A morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics. Sponsored by Tucker/Hall – one of Florida’s leading public affairs and public relations firms. You need their team on your side during this Legislative session for media, grassroots and netroots support. Visit TuckerHall.com to read about their team and how they can help you.
STATE: 64,000 FLORIDA VOTERS WHO CAST A BALLOT DID NOT VOTE FOR PRESIDENT via the Associated Press
A new report shows that nearly 64,000 voters in Florida did not wind up voting for president.
State election officials compiled voting data from all 67 counties in the state.
They found that the number of voters who did not cast a “valid” vote in the race for president was .75 percent. That’s the same rate as it was back in 2008.
This number includes people who wrote the wrong name on the ballot, left the ballot blank or voted for more than one candidate.
RUBIO TO DELIVER GOP RESPONSE TO STATE OF THE UNION
House Speaker John Boehner and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced today that they have selected Senator Marco Rubio to deliver the Republican Address to the Nation following the President’s State of the Union address on February 12.
The State of the Union response slot is often seen as a potential launching platform for politicians who harbor national ambitions; fittingly, Rubio is one of the most-hyped figures in the GOP, and is thought to have designs on the party’s presidential nomination in 2016. The honor carries a degree of risk, however: many past figures to deliver their party’s response have been panned for their performance.
“I’m honored to have this opportunity to discuss how limited government and free enterprise have helped make my family’s dreams come true in America,” the Florida senator said in a statement. “Limited government and free enterprise are the very foundation of what makes America special and separates us from the world, particularly through our strong middle class. I look forward to laying out the Republican case of how our ideas can help people close the gap between their dreams and the opportunities to realize them.”
ENTER NOW TO MEET MARCO AT CPAC
Politicians rarely miss a chance to raise money around something they’re doing. So it’s no surprise that Rubio is trying to leverage his upcoming appearance at CPAC — Washington’s annual big-deal conservative gathering whose speakers this year also include Jeb Bush, Paul Ryan and Rick Santorum — to raise a few campaign bucks.
Rubio — with the help of his Reclaim America PAC — is going one better: he’s holding a sweepstakes offfering contributors (and non-contributors, because under the law you can’t require contributions to win a prize unless you register) a free trip to Washington, a three-night stay in a hotel and transportation to the CPAC conference, where the winner will have an up-close seat to watch the freshman Republican. Approximate total retail value — important for tax purposes: $1,400.
POLL: MAJORITY OF AMERICANS SUPPORT IMMIGRATION REFORM
A new Gallup poll finds at least two-thirds of Americans favor each of five specific measures designed to address immigration issues — ranging from 68% who would vote for increased government spending on security measures and enforcement at US borders, to 85% who would vote for a requirement that employers verify the immigration status of all new hires. More than seven in 10 would vote for a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants now living in this country.
Meanwhile, a new ABC News-Washington Post poll finds public approval of President Obama’s handling of immigration has jumped to a career high “buttressed by majority support for a path to citizenship for illegal immigrants and, much more broadly, endorsement of stricter border control.”
DENNIS ROSS SUPPORTIVE OF POSTAL SERVICE’S “TOUGH DECISION” TO END SATURDAY MAIL
Ross announced his support of the USPS’s decision to modify its delivery to five days, thereby eliminating Saturday delivery for first-class mail, but allowing the continuation of package delivery. Ross was the Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Federal Workforce, U.S. Postal Service, and Labor Policy last Congress.
“I applaud Postmaster General Donahoe for making the tough decision to reduce postal service delivery of first-class mail to five days. I believe that the continued viability of the USPS is in every American’s interest and we must continue to work together and make a concerted effort to streamline and modernize the Postal Service so it can meet the needs of a 21st century economy.”
SPOTTED: Congressman Joe Garcia on MSNBC’s Daily Rundown Wednesday morning talking about the immigration debate. Congressman Garcia is quickly becoming a leading voice on the issue – penning an op-ed in the Miami Herald calling for common sense and comprehensive immigration reform and participating in yesterday’s immigration subcommittee hearing. You can check out the MSNBC appearance here.
JEB BUSH TRIED TO BUY THE MARLINS via The Miami Herald
Owner Jeffrey Loria, in recent months, has rejected overtures from a half dozen people who expressed interest in buying the Marlins, including one of South Florida’s most famous residents: Former Florida governor Jeb Bush.
According to a source, Bush made a “large offer” to buy the team this offseason, but Loria told him he’s not selling. A second source said Bush had put together a group of wealthy investors, with Venezuelan media mogul Gustavo Cisneros among possibilities mentioned.
***Today’s SUNBURN is also sponsored by Ron Sachs Communication. Ron Sachs Communications provides its clients with a competitive advantage built on strategic relationships, dynamic creativity and smart and aggressive communications strategies that generate superior results. If you want to win, you’ll want to have Ron Sachs Communications on your side. www.RonSachs.com***
1/2 OF FLORIDA CHILDREN LIVE IN LOW-INCOME HOMES
Research suggests that, on average, families need an income of about twice the federal poverty level to meet their most basic needs. Children living in families with incomes below this level — $44,100 for a family of four in 2010—are referred to as low income. In Florida, 45% of the state’s 3,885,132 children live in low-income families, slightly higher than the national average.
BLOG POST OF THE DAY – ENTERPRISE FLORIDA HAS MADE MISTAKES, BUT… by Nancy Smith of Sunshine State News
Much as I disagree with Marty Dyckman’s politics, I can attest to one thing about him: If he walks away from you because you’ve created an ethical breach, take it to the bank — you’ve created an ethical breach.
Dyckman, well-respected retired associate editor of the Tampa Bay Times, resigned abruptly Tuesday from Integrity Florida’s board of directors. His resignation followed release of an IF report scolding Enterprise Florida’s for its “pay-to-play” system of awarding contracts.
Dyckman liked the idea of the report, but couldn’t accept that the faux-free marketers Americans for Prosperity (AFP) went to Integrity Florida as if Integrity were a hired gun, contracting for the study to be done for a price.
It was “pay-to-play” all turned around. It was the pot calling the kettle black.
ON MY BLOG: IS THE INTEGRITY OF INTEGRITY FLORIDA NOW IN QUESTION?
***The Tampa Bay Public Leadership Institute is a non-partisan leadership development program that asks participants to explore the possibility of public leadership in the future (without requiring a commitment to run for office) and learn now about the political process, leadership and public policy, while networking with leaders. Applications for the next class will soon be accepted. Click here for more information.***
RICK SCOTT PLANNING $100 MILLION RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN via POLITICO
Governor Rick Scott is preparing to defend his Florida governorship with the most expensive reelection campaign in state history, drawing up plans for a battleship-sized political operation aimed at overcoming the Republican’s deep personal unpopularity, Politico reports.
… The idea would be to replicate President Barack Obama’s success in targeting and turning out Sunshine State voters — though sources cautioned that no final decisions have been made about the project. The RPOF has already done some deeper voter-file work, and GOP Chairman Lenny Curry spoke out after the 2012 election about the need to catch up with Democratic data-gathering and turnout operations.
… Scott is also looking to raise more money from sources other than his own checkbook and hopes to bank tens of millions of dollars with the state party this year. Unlike 2010, when Scott faced a costly primary, this money is all budgeted for the general election.
… Several Scott strategists declined to comment on the governor’s plans. But Scott pollster and strategist Tony Fabrizio didn’t deny that the campaigns calculations call for a $100 million effort against Crist.
QUOTE OF THE DAY: “He’s been a doggone good governor.” — Republican lobbyist Brian Ballard on Scott’s 2014 prospects.
ASSIGNMENT EDITORS: Gov. Scott will unveil VISIT FLORIDA’s new ad campaign for Spring that includes partnerships between Disney, Universal, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and numerous other tourism industry businesses. The Governor will unveil the campaign at the Governor’s luncheon at the Florida State Fair at 12:45 pm.
CRIST ASKED UNDER OATH ABOUT RUBIO CREDIT CARDS via Rene Stutzman of the Orlando Sentinel
When former Gov. Charlie Crist was grilled under oath by the attorney who is fighting to keep the former chairman of the Florida GOP out of prison, there were no major revelations, but there were hints at the mudslinging that may start next week when Jim Greer goes on trial in Orlando.
Did you tell Greer to leak Marco Rubio’s American Express bill to the then-St. Petersburg Times, asked attorney Damon Chase.
“It’s possible,” Crist said.
And didn’t you refuse to interview George LeMieux, who wanted to fill the U.S. Senate seat of Mel Martinezthen reverse course and give him the job after you made it clear that he should not run for re-election because you wanted the job?
That was something they had discussed, yes, Crist said.
A copy of Crist’s deposition was released Tuesday at the Orange County Courthouse, where Greer will stand trial, starting Monday.
***The PA Team of Jack and Keyna Cory and Erin Daly would like to congratulate their long term Client American Eldercare and their Grassroots Team for winning Florida’s contract for Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Program for Long-Term Care. The Delray Beach firm that specializes in caring for seniors in independent living in their homes as well as assisted living “is the only company that won contracts to enroll customers in every region of the state According to Health News Florida, The market is estimated to be worth about $3 billion.” The PA Team has represented American Eldercare and worked with their Grassroots Team for over 10 years. ***
CLAY INGRAM FILES BILL TO BAN SYNTHETIC DRUGS
Ingram filed House Bill 619, which bans a group of synthetic cannabinoids and substitute cathinones, commonly known as “spice,” “K2” or “bath salts.” Marketed as legal alternatives to illicit drugs like cocaine and marijuana, these toxic compounds can cause extreme side effects including paranoia, hallucinations, seizures and psychotic episodes.
“Florida is facing a growing epidemic with these types of synthetic substances,” said Rep. Ingram. “They’re marketed under harmless-sounding names designed to intentionally target children, but these are incredibly dangerous drugs that jeopardize people’s lives.”
Prior legislation, passed in 2011, banned certain types of synthetic drugs in Florida, but chemists have begun developing new compounds not covered by existing law. In response, Attorney General Pam Bondi signed an emergency rule in December that temporarily made a new set of 22 synthetic drugs illegal. In conjunction with a Senate Bill filed last month by Sen. Rob Bradley, HB 619 will make that ban permanent, as well as make possession of the newly-banned substances punishable by up to a year in jail. Individuals who sell or manufacture the drugs may be charged with a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in jail.
HOUSE TEES UP CAMPAIGN FINANCE CHANGES via Jim Saunders of the News Service of Florida
The House sponsor of a plan to revamp Florida’s campaign-finance laws said Wednesday it is not aimed at reducing the amount of money pouring into state politics but would shed more light on the labyrinth of contributions and spending.
The measure would eliminate fund-raising vehicles known as “committees of continuous existence,” while dramatically increasing maximum individual contributions to candidates from the current $500 to $10,000. At the same time, it would require more-frequent disclosure of information about political contributions and campaign spending.
“This bill is not designed to influence the amount of money being spent on campaigns,” said House Rules & Calendar Chairman Rob Schenck, a Spring Hill Republican who is sponsoring the bill. “It is designed to influence our right as the public to see where the dollars are coming from and where they are going.”
Some members of the Ethics & Elections Subcommittee and a leader of Common Cause Florida, however, raised questions about the measure during a workshop Wednesday. That included questions about allowing candidates to accept $10,000 checks from contributors.
“Why $10,000?” asked Rep. Janet Cruz. “Why not $2,500?”
HUKILL FILES LEGISLATION TO ELIMINATE SALES TAX ON MANUFACTURING EQUIP.
Hukill filed Senate Bill 518 which eliminates the sales tax on the purchase of manufacturing equipment. “We need to encourage our existing businesses to grow, expand and create jobs and encourage companies to move to Florida,” said Hukill.
LAWMAKERS, POLICE WRANGLE OVER WHEN LAW ENFORCEMENT MAY USE UNMANNED DRONES via Mike Vasalinda of the Capitol News Service
Florida could soon be the first state in the country to prohibit police from flying unmanned planes and helicopters to spy on citizens. The legislation cleared its second committee in Tallahassee today over the objection of law enforcement agencies.
Legislation moving at the state capitol would require police to get a warrant to use unmanned drones look in your back yard or your window. “Can you imagine if King George had sent a drone to hover over the Boston Tea Party to see what the American patriots were up to. It’s not what this country’s founded on”, says Sen. Joe Negron R-Stuart.
Sheriffs are concerned about the potential ban. “It is a lot cheaper for us to put a drone up that can do the same job as a helicopter”, says Captain Mike Fewless, Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
While approved by the committee, the bill faces an uncertain future. The bill’s sponsor says he’s more worried about the future for average citizens. “My view is that government works for us. Government is there to serve us, to protect us, not to watch us,” says Sen. Joe Negron.
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LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE PREVIEWS via the News Service of Florida
In the House
The House Civil Justice Committee hears Rep. Larry Metz’ bill (HB 351) clarifying what legal system must be used in certain disputes , and bills dealing with foreclosures (HB 87) and eminent domain (HB 179), among others.
The House K-12 Subcommittee holds a workshop on high school graduation requirements.
A bill by Rep. Michelle Rehwinkel Vasilinda that would abolish the death penalty in Florida (HB 4005) gets a hearing in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee. Also on the agenda are bills dealing with theft of electricity (HB 191) and the House version of the bill barring police from using drones in many cases (HB 119).
In the Senate
The various Senate Appropriations Subcommittees meet to hear agency agendas and get updates on Gov. Scott’s proposed budget
***Representatives from Florida’s aerospace industry will visit Tallahassee on March 6, 2013, to participate in Florida Space Day and share with legislators the opportunities the industry brings to Florida and the nation’s space program. During Space Day, industry leaders and other aerospace supporters will meet with House and Senate members, as well as the lieutenant governor, to discuss growing areas of the state’s $8 billion space industry, and determine the best strategies for leveraging these markets for Florida’s benefit in the years ahead.***
4TH FLOOR FILES features This installment of “4th Floor Files” features Foyt Ralston. Here’s the file on Foyt.
FLORIDA RESTAURANT AND LODGING ASSOC. WELCOMES ELIZABETH CATE AS NEW SPOX
Cate begins the post this week in the Tallahassee headquarters. FRLA’s current press secretary, Lauren Searcy-Clark, has relocated to Pensacola upon her recent marriage. Her last day is February 28,
“On behalf of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, I would like to welcome Elizabeth Cate to our team,” said FRLA President/CEO Carol Dover. “Her extensive experience as a reporter covering tourism and business issues enables her to immediately impact our communication efforts, particularly as we begin the 2013 Legislative Session.”
Prior to her move to Tallahassee, Elizabeth Cate worked as a TV news reporter at WJXT-TV in Jacksonville, Florida where she covered Presidential visits, tropical storm Beryl, and the city’s effort to revitalize downtown. Her move to Florida’s First Coast in 2011 was preceded by a two year reporting assignment on the Emerald Coast at WMBB-TV in Panama City where Elizabeth covered one of the largest environmental disasters in U.S. history, the BP oil spill.
>>>Which member of the Cate family would you hire — Chris, Elizabeth or Kevin — if your company or organization was in crisis?
PERSONNEL NOTE (ICYMI): FORMER DOC SEC’Y KEN TUCKER NOW WITH US STATE ATTORNEY PAM MARSH’S OFFICE
I’m coming late to this, but there isn’t much on the Google about it, either: U.S. Attorney Pamela C. Marsh hired Kenneth Tucker, former Secretary of the Florida Department of Corrections, will begin serving as the Law Enforcement Coordination (LEC) Specialist for the United States Attorney’s Office. In this position, Tucker will manage the Northern District of Florida’s LEC program by developing and implementing programs within the District to promote the effective use of federal, state, and local law enforcement resources. Additionally, Mr. Tucker will develop and manage law enforcement initiatives for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and establish operational task forces to address specific law enforcement concerns in the Northern District.
“I am thrilled that Ken Tucker will be joining our Office on Monday,” said U.S. Attorney Marsh. “Mr. Tucker is a proven leader with over three decades of experience and knowledge in the field of criminal justice. Implementing effective crime prevention and law enforcement strategies is a priority for the Department of Justice, and I am confident that he will be an invaluable contributor to these efforts.”
***Today’s SUNBURN is also sponsored by Corcoran & Johnston Government Relations. With more than 45 years of combined legislative and regulatory knowledge and experience, Corcoran & Johnston’s ability to navigate through the processes and politics of government and deliver for their clients is unmatched.***
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to once and future Rep. Brad Drake. Also a belated shout-out to Rep. Bill Hager.
