ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales, a trailblazer for Puerto Rican representation in Florida politics, is celebrating her 65th birthday. Morales, once the highest-ranking Puerto Rican woman elected official in the state, continues to champion community empowerment, cultural preservation and public service across Central Florida.

A longtime advocate with deep roots in both federal service and local government, Morales remains a powerful voice for Puerto Rican culture and for underserved communities statewide.

A Legacy of Leadership in the Florida House

Morales represented District 48 in the Florida House of Representatives from 2020 to 2022. Her tenure was marked by a bipartisan governing style that delivered meaningful results for Floridians. Known for working across party lines, she gained praise for her legislative productivity and drew occasional pushback from within her own party for her independent approach.

Her legislative portfolio addressed consumer protection, disability rights, military families, education and financial relief for vulnerable residents.

Legislative Achievements That Made Statewide Impact

During her term, Morales led or supported several key measures that achieved tangible results for communities across Florida:

• HB 45 — Expanded educational opportunities for disabled veterans. The bill became a national model and inspired similar legislation in other states.

• HB 213 — Created the Down Syndrome Awareness specialty license plate to generate ongoing funding and awareness initiatives.

• HB 13 — Increased property tax exemptions for widows, widowers, blind residents and fully disabled individuals from $500 to $5,000, offering significant financial relief.

• HB 857 (amended into HB 1347/SB 1120) — Strengthened regulations on commercial telemarketing to protect consumers from predatory solicitation.

• HB 855 — Deregulated barber services and streamlined licensing, expanding opportunities for professional barbers statewide.

Morales was also recognized for attending the Governor’s Summit on Disabilities annually with The Family Café since 2014, reflecting her long-standing advocacy for individuals with disabilities.

Champion of Puerto Rican Culture and Heritage

A proud cultural advocate, Morales led the creation of House Resolution 8069, which designates April 2 as Puerto Rican Heritage Day in Florida. The initiative earned proclamations from Governor Ron DeSantis, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

Her work culminated in the founding of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit launched in 2023. The organization promotes Puerto Rican heritage through programs centered on education, workforce development, social impact, justice, culture and leadership.

Federal Service and Early Public Roles

Before entering state politics, Morales served 24 years in the U.S. Government, holding positions with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State.

Her elected career began in 2014 when she won a seat on the Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors, where she went on to serve as Interim Chair, Vice Chair and Media Relations Officer.

Her community-focused leadership and federal experience helped build the foundation for her later work in the Florida Legislature.

Overcoming Political Challenges and Looking Ahead

Despite her accomplishments, Morales faced internal party opposition due to her bipartisan approach, contributing to her primary defeats in 2022 and 2024. Still, her commitment to public service remains unwavering.

As she celebrates her 65th birthday, supporters, community leaders and constituents across Florida continue to share messages of gratitude and admiration for her decades-long dedication. Morales’ legacy as a Puerto Rican leader, federal official and community advocate continues to inspire future generations.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) — Representative Johanna López (D-Orlando) and Senator Mack Bernard (D-West Palm Beach) have filed House Bill 109 and Senate Bill 662 to prohibit the use of corporal punishment in Florida’s public schools. The legislation aims to modernize student discipline practices and ensure students statewide learn in safe, supportive environments.

Background: Corporal Punishment Still Used in Florida

Florida is one of 17 states that still allow corporal punishment in public schools, defined in state law as the “moderate use of physical force or physical contact” to enforce discipline. While the practice has declined nationwide due to research showing it is ineffective and potentially harmful, 19 Florida school districts continue to authorize it.

During the 2023–2024 school year, the Florida Department of Education recorded 516 incidents of corporal punishment. Data from 2018–2022 shows 84% of cases stemmed from minor or subjective behaviors—such as “inappropriate language” or classroom disruption—rather than violent or dangerous conduct. Many students were punished multiple times, reinforcing negative outcomes instead of improving behavior.

Disproportionate Impact on Students With Disabilities

Students with disabilities face corporal punishment at significantly higher rates. In the 2023–2024 school year, about 40% of reported cases involved students covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or the Rehabilitation Act, even though these students make up only 20–22% of their districts’ populations.

Decades of research link corporal punishment to lower academic achievement, higher absenteeism, increased dropout risk, and greater likelihood of mental health challenges. Studies also suggest that physical punishment can cause atypical brain functioning similar to the effects of more severe trauma.

Lawmakers Call for Modern, Evidence-Based Discipline

“As a former educator and as a mother, I know firsthand that violence has no place in our classrooms,” Rep. López said. “This bill is about protecting our children’s dignity, their safety, and their right to learn without fear. Corporal punishment is not discipline; it is harm. Florida’s students deserve evidence-based practices that help them thrive.”

Sen. Bernard echoed those concerns. “The use of corporal punishment is inconsistent with a school’s goal of promoting honesty, responsibility, and self-discipline. Studies show a significant relationship between corporal punishment as a child and future violent behavior. Violence begets violence,” he said.

HB 109 and SB 662 would repeal all statutory language in §§1002.20, 1003.32, 1006.07, and 1012.28, Florida Statutes, that authorizes corporal punishment in public schools. If passed, the ban would take effect July 1, 2026, aligning Florida with a growing number of states adopting bipartisan reforms to protect students, particularly those with disabilities.

BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) — According to the Tallahassee Democrat, calls for resignation or removal are intensifying against two members of Florida’s congressional delegation: Rep. Cory Mills, a Central Florida Republican, and Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a South Florida Democrat.

Mills faces domestic violence accusations and a restraining order issued against him. Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted earlier this month on charges alleging she stole $5 million from FEMA.

Both lawmakers deny wrongdoing and show no signs of stepping aside.

Their mounting legal and political troubles have accelerated conversations about new leadership, particularly in Florida’s 20th Congressional District.

One name gaining momentum is Dr. Rudolph “Rudy” Moise, a Miami physician, attorney, decorated U.S. Air Force colonel, former Haiti ambassador-at-large, business leader, humanitarian and prominent Democratic donor.

NBC Miami previously profiled Moise, highlighting his career and how he exemplifies the Haitian American dream.

Supporters across Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Orlando are urging him to enter the 2026 race, citing his extensive experience and longstanding service to Haitian American and Caribbean communities. In a recent phone call with Florida National News, Moise confirmed he has been approached by religious leaders, business leaders and grassroots organizers encouraging him to run.

WHO IS DR. RUDY MOISE?

Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Moise moved to the United States at age 17 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine. After arriving in Miami, he received a federal grant to complete his medical studies, which required him to serve in communities heavily populated by newly arrived Haitian refugees—areas lacking Creole-speaking physicians.

HEALTH CARE CAREER

Moise spent four years treating Haitian refugees at a Miami clinic before opening his own 800-square-foot medical practice in North Miami. That small office grew into a multi-location Comprehensive Health Center spanning more than 10,000 square feet.

He later earned both an MBA and a JD from the University of Miami. During the 1980s, he also served as an on-call surgeon for the hit television series Miami Vice. Today, Moise serves as Medical Director of Comprehensive Medical Aesthetics in Miami.

Source: Rudolph Moise’s Social Media Page

MILITARY SERVICE

After receiving his law degree, Moise volunteered for the U.S. Air Force Reserve, where he served for 21 years as a flight surgeon. He rose to the rank of colonel—the highest rank ever achieved by an American of Haitian descent at that time. In 2023, Moise received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joe Biden for his decades of service.

BUSINESS, MEDIA, AND COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP

Moise has invested in more than 20 businesses, including an ambulance company and a film production firm. In 2001, he founded Miami’s first full-time Creole-language radio station, Radio Carnivale (1020 AM). He also served as President of the University of Miami Alumni Association from 2003 to 2005 and sits on numerous boards supporting education, health equity, and Caribbean affairs.

POLITICAL INVOLVEMENT AND DIPLOMATIC SERVICE

Moise provided testimony before the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee amid Haiti’s crisis in 2003. In 2004, Gov. Jeb Bush appointed him to an advisory group supporting Haiti.

Moise previously ran for Congress in 2010 and 2012, investing $1 million of his own funds in his second bid. He is also recognized as a high-profile Democratic fundraiser, hosting major events at his Davie home for leaders including Reps. Frederica Wilson and Debbie Wasserman Schultz.

In 2014, Haitian President Michel Martelly appointed Moise as Ambassador-at-Large for Investment, elevating his role in international diplomacy and economic development.

HUMANITARIAN WORK

Moise has been deeply involved in humanitarian relief efforts across the Caribbean. He was on the ground in Haiti after the devastating 2010 earthquake, coordinating medical support and delivering emergency aid. In 2025, he joined a team of 20 volunteers in Jamaica for the Hurricane Melissa response, delivering 15,000 pounds of life-saving supplies.

POSSIBLE CONTENDERS AND CANDIDATES FOR FL-20

Alongside Moise, several other potential contenders are gaining attention for the 2026 race. According to FloridaPolitics.com, names under consideration include:

• Bobby Powell, Palm Beach County Commissioner

• Edwin Ferguson, Palm Beach County School Board Member

• Melissa McKinlay, former Palm Beach County Commissioner

• Keith James, Mayor of West Palm Beach

Declared candidates for the seat currently include:

• Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (Incumbent)

• Elijah Manley (D) — raised nearly $600,000

• Dale Holness (D) — former Broward County Commissioner and Mayor

Filed Republicans:

• Sendra Dorce

• Rod Joseph

• Gary Stein

As discussions intensify, Florida’s 20th Congressional District is poised for one of the most consequential and potentially historic races in 2026.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com