Special Sessions on Budget, Redistricting, Tax Cuts
Key Questions
What were the main outcomes of the budget special session?
The session approved 4% raises for public safety workers, a $250M immigration fund, $32M for the State Guard, and restored $75M for HIV medication assistance. It also included $40M for a Job Growth Fund and eliminated preeminent university funding.
What changes occurred in Florida's redistricting process?
Governor DeSantis signed a new congressional map projected to add four Republican seats, though the map is facing multiple lawsuits.
What education funding issues are emerging in Florida?
A $1.4B budget gap risks cuts in districts such as Clay and Putnam, while an education funding lawsuit continues to escalate.
Who are the frontrunners in the 2026 Florida governor's race?
Byron Donalds currently leads the Republican field, while some candidates are exploring third-party options.
What concerns have been raised about Florida's universal primary system?
A recent column criticizes the system as a farce that disenfranchises voters and calls for reform before the August primaries.
Budget special session concluded with 4% raises for public safety workers, $250M immigration fund, $32M State Guard, $40M Job Growth Fund, $1M orbital data storage pilot, restored HIV medication assistance ($75M), $20M cancer research, but standoff on DeSantis security; preeminent university funding eliminated; $1.4B gap risks education cuts in Clay/Putnam; education funding lawsuit escalates; DeSantis redistricting map signed for +4 GOP seats, facing lawsuits; DNC members condemn Wasserman Schultz's FL-20 run; 2026 gov race: Donalds leads GOP, Morgan pushes third party; property tax elimination plan emerges; SCOTUS rejects Florida's CDL lawsuit; immigration crackdown tied to unlicensed driving arrests. Also, a column criticizes the 'Universal Primary' loophole as disenfranchising voters.