Inside Florida Politics

GOP candidates demand debate, taxpayer dollars spending scrutinized

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 18:54:59 +0000

A key primary election is just two months away, one county pushes back against the state's claims of money-wasting and while Alligator Alcatraz is closing, just how much has been spent on that facility?

Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Hannah Phillips of the USA Today Network Florida explain it all in the Inside Florida Politics podcast.

DeSantis' last budget, redistricting shakes Dems, Epstein shadows Bondi

Thu, 28 May 2026 17:27:47 +0000

Habemus budget from Tallahassee, mid-decade congressional redistricting causes chaos for Democrats and Jeffrey Epstein haunts Pam Bondi again. Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Hannah Phillips of the USA Today Network Florida unpack the headlines in the Inside Florida Politics podcast.

Epstein hearing in “Trump County” and four more seats?

Thu, 14 May 2026 17:06:55 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis pulls four new congressional seats out of his lame duck hat, Democrats hear from Epstein survivors in the Palm Beaches and Trump wielding power in home county. Antonio Fins, John Kennedy, Hannah Phillips and Mike Diamond of the USA Today Network Florida explain it all in the Inside Florida Politics podcast.

Florida's redistricting, AI data center pushback and Trump-pope feud

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:09:48 +0000

Florida redraws congressional district to keep up with Democratic Joneses, DeSantis and President Donald Trump both see data economy resistance and the verbal volleying between Trump and Pope Leo XIV gets real in South Florida. Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Valentina Palm of the USA Today Network Florida unpack it all in the Inside Florida Politics podcast.

What's next for Pam Bondi, free speech litmus tests and TPS under fire

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:13:19 +0000

Pam Bondi gets fired, but will she testify? A new law lets DeSantis designate "domestic terrorists" and Trump rails against a federal refuge program after the murder of a convenience store employee in Fort Myers. Antonio Fins, Hannah Phillips, Stephany Matat and Valentina Palm of the USA Today Network Florida unpack it all.

Election conspiracy brews, a new voter law and rebuilding Cuba

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:36:37 +0000

Arrested election worker sparks conspiracies, why a new voter law could prove disruptive and Gov. Ron DeSantis tells exiles to go rebuild Cuba. Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Hannah Phillips of the USA Today Network Florida reporters explain it all.

The GOP’s deep divisions, cancel culture and Alligator Alcatraz spending

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:40:07 +0000

No budget big problem in Tallahassee? Turns out Florida state lawmakers do like cancel culture. And just how much has the state spent on Alligator Alcatraz and its selfie sign? Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Stephany Matat of the USA Today Network Florida unpack it all.

Do-nothing Tally, wild week at Mar-a-Lago and hidden Epstein files?

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:07:16 +0000

Meager results from legislative session, a fatal shooting and a war in Iran from President Trump's club and are there be Epstein files in South Florida storage units? Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Hannah Phillips of USA Today Network Florida explain.

Casey DeSantis goes MAHA, Bondi hides behind Dow and divisions deepen in Tally

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 23:30:17 +0000

Florida's first lady leans into RFK Jr.'s agenda, Pam Bondi has a rough go in defending the release of Jeffrey Epstein files and Republicans can't get along with themselves in Tallahassee. Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Hannah Phillips of the USA Today Network Florida talk it up.

Trump-DeSantis differ on AI centers, Mar-a-Lago auction, would-be assassin sentenced

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:10:21 +0000

The governor and president differ on data centers, lunch with Trump auctioned for $2M and why a would-be presidential assassin got life sentence. Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Hannah Phillips discuss it all on the Inside Florida Politics podcast.

DeSantis' last stand, HIV drug funding and what's next for Venezuela?

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 23:11:56 +0000

Ron DeSantis' final legislative session is not all kumbaya, why may thousands lose aid for a critical AIDS medication and Venezuelans clamor for democracy while Trump focused on oil. Antonio Fins, Ana Goni-Lessan and John Kennedy of the USA Today Florida Network explain it all.

Obamacare subsidies, insurance victory lap and uproar among Trump's neighbors

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 21:32:09 +0000

President Donald Trump's crackdown on immigrants hits his own Palm Beach backyard, expiring Obamacare subsidies will hit Florida even harder and state insurance regulators declare Florida's property insurance crisis over. Antonio Fins, Anne Geggis and Valentina Palm of the USA Today Florida Network unpack it all.

School vaccines, mid-decade redistricting and DeSantis' last stand in Tally

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:36:07 +0000

Vaccine skepticism rules Florida on 5th anniversary of the COVID "jab," crunch time for controversial congressional redistricting and priorities for Gov. Ron DeSantis' last Florida legislative rodeo. Antonio Fins, Ana Goni-Lessan and John Kennedy of the USA Today Florida Network unpack it all.

MAGA meltdown? Is Trump's political powerhouse starting to crumble?

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 21:45:09 +0000

With President Trump tearing apart Marjorie Taylor Green this weekend from Mar-a-lago, is this another sign that the MAGA base may be crumbling? This is among the topics on this week's Inside Florida Politics podcast with USA Today Network - Florida crew Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Ana Goñi-Lessan. Other topics include Republican gerrymandering, H1B Visas and a push for learning cursive.

Trump & 2026, fetal personhood and property tax power grab

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:37:48 +0000

President Donald Trump sounds 2026 campaign themes in a speech in Miami. This week on the Inside Florida Politics podcast, USA Today Network - Florida's Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Ana Goni-Lessan discuss the impact of Tuesday's elections, moves in the Sunshine State to further restrict reproductive rights and the big push to end property taxes across the state.

No Kings, a Catholic bishop speaks out and the politics of a race to Mars

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 17:53:45 +0000

The protests, even in red Florida, got President Donald Trump's attention, a Catholic bishop speaks out against immigration crackdown and U.S. transportation chief Sean Duffy takes on role of NASA administrator. Antonio Fins, Ana Goni-Lessan, John Kennedy and Rob Landers of the USA Today Florida Network explain it all.

Government shutdown divides Florida GOP, but we're all in on Trump library

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 21:24:39 +0000

GOP allies divided over Obamacare tax credits amid the government shutdown, and does a land-for-library deal mean the Ron DeSantis-Donald Trump bromance is in on-again stage — again? Antonio Fins and John Kennedy of the USA Today Florida Network figure it all out on the Inside Florida Politics podcast.

Free speech and a gerrymandered election in 2026

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:50:56 +0000

Florida undergoes a Charlie Kirk-First Amendment stress test, GOP looks to lock up a US House majority next year by redrawing districts and Hurricane Helene's forgotten Floridians.
Antonio Fins, Stephany Matat, John Kennedy and Ana Goni-Lessan of the USA Today Florida Network break it down in the Inside Florida Politics podcast.

Alligator Alcatraz shutdown and update on the Epstein files

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 17:38:28 +0000

The Inside Florida Politics Podcast returns with host USA TODAY Network of Florida's Antonio Fins talking with investigations reporter Ana Goñi-Lessan about the new directive to stop illegal immigrants in the state and the fate of Alligator Alcatraz. Antonio also talks with Palm Beach Post Investigations Editor Holly Baltz about movement in the Jeffery Epstein case and the upcoming bipartisan press conference that could bring victims forward and expose more names.

Keeping track of immigration detainees, hurricanes, DOGE cuts

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 19:48:34 +0000

It's been hard to keep a track of immigration detentions, even as another 500,000 people are eligible for deportation. Hurricane season starts with doubts about hurricane forecasting in the age of government budget-cutting. Elon Musk is gone from DOGE, and so apparently is as much as $53 million in funding at Florida State University. Listen to the Inside Florida Politics podcast with Ana Goni-Lessan, Kimberly Miller and Antonio Fins.

Inside Florida Politics: State law enforcement moves to exceed ICE in detainees

Thu, 22 May 2025 16:49:04 +0000

Officials in Florida want more resources to detain everyone they suspect is here illegally, regardless of whether the individual has a criminal background or even a removal warrant or deportation order. USA Today Florida Network's Antonio Fins, Ana Goñi-Lessan and John Kennedy discuss. Also on deck, LGBTQ+ advocates in the state celebrate the lack of anti-gay legislation passed this year. And can Gov. Ron DeSantis convince the Legislature to cut back on Florida's property taxes?

ICE rounds up 'non-criminals' and trouble looms for special session

Thu, 08 May 2025 20:11:46 +0000

Antonio Fins, Ana Goñi-Lessan and John Kennedy discuss the biggest capture of undocumented immigrants ever which draws into question the level of "violent criminal" status for the detained. Also, President Donald Trump begins his second hundred days in his Florida office and why is trouble brewing between Gov. Ron DeSantis and Republican lawmakers ahead of the looming special session.

Battles over guns, a budget and Hope in Florida politics

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 20:27:53 +0000

In this week's Inside Florida Politics podcast, Antonio Fins, James Call and John Kennedy break down the fallout from a deadly and tragic shooting at Florida State University, friction between the governor and Republicans in the Florida Legislature and the local impact of the death of Pope Francis across the Sunshine State.

Fear and Uncertainty: How tariffs, immigration might upend Florida's moment

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 20:17:29 +0000

President Donald Trump paused his Liberation Day tariffs stunner, but the lack of clarity in trade duties makes for fuzzy budgeting in Tallahassee. The immigration crackdown leaves hundreds of children in heart-wrenching limbo. And the intriguing reason behind the power player dynamic between Gov. Ron DeSantis and House Speaker Danny Perez. Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Ana Goni-Lessa discuss it all in the Inside Florida Politics podcast.

Lawmakers take aim at key piece of Parkland gun laws

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 22:17:19 +0000

A key piece of the gun control legislation passed after the horrific shooting at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland could be on the chopping block if lawmakers efforts succeed. USA TODAY Florida Network journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Ana Goñi-Lessan discuss the possible drop in Florida's gun ownership age. Also, Rep. Byron Donalds? Casey DeSantis? Still nearly two years out, candidates are already laying plans for the governor's mansion. And Is Tallahassee trying to squash control of local governments?

Trump on the mind (and bills) of Florida lawmakers

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:49:49 +0000

From Mar-a-lago to Tallahassee, President Donald Trump is obviously on the minds of Florida Legislators with bills on deck to ratify changing the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and shielding his future presidential library from local regulations.

USA Today Florida Network journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Ana Goñi-Lessan talk about Trump heavy session in Tallahassee.

The team also discusses the various ways state law enforcement is interpreting directives to help ICE with illegal immigrants.

And if 60 percent approval wasn't enough, Florida lawmakers are now trying to make it harder for citizen-led amendments to pass in the Sunshine State.

Is DeSantis' power over Florida lawmakers starting to slip

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 21:28:33 +0000

A clash between Gov. Ron DeSantis and legislative leaders over immigration may be a sign that DeSantis is losing some of his grip on state lawmakers. Journalists Zac Anderson, Ana Goñi-Lessan, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss the immigration fight, President Donald Trump’s own immigration agenda and the effects trade wars with Canada and Mexico could have on the state.

Trump's Make America Florida agenda

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 04:13:56 +0000

Trump is returning to power with a Make America Florida agenda. Journalists Zac Anderson, Ana Goni-Lessan, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss Trump's Florida-themed agenda, how the president’s immigration crackdown could impact Florida residents and Gov. Ron DeSantis' efforts to cozy up to Trump.

Trump’s Mar-a-Lago edicts setting the agenda

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 19:18:09 +0000

Trump is governing from Mar-a-Lago with press conferences and Truth Social posts. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy, Ana Goni-Lessan and Antonio Fins discuss the incoming president's Florida administration in waiting, Trump's rising popularity as he stays out of the public eye and a progressive firebrand making a bid for mayor of Orlando that could position her for bigger things down the road.

More Florida intrigue with Trump's Cabinet with Bondi, maybe DeSantis

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:01:17 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis has been in the mix for a Trump Cabinet position. Journalists Zac Anderson, Ana Goni-Lessan and John Kennedy discuss Trump's flirtation with DeSantis as Defense secretary, the president-elect picking former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to replace Matt Gaetz as his attorney general nominee and the Florida Legislature gets two new leaders.

Trump powers a red wave in Florida

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 21:00:00 +0000

Donald Trump carried Florida by 13 percentage points and ended any speculation that it's still a swing state. Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss Florida's hard right shift, ballot measures on recreational marijuana and abortion rights failing and Rick Scott's return to the U.S. Senate.

Florida Republicans slam Puerto Rico comments by Trump rally speaker

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 20:14:21 +0000

Florida Republicans are blasting a Trump rally speaker’s remarks calling Puerto Rico a "floating island of garbage." Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Ana Goni-Lessan discuss the fallout from the "garbage" comments, President Joe Biden weighing in and putting Democrats on the defensive and Gov. Ron DeSantis aggressively campaigning against two ballot items ahead of Election Day.

DeSantis snubs Biden after Hurricane Milton

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 19:49:17 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis opted not to meet with Joe Biden during the president's tour of hurricane damage in Florida. Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss the president's visit, how back-to-back hurricanes could disrupt voting and the state's remarkably quiet presidential campaign.

Biden tours Hurricane Helene damage in Florida

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 16:44:20 +0000

President Joe Biden traveled to Florida to assess Hurricane Helene damage. Reporters Zac Anderson, Antontio Fins and John Kennedy discuss the president's visit, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris sparing over the federal government’s hurricane response and Gov. Ron. DeSantis saying Florida doesn’t need more federal help with Helene recovery.

Trump lashes out after foiled Florida assassination plot

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 19:33:44 +0000

A golf outing in West Palm Beach became a crime scene after the Secret Service stopped another alleged assassination attempt against Donald Trump. Journalists Antonio Fins, Ana Goni-Lessan, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the fallout from the foiled Florida plot, Gov. Ron DeSantis stepping in to open a state investigation into the incident and Florida health officials continuing to recommend against COVID vaccines.

Inside Florida Politics: Development plans for state parks draws backlash

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 18:10:26 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration is backpedaling amid criticism over plans for golf courses, pickle ball courts and hotels at state parks. Journalists Antonio Fins, Zac Anderson and Gray Rohrer discuss the backlash against the state park proposal, dueling ads released in Florida by the presidential campaigns and another new poll showing a tighter race than expected in Florida between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.

Inside Florida Politics: Warning signs for Trump in new Florida polls

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 21:55:40 +0000

The race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris is tightening in Florida. Journalists Zac Anderson, Wayne Washington and Mark Harper discuss the new surveys showing Harris within striking distance, where ballot measures on marijuana and abortion stand with voters and the state's upcoming Aug. 20 primary.

Kamala Harris energizes Florida Democrats

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 19:22:25 +0000

Florida Democrats are rallying around Kamala Harris, the party's new presidential candidate. Journalists Ana Goni-Lessan, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss whether Harris could make Florida more competitive, wrangling over the abortion rights measure that will be on Florida ballots and how the controversial Project 2025 plan tied to Trump’s campaign has lots of Florida overtones.

Florida leaders in the spotlight at the Republican National Convention

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 04:43:04 +0000

It’s Florida, Florida, Florida at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee with Ron DeSantis, Matt Gaetz, Byron Donalds and many other Florida leaders speaking at an event turned on its head by the attempted assassination last week of Donald Trump. Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss the Florida highlights from the convention.

Biden campaign says Florida isn't in play

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 17:41:37 +0000

President Joe Biden's campaign chair said recently that Florida isn't a battleground state. Journalists John Kennedy, Ana Goni-Lessan and Zac Anderson discuss the reaction in Florida to the Biden campaign comments, a U.S. Supreme Court decision that could impact how Florida communities handle their homeless populations and the reaction in Florida to Biden's poor debate performance.

New polls give Democrats hope in Florida

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 13:52:42 +0000

Democrats believe Florida is in play after a pair of polls indicate a tight race for president. Journalists John Kennedy, Ana Goni-Lessan and Zac Anderson discuss whether Florida will be competitive this cycle, the outflow of Florida women traveling to other states for abortions after a strict new ban took effect and Gov. Ron DeSantis finally signing the state budget.

Marco Rubio’s MAGA makeover

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 15:48:10 +0000

Marco Rubio aligns himself more closely with Trump as the former president considers the Florida senator as a running mate in 2024. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Ana Goni-Lessan discuss Rubio’s MAGA makeover, the Florida Department of Education sticking with history standards that say Black people benefited from slavery and whether Trump’s felony conviction puts his right to vote in question.

Inside Florida Politics: Pardoned allies back in Trump's orbit for 2024 run

Fri, 24 May 2024 00:59:52 +0000

Former President Donald Trump is bringing controversial political figures back into his orbit for the 2024 campaign. Journalists Antonio Fins, Zac Anderson and Ana Goni-Lessan discuss the pardoned felons and conspiracy theorists surrounding Trump, Florida universities cracking down on campus protests and Gov. Ron DeSantis ensuring bridges aren’t lit in rainbow colors form LGBTQ pride month.

Trump auditions VP candidates at Mar-a-Lago

Thu, 09 May 2024 22:26:15 +0000

Former President Donald Trump held a lunch event in Palm Beach recently with many of the individuals who he is considering as a running mate. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss how Trump's vice presidential selection process is heating up, the Florida GOP's resolution against a constitutional amendment legalizing recreational marijuana and Gov. Ron DeSantis opposing efforts to fight climate change.

DeSantis viewed more favorably than Trump in Florida

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 21:58:27 +0000

A new poll shows Gov. Ron Desantis has a higher favorability rating, including among Republicans, than Donald Trump in Florida after their contentious presidential primary contest. Journalists Antonio Fins, Zac Anderson and John Kennedy discuss DeSantis's standing in Florida, Trump leading President Joe Biden in the state and the uncertainty surrounding ballot measures on abortion and marijuana.

Florida's 2024 election gets a lot more interesting with marijuana, abortion on the ballot

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 20:57:06 +0000

The Florida Supreme Court cleared the way for abortion rights and recreational marijuana constitutional amendments to be on the Florida ballot this year. Journalists John Kennedy, Antonio Fins and Zac Anderson discuss the ballot measures, Trump eyeing two Floridians as possible running mates and a legal settlement between Gov. Ron DeSantis and Disney.

Florida’s anticlimactic GOP presidential primary

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 21:49:35 +0000

Florida held a meaningless presidential primary after Trump clinched the GOP nomination, but the results may signal some turbulence for the GOP nominee. Journalists John Kennedy, Antonio Fins and Zac Anderson discuss the primary vote totals, Florida's increasingly uncompetitive status and Moms for Liberty's continued clout.

Trump clinches nomination before Florida votes

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 20:49:08 +0000

Former President Donald Trump became the GOP presidential nominee without Florida voters weighing in after Nikki Haley dropped out of the race. Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss whether Trump can win over Haley supporters, Republicans in the Florida Legislature spurning their own party's legislative wish list and U.S. Sen. Rick Scott considering a bid for Senate leadership.

DeSantis keeps acting like a presidential candidate

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 19:22:24 +0000

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' actions continue to invite speculation that he still has his eyes on the White House. Journalists Antonio Fins, Zac Anderson and John Kennedy discuss DeSantis' moves to stay in the national spotlight, whether national Democrats are taking another look at Florida's U.S. Senate race and where DeSantis' priorities stand in the final weeks of Florida's 60-day legislative session.

Florida Republicans rally around Trump

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 22:03:48 +0000

The Florida GOP isn't waiting for the presidential primary to end to get behind former President Donald Trump. USA TODAY Florida - Network journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss Trump's strength in Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis' continued focus on national issues after dropping out of the presidential race and where high-profile legislation stands at the midway point of Florida's 60-day legislative session.

DeSantis drops bid for GOP nomination, endorses Trump

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 22:10:02 +0000

Six days after a massive lose in Iowa, a defeated Gov. Ron DeSantis returns to Tallahassee ahead of the first of his last three legislative sessions. But first, DeSantis bends the knee to Donald Trump, throwing his support behind the former president. What's next for DeSantis and Trump's relationship and what can Florida expect now that the governor is back in the state and off the campaign trail.

DeSantis delivers closing message in Iowa

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:03:54 +0000

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is delivering his closing message in Iowa after going hard at Nikki Haley in their final debate before the Iowa Caucus. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the final push in Iowa, Trump going off script and Florida’s legislative session kicking off.

The year in Florida politics: DeSantis struggles, Trump rises, the GOP dominates

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 22:59:40 +0000

Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the top stories in Florida politics in 2023, including DeSantis' struggling presidential campaign, the GOP cementing its grasp on Florida and Trump's resurgence.

Crunch time for DeSantis

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 18:34:56 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis' struggling presidential primary campaign is entering the home stretch before voting begins in Iowa. Journalists Antonio Fins, Zac Anderson and John Kennedy discuss the challenges facing DeSantis has he tries to pull off a surprise finish in Iowa, a pair of upcoming debates and a new poll showing Florida voters support abortion rights.

DeSantis spars with Haley in third GOP debate

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 18:27:52 +0000

Republican presidential candidates Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley exchanged barbs in the third GOP presidential debate in Miami. Reporters Zac Anderson, Stephany Matat and Antonio Fins discuss the debate fireworks and former President Donald's Trump's rally in nearby Hialeah.

DeSantis slams Trump in second GOP debate

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 19:47:48 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis took multiple shots at former President Donald Trump during the second GOP presidential primary debate. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio fins discuss DeSantis' debate strategy, Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz's central role in a federal spending debate that has Congress on the brink of a federal shutdown and a court case challenging Florida's congressional redistricting maps.

DeSantis defends Trump after fourth indictment

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 19:36:06 +0000

Ron DeSantis preps for a crucial debate, the governor defends Trump after a fourth indictment and a big trial over Florida’s congressional redistricting plan kicks off next week. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss this and reveal this week's "Pick-a-Number" on this week's podcast

DeSantis defends Trump after third indictment

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 16:50:54 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis decried the “weaponization of government” after former President Donald Trump was indicted for a third time. Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discus the impact of the indictment on the GOP presidential primary, DeSantis' fading poll numbers amid signs his culture war approach is falling flat and the firestorm over Florida’s new Black history standards

Trump's second indictment rocks GOP presidential primary

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 16:43:09 +0000

Trump’s indictment for allegedly mishandling classified documents is sending shockwaves through the GOP presidential primary as plans move forward for a Florida trial. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the fallout from Trump's indictment, DeSantis finally signing the state budget and another clash over Advanced Placement courses that is brewing in Florida.

Air DeSantis back in action with more migrant flights

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 16:50:32 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis' controversial migrant flight program is attracting attention again with a new round of flights carrying migrants to California. Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss the reaction to the flights, the governor sparing with former President Donald Trump during his first full week on the presidential campaign trail and a judge pausing enforcement of Florida’s recent ban on transgender health care for minors.

DeSantis campaign launch plagued by technical problems

Thu, 25 May 2023 16:10:24 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis finally made his presidential campaign official, but the kickoff event was marred by technical problems. Journalists Antonio Fins, Stephany Matat and Zac Anderson discuss the governor’s chances against Trump in the presidential primary, the campaign launch's embarrassing technical glitches and Trump's reaction to DeSantis entering the race.

DeSantis leery of confronting Trump as he preps for campaign launch

Thu, 11 May 2023 19:35:43 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis is avoiding commenting on Trump's legal troubles as he readies his campaign for president. Journalists John Kennedy, Antonio Fins and Zac Anderson discuss DeSantis' Trump strategy, Florida lawmakers delivering a conservative wish list for DeSantis to run on and Democrats desperately searching for a candidate to take on U.S. Sen. Rick Scott.

DeSantis fires back at Disney

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 17:50:21 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis went after Disney again with new legislation. Journalists Antonio Fins, Zac Anderson and John Kennedy discuss the governor's ongoing feud with one of the state's most iconic companies, Florida’s congressional delegation rushing to endorse Trump over DeSantis and the Florida Legislature expands a law banning the teaching of LGBTQ topics through the 12th grade.

Trump rallies MAGA in Florida after arraignment

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 18:12:08 +0000

Donald Trump responded to his arraignment in New York City with a grievance-filled speech at his Palm Beach club this week. Journalists Stephany Matat, Antonio Fins and Zac Anderson discuss Trump's response to the historic criminal case, MAGA world rallying around the indicted former president and California Gov. Gavin Newsom swiping at Florida’s governor during a stop in Sarasota.

DeSantis reacts to Trump's expected indictment

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 20:55:20 +0000

The likelihood of Florida man Donald Trump being indicted soon has the state’s political world on edge. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss how Trump fans are reacting to the former president's legal peril, Gov. Ron DeSantis's comments on the Trump prosecution and major bills that are moving quickly through the Legislature, including a six week abortion ban.

DeSantis builds presidential buzz with book release

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 17:24:13 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis released a new book as a precursor to a likely presidential run. Journalists John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the presidential platform DeSantis lays out in his book, the Florida Democratic Party's new chair and new legislation signed by the governor that gives him control over Disney World’s properties in Central Florida.

DeSantis feuds with Advanced Placement test company

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:46:46 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis is hinting at doing away with Advanced Placement classes in Florida amid a dispute over a Black studies course. Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss DeSantis' penchant for picking high-profile education fights, a push by state lawmakers to make it harder to amend Florida’s constitution and Trump ramping up his attacks on DeSantis.

Trump slams DeSantis on COVID

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 18:55:21 +0000

Donald Trump took another swipe at Gov. Ron DeSantis recently as the former president revs up his dormant campaign. Journalists Stephany Matat, Antonio Fins and Zac Anderson discuss the feud between Trump and DeSantis, Florida lawmakers rolling out a bill that would allow people to carry guns without a concealed weapons permit and the governor unveiling his anti-woke higher education plan.

DeSantis brings war on woke to New College of Florida

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 16:28:01 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis is bringing his war on woke to New College of Florida with the appointment of six new board members who are tasked with transforming the progressive school into a conservative institution. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the governor's latest culture war push, how COVID concerns continue to be at the forefront of DeSantis' agenda and the Florida Democratic Party's leadership turmoil.

DeSantis starts second term amid presidential buzz

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 18:08:06 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis' kicked off his second term amid buzz about a presidential run in 2024. Reporters John Kennedy, Zac Anderson and Antonio Fins discuss what DeSantis' inauguration speech might say about his presidential aspirations, the Florida Republican competing with Kevin McCarthy to become U.S. House speaker and the governor’s war on "woke" going to college.

DeSantis embraces vaccine skepticism

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 16:47:55 +0000

Ron DeSantis is more fully embracing vaccine skepticism in calling for a grand jury to investigate COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers. Journalists Antonio Fins, Zac Anderson and John Kenney discuss the governor's vaccine announcement, DeSantis rising in the polls against Donald Trump amid the former president's disastrous 2024 campaign rollout and lawmakers taking another crack at solving Florida's property insurance crisis.

DeSantis book deal generates more presidential buzz

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 17:45:42 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis is writing a new book that is generating more buzz about him running for president. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the implications of DeSantis releasing a book in February, Donald Trump getting pilloried for dining with an infamous white nationalist and the Florida Legislature meeting in another emergency session to deal with the property insurance crisis.

Red Wave? It's a Florida thing

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 17:19:16 +0000

Republicans sweep Florida government helped by shifting demographics, stumbling Democrats. Reporters John Kennedy, Antonio Fins and Stephany Matat discuss how a changing state embraced GOP messaging. And Trump is running, again. What that means in Florida and beyond.

Biden rallies for Florida Democrats

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 16:04:22 +0000

President Joe Biden visited Florida to boost Democrats Val Demings and Charlie Crist. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the president's visit, Florida candidates ramping up for their final push to Election Day and former President Donald Trump rallying with U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio but not Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Rubio and Demings clash in debate

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 17:35:32 +0000

Marco Rubio and Val Demings traded barbs in their first and only U.S. Senate debate. Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss the highlights of the Senate debate, Gov. Ron DeSantis getting back out on the campaign trail after a three-week pause because of Hurricane Ian and the upcoming debate between DeSantis and Charlie Crist.

Biden and DeSantis project unity during Ian damage tour

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 18:16:41 +0000

President Joe Biden toured Southwest Florida communities damaged by Hurricane Ian. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss Biden's visit, Gov. Ron DeSantis getting heat over the timing of Ian evacuations and voting in heavily Republican communities being disrupted by the hurricane.

DeSantis criticized for voter fraud arrests

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 17:41:58 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis is facing criticism for a voter fraud crackdown. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the blowback over voter fraud charges against felons who said they had no intention of committing fraud, Florida's importance to Republican's chances of winning control of the U.S. House and efforts by LGBTQ activists to unseat DeSantis after he pushed an agenda heavily focused on LGBTQ-related issues.

Crist and DeSantis tangle as general election kicks off

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 17:46:53 +0000

Charlie Crist beat Nikki Fried in a blow out to win the Democratic nomination for governor. Reporters Antonio Fins, Zac Anderson and John Kennedy discuss Crist's victory, how he matches up against Gov. Ron DeSantis, Florida's other marquee statewide race and the governor's success with his school board endorsements.

DeSantis and Florida GOP rally around Trump after Mar-a-Lago search

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 18:49:04 +0000

Florida Republicans are loudly denouncing the FBI's search of former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago property. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the Florida GOP's reaction to the FBI search, Gov. Ron DeSantis rallying to Trump’s defense despite a budding rivalry between the two and Democrats slamming the governor as a "wannabe dictator" after he removed a Democratic state attorney from office.

DeSantis targets drag show

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 17:42:14 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis is seeking to penalize a Miami restaurant over its drag shows. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the GOP's recent focus on drag performances, more problems for Florida’s troubled property insurance market and the growing rivalry between Trump and DeSantis as the delivered dueling Florida speeches.

Abortion ruling shakes up Florida politics

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 16:47:21 +0000

Abortion is becoming a big issue in Florida this election cycle after the Supreme Court’s ruling overturning Roe v Wade. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio fins discuss the fallout in Florida from the bombshell Supreme Court decision, Gov. Ron DeSantis benefing from the Jan. 6 Committee hearings and the Democratic primary for governor heating up.

Elon Musk favors Ron DeSantis for president

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 15:22:57 +0000

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk tweeted that he’s leaning toward supporting Ron DeSantis if he runs for president. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss how Musk’s tweet factors into the presidential buzz around Florida's governor, the Democrats running for governor facing off in a candidate forum and what to watch for during Florida’s candidate qualifying period.

Will this mass shooting change anything?

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 16:50:42 +0000

Florida's ruling Republicans go silent after the Texas school shooting, despite the state's familiarity with such slaughters. Reporters John Kennedy, Antonio Fins and Jason Delgado discuss gun violence, Orlando Democrat Val Demings' bid to unseat Republican U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio and the property insurance special session.

Florida Democrats criticize Biden's approach to Cuba and Venezuela

Thu, 19 May 2022 17:18:26 +0000

Joe Biden is generating bipartisan backlash in Florida over his decision to ease restrictions on Cuba and Venezuela. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the fallout in Florida to Biden's Latin America policy moves, lawmakers gearing up for a special session on property insurance and the state's controversial new chief elections officer.

Florida leaders react to Roe v. Wade likely being overturned

Thu, 05 May 2022 17:52:37 +0000

A bombshell report detailing the contents of a leaked U.S. Supreme Court draft ruling overturning Roe v. Wade sent shockwaves through Florida political circles. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the potential fallout of overturning Roe in Florida politics, more Disney legislation that is in the works and a new election law signed by the governor.

DeSantis punishes Disney

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 14:35:07 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis is punishing Disney after the company spoke out against the so-called "Don't Say Gay" law. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the escalation of hostilities between DeSantis and Disney, lawmakers supporting a redistricting plan pushed by DeSantis that erases Black congressional seats and property insurance reforms that are in the works.

DeSantis sparks GOP war on Disney

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 19:51:37 +0000

Republicans are in all out war against Disney, Florida’s largest employer. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the GOP's Disney bashing, New York trolling Florida with billboards about the so-called “Don’t say Gay” bill and a host of lawsuits that have been filed to try and overturn the GOP’s legislative agenda.

DeSantis wades into controversy over transgender swimmer

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 17:40:30 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis weighed in on the controversy surrounding a transgender college swimmer. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the governor's proclamation declaring a Florida swimmer the "rightful winner" against her transgender opponent, the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill generating more dysfunction among Florida Democrats and talk of lawmakers returning to Tallahassee for a special legislative session.

National politics sours local elections

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:12:55 +0000

City and county races hinge on scorched-earth themes while Florida lawmakers spend big, then complain about inflation. Reporters John Kennedy, Antonio Fins and Kati Kokal discuss how 'Defund the Police' was weaponized in a Palm Beach County city, and mask-wearing became an issue in a mayoral race. Florida's biggest budget ever also gets scrutiny.

Don't Say Gay' bill heads to DeSantis

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 17:05:15 +0000

Florida's LGTBQ community is outraged as the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill clears the Legislature. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the controversial legislation, Florida becoming the first state to advise healthy children against getting the COVID-19 vaccine and the Legislature heading into overtime because of disagreements on the budget.

DeSantis criticized for confronting students on masks

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 17:08:34 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis faces backlash for telling high school kids to take off their masks. Journalists John Kennedy, Zac Anderson and Antonio Fins discuss the viral moment between DeSantis and the students, Florida lawmakers nearing the end of the 60-day legislative session and what the Conservative Political Action Conference in Orlando says about the direction of the GOP.

Culture war politics heat up in Florida

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 18:06:11 +0000

Florida lawmakers advanced a pair of culture war bills touching on race and sexuality. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the hot-button legislation, the Conservative Political Action Conference kicking off this week in Orlando with Gov. Ron DeSantis in the spotlight and Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo's Senate confirmation.

House passes 15-week abortion ban

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 17:25:52 +0000

The Florida House approved a ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy and a $200 million cut to school districts with mask mandates. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the legislative actions, former President Donald Trump coming under fire for keeping White House documents at his Palm Beach home instead of turning them over to archivists and a new poll showing Gov. Ron DeSantis in a strong position heading into the 2022 election

DeSantis priorities on track at session midpoint

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 18:27:28 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis’s priorities are advancing through the Florida Legislature as the 60-day legislative session reaches the midpoint. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the bills DeSantis is pushing, Mike Pence rebuking Donald Trump during a speech in Florida and President Joe Biden lashing out at the Florida Legislature over a controversial proposal dubbed the “don’t say gay” bill.

Florida GOP unveils new elections bill

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 16:51:04 +0000

Republicans in the Florida Legislature rolled out a new elections bill that is stoking debate about voter suppression versus election integrity. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss what's in the new legislation, questions facing Gov. Ron DeSantis over how his administration responded to a neo-Nazi rally in Orlando and Florida’s congressional redistricting effort stalling.

DeSantis battles with Biden on COVID treatments

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 19:06:51 +0000

More friction is building between Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Biden administration. Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the clashes between DeSantis and Biden over COVID-19 treatments and immigration enforcement, and the governor again dodging the question of whether he’s had a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot.

DeSantis submits redistricting map

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 18:09:58 +0000

Gov. Ron DeSantis's office weighed in on Florida’s redistricting process with its own map. Journalists Zac Anderson, Antonio Fins and John Kennedy discuss the unusual situation of a governor submitting a redistricting map, the feud between DeSantis and Trump escalating as Roger Stone gets involved and the Florida Senate advancing controversial new legislation restricting how race is taught in schools.

Trump swipes at DeSantis on booster shot

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 19:28:40 +0000

Former President Donald Trump delivered a veiled criticism of his protégé in the Florida governor’s office this week. Journalists Zac Anderson, John Kennedy and Antonio Fins discuss the tension between the GOP leaders, the start of Florida's 60-day legislative session and Gov. Ron DeSantis endorsing a ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.

5 things to watch in Florida politics in 2022

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 16:32:50 +0000

Florida politics heading into 2022 looks a lot like it has for the last 20 years, with Republicans riding high and Democrats playing catch-up. And it all starts with Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has made a name for himself nationally by defying public health recommendations. Journalists Zac Anderson and Antonio Fins look ahead and offer predictions on some of the biggest political questions as Florida enters the new year.