The Education Department approved Ed‑Flex waivers for Florida and Illinois on May 13, 2026, allowing more state and local control over federal K‑12 dollars.

David Jolly added national strategist Joe Trippi and two Florida advisers as his campaign widens its operation; polls show him ahead but fundraising lags. The new hires aim to turn momentum into a primary win on Aug. 18.

Lake Wales officials are weighing roughly $10 million to renovate a police annex and build a new fire station as emergency calls rise. The work would be financed in part by potential debt issuance.

After 10Tampa Bay’s "Diagnosis Denied" documentary, the VA reversed a denial for a veteran with inclusion body myositis. Advocates say the move could shape how similar claims are handled.

UF's search advisory committee unanimously named Stuart R. Bell, the former University of Alabama president, as the sole finalist; trustees and the state Board of Governors must now confirm the pick.

The EPA proposed rescinding limits on four PFAS and offering some utilities extra time to comply, prompting sharp criticism from environmental groups and a likely legal fight. The move reshapes the timeline for local water systems preparing to meet federal limits.

Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera has resigned his District 7 seat to run for Florida House District 67. The move creates a council vacancy and an open state race.

Qualifying for Clearwater’s city council seats closes Friday at 5 p.m.; here’s who officially filed for Seats 4 and 5 and what’s next.

A federal judge struck false testimony and ordered fees after finding an FWC supervisor had exaggerated complaints used to justify firing a biologist over a social‑media repost.

Sen. Ed Hooper will leave the Florida Senate effective Nov. 3, 2026, creating an open District 21 seat. Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco has already drawn GOP endorsements.

Polk State’s search committee recommended Florida Education Commissioner Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas as the sole finalist to be the college’s next president. Trustees will consider the pick June 3 and Kamoutsas will visit campus that day.

Cuba published new migration, citizenship and foreigners laws last week that could require Cuban‑Americans to use Cuban passports when returning to the island. The package also activates an investor migration category immediately.

The State Department barred 13 people tied to an India-based operation accused of shipping fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills, adding visa bans to sanctions and prosecutions.