Good Monday morning.
I realize it has been an extraordinarily difficult weekend for our nation. And I am relieved President Donald Trump‘s life was spared from an assassin’s bullet.
I’ve spent almost my entire time in The Process attempting to hold the center together. I’ll continue to do that. In the coming days and months — no matter who wins in November.
FloridaPolitics.com has provided full-court coverage of the state’s reaction to this horrible event. I am very proud of our team, especially Drew Dixon, A.G. Gancarski, and Jacob Ogles, who jumped right into place Saturday evening.
We have the latest fallout from Saturday’s attack and report on how Florida is gearing up for the RNC in Milwaukee.
In the meantime, the business of state government and local campaigning continues …
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Alis Drumgo is joining Capital City Consulting in its Tampa Bay office.
Drumgo has worked in public service for 20 years, the last decade in Tampa and Central Florida. He brings unparalleled local government expertise to the firm, specializing in economic development, community redevelopment and affordable housing.
“I am thrilled to join Capital City Consulting and continue to put my knowledge and expertise to work in a new and exciting way at an incredibly well-respected government affairs firm,” he said. “I am grateful to the Capital City Consulting team for welcoming me, and I look forward to leveraging my experience to make an even broader impact across Florida.”
Drumgo most recently worked as Tampa’s Deputy Administrator for Development and Economic Opportunity, where he was responsible for city planning, community redevelopment, convention center and tourism services, economic development, real estate, housing and community development.
There, he worked on housing policy, rebuilt the community redevelopment department, negotiated public-private partnerships, led real estate acquisition and disposition strategy, and handled project management of key initiatives.
“Alis’ vast experience and dedication to local government will be a tremendous asset to our team,” said Capital City Consulting co-founder Nick Iarossi. “At Capital City Consulting, we are committed to serving our clients at every level of government, and having Alis in our Tampa Bay office will undoubtedly bring another dimension to the firm’s ability to serve clients at the local level throughout Central Florida and beyond.”
Drumgo, a U.S. Air Force Veteran, holds a master’s degree in city and regional planning and public policy from Rutgers University and is a certified Florida Redevelopment Association Administrator.
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The James Madison Institute is bringing on Doug Wheeler as the new Director of the George Gibbs Center for Economic Prosperity.
In his new role, Wheeler will work with business leaders, policymakers, researchers, free market partners and stakeholders to promote market-based policies aligned with principles of limited government, free enterprise and individual freedoms.
“As JMI grows and expands our presence both in Florida and beyond, we are pleased to welcome Doug Wheeler as our new director of the George Gibbs Center for Economic Prosperity,” said JMI President and CEO Bob McClure.
“His background and policy knowledge, along with his shared belief in the principles of freedom and liberty, make Doug the perfect candidate to help the leaders of our state navigate both the challenges and opportunities in this critically important area.”
Wheeler comes to JMI from D. Wheeler Strategies, a full-service public affairs firm that provides strategic consulting services in local, state and federal government affairs. He previously served as president and CEO of the Florida Ports Council and was also vice president of the Florida Chamber of Commerce.
“With Doug’s expertise, strong character and motivation, I know he will make a great addition to the JMI team. I look forward to witnessing all that he will accomplish for freedom in Florida,” said Logan Padgett, vice president of Communications and Public Affairs at JMI.
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Giovanni Castro is joining Amazon as its State & Local Public Policy Manager for Florida and other southeastern states.
Castro comes to Amazon from Uber, where he worked as the Public Policy and Communications Manager for the U.S. South Region, covering Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky and Tennessee. At Amazon, his portfolio includes Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Puerto Rico and the Sunshine State.
Previously, Castro worked in government affairs for Verizon. Before entering the private sector, Castro built a sizable résumé in the public sector.
Most recently, Castro worked as the Deputy Chief of Staff to Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, responsible for managing strategic partnerships, policy, and operations for the Mayor’s office. His most notable initiatives include spearheading the children’s savings account and rental assistance for senior citizens across the city. Castro also worked as a Senior Aide to then-Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera.
Castro earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus on international business from Florida International University. He is a certified scholar in affordable housing from the University of Miami, an alum of the Leadership Florida program, and a member of FIU’s Order of the Torch, the university’s highest honorary distinction.
Castro was featured in INFLUENCE Magazine’s 30 under 30 for Florida Politics. He also received the MAVPAC Future 40 award, The News Service of Florida’s 2023 Florida Forty Under 40 and Florida International University’s Top 5 Under 35 Award.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@RealDonaldTrump: Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined and not allowing Evil to Win. I truly love our Country and I love you all, and I look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.
—@SecretSvcSpox: There’s an untrue assertion that a member of the former President’s team requested additional security resources & that those were rebuffed. This is absolutely false. In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo
—@Lawler4NY: What happened yesterday should shock our conscience to its core. @RepRitchie and I will work together to ensure every major candidate for President — including Trump, Biden, and RFK, Jr. — has enhanced USSS protection. Their security is paramount to the security of our nation and our democracy.
—@BarackObama: There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we don’t yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn’t seriously hurt and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.
—@RepMattGaetz: President Trump is determined to save this country from the path of ruin that we are on. No politician in our country’s history has ever faced these kinds of efforts to stop him. They tried to impeach him. They are trying to imprison him. Now, they have tried to assassinate him. Every time they do this, the American people become more committed to the vision for the country that he has for our success and our prosperity.
—@JamesBlairUSA: God’s hand is on President Trump and our entire country. Everything will be OK! MAGA!
—@ElonMusk: I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery
—@BallardFirm: Yesterday’s heinous assassination attempt on President Trump’s life was a sad day for our country. His heroic courage under fire will be remembered forever and should make all Americans proud. We are praying for him and all the victims of this attack on our democracy.
—@EWErickson: Last night, in a field in Pennsylvania, an assassin attempted to kill an American presidential candidate after weeks of rhetoric from the sitting President that Donald Trump was a threat to democracy who needs to be stopped. The reaction from @margbrennan and @jamiegangel of CBS and CNN was to lament Donald Trump didn’t call for lowering the temperature in the moments after he was nearly assassinated.
—@TimRobbins1: To anyone drawing a parallel between my film Bob Roberts and the attempted assassination of Trump, let’s be clear. What happened yesterday was a real attempt on a presidential candidate’s life. Those that are denying the assassination attempt was real are truly in a deranged mindset. A human being was shot yesterday. Another killed. They may not be human beings that you agree with politically but for shame folks. Get over your blind hatred of these people. They are fellow Americans. This collective hatred is killing our souls and consuming whatever is left of our humanity.
—@SenRickScott: I donate my Senate salary every quarter and am honored to join @KidRock, @danawhite, @ufc and others in supporting the victims of the Butler shooting. I am sending $50K to this great cause.
—@TerryGlavin: The reporter with the biggest scoop on the Trump shooting so far works for the BBC. His name is Gary O’Donoghue. He is blind. He’s been totally blind since the age of 8. He walks into any press club from now on, you f*cking well stand up.
—@MarcACaputo: I’m sure there is a worse Twitter than assassination-attempt and mass-shooting Twitter, but I’m not sure what it is
— DAYS UNTIL —
2024 MLS All-Star Game — 9; Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games on NBC/Peacock — 11; ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ premieres — 11; Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday begins — 15; ‘Alien: Romulus’ premieres — 33; Democratic National Convention begins — 35; Florida Primary — 36; FBHA’s annual conference, BHCon, begins — 37; second Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday begins — 41; Georgia Tech to face Florida State in 2024 opener in Dublin — 41; Tool Time Sales Tax Holiday begins — 49; 2024 NFL season kicks off — 54; Packers will face Eagles in Brazil — 54; ‘The Old Man’ season two debuts — 59; Vice-Presidential Debate — 73; Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour stops in Miami — 97; 2024 Florida Chamber Annual Meeting & Future of Florida Forum — 104; Florida TaxWatch’s 45th Annual Meeting — 112; 2024 Presidential Election — 113; second half of Yellowstone season five premieres — 118; Taylor Sheridan’s ‘Landman’ premieres — 125; Legislature’s 2025 Organizational Session — 127; Las Vegas Grand Prix — 127; 2024 Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit begins — 141; ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ premieres — 145; MLS Cup 2024 — 146; College Football Playoff begins — 159; Fiesta, Peach, Rose & Sugar Bowls — 170; Orange Bowl — 178; Sugar Bowl — 180; ‘Severance’ season two debuts — 186; ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ premieres — 214; the 2025 Oscars — 235; Florida’s 2025 Legislative Session begins — 237; 2025 Session ends — 297; ‘Moana’ premieres — 344; ‘Thunderbolts’ premieres — 378; ‘Fantastic Four’ reboot premieres — 378; ‘Blade’ reboot premieres — 485; ‘Avatar 3’ premieres — 523; ‘Avengers 5’ premieres — 659; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 676; FIFA World Cup 26™ final — 696; FIFA World Cup 26™ final match — 734; Another untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 887; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 1,027; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,986; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2,707.
— TOP STORY —
“Donald Trump ‘felt the bullet ripping through the skin’ during apparent assassination attempt” via Meridith McGraw and Natalie Allison of POLITICO — Trump survived an apparent assassination attempt at a Western Pennsylvania campaign rally Saturday night that killed one attendee and seriously injured two others.
Trump said he was shot in the ear, and he was treated at a hospital nearby before being released and leaving the state Saturday night. Officials said the suspected shooter was dead.
The FBI identified the suspected gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, in a statement early Sunday morning.
“This evening, we had what we are calling an assassination attempt against our former President, Donald Trump. It is still an active crime scene,” Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office, said at a news conference late Saturday evening.
“I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear,” the former President said in a social media post. “I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.”
Within seconds, agents laid across Trump with their bodies to protect him as screams from the crowd were punctuated by shots that continued to ring out.
Trump remained on the ground for about a minute, surrounded, until a voice could be heard telling the former President and his protection, “shooter is down.”
Secret Service representative Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement that a suspect had fired “toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue.” Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger similarly said on CNN that the suspected shooter “was outside the grounds.”
“Joe Biden delivers Oval Office address on Trump rally shooting” via The Associated Press — Biden spoke for about five minutes from the Oval Office and noted that the Republican National Convention opens in Milwaukee on Monday while he would be traveling the country to campaign for re-election. He said passions would run high on both sides, and the election’s stakes were enormous. Biden said that during the Republican National Convention, he had “no doubt” Republicans would “criticize my record and offer their own vision for this country.” But he promised in campaigning to lay out “our vision.” He used the address to urge all Americans not to accept an escalation in political violence as normal. “We debate and disagree, we compare and contrast … but in America, we resolve our differences at the ballot box,” Biden said in his address. He added: “Politics must never be a literal battlefield. God forbid a killing field.” The President added, “It’s time to cool it down,” and noted not just the weekend attack on Trump but also the possibility of election-year violence on multiple fronts.
“Biden says he’s grateful Trump is safe after rally shooting, denounces political violence” via Michael Williams, Priscilla Alvarez and MJ Lee of CNN — Biden said he is grateful Trump is safe after a shooting at his rally in Pennsylvania. Speaking from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, about two hours after the shooting, Biden said, “There’s no place in America for this kind of violence.” “It’s sick,” the President added. With the apparent shooting threatening to further inflame political rhetoric in the months ahead of November, Biden took the opportunity to call for the country to unite. “We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this,” he said. Biden and Trump spoke late Saturday night, a White House official said.
“‘A real-life superhero’: Man killed at Trump rally lauded for his final act — protecting his family” via Laura Esposito of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette — In Corey Comperatore’s final moment, he did what came naturally to the father of two daughters: He protected his family. With his own life. “He shielded my body from the bullet that came at us,” one daughter, Allyson Comperatore, wrote in a social media post. “He loved his family. He truly loved us enough to take a real bullet for us.” Comperatore was shot and killed Saturday at a rally for Trump. Two other spectators were wounded: David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74. They were in stable condition Sunday at Allegheny General Hospital on Pittsburgh’s North Side, police said. “He was the best dad a girl could ever ask for,” his daughter wrote, adding that Comperatore was a “real-life superhero.” Flags statewide will be flown at half-staff to honor Comperatore, Gov. Josh Shapiro said Sunday.
“Here’s what is known about the suspect who tried to assassinate Trump” via Campbell Robertson, Jack Healy, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs and Glenn Thrush of The New York Times — The 20-year-old gunman who attempted to assassinate Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania lived in a relatively affluent suburb in the South Hills region of Pittsburgh, about an hour’s drive from the site of the rally. The neighborhood in Bethel Park where the shooter, identified by the FBI as Crooks, grew up is “pretty firmly middle class, maybe upper-middle class,” Dan Grzybek, who represents the area on the County Council, said in an interview. The shooter was a registered Republican, his mother was a Democrat and his father a Libertarian, a fairly typical mix for the area, Grzybek said. The gunman did not have a criminal history, as reflected in Pennsylvania’s public court records. Grzybek, who lives about a half-mile down the same street as the gunman’s family, said the area was in shock.
“Bomb-making materials found in car and home of would-be assassin of Trump” via The Associated Press — Law enforcement officials say bomb-making materials were found inside the vehicle of the man suspected in the Trump rally shooting. There were also bomb-making materials found at his home. The Wall Street Journal is also reporting on the explosive devices found in the shooter’s vehicle, which was parked near the rally that was held in Butler, Pennsylvania. The gunman’s home was in a nearby town in Pennsylvania.
“Melania Trump issues statement, condemning assassination attempt, calling for unity” via Kim Luciani of USA Today Network — Melania Trump released a statement Sunday asking for unity following Saturday’s assassination attempt on her husband, Donald Trump. The former first lady offered her condolences to the victims, condemned the attack and encouraged people to look beyond political lines, writing, “Dawn is here again. Let us reunite. Now.”
—“‘Clearly an assassination attempt.’ Florida politicians react to Trump rally shooting” via Devoun Cetoute of the Miami Herald
—”What the Trump assassination attempt means for 2024” via Chris Cillizza of So What
—“Ron DeSantis and wife praying for Trump after shooter and attendee killed at rally in Pennsylvania” via Viviana Lopez of WPBF
—”Northeast Florida Republicans, Democrats denounce attack on Trump in Pennsylvania” via Gary T. Mills of the Florida Times-Union
—“‘The hatred toward one man is just awful’: Ocala reacts to Trump rally shooting” via Austin L. Miller of the Ocala Star-Banner
“Secret Service is investigating how a man who shot and injured Trump was able to get so close” via The Associated Press — An analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where Trump was speaking. A video posted to social media and geolocated by The Associated Press shows the body of a man wearing gray camouflage lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds, where Trump’s rally was held. The roof was less than 150 meters (yards) from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent sharpshooter could reasonably hit a human-sized target. For reference, 150 meters is a distance at which U.S. Army recruits must hit a scaled human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M16 assault rifle in basic training. The AR-15, like the one used by the shooter, is the semi-automatic civilian version of the military M16.
—“‘A fundamental security failure’: How did a gunman open fire on a Trump rally?” via Jon Schuppe, Janelle Griffith, Rich Schapiro and Dasha Burns of NBC
“Trump allies immediately blame Biden, Democrats for their rhetoric” via Michael Scherer of The Washington Post — Sen. J.D. Vance, a potential Trump running mate, said in a statement on social media that the shooting was “not just some isolated incident.” “The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs,” he wrote. “That rhetoric led directly to President Trump’s attempted assassination.” Sen. Tim Scott shared a similar sentiment. “Let’s be clear: This was an assassination attempt aided and abetted by the radical Left and corporate media incessantly calling Trump a threat to democracy, fascists, or worse,” he wrote on social media. Trump himself often uses inflammatory language, having taken office in 2021 by describing the state of the nation as “American carnage.” He has since called his political enemies “vermin,” described some undocumented migrants as “animals” and warned of a “bloodbath” if he fails to win in November.
“Rick Scott wants Secret Service, DHS in Senate Committee to ‘provide answers’ in wake of Trump shooting” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — “The security of our Republic is being questioned, and we as a nation need answers,” Scott said Saturday night. “The assassination attempt on President Trump and murder of an innocent American demands immediate answers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Secret Service. The U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) has an oversight responsibility and an obligation to the American people to demand answers from DHS and the U.S. Secret Service on how this happened and what steps are being taken to investigate this assassination attempt and make sure it never happens again.”
“DeSantis blames Trump shooting on ‘bureaucratic failures’” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — “D.C. bureaucratic failures almost never result in any accountability; this time needs to be different. Our country is in the peril it’s in partly because the D.C. ruling class has consistently evaded responsibility for its failures,” DeSantis asserts. The Governor urges “an investigation regarding the security protocols used in Butler.” “The answer to the following question must be provided in short order,” DeSantis says. “How did someone armed with a rifle get on top of a roof 150 yards away from the stage?” The Governor often has been compelled to address high-profile shooting deaths, a challenge sometimes given his belief in unfettered gun rights and the right to permitless carry. He has blamed such events on an “underlying sickness in our society” and “liberal, soft-on-crime policies.”
“Matt Gaetz organizing rally in honor of Trump in Pensacola” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — U.S. Rep. Gaetz is planning a rally and prayer vigil in support of Trump after an attempt to assassinate him this weekend. Gaetz, the firebrand Republican from Florida’s Panhandle, is staging a “Never Surrender Rally” in Pensacola Monday at 5 p.m. Central time. Gaetz plans the rally at the Marcus Pointe Baptist Church, 6205 North West Street in Pensacola. His office announced the rally on Sunday and said the event would last about an hour and a half. “Join Congressman Matt Gaetz to show your support and pray for President Donald J. Trump following the Saturday assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania,” the announcement said.
“Jared Moskowitz says House Oversight Committee to investigate Trump assassination attempt” via Jim DeFede of CBS News — In a special live edition of Facing South Florida, Rep. Moskowitz shares his thoughts on where the country is heading following the assassination attempt on Trump. Moskowitz, a member of the House Oversight Committee, also told CBS News Miami’s Jim DeFede that the congressional Committee would be investigating the circumstances and security measures in place that led up to the incident.
“Supporters in Fort Myers turn out for Trump on Sunday after shooting at rally” via Stacey Henson and Andrew West of the Fort Myers News-Press — Dozens of people decked in stars, stripes and candidate regalia showed support for Trump after a shooter killed one and injured him at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday. “We’re here in support of our President,” said Michael Liva, who is responsible for community outreach for the Republican Executive Committee and president of the state charter for America First Club, sponsored by Lee GOP. “But obviously, we’re here particularly today because of the atrocity that happened yesterday.” They pumped their fists, mimicking a bleeding Trump as the Secret Service put him in an armored vehicle immediately after the shooting. They waved Trump flags and Old Glory as passing motorists led steady honking in apparent support.
“Trump supporters hold ‘emergency call to arms’ in Clearwater after assassination attempt” via Nina Moske of the Tampa Bay Times — Dozens of Trump supporters flocked to downtown Clearwater on Sunday for an “emergency call to arms” flag-waving event after a failed assassination attempt on the former President and presumptive GOP presidential nominee. “It galvanized people,” Samuel Hutkin said Sunday afternoon as fellow Trump fans clad in red, white and blue crowded Court Street outside the courthouse. “It’s like he shot at them,” Hutkin, 56, said of Trump’s supporters.
Bravo! — “Top Florida GOP fundraiser launches GoFundMe for Trump rally shooting victims” via Jim Rosica of the Tallahassee Democrat — A high-profile political fundraiser from Florida has launched a “President Trump Authorized” GoFundMe aiming to raise $1 million for those “wounded or killed” in Saturday’s attempt on the former President’s life. Meredith O’Rourke of Tallahassee, also Trump’s top finance person, is listed as the organizer of the online fundraiser, which as of 10 a.m. Sunday listed over $600,000 in donations, including $50,000 from musician Kid Rock, a major Trump backer. Trump was recovering Sunday after he was injured in the right ear when a sniper opened fire with an AR-15-style rifle from a rooftop about 400 feet outside a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania.
— RNC —
Breaking overnight — “Trump rewrites Republican convention speech to focus on unity not Biden” via Salena Zito of The Washington Examiner — Trump has completely rewritten his convention speech in light of the assassination attempt against him on Saturday and will call for a new effort at national unity. In an exclusive interview with the Washington Examiner a day after being hit by a sniper’s bullet, Trump said he wanted to take advantage of a historic moment and draw the country together. “The speech I was going to give on Thursday was going to be a humdinger,” he said, “Had this not happened, this would’ve been one of the most incredible speeches” aimed mostly at the policies of Biden. “Honestly, it’s going to be a whole different speech now.” He has switched, he said, from planning to excite his voter base to one that demonstrates his belief that the attack on him at a rally in Pennsylvania had changed the election campaign entirely. Both Republicans and Democrats have acknowledged this in the aftermath of Saturday’s shocking incident.
“Trump shooting shakes up the GOP convention security conversation” via Ivana Saric, Stef W. Kight and Sophia Cai of Axios — The shooting underscores the threats of political violence against elected leaders that have been rising for years. Trump co-campaign manager Susie Wiles and campaign senior adviser Chris LaCivita outlined the campaign’s next steps in a memo to staff. They said that campaign staffers in Washington, D.C., and West Palm Beach are encouraged to avoid going into those offices as both locations are assessed. “We are enhancing the armed security presence with 24/7 officers on-site. Additional security assessments will be in place,” a source added. “The RNC Convention will continue as planned in Milwaukee.” The attack has raised questions about how the shooter was able to breach security measures at the rally, House Intelligence Committee Chair Mike Turner told CNN’s “State of the Union” Sunday.
“Trump departs for Milwaukee and Republican convention in defiance of assassination attempt” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Trump has departed for Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for the Republican National Convention despite an assassination attempt on Saturday. Trump took to his Truth Social platform Sunday afternoon and said he flew to Milwaukee Sunday afternoon. He said he felt compelled to go to the city where the convention is being held, even though he suffered an injury to his right ear from a bullet as he was speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Saturday evening. Trump, who was treated and released from a Butler hospital that night, said he is changing his mind about waiting to travel locally to the convention.
“Trump assassination attempt bolsters ‘unified’ GOP headed into RNC convention” via Matt Dixon and Henry J. Gomez of NBC News — The assassination attempt on Trump has reinforced a sense of unity among top Republicans headed to Milwaukee for this week’s Republican National Convention, a weeklong event that will no doubt feel ripple effects from the attempt to kill the party’s presumptive presidential nominee. “Delegates were already excited for the RNC in Milwaukee,” said Niraj Antani, a Republican Ohio state Senator and a convention delegate. “Now, delegates will go to the RNC feeling a duty to protect President Trump and the values he fights for.”
“Gov. Tony Evers seeks to bar firearms near RNC but the move is unlikely to succeed” via Jessie Opoien and Alison Dirr of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel — Wisconsin Gov. Evers has requested that the decision to allow firearms within the soft perimeter of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee be reconsidered “immediately” following the attempted assassination of Trump, a source with knowledge of the discussion shared with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The request was made to the U.S. Secret Service, which would relay the Governor’s concerns to the Republican National Committee, the source said. But the request appears likely to go nowhere. The power to ban firearms in the security “footprint” outside the credentials-only “hard” security zone seems to rest with the state, not the Secret Service, the RNC or the City of Milwaukee.
“Nikki Haley now invited to speak at Republican National Convention” via The Associated Press — Former U.N. Ambassador and Republican presidential candidate Haley will speak Tuesday at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It’s a highly anticipated speech by Trump’s last major challenger in this year’s GOP Primary. The announcement Sunday came one day after a shooter opened fire at Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, in what law enforcement is investigating as an attempted assassination. Trump said the upper part of his right ear was pierced in the shooting. Haley, who was also elected twice as South Carolina Governor, was added to the schedule after she was initially not among the list of speakers, according to Haley representative Chaney Denton. The schedule change was confirmed by a Republican official familiar with the convention plans but not authorized to speak publicly.
“DeSantis to headline pro-Trump Super PAC Right for America fundraiser” via Audrey Fahlberg of National Review — DeSantis will appear as a special guest next week at a fundraiser for a pro-Trump Super PAC in Milwaukee, lending his name to the effort to re-elect his former GOP Primary rival in a show of party unity. DeSantis’s attendance is expected to help draw high-dollar donors as tickets to the Right for America dinner, which will take place on July 17 during the Republican National Convention. Tickets cost $50,000 per person and $75,000 per couple, and all funds from the event will be used to help re-elect Trump in November. “We are thrilled that Gov. DeSantis will be a special guest at an upcoming fundraiser for Right For America in Milwaukee,” said Connor Hickey, an official with Right for America.
“Delray Beach property manager among ‘everyday Americans’ set to speak at RNC” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A Florida property manager will be among the “everyday Americans” speaking at this year’s RNC. Event organizers announced that 23 individuals would be speaking, including Diane Evans, a Delray Beach woman and member of the Trumpettes. Evans signed up this year as a Trump Force 47 captain and now will have the chance to speak to a national audience about the candidate. The New Jersey native has lived in Florida for 30 years, managing seasonal rentals. She volunteered for Trump’s previous campaign in 2019. “I never had any desire to get into politics until President Trump got elected!” Evans wrote. “Even my husband who thinks he’s so smart said it was impossible for him to win, it would never happen because he would not get enough electoral votes!! So you could imagine my thrill when he was elected! ‘Never say never.’” Evans wrote that she enjoyed politics when she became involved in the campaign five years ago and wanted to stay involved.
“South Florida delegates ready to show their passion for Trump at Republican convention” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — “Every morning, I wake up excited about this,” said Sue Snowden of Boca Raton, one of the 125 Florida delegates headed to Milwaukee for events that start unofficially on Sunday, convene formally on Monday, and culminate with Trump accepting the Republican presidential nomination on Thursday night. “I am over the moon,” Snowden added. “So excited. So excited.” Snowden is part of a delegation that includes a range of Republicans, all of whom are pledged to vote for the nomination of the 45th President to become the nation’s 47th. Florida delegates include elected officials, party leaders, pro-Trump activists, ultrawealthy political donors, lobbyists — and children of Trump.
“‘The Daily Show’ cancels planned Milwaukee shows following Trump assassination attempt” via Zoe G. Phillips of The Hollywood Reporter — The Daily Show canceled its plans to film from Milwaukee during the Republican National Convention this week following the attempted assassination of Trump on Saturday. The program will not air on Monday and return from New York City on Tuesday. “The Daily Show will not broadcast Monday (tomorrow), but we’ll be back up Tuesday through Thursday from our NYC studio,” the series announced on social media. “Our apologies for the inconvenience, but due to logistical issues and the evolving situation in Milwaukee, we need to reschedule our events on the ground in Wisconsin and will look to make those up in the coming weeks.”
“Old Marco Rubio confidant accused of acting as Venezuela agent can go to RNC, judge says” via Max Greenwood, Gabriela Henriquez Stokow of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A federal judge is allowing embattled former U.S. Rep. David Rivera to travel to Wisconsin for the Republican National Convention. The question is: does U.S. Sen. Rubio want him there? Rivera, who’s charged with acting as an unregistered foreign agent for Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro’s government, has a decadeslong personal and political relationship with Rubio. The two men may find themselves in the same place again next week during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where Trump will formally accept the GOP’s nomination and name his vice-presidential pick. Rivera, an elected convention delegate, was freed up to attend the convention after Magistrate Judge Edwin Torres granted his request to travel to Milwaukee.
— 2024 — PRESIDENTIAL —
“Elon Musk endorses Trump shortly after ex-President injured by shots fired at rally” via Lora Kolodny of CNBC — Musk posted on X that he “fully” endorses Trump moments after the former President and presumptive Republican nominee was rushed offstage by Secret Service members following gunshots at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. “I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery,” Musk wrote. Trump was taken to a local medical facility, where he is receiving care. His spokesperson said that Trump would “be fine.”
—”10 thoughts on the atmospherically volatile, numerically stable presidential race” via David Catanese of Too Close to Call
“Trump held private meetings with VP shortlist within last 24 hours” via John Santucci, Katherine Faulders, and Rick Klein of ABC — Within the last 24 hours, Trump held private meetings at Mar-a-Lago with Sen. J.D. Vance, Sen. Rubio and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. Trump held the private meetings as he weighed his decision on who to choose as his running mate. As Trump has stated publicly, he still prefers to reveal his running mate on Monday’s first day of the convention in Milwaukee. Trump has been teasing his vice-presidential pick for months, and whoever he chooses will speak at the Republican National Convention next week. During a recent radio interview, he compared the selection of his running mate to a “highly sophisticated version of The Apprentice.”
“Trump maintains edge over Biden in battleground states on eve of GOP convention, poll finds” via Anthony Salvanto, Kabir Khanna, Jennifer De Pinto and Fred Backus of CBS News — Trump and the Republican Party will begin their convention week with a narrow but consistent advantage across the battleground states, which would translate into Trump being better positioned to win in the Electoral College right now. Things essentially haven’t changed since the immediate aftermath of the debate, when sentiment shifted slightly toward Trump, so this remains a fairly stable contest in that regard. These polls and estimates were completed before the shooting at the Trump rally Saturday in Pennsylvania. As has been the case for months, Trump benefits from the more significant percentage of Republicans who say they’re likely to vote than Democrats who say they’ll turn out this year.
—“Post-debate, Trump is back on top in horserace” via Dana Blanton of Fox News
—@SteveKornacki: Given the horrific events, our NBC News poll release won’t be taking place on Meet the Press this morning. Just to get it on the record, though, our poll (conducted 7/7-9) finds: Trump 45%, Biden 43%, Trump at 47%, and Harris 45%. In our last poll, back in April, Trump led 46-44%
—”Meet the mild-mannered Florida woman quietly steering the Trump campaign” via Zac Anderson of USA Today
“Facebook lifts restrictions on Trump” via The Associated Press — Facebook has lifted restrictions imposed on Trump after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, placing Trump on an equal footing on the platform with Biden just days before the Republican National Convention. The social media giant had initially banned Trump from using its platforms in 2021 after his supporters stormed the Capitol. Meta, Facebook’s parent company, lifted that ban last year but announced Trump would be subject to “guardrails” such as “heightened suspension penalties” if posts violated its standards. Now, the company has removed those restrictions, reasoning that while they were put in place following the “extreme and extraordinary circumstances” of the Capitol attack, Trump had not done anything to run afoul of them.
“Biden raised his voice over House Dem commander-in-chief concerns: ‘I don’t want to hear that crap’” via Sarah Ferris of POLITICO — Biden gave a forceful and defensive response to centrist Democrats who raised concerns about his re-election campaign in a Saturday meeting, and in one tense exchange dismissed one lawmaker’s concerns as “crap.” Rep. Jason Crow, a respected centrist in the Democratic caucus, told Biden that people want a strong leader so they can feel safe on national security. “I don’t want to hear that crap,” Biden said in response to Crow’s suggestion that voters did not have confidence in his national security credentials, raising his voice in a forceful defense of his foreign policy record, including the rebuilding of NATO. Moments before his call with the centrist Democrats, the President spoke for over an hour with progressive Democrats — many of whom have been more vocally pro-Biden.
— 2024 — FLORIDA —
“Kamala Harris postpones scheduled visit to Palm Beach County to talk abortion rights” via Antonio Fins of The Palm Beach Post — Vice President Harris has postponed a trip planned for this week to Palm Beach County to meet with Republican women voters because of Saturday’s attempted assassination of Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania. “In light of the horrific shooting in Pennsylvania, the Vice President’s planned campaign trip to Florida has been postponed,” a Biden-Harris 2024 aide said on background late Saturday night. The Vice President’s visit to Trump’s backyard was set for Tuesday, two days before Trump will accept the Republican Party’s nomination as its candidate for the White House.
“In uphill fight to defeat abortion, marijuana measures, DeSantis throws around bold claims” via John Kennedy of USA Today Network — With polls showing ballot measures restoring abortion rights in Florida and legalizing recreational marijuana supported by most voters, DeSantis is facing an uphill fight in his campaign to defeat them this Fall. DeSantis has just a trickle of the torrent of money he’s looking to raise for his Florida Freedom Fund, a political committee he intends to weaponize against the proposals, which defy the hard right direction in which he’s moved the state. But until more money arrives, DeSantis will primarily be on his own. In a not-so-subtle strategy intended to sow doubt among voters, DeSantis has been throwing around bold claims about what the measures will do.
“Pro-choice advocates claim conservative interests trying to alter Florida abortion referendum impact” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — Supporters of the Florida Constitutional Amendment 4 ballot initiative that will appear before voters in the Nov. 5 Election claim there are attempts to tamper with the referendum. Florida Rising, which supports the amendment referendum that would limit government restrictions on abortion in Florida, says there is a “misinformation” attempt to distort the Financial Impact Estimating Conference (FIEC). The FIEC meets in Tallahassee Monday to draft a third version of the financial impact statement for the proposed amendment placed on the ballot following a petition drive that garnered hundreds of thousands of signatures of registered voters in Florida. The state currently has a ban on the procedure after six weeks of pregnancy, with an exception for 15 weeks for pregnancies caused by rape, incest or if there is a threat to the mother’s life.
— 2024 — DOWN-BALLOT —
“Yen Bailey files post-qualification deadline to challenge Neal Dunn in CD 2” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Months after the qualification deadline, a new Democrat has filed against U.S. Rep. Dunn. Attorney Bailey opened a Federal Elections Commission campaign account and has started raising money through ActBlue. That’s despite the fact another candidate, Meghann Hovey, was the only Democrat to qualify in April in Florida’s 2nd Congressional District. Hovey was among the last Democrats to throw her hat in the ring as Florida Democrats set out to file a candidate in every congressional district in the state. Hovey filed the last day of federal qualifying in Florida. But in the last week, rumors have swirled in Tallahassee that Hovey may drop out of the race. The Blue Velocity Consulting canvasser did not return calls from Florida Politics but has not set up a campaign website. His late entry into the race means she has yet to file a campaign finance report due Monday. Should Hovey drop out of the race, the decision would fall to local Democratic leaders to name a replacement. State law requires leaders from county Democratic Executive Committees to vote on a new nominee. However, the nominee must still pay the required qualification fee to run for Congress.
“Mike Davey debuts CD 27 ads highlighting reproductive choice, labor rights work” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Former Key Biscayne Mayor Davey just launched a six-figure ad buy to let voters in Florida’s 27th Congressional District know where he stands on reproductive rights and protecting people’s freedom. Two ads are now running on cable, streaming services and online in the Miami market. Both contrast Davey’s position with “extremist Republicans (who) attack women’s rights and democracy,” his campaign said. “As a Mayor and labor attorney, I’ve spent my life fighting for everyday people,” said Davey, a Democrat, in a prepared statement. “Our rights and future are on the line in this election — I’m running for Congress because this is a fight we have to win. I won’t stop fighting until we do.”
— 2024 — DOWN-BALLOT 2 —
SPOTTED at a Pensacola Beach Air Show watch-party fundraiser for Rep. Alex Andrade: U.S. Rep. Gaetz and Ginger Gaetz, Brady Benford, Anita Berry, Cory Dowd, Cory Guzzo, Scott Dick, Chris Schoonover, Alan Suskey, David Bear, and Collier Merrill.
“First responder unions back ‘fierce advocate’ Fabián Basabe for re-election in HD 106” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Police and firefighter unions are joining state and local leaders in backing Miami Beach Republican Rep. Basabe for re-election in House District 106. Basabe’s campaign this week announced endorsements from five organizations: the International Union of Police Associations, Broward Deputy Sheriff’s Association, South Florida Police Benevolent Association, South Florida Council of Firefighters and the Miami chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police. Each provided statements explaining why they’re supporting him. “Your commitment to public safety and to the brave men and women who protect our citizens and visitors is recognized and appreciated,” the International Union of Police Associations said. The Broward Deputy Sheriff’s Association called Basabe “the most qualified person to serve the residents of District 106.”
Regulators pause Duke Energy rate case — The Public Service Commission has suspended the procedural schedule for a case that could potentially lead to a base electric rate hike at Duke Energy Florida. Duke and the state Office of Public Counsel, representing consumers, asked for the suspension to allow more time for them to settle. The PSC’s order did not detail what the settlement could contain, but it said it may be filed as soon as Wednesday.
“How home insurance companies in Florida sidestep rules meant to prevent excess profits” via Jason Garcia of Seeking Rents — Slide Insurance Company lost money in 2022 — at least on paper. The Tampa-based insurer, which has rapidly become one of Florida’s biggest home insurance companies, lost a little more than $1.3 million for the year, according to a recently completed review of the company’s finances by state insurance regulators. However, that apparent loss came after Slide shifted tens of millions of dollars into other corporate subsidiaries. four companies — Slide Insurance, Slide MGA, STAT Claims, and Slide Reinsurance — are part of the same parent corporation: Slide Insurance Holdings Inc., whose top investors include a larger insurance company, Tampa-based Heritage Insurance Holdings, plus a pair of Tampa-based investment firms. All told, more than $130 million passed from one corporate pocket to another. And it may not be all, either.
“Citrus season ends on high note with increased harvest forecast” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has revised its Florida citrus harvest forecast upward for the second consecutive month. The revised projected yield of citrus for the 2023-24 season was increased to 17.97 million boxes of oranges in Florida this year. That’s an increase of more than 100,000 boxes from early June’s forecast. The official end of the citrus season was June 30. “As we look ahead, the future of Florida citrus holds great promise,” said Matt Joyner, Executive Vice President and CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual.
— D. C. MATTERS —
“Some political figures who condemned Saturday’s violence spoke from experience” via Jess Bidgood of The New York Times — “Political violence is terrifying. I know,” Gabrielle Giffords said in a statement. Giffords, a former Democratic representative from Arizona, was shot in the head at a political event in 2011, where six people were killed. “I’m holding former President Trump and all those affected by today’s indefensible act of violence in my heart.” Rep. Nancy Pelosi, whose husband was attacked at their home in 2022 by an assailant who was looking for her, wrote in a post on X that she knew “firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society.” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who was the target of a foiled kidnapping plot, said on X that she was “horrified” to hear the news of the violence at the Trump rally. Those threats often do not result in acts of violence, but some political figures have reported deeply harrowing experiences. Political violence cuts across the nation’s partisan divide, and the attack at the Trump rally comes as threats of such violence are increasing in the United States.
“Crackdown on undocumented voting divides Florida’s congressional delegation” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A federal elections law cracking down on voting by undocumented immigrants passed the House this week on a party-line vote. The House passed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act (HR 8281) on a 221-198 vote. “American elections are for American citizens only,” said U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee. “We all know that President Biden’s Border Crisis poses a clear threat to our elections system, as millions of illegal aliens have poured into our country at record levels. This bill advances much-needed reforms to current voting registration requirements that will allow each state to ensure only American citizens are casting ballots.”
— LOCAL: S. FL —
“Broward School Board member alleges colleague used ‘public office for private gain’: Complaint” via NBC 6 — Broward School Board member Allen Zeman is accusing fellow School Board member Torey Alston of violating Florida ethics laws. On June 18, Zeman recalls Alston publicly declared he would not vote on the agenda item related to the Broward County Schools paying charter schools $120 million. “Torey Alston recused himself during these three School Board meetings after advocating for the agenda item to pass — I believed each time was a violation of Florida ethics law,” Zeman wrote. The complaint says, “Torey Alston, as a member of the Broward County School Board, advocated multiple times in public and closed-door meetings for Broward County Schools to pay Broward charter schools roughly $120 million. At the same time, a company that he owned in 2022 and continues to be owned by an immediate family member received revenue from at least one Broward County charter school.”
“Feds open investigation into health company that owns several Miami-area hospitals” via Michelle Marchante of the Miami Herald — Federal investigators have opened an investigation into Steward Health Care System, which is in the midst of bankruptcy and is trying to sell all 31 of its hospitals, including eight in Florida. The criminal investigation, launched by federal prosecutors in Boston, is zeroing in on possible violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which prohibits U.S. citizens and companies from committing bribery and other corruption overseas to obtain or retain business. The law also requires companies to keep accurate records of their finances. “Steward Health Care can confirm it is aware of and cooperating with an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice,” Steward spokesperson Deborah Chiaravalloti told the Miami Herald in an email Friday. “As a matter of policy, Steward will have no further comment on this investigation as it remains ongoing.” The U.S. Department of Justice declined to comment. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts said, “We do not confirm or deny investigations.”
— LOCAL: C. FL —
“Dubbed ‘toxic,’ top candidate for Orange-Osceola public defender was forced to quit the office she wants to lead” via Cristóbal Reyes of the Orlando Sentinel — A top candidate for Orange-Osceola public defender was forced to resign in 2019 from the office she now hopes to lead, branded as “toxic” after she made inappropriate comments about her supervisor and colleagues. Once the No. 2 administrator in the public defender’s office, Melissa Vickers apologized for her expletive-laden remarks against Public Defender Robert Wesley and two other employees sent in August of that year as instant messages to a ranking attorney she oversaw.
“Will Central Florida undermine state effort to boost affordable housing?” via Laura Kinsler of the Orlando Sentinel — There was no discussion and no public comment, but on Tuesday, Lake County became the first municipality in Central Florida to deny property tax exemptions for affordable housing developments that previously qualified for such incentives under a tough Florida pro-housing law. It was an early salvo in what could be dozens of silent strikes from cities and counties across Florida on the so-called Live Local Act, a law meant to encourage more affordable workforce housing and prevent the types of double-digit rent spikes Florida has seen in recent years. Winter Park’s City Commission voted unanimously on Wednesday to do the same, and Maitland is expected to do so at its next meeting. And while local officials say they’re taking a stand against tax giveaways, housing advocates say the moves may push up rents at apartments targeted at low- and moderate-income Floridians.
“Florida Polytechnic trustee who voted against new President is second to resign” via Gary White of the Lakeland Ledger — A second trustee who voted against the hiring of new President Devin Stephenson at Florida Polytechnic University has resigned. Mark Bostick, who was the longest-serving member of the Board, submitted his resignation on June 30, effective that day. Stephenson assumed his position as the second President of the Lakeland school on July 7. Bostick’s resignation follows that of David Williams, who abruptly quit within hours of the April 15 meeting at which trustees voted 7-6 to offer the President’s job to Stephenson. Bostick, a Winter Haven native and business executive, had served on the Board since 2012.
“Darden Rice brings ‘the long view’ to leadership role at PSTA” via Henry Queen of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — PSTA is now looking to the future in hopes of further expanding its reach while faithfully addressing its vocal critics. A large part of that effort rests on Rice, who took over as PSTA’s chief planning and community affairs officer in March after serving eight years on St. Petersburg’s City Council. Rice leads a team of about nine in planning and scheduling PSTA’s bus network. She unveiled plans at a June Board meeting to run shuttles between St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport and Clearwater Beach, a long-sought tourism connection. PSTA also plans to take a more active role in leading the region’s ferries and hopes to one day provide rapid service to Tampa Bay Rays games at the new stadium proposed in St. Pete.
— TOP OPINION —
“The attack on Trump is antithetical to America” via The New York Times editorial board — There is much we don’t know yet about the gunman and the shooting, which is being investigated as an attempted assassination. But this much is clear: Any attempt to resolve an election through violence is abhorrent. Violence is antithetical to democracy. Ballots, not bullets, should always be the means by which Americans work through their differences.
It is now incumbent on political leaders of both parties and on Americans, individually and collectively, to resist a slide into further violence and the type of extremist language that fuels it. Saturday’s attack should not be taken as a provocation or a justification.
Americans also must be clear-eyed about the challenge that is confronting this nation. Saturday’s events cannot be written off as an aberration. Violence is infecting and inflecting American political life.
Democracy requires partisans to accept that the process is more important than the results. Even before Saturday’s events, there were worrying signs that many Americans are failing that essential test.
Trump’s political agenda cannot and must not be opposed by violence. It cannot and must not be pursued through violence.
The attack on Saturday was a tragedy. The challenge now confronting Americans is to prevent this moment from becoming the beginning of a greater tragedy.
This election must be resolved by the votes Americans will cast.
— OPINIONS —
“With blood streaking across Trump’s face, America learned the price of toxic politics” via the Miami Herald editorial board — There is no place for political violence in America. Luckily, many of Trump’s political opponents, including Biden, quickly condemned the attack. We’ll soon learn what moved the suspected shooter to such violence. For now, this should be a moment of reflection for Americans. Violence is the worst-case scenario when ideological differences tear a country apart and Americans retreat into their echo chambers. Less notable consequences are seen every day with the normalization of inflammatory rhetoric and disinformation. We cannot change electoral outcomes by invading the U.S. Capitol or trying to take the life of a politician we dislike or even hate. Political violence is the opposite of democracy.
“A nation on edge fears an election careening toward an ugly finish” via Aaron Zitner and Clare Ansberry of The Wall Street Journal — A nation barely removed from the violent end to the 2020 Election, which included several deaths tied to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot, has since been whipsawed by a cascade of jolts to the system. Now, America is faced with the realization that political violence has struck at a moment when the nation is on the cusp of deciding its next President. Abundant polling shows that Americans say the recent course of politics dispirits them. In Pew surveys, two-thirds say politics leaves them exhausted, and nearly nine in 10 people say Republicans and Democrats are more interested in fighting with each other than solving problems. The prospect of political violence is sure to leave Americans even more disheartened.
“The shooting of Trump” via The Wall Street Journal editorial board — It isn’t enough to say the shooter was outside the security perimeter of metal detectors and bag searches. The motivations of the alleged shooter and whether he had accomplices may tell us more about how he was able to get in close shooting range. But the leaders of the Secret Service have some explaining to do. Transparency in the investigation will be critical to avoid the spread of conspiracy theories on the right and left. On Saturday night, social media was full of anti-Trump posters saying the shooting was staged to help his campaign. The shooter alone is responsible for his actions. But leaders on both sides need to stop describing the election’s stakes in apocalyptic terms. Democracy won’t end if one or the other candidate is elected. Fascism is not aborning if Trump wins unless you have little faith in American institutions. If they weren’t already, Americans will be looking for stable, reassuring leadership after Saturday.
“Trump’s raised fist will make history — and define his candidacy” via Jonathan Martin of POLITICO — In the always online and deeply polarized world of 2024, though, the claims came quickly, no matter the lack of information about motive. Some of this bravado was just that, the stuff of wanting to say something online, as is typical now in response to any news, without thinking through the profound implications. However, the speed and intensity of the response also reflected the boiling anger so many Trump loyalists felt long before the former President gripped his right ear Saturday night. It may have been jarring in the moment, but there was a reason so many Republicans thought to post the photos of a blood-streaked Trump quickly: They would prove politically potent.
“The entire region benefits from St. Petersburg’s Historic Gas Plant development” via Ken Welch, Jane Castor and Bruce Rector for the Tampa Bay Times — As Mayors of Tampa Bay’s three largest cities, we are united in our goals and recognize that the success of our respective cities is intertwined with the success of the entire Tampa Bay region. We value our professional sports teams as they bring us together, and we strive for economic development that attracts new employers and supports local businesses. Most importantly, it will generate thousands of quality jobs that are essential for the well-being of our families and communities. This proposal is significant for the overall improvement of the quality of life across all of Tampa Bay, and we wholeheartedly support it.
— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Best wishes to our dear friends Tom Piccolo and Ron Sachs, in addition to former U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Rep. Michael Grant and Brigette Bello.
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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.
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