Politics
DNC: DeSantis’ Failed Economic Agenda Is Leaving Floridians Behind
While Ron DeSantis has been busy traveling across the country trying to sell his extreme agenda to voters and courting the most extreme fringes of the GOP base, his failed MAGA economic policies are proving disastrous at home.
Here’s a look at what’s been happening in DeSantis’ Florida since he launched his campaign:
Miami Herald: ‘It’s brutal’: As premiums continue to soar, another home insurer is leaving Florida
Key Point: “Floridians pay the highest property insurance premiums in the nation, and 13 companies have gone insolvent in recent years. Many others have stopped writing new policies or pulled out of Florida.”
Politico: Florida Playbook: Rising cost of living in not quite so free Florida
Key Point: “There’s more — Other victims of the state’s affordability crisis? Florida residents being pushed out of southwest Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, according to a new story by POLITICO’s Zack Colman. Middle class and working class homeowners who bought their homes in years past cannot afford to rebuild to meet modern building codes as required by federal rules and wind up selling their property as vacant land. ‘I hate to say it,’ Isabel Arias Squires, a Fort Myers real estate agent who works with the real estate broker Redfin told Colman. ‘Only very, very, extremely wealthy people will be able to rebuild.’”
CBS News: Florida is now America’s inflation hotspot
Key Point: “Florida is America’s inflation hotspot, thanks to a persistent problem with sky-high housing costs.”
WPTV: Florida gas prices most expensive in 4 weeks amid insurance rate hikes
Key Point: “Florida gas prices rebounded last week, rising an average of 20 cents per gallon. Meanwhile, Florida drivers are also paying more for their insurance premiums with the highest rates in the nation.”
Yahoo Finance: Homeowners in DeSantis’s Florida face a costly and unique problem
Key Point: “Instead, Category 5 fraud and abuse have made Florida’s homeowners insurance market so unprofitable that 15 carriers have become insolvent in the state since 2020 — and others refuse to do business there. ‘This is a man-made catastrophe,’ says Logan McFaddin, vice president of state government relations at the American Property Casualty Insurance Association. ‘It’s not just the weather. It’s frivolous litigation and fraud.’… Critics say DeSantis should be doing more to help Florida homeowners now instead of campaigning out of state. That’s shaping up as a liability for DeSantis if his presidential campaign gathers steam and he becomes a serious contender for the Republican nomination.”
HuffPost: As Ron DeSantis Barnstorms New Hampshire, Thousands Of Floridians Lose Health Insurance
Key Point: “Over the past few weeks, roughly a quarter-million Floridians have lost health insurance coverage through Medicaid. And that’s just the beginning. In the coming months, even more Medicaid beneficiaries in Florida could lose their coverage as well ― with many, and quite possibly most, ending up uninsured altogether.”
Orlando Sentinel: Florida, stop taking Medicaid away from kids, parents who need it | Editorial
Key Point: “What DeSantis knew — what most Florida families probably did not know — was that even as he spoke, state officials were rushing to dump hundreds of thousands of Floridians off Medicaid rolls. Roughly one-third of those losing coverage are children. And as the Sentinel’s Caroline Catherman reported last week, some of those children are so sick they’re not supposed to lose coverage at all.”
CNN Business: Florida’s homeowner insurance rates are four times the national average. That’s not getting better anytime soon
Key Point: “Meanwhile, the regional and local insurers left to provide coverage are in bad shape. Just more than half of insurers based in Florida are on the state insurance regulator’s watch list due to their financial health. Six were forced to liquidate last year, another one earlier this year. And to try to stay solvent, the remaining insurers are charging rates nearly four times as high as the national average. Homeowners in the state pay private insurers about $6,000 a year, compared to a national average of $1,700.”
KTVO: As costs for some double, what’s behind skyrocketing increases in homeowners’ insurance
Key Point: “‘It’s frustrating. Florida is really becoming too expensive for people like my dad. Retirees used to come here all the time, but they’re going to have to find another place because regular folks are getting priced out,’ Vince Arcuri said.”
WPLG: Florida homeowners pay more on average for property insurance than any state, expert says
Key Point: “Florida homeowners are paying more on average for insurance than any other state in the country and rates increased about 40% this year, according to Mark Friedlander, a spokesman for the Insurance Information Institute, a U.S. industry association based out of New York.”
Florida
Former Air Force Colonel and Physician Rudolph Moise Seeks Florida Congressional Seat Vacated by Frederica Wilson
MIAMI, Fla. (FNN) — South Florida Congresswoman Frederica Wilson has announced she will not seek reelection to Florida’s 24th Congressional District, creating an open-seat race that is expected to draw significant attention ahead of the 2026 election cycle.
Even before Wilson’s retirement announcement became public, Dr. Rudolph “Rudy” Moise had already shifted his political focus. Moise withdrew from the crowded race for Florida’s 20th Congressional District to pursue a campaign for the seat currently held by Wilson.
Moise Brings Military, Medical, Legal, and Business Experience
Moise is a longtime physician, attorney, businessman, and retired U.S. Air Force colonel. Over the years, he has built a public profile through his medical practice, community involvement, and repeated campaigns for federal office in South Florida.
His decision to enter the race immediately positions him among the most recognizable candidates seeking to succeed Wilson in Congress.
No Stranger to Running Against Wilson
Moise is no stranger to challenging Wilson at the ballot box.
He previously mounted two congressional campaigns against the longtime Democratic incumbent but was unsuccessful in his efforts to unseat her. Despite those defeats, Moise maintained a visible presence in South Florida politics and continued advocating on issues related to healthcare, economic development, public safety, and government accountability.
With Wilson now stepping aside, Moise will have his first opportunity to compete for the seat without facing the incumbent congresswoman.
Political observers note that Moise’s prior campaigns have given him valuable name recognition and an established network of supporters throughout Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
Redistricting Could Reshape the Political Landscape
Florida’s congressional map underwent significant changes following redistricting approved by Governor Ron DeSantis. The revised boundaries altered several congressional districts across the state, including portions of South Florida.
The new district configuration could create different political dynamics than those Moise faced during his previous campaigns against Wilson.
As candidates begin to organize for the 2026 election cycle, the open-seat contest is expected to attract a competitive field of Democratic and Republican contenders seeking to represent one of South Florida’s most prominent congressional districts.
With Wilson’s departure ending an era in South Florida politics, voters will soon decide who will succeed the veteran congresswoman and represent Florida’s 24th Congressional District in Washington.
Central Florida News
Puerto Rican Business Owner Tatiana Fernandez running for Orange County Commission District 8
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Orange County Board of County Commissioners recently approved a new District 8 seat to address the county’s continued population growth and expanding communities.
Tatiana Fernandez officially entered the race for the newly created Orange County Commission District 8 seat after announcing her candidacy on social media and filing the necessary paperwork with the Orange County Supervisor of Elections.
Fernandez Highlights Business, Advocacy, and Community Leadership Experience
Fernandez, a Puerto Rican-born business owner, autism advocate, and community leader, said her campaign is focused on strengthening families, supporting small businesses, and expanding opportunities throughout Orange County.
“Latinos are shaping the future of America,” Fernandez stated in her campaign announcement. “Together, we can build stronger communities, greater opportunities, and a brighter future for our children.”
Fernandez currently serves on the Orange County Commission on Aging Board, where she advocates for programs and services benefiting seniors throughout the county.
Her professional and community background includes:
• Business owner since 2015 with extensive experience in entrepreneurship and business development.
• Owner of Pantera Technical Services, a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida.
• On-the-job training provider for Florida Vocational Rehabilitation students since 2019.
• Autism advocate serving families in Seminole County since 2007.
• Fully bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Born and raised in Puerto Rico.
• Resident of Florida since 2004 after living in Boston from 1994 to 2000.
• Academic studies in banking, pre-law, finance, government relations, and healthcare administration.
• Volunteer with the Lake Mary High School Robotics Program from 2017 to 2020.
• Registered volunteer for former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales in both Orlando and Tallahassee offices.
• Candidate for Florida’s 7th Congressional District during the 2022 and 2024 election cycles.
Campaign Focused on Families, Seniors, and Small Businesses
Fernandez said Orange County residents deserve leadership that listens to the community and understands the challenges facing working families, senior citizens, and small-business owners.
“Our community deserves leadership that listens, works hard, and truly understands the needs of families, seniors, and small businesses,” Fernandez said. “I look forward to continuing to serve Orange County with integrity, compassion, and dedication.”
She is encouraging supporters to volunteer, share campaign information, and contribute to her effort to represent the newly established district.
Crowded Field Emerges for New District 8 Seat
Fernandez joins a growing field of candidates seeking election to the new Orange County Commission District 8 seat. Other announced candidates include Vic Torres, Jeannette Quinones-Hernandez, Isaiah Louis Anderson, Julio Rocha, and George Haas.
Candidate qualifying is scheduled for June 8-12, 2026. The primary election will be held on August 18, 2026, with voters selecting the first commissioner to represent the newly created district.
The District 8 seat is expected to be one of Orange County’s most closely watched races as candidates compete to represent a rapidly growing and increasingly diverse constituency.
Florida
Puerto Ricans Urge Former State Rep. Daisy Morales to Consider 2026 Run Amid Representation Decline
ORLANDO, Fla. — Former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales is receiving growing encouragement from Puerto Rican community leaders, activists, clergy members, and business leaders across Central Florida to enter a 2026 county or state race amid increasing concerns about declining Puerto Rican representation in Florida politics.
Morales, one of the few Puerto Rican women elected to the Florida Legislature from Central Florida, won both the 2020 Democratic Primary and General Election in Florida House District 48. She previously served as Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor after winning countywide elections in 2014 and 2018.
Before her legislative service, Morales also spent more than 24 years serving with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Johnna Lopez, former Orange County School Board member, former executive director of the Alianza Center, and candidate for Florida House District 43, joins Samuel Vilchez Santiago, a former 2020 candidate for Florida House District 48, in supporting newcomer Rita Harris in the Florida House District 44 race. (2022)
In 2022, Morales lost her reelection bid following legislative redistricting that divided her former House District 48 into the newly created House Districts 43 and 44. Democrat Rita Harris later won the Democratic Primary and secured reelection in 2024.
During the 2020 Democratic Primary cycle, Morales defeated Venezuelan asylum seeker and political newcomer Samuel Vilchez Santiago despite his support from mass political endorsements and campaign allies. Morales supporters frequently point to her grassroots voter outreach, campaign organization, and strong community network as key factors behind her victory.
The redistricting changes and subsequent election outcomes have sparked ongoing discussions within segments of Central Florida’s Puerto Rican community regarding the future of Puerto Rican representation at the county, state, and congressional levels heading into the 2026 election cycle.
Growing Debate Over Puerto Rican Representation
Community advocates say many Puerto Rican voters are increasingly concerned about the possibility of declining Puerto Rican representation in elected office despite the community’s continued population growth and political influence throughout Central Florida.
Several leaders argue Puerto Rican voters have played a major role in Democratic victories across Orange County and Florida over the last decade while remaining underrepresented in major elected positions.
The debate has intensified as some community members argue the redistricting of Morales’ former district created the potential for expanded Puerto Rican representation in the Legislature, while others believe establishment political support shifted toward non-Puerto Rican candidates.
Those concerns have fueled renewed calls for Morales to consider a return to elected office.
Morales Viewed as Experienced and Electable Candidate
Supporters describe Morales as one of the most experienced Democratic candidates potentially available for county or legislative office in 2026.
Her résumé includes:
- Florida State Representative for District 48
- Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor
- More than 24 years of federal government service
- Proven Democratic primary and general election victories
- Countywide campaign experience
- Strong grassroots organizing network
- Bipartisan legislative accomplishments
Political supporters believe Morales would immediately become a top-tier contender in potential races for Orange County Commission Districts 4 or 8, as well as possible Florida House contests in Districts 35, 43, 44, or 47.
Several Democratic activists also believe Morales’ established relationships with veterans organizations, faith leaders, and Hispanic communities would provide a strong political foundation if she decides to run.
Daisy Morales’ Facebook Page
Legislative Accomplishments and State Laws
Supporters also point to Morales’ legislative record in Tallahassee, where she sponsored and co-sponsored multiple bills that ultimately became Florida law.
Among the measures frequently highlighted by supporters are legislation expanding benefits and protections for veterans, military families, homeowners, students, consumers, and working families throughout Florida.
Morales sponsored and supported legislation involving:
- Property tax relief measures
- Veterans and military family protections
- Consumer protection reforms
- Education and workforce initiatives
- Public safety and community programs
- Small business and economic development efforts
Supporters often point to House Bill 13, legislation that increased Florida property tax exemptions from $500 to $5,000 for widows, widowers, blind individuals, and persons who are totally and permanently disabled. The measure became part of a broader tax package signed into law in 2022.
House Bill 45, sponsored by Morales, expanded educational opportunities for disabled veterans in Florida and later became recognized as a national model for supporting veterans pursuing higher education and workforce advancement.
Political allies also highlight Morales’ bipartisan approach in the Legislature, arguing she worked across party lines to advance legislation benefiting everyday Floridians rather than focusing solely on partisan politics.
During her time in office, Morales served on multiple legislative committees and advocated on behalf of veterans, seniors, Puerto Rican families, first responders, small businesses, and underserved communities across Central Florida.
Supporters argue her legislative accomplishments and understanding of the state budget process distinguish her from many first-time candidates expected to enter the 2026 election cycle.
Community Leaders Publicly Encouraging a Campaign
Puerto Rican civic leaders, pastors, business owners, and longtime Democratic organizers have increasingly urged Morales to return to public office.
Supporters say they are seeking experienced leadership capable of building broad coalitions while advocating for working families, economic opportunity, public education, affordable housing, and minority representation.
Some advocates argue Morales’ history of winning competitive elections and serving diverse communities gives her credibility with both grassroots voters and moderate Democrats throughout Central Florida.
2026 Qualifying Deadline Approaching
Florida’s official candidate qualifying period is scheduled from noon June 8 through noon June 12, 2026, ahead of the Aug. 18, 2026 Florida Primary Election.
As the qualifying deadline approaches, political observers expect additional announcements from candidates throughout Orange County and Central Florida, particularly in competitive Democratic primaries where voter turnout and demographic representation are expected to play significant roles.
While Morales has not formally announced plans to seek office, speculation surrounding her political future continues growing as supporters intensify calls for her return to the ballot in 2026.
Morales did not respond to Florida National News requests for comment prior to publication of this article.
Florida2 days agoFlorida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins Pushes “Warrior Leadership” Message in Race for Governor
Florida2 days agoPuerto Ricans Urge Former State Rep. Daisy Morales to Consider 2026 Run Amid Representation Decline
Central Florida News4 hours agoPuerto Rican Business Owner Tatiana Fernandez running for Orange County Commission District 8
Florida2 days agoFormer Florida Governor Charlie Crist Enters St. Petersburg Mayor’s Race
Florida2 hours agoFormer Air Force Colonel and Physician Rudolph Moise Seeks Florida Congressional Seat Vacated by Frederica Wilson
