Judge rejects residency challenge to James Fishback's gubernatorial bid
A Leon County judge has ruled that Republican candidate James Fishback will remain on the August primary ballot, dismissing a lawsuit filed by Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins. Collins argued Fishback was ineligible because he purchased a home in Washington, D.C., violating the constitutional requirement to reside in Florida for seven years prior to election. Judge David Frank ruled that Fishback’s testimony regarding his intent to maintain Florida residency was sufficient, stating it is not the court's role to "decide the race."
Florida set for rare double execution Tuesday
Florida is scheduled to carry out two lethal injections today, marking the first time in nearly a decade a state has conducted two executions in a single day. The inmates are James Duckett, convicted of a 1987 child murder, and 80-year-old Dominick Occhicone, convicted of a 1987 double murder. Occhicone would be the second-oldest inmate executed in modern U.S. history. The U.S. Supreme Court has been petitioned for a last-minute stay following lower court denials regarding DNA evidence and execution protocols.
Rick Scott criticizes state job growth under DeSantis
U.S. Senator Rick Scott expressed concerns regarding Florida's current economic momentum, noting that job creation has slowed compared to his tenure as Governor. Speaking in Doral, Scott endorsed Byron Donalds for Governor, stating Donalds is the candidate best equipped to revitalize the state's employment market.
Fraternal Order of Police opposes property tax amendment
The Florida chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police has joined other public safety organizations in opposing Amendment 3. The proposed constitutional amendment aims to provide property tax relief to homeowners, but critics argue it could significantly reduce local government revenue used to fund essential services, including law enforcement and emergency response.
Maxwell Frost endorses David Jolly for Governor
U.S. Representative Maxwell Frost has officially endorsed Democrat David Jolly in the gubernatorial race. Frost cited Jolly’s proposed moratorium on artificial intelligence data centers as a key factor, praising Jolly for addressing community concerns regarding energy consumption and land use associated with the facilities.
JEA auditors find $55 million in under-collected water fees
A report from the Jacksonville City Council Auditor’s Office reveals that JEA may have underbilled commercial customers by $55 million in water capacity fees since 2003. The findings, presented to the new Financial Audit and Oversight Committee, suggest inconsistent policy application. JEA began an internal investigation into the billing discrepancies in 2022.
Tampa Bay Rays release new renderings for proposed stadium
The Tampa Bay Rays have unveiled new renderings of their proposed ballpark, highlighting the venue's capability to host special events beyond baseball. The release comes as supporters attempt to persuade a skeptical Tampa City Council. A recent poll by The Tyson Group indicates 67% of Hillsborough County voters support the move to a new stadium near Raymond James Stadium.
$80M Virginia Key Marina redevelopment heads to Miami voters
Miami voters will decide on Nov. 3 whether to approve a new lease for the Virginia Key Marina. The $80 million proposal by Virginia Key LLC aims to modernize 27 acres of public waterfront on Biscayne Bay. The project would be privately funded, requiring no taxpayer money for the infrastructure upgrades.
Spectrum expands high-speed internet in Osceola County
Spectrum announced the near-completion of a network expansion in Osceola County, bringing 1-gigabit internet speeds to an additional 2,000 homes and small businesses. The move is part of a broader effort to increase high-speed access across Central Florida.
Amber Alert: Kidnapping suspect dead, girl rescued
A 13-year-old girl abducted from Ocala on Monday has been recovered. The suspect, 45-year-old Jason Castillo, is dead following a confrontation with law enforcement during the rescue operation. Authorities had previously warned the pair might be traveling south in a red Hyundai Santa Fe.
Secret Service agent charged in Miami hazing ritual
Marquez Christopher Pinder, a 29-year-old agent in the Secret Service's Miami field office, has been arrested and charged with violent felonies. Authorities allege Pinder and two others participated in a brutal fraternity hazing ritual in April that left two victims hospitalized with severe injuries. Pinder is identified in warrants as a "dean of pledges" for a local Kappa Alpha Psi chapter.
Florida childhood drownings on track for record high
Health officials warn that 2026 could be the deadliest year on record for childhood drownings in Florida. At least 74 deaths have been reported so far this year, including 15 in South Florida. The state recorded nearly 120 child drowning deaths in 2025.
Leprosy cases rising in Florida linked to armadillos
University of Florida researchers report an increase in leprosy cases across the state, likely transmitted via contact with armadillos. While doctors advise caution, they emphasize that the disease remains rare and highly treatable with early intervention.
Partial roof collapse at Bradenton assisted living facility
More than 150 residents were evacuated from the Aviata at Bradenton Villas after a partial roof collapse on Saturday evening. Structural engineers are investigating the cause, while local officials are coordinating the long-term relocation of displaced seniors.
Spiny lobster mini-season begins Wednesday
Florida’s two-day recreational spiny lobster mini-season opens Wednesday and Thursday. Law enforcement agencies across South Florida and the Keys have announced increased patrols to enforce harvest limits and safety regulations. A saltwater fishing license and lobster permit are required for all participants.
Trump administration rollbacks threaten Florida manatees
Florida Democrats are urging federal officials to withdraw a rollback of Endangered Species Act protections. Environmental advocates argue the changes weaken safeguards for the Florida manatee and Florida panther, potentially accelerating habitat loss and population decline.