the Panhandle to the northward-flowing St. Johns to the world-famous “River of Grass” in the Everglades. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/23/way-down-upon-this-florida-river-pollution-and-water-withdrawals-spell-double-trouble/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 29 Author Members Posted April 29 DeSantis sends his new congressional map to Florida lawmakers Gov. Ron DeSantis released his proposed newly redrawn map of the state’s congressional districts on Monday, one that aims to add four Republican leaning seat to the 20 (out of 28) already represented by Republicans in Florida. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/27/desantis-sends-his-new-congressional-map-to-florida-lawmakers/? DeSantis orders Legislature to revisit vaccine mandates; CDC reports 134 confirmed measles cases As the number of confirmed measles cases in Florida increases, so does Gov. Ron DeSantis’ passion to pass legislation to make it easier for parents to turn down the required vaccines for public school students. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/27/desantis-orders-legislature-to-revisit-vaccine-mandates-cdc-reports-134-confirmed-measles-cases/? Florida average teacher pay remains at bottom of national data, union says Florida teachers’ average starting salary increased between 2025 and 2026, although not enough to improve Florida’s nationwide standing, according to data from the National Education Association. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/27/florida-average-teacher-pay-remains-at-bottom-of-national-data-union-says/? Counsel for DeSantis tells lawmakers they can ignore Fair Districts Amendments in approving new map An attorney representing Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday that the proposed congressional redistricting map he presented Monday to the Legislature is constitutional because federal law supersedes language in the 2010 Fair District Amendments. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/28/counsel-for-desantis-tells-lawmakers-they-can-ignore-fair-districts-amendments-in-approving-new-map/? Florida Speaker kills DeSantis’ AI regulation, vaccine repeal bills on first day of special session Bucking Gov. Ron DeSantis, Florida lawmakers won’t strike vaccine mandates for kids or create new guardrails on artificial intelligence, House Speaker Daniel Perez declared Tuesday morning. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/28/florida-speaker-kills-desantis-ai-regulation-vaccine-repeal-bills-on-first-day-of-special-session/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 1 Author Members Posted May 1 Florida Legislature passes DeSantis’ congressional redistricting map The Florida Legislature has approved a new congressional map sent to them just two days earlier by Gov. Ron DeSantis that could give Florida Republicans up to four new congressional seats in the November midterm elections. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/29/florida-legislature-passes-desantis-congressional-redistricting-map/? DeSantis argues LA v. Callais ruling nullifies Florida’s Fair Districts Amendments Pushing the Florida Legislature to approve his redrawn congressional maps, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office is using the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to trash a Louisiana congressional map as evidence that Florida’s anti-gerrymandering amendment is invalid. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/29/desantis-argues-la-v-callais-ruling-nullifies-floridas-fair-districts-amendments/? ‘Rigging a system:’ Legal challenges expected, advocacy groups respond to redistricting approval In the same afternoon Florida lawmakers gave approval to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ redrawn mid-decade congressional maps, advocacy groups made clear their opposition and expectation of legal challenges. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/29/rigging-a-system-legal-challenges-expected-advocacy-groups-respond-to-redistricting-approval/? Secretive push to build new Florida slaughterhouse endangers Lake O America has had a long love affair with cowboys. We picture them riding, roping, and ranching and just swoon. But we don’t like thinking about what happens to the cattle they’re tending, and how these critters wind up as the millions of burgers sold by McDonalds. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/30/secretive-push-to-build-new-florida-slaughterhouse-endangers-lake-o/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 4 Author Members Posted May 4 Federal judge upholds Florida’s citizen initiative restrictions U.S. District Judge Mark Walker has rejected a legal challenge to Florida’s restrictions on ballot initiatives that was filed by groups who have been pushing measures on marijuana and Medicaid expansion. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/30/federal-judge-upholds-floridas-citizen-initiative-restrictions/? Ideas hit the drawing board as state seeks stability in Name, Image, and Likeness era Creating a student-owned trust fund for college athletes is among the ideas swirling in the mind of the man leading the state task force charged with keeping Florida competitive in the new era of paying college athletes. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/30/ideas-hit-the-drawing-board-as-state-seeks-stability-in-name-image-and-likeness-era/? DeSantis takes a victory lap after Legislature OKs his redistricting map Gov. Ron DeSantis was feeling good Thursday, a day after the Florida Legislature passed his redrawn congressional districts map, which could increase Republicans’ advantage in Florida’s U.S. House delegation to 24-4 over Democrats. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/30/desantis-takes-a-victory-lap-after-legislature-oks-his-redistricting-map/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 5 Author Members Posted May 5 ‘Rigging a system:’ Legal challenges expected, advocacy groups respond to redistricting approval In the same afternoon Florida lawmakers gave approval to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ redrawn mid-decade congressional maps, advocacy groups made clear their opposition and expectation of legal challenges. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/29/rigging-a-system-legal-challenges-expected-advocacy-groups-respond-to-redistricting-approval/? Florida Speaker kills DeSantis’ AI regulation, vaccine repeal bills on first day of special session Bucking Gov. Ron DeSantis, Florida lawmakers won’t strike vaccine mandates for kids or create new guardrails on artificial intelligence, House Speaker Daniel Perez declared Tuesday morning. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/28/florida-speaker-kills-desantis-ai-regulation-vaccine-repeal-bills-on-first-day-of-special-session/? Federal judge upholds Florida’s citizen initiative restrictions U.S. District Judge Mark Walker has rejected a legal challenge to Florida’s restrictions on ballot initiatives that was filed by groups who have been pushing measures on marijuana and Medicaid expansion. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/04/30/federal-judge-upholds-floridas-citizen-initiative-restrictions/? Union-restricting measure crosses finish line, gets DeSantis signature Gov. Ron DeSantis got to put the finishing touches on one of his 2026 legislative priorities Friday, signing a union-restricting bill that had been subject to intense debate in Florida’s Capitol. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/01/union-restricting-measure-crosses-finish-line-gets-desantis-signature/? Florida Democrats have reason for hope, but could still mess this up Florida Democrats have gotten a bit giddy lately. Optimistic, even. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/04/florida-democrats-have-reason-for-hope-but-could-still-mess-this-up/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 7 Author Members Posted May 7 DeSantis signs legislation making new congressional map official Gov. Ron DeSantis quietly signed legislation (HB 1D ) into law Monday making his newly designed congressional redistricting map official in Florida. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/04/desantis-signs-legislation-making-new-congressional-map-official/? Uthmeier continues charge against Southern Poverty Law Center Attorney General James Uthmeier issued a subpoena to the Southern Poverty Law Center, his office announced Monday, alleging deceptive fundraising. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/04/uthmeier-continues-charge-against-southern-poverty-law-center/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 8 Author Members Posted May 8 Palm Beach County Commission approves agreement renaming Palm Beach Airport after Donald Trump The Palm Beach County Commission has narrowly approved a licensing agreement granting the Trump Organization control of the name “Donald J. Trump International Airport.” https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/05/palm-beach-county-commission-approves-agreement-renaming-palm-beach-airport-after-donald-trump/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 10 Author Members Posted May 10 DeSantis, plaintiffs agree new map breaks FL Constitution. Does it apply anyway? Gov. Ron DeSantis and the groups suing him over Florida’s new congressional map can agree on one thing: The DeSantis-drawn districts violate parts of the state Constitution — but they sharply disagree about what that means. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/06/desantis-plaintiffs-agree-new-map-breaks-fl-constitution-does-it-apply-anyway/? Most major FL gubernatorial candidates say state should never legalize recreational marijuana The issue of whether Florida should legalize recreational cannabis went away as a significant campaign issue earlier this year after Smart & Safe Florida, the organization behind an initiative to put it back before voters this November, fell short of the nearly 880,000 verified petition signatures required to qualify for the statewide ballot. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/06/most-major-fl-gubernatorial-candidates-say-state-should-never-legalize-recreational-marijuana/? DeSantis discusses report Everglades immigrant detention center may close Gov. Ron DeSantis said Thursday the Everglades immigration detention center has served its purpose, responding to reports that the temporary facility may close. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/07/desantis-discusses-report-everglades-immigrant-detention-center-may-close/? Study says free phone calls in prison help recidivism — Florida budget won’t address it this year Noting that phone contact between incarcerated people in Florida and family could reduce recidivism, Florida lawmakers approved a pilot program in each of the past three years providing for free, 15-minute phone call for well-behaved inmates. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/07/study-says-free-phones-calls-in-prison-help-recidivism-florida-budget-wont-address-it-this-year/? Democrat Lois Frankel says she’ll run in Congressional District 23 this year U.S. Democratic Rep. Lois Frankel, who represents a large part of Palm Beach County in Florida’s 22nd Congressional District, says she will run this year in District 23, where much of her district was moved after the passage of Florida’s new congressional map last week. https://floridaphoenix.com/briefs/democrat-lois-frankel-says-shell-run-in-congressional-district-23-this-year/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 13 Author Members Posted May 13 DeSantis discusses report Everglades immigrant detention center may close Gov. Ron DeSantis said Thursday the Everglades immigration detention center has served its purpose, responding to reports that the temporary facility may close. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/07/desantis-discusses-report-everglades-immigrant-detention-center-may-close/? DeSantis signs law taking tough stance against ‘foreign countries of concern’ Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law on Friday restrictions on government contact with what the state lists as foreign “countries of concern” and prohibits public employees and officials from accepting gifts from those countries. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/08/desantis-signs-law-taking-tough-stance-against-foreign-countries-of-concern/? How a legal challenge over gender dysphoria became a fight for disability rights Charlotte Cravins’ son Landry turned 2 in January. He’s a smiley little boy who loves singing “Itsy Bitsy Spider” and recently got his first pair of glasses. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/11/repub/how-a-legal-challenge-over-gender-dysphoria-became-a-fight-for-disability-rights/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 14 Author Members Posted May 14 Money, money, money: FY 26-27 budget special session is here With billions on the line for Florida’s schools, the environment, and its neediest citizens, state legislators return to Tallahassee Tuesday to finally craft a new state budget. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/12/money-money-money-fy-26-27-budget-special-session-is-here/? FL House Dem leader: State’s economy ‘stalling’ as unemployment climbs As Florida state lawmakers return to Tallahassee this week to negotiate the state budget, attention is being focused on whether Florida’s economy is going in the wrong direction. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/11/fl-house-dem-leader-states-economy-stalling-as-unemployment-climbs/? ps:Just like his idol!! Alleged FSU shooter was ‘co-conspiring’ with ChatGPT, new lawsuit alleges The family of one of the victims of last year’s mass shooting at Florida State University have filed a lawsuit against the artificial intelligence chatbot the alleged shooter consulted before the attack. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/11/alleged-fsu-shooter-was-co-conspiring-with-chatgpt-new-lawsuit-alleges/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 16 Author Members Posted May 16 DeSantis on ‘Alligator Alcatraz’: ‘We’ve saved taxpayers money’ As Florida prepares to wind down the so-called “Alligator Alcatraz” lockup amid high costs and claims that it’s now obsolete, Gov. Ron DeSantis reflected Wednesday on the remote facility’s nine-month run. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/13/desantis-on-alligator-alcatraz-weve-saved-taxpayers-money/? Shutdown of expensive Florida Everglades prison promises to be expensive, too News item: Gov. Ron DeSantis confirms that he’s talking to the Trump administration about shutting down his Alligator Alcatraz prison camp because it turns out it’s incredibly expensive to detain immigrants in cages in the Big Cypress National Preserve miles from civilization. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/14/shutdown-of-expensive-florida-everglades-prison-promises-to-be-expensive-too/? Uthmeier subpoenas the NFL over the Rooney Rule Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said Wednesday that while he appreciates how the National Football League had “capitulated” on some of its “discriminatory hiring quotas,” its hiring practices still violate Florida law and that he will now issue an investigative subpoena to the league. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/13/uthmeier-subpeonas-the-nfl-over-the-rooney-rule/? DeSantis (again) slams House Speaker Perez, claims he has ‘a personal agenda’ It’s not news that Ron DeSantis doesn’t much care for Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/14/desantis-again-slams-house-speaker-perez-claims-he-has-a-personal-agenda/? The healthcare budget: HMOs cut, nursing homes rates swell, and hospitals in limbo House and Senate budget negotiators swapped multiple offers Thursday as they rushed to resolve differences in the roughly $115 billion spending plan they are working on. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/14/the-healthcare-budget-hmos-cut-nursing-homes-rates-swell-and-hospitals-in-limbo/? How would a Democratic governor work with a GOP-led Legislature in Florida? CLEARWATER — David Jolly and Jerry Demings are vying to become the first Democratic governor to lead Florida in nearly three decades. If elected, they’ll face an additional challenge — working with an opposition Republican Party that enjoys a supermajority in the Legislature. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/15/how-would-a-democratic-governor-work-with-a-gop-led-legislature-in-florida/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 18 Author Members Posted May 18 ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ payments land at last: $58 million to hit Florida next week The first installment of the federal government’s promised $608 million reimbursements for the so-called “Alligator Alcatraz” lockup will hit Florida in the coming days, newly obtained correspondence shows. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/15/alligator-alcatraz-payments-land-at-last-58-million-to-hit-florida-next-week/? Ethics panel delivers first reprimand in 20 years over Angie Nixon’s bullhorn In an exceedingly rare move, a Florida House committee on Thursday reprimanded Rep. Angie Nixon for repeatedly blaring a bullhorn during a contentious fight over congressional redistricting. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/14/ethics-panel-delivers-first-reprimand-in-20-years-over-angie-nixons-bullhorn/? Education commissioner is sole finalist for Polk State College presidency Polk State College announced Wednesday morning that Florida Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas is the sole finalist to be its next president, less than a year after he began running the public school system. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/13/education-commissioner-is-sole-finalist-for-polk-state-college-presidency/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 20 Author Members Posted May 20 Ingoglia pressed on Florida Cabinet land giveaway for Rays stadium in Tampa TAMPA — Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia has made it his mission since being appointed to his job last summer to target local governments for alleged “wasteful and excessive spending.” https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/15/ingoglia-pressed-on-florida-cabinet-land-giveaway-for-rays-stadium-in-tampa/? DeSantis signs law arming trained college, university faculty after FSU shooting A year after a gunman opened fire on Florida State University, trained college and university faculty can carry guns onto campus under a bill Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Friday. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/15/desantis-signs-law-arming-trained-college-university-faculty-after-fsu-shooting/? DeSantis and Ladapo tout ‘freedom’ as measles rages In a number of articles on its website, PEN America explains in striking detail the right-wing Trojan horse of “parental rights,” illuminating the threat caused by policymakers focused on this theater in the culture war. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/16/desantis-and-ladapo-tout-freedom-as-measles-rages/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 21 Author Members Posted May 21 DeSantis doubles down on call to slash property taxes Still without a public proposal to offer, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday doubled down on his year-long call to slash Florida’s property taxes. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/18/desantis-doubles-down-on-call-to-slash-property-taxes/? Jay Collins bashes Byron Donalds on individual learning plans for everyone TAMPA — Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins unveiled his education agenda on Monday, which includes a rebuke of a proposal by one of his opponents in the Republican race for governor — U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/18/jay-collins-bashes-byron-donalds-on-individual-learning-plans-for-everyone/? Goodbye Crimson Tide, hello Florida Gators? Florida’s flagship university is turning to a long-standing academician and former leader of the University of Alabama to become its next president. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/18/goodbye-crimson-tide-hello-florida-gators/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 21 Author Members Posted May 21 CAIR v. Ron DeSantis and the State of Florida: What’s behind the terror designation? In December, Gov. Ron DeSantis designated the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood “terrorist organizations.” https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/20/cair-v-ron-desantis-and-the-state-of-florida-whats-behind-the-terror-designation/? Florida Cabinet officers give warning as peak wildfire season is only beginning With severe drought conditions and more than 2,100 fires in Florida spread across 135,000 acres just since January, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and other top state officials offered warnings to Floridians Tuesday as the peak of the state’s wildfire season approaches. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/19/florida-cabinet-officers-give-warning-as-peak-wildfire-season-is-only-beginning/? Some in Gator Nation are growling about UF presidential pick Stuart Bell and his positions on DEI Within hours of the announcement that former University of Alabama President Stuart Bell was chosen by a University of Florida presidential search committee as the one and only finalist to head UF, critics took to social media to call into question the academician’s 40-year career and position on diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/19/some-in-gator-nation-are-growling-about-uf-presidential-pick-stuart-bell-and-his-positions-on-dei/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 25 Author Members Posted May 25 State settles with biologist it fired over Charlie Kirk-related post The state owes nearly half a million dollars to a biologist fired after reposting on social media a statement critical of the late Charlie Kirk. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/21/state-settles-with-biologist-it-fired-over-charlie-kirk-related-post/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 31 Author Members Posted May 31 Schools, healthcare, public safety could be hit under property tax plan released by DeSantis TAMPA — Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday announced his plan for a homestead property tax exemption that could crimp local governments’ ability to fund schools, health care, and public safety. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/27/schools-health-care-public-safety-could-be-hit-under-property-tax-plan-released-by-desantis-2/? ps:Exactly!!!!! But this is what they've always wanted!!!!! DeSantis discusses push for taxpayer-funded security after he leaves office, budget vetoes Gov. Ron DeSantis thanked the Legislature Wednesday for finally drawing up a state budget — the only must-pass piece of legislation of the year — but warned that vetoes are coming. https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/27/desantis-discusses-push-for-taxpayer-funded-security-after-he-leaves-office-budget-vetoes/? Red snapper fish fight highlights Florida governor’s disdain for science One of the great joys of living in Florida is our access to fresh seafood — shrimp, scallops, grouper, you name it. I grilled some on Memorial Day and it was delicious! https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/05/28/red-snapper-fish-fight-highlights-florida-governors-disdain-for-science/? Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
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