Florida

Florida Lawmakers Condemn Politicization of University Presidential Appointments

Published

6 months ago

June 11, 2025

Florida Lawmakers Condemn Politicization of University Presidential Appointments

MIAMI, FLORIDA (FNN NEWS) — Three Florida state legislators have issued a joint statement condemning what they describe as the growing politicization of presidential appointments within the State University System of Florida.

THE ISSUE AT HAND

In a forceful message released on Monday, Representative Ashley V. Gantt (D-Miami), Representative Michele K. Rayner (D-St. Petersburg), and Representative LaVon Bracy Davis (D-Ocoee) voiced alarm over a pattern of politically motivated leadership appointments at several state universities, including Florida A&M University (FAMU), New College of Florida, Florida International University (FIU), and the University of Florida (UF).

“We are deeply disturbed by the troubling pattern emerging in the selection and appointment of university presidents across our state,” the legislators stated. “These critical leadership decisions appear to be driven more by political ideology than by a commitment to academic excellence, equity, and the long-term success of our institutions.”

SPECIFIC CONCERNS: FAMU & UF

The lawmakers pointed to the rejection of Santa Ono as a finalist for the presidency at UF, attributing the decision to his support for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives — a disqualifier they assert should be viewed as a leadership strength.

They also criticized the recent appointment of Marva Johnson as FAMU’s president, which, they claim, ignored student and alumni voices while prioritizing political alliances and boardroom deals. “There is no regard for student or alumni opinion,” the statement reads. “The focus centered on shutting student protests down rather than listening.”

The legislators drew parallels to the controversial appointment of Ben Sasse at UF, which they argue reflected a similar pattern of politically charged selections, undermining the university’s reputation and academic rigor.

A BROADER TREND OF POLITICAL OVERREACH

“This is not about individual personalities; it’s about the process,” the lawmakers declared. “A process that sidesteps meaningful engagement and leans into political expediency over shared governance is a betrayal of the trust our community places in its leadership.”

LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS FOR TRANSPARENCY

The joint statement also highlighted recent legislative efforts to reform the presidential selection process. The Florida House passed HB 1321, a bill introduced by Representative Michelle Salzman, aimed at enhancing transparency and requiring participation from students, faculty, and administration in presidential search committees. However, Governor Ron DeSantis opposed the bill, refusing to sign it into law and labeling it ‘treacherous.’

A CALL TO ACTION

The legislators emphasized that FAMU is more than a boardroom decision. “It is a cultural institution, a beacon of hope, and a sacred space for generations of Black excellence,” the statement read. “To handle its future with anything less than transparency and reverence is not only wrong — it’s dangerous.”

They concluded by reaffirming their commitment to advocate for accountability, transparency, and academic freedom throughout Florida’s higher education system.

“Our students deserve leadership chosen for their vision, experience, and dedication to education — not their political alignment,” the lawmakers declared. “Our future depends on it.”

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VISIT FLORIDA: Tourism Generates $133.6 Billion in 2024, Saves Households Nearly $2,000

Published

3 days ago

November 26, 2025

Willie David

- VISIT FLORIDA

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) — Florida’s tourism industry delivered record-breaking economic benefits in 2024, generating $133.6 billion in economic impact and saving the state’s more than 9 million households nearly $2,000 each in taxes, according to the 2024 Economic Impact of Tourism study released by VISIT FLORIDA.

Out-of-state visitors spent $134.9 billion in Florida last year, a 3.0% increase from 2023. U.S. travelers accounted for $120.1 billion of that total, while international visitors contributed $14.8 billion. The study also showed that for every dollar spent by visitors, 99 cents remained in Florida, boosting local businesses, wages, and public revenue.

Record-Breaking Tourism Growth

Florida welcomed 143 million visitors in 2024, marking the highest annual total in state history. Tourism accounted for 7.8% of Florida’s nominal Gross State Product, and the sector continued to be one of the strongest pillars of the state’s economy.

“Our tourism industry is critical to Florida’s strong economic position,” Governor Ron DeSantis said. “Florida remains the top destination for travelers from across the country and the world because we prioritize freedom and safety. Tourism fuels jobs and keeps Florida’s economy strong.”

Major Tax Revenue and Household Savings

Tourism-generated activity produced $33.6 billion in federal, state, and local taxes in 2024, a 3.3% increase over the previous year. Without this tax revenue, Florida households would have paid an additional $1,730 annually to maintain current state and local government services.

“Tourism drives Florida’s economy,” said Bryan Griffin, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. “This data demonstrates the value of Florida’s investment in tourism marketing. Florida’s 9.1 million households are saving nearly $2,000 a year because of the tax revenues generated by Florida tourism.”

Strong Workforce and Wage Growth

The tourism sector supported 1.8 million jobs in 2024, representing a 1.8% year-over-year increase. Tourism-related wages totaled $79.9 billion, including $44 billion in direct wages—a 4.6% increase from 2023. For every visitor dollar spent, 59 cents directly supported worker salaries, up from 2023 figures.

The report, produced by Rockport Analytics, applies a revised methodology that has been retroactively implemented for previous years. Year-over-year changes reflect these updated calculations.

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News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Florida

Governor Ron DeSantis Proposes New Measures to Protect Puppies and Crack Down on Abuse in Florida

Published

3 days ago

November 25, 2025

Willie David

LOXAHATCHEE, Fla. (FNN) — Governor Ron DeSantis on Tuesday announced a proposal aimed at strengthening protections for puppies in Florida and cracking down on abusive breeding operations. Working in partnership with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the state will develop standardized practices to ensure ethical breeding and humane treatment of dogs.

Regulating Dog Breeders and Eliminating Puppy Mills

Under the proposal, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation would be directed to license dog breeders and hold abusive operations accountable. The initiative targets puppy mills that mistreat animals by overbreeding them, keeping them in extreme weather, confining them in cramped cages, or restricting access to water.

“In Florida, we will always fight to protect man’s best friend,” DeSantis said. “The proposal we announced today will end unethical puppy mills, hold accountable abusive breeders, and help shelter dogs find loving homes.”

Strengthening Reporting and Expanding Adoption Access

The plan includes the creation of a statewide hotline for reporting breeder abuse, enabling faster action against violators.
Additionally, pet stores would be required to offer space to local shelters for dog adoptions before using those areas to sell animals from breeders. State officials say the step is essential as shelters across Florida face overcrowding and increasing euthanasia risks.

Enhanced Penalties and Recent Legislative Actions

The proposal also calls for the development of legislation to increase penalties for individuals who abuse or torture animals in the presence of a minor.

Earlier this year, Governor DeSantis signed Trooper’s Law and Dexter’s Law, both aimed at strengthening animal protection.
Trooper’s Law makes it a felony to abandon or restrain a dog during a state of emergency, following the case of Trooper, a dog rescued during Hurricane Milton.
Dexter’s Law, passed after the brutal killing of a recently adopted dog, creates a sentencing multiplier for those who torture, mutilate, or kill a dog. It also establishes a statewide database of individuals convicted of animal abuse to prevent shelters from allowing repeat offenders to adopt animals.

• Regulating Breeders and Ending Puppy Mills
• Improving Reporting and Adoption Opportunities
• Strengthening Penalties and Recent Animal Welfare Laws

Florida

Jacksonville Rolls Past Los Angeles 35-6 as Hines-Allen Sets Franchise Sack Record

Published

2 weeks ago

November 18, 2025

Mike Brodsky

Jacksonville Jaguars rolled past the Los Angeles Chargers 35-6 as Josh Hines-Allen set a new franchise record, sacking quarterback Justin Herbert for his 56th career sack to cap off a dominant win Sunday at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida. Photo by Arthur Morgan / Florida National News

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — The Jacksonville Jaguars (6–4) delivered a commanding 35–6 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers (7–4) Sunday at EverBank Stadium, marking their first meeting since Jacksonville’s historic 27-point comeback in the 2023 AFC Wild Card round.

Jacksonville Jaquard running back(#41) Bhayshul Tuten capped the Jaguars’ first scoring drive with a 4-yard rushing touchdown Photo by Arthur Morgan / Florida National News

Jaguars Take Control Early

Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker opened the scoring with a 41-yard field goal, but Jacksonville quickly answered. Running back Bhayshul Tuten capped the Jaguars’ first scoring drive with a 4-yard rushing touchdown, and kicker Cam Little added the PAT to give Jacksonville a 7–3 lead at the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, defensive end Josh Hines-Allen sacked Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert to set a new franchise record with 56 career sacks, breaking Tony Brackens’ longstanding mark. Dicker followed with a 46-yard field goal to pull the Chargers within one, but Jacksonville responded again—this time with a 2-yard touchdown run from Travis Etienne Jr., extending the lead to 14–6 heading into halftime.

Jacksonville Jagaurs Quarterback (#16) Trevor Lawrence celebrating after a run for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers. Photo by Arthur Morgan / Florida National News

Lawrence Extends the Lead After Halftime

Wide receiver Jakobi Meyers, making his first appearance at EverBank Stadium as a Jaguar, surpassed 5,000 career receiving yards early in the third quarter. Later in the drive, quarterback Trevor Lawrence powered into the end zone on a 1-yard keeper, and Little’s extra point pushed the lead to 21–6.

Jacksonville added another score early in the fourth when Lawrence connected with wide receiver Tim Patrick on a 1-yard touchdown pass. On the Chargers’ next drive, Herbert’s first throw was intercepted by safety Antonio Johnson, who returned the ball 44 yards to set up a short field for Jacksonville. Two plays later, Etienne broke free for a 13-yard touchdown to seal the 35–6 victory.

Standout Performances and Salute to Service Tribute

Lawrence finished the game with 153 passing yards, one passing touchdown and one rushing touchdown. Tuten led Jacksonville on the ground with 74 yards and a touchdown, while Meyers led all receivers with 64 yards. Attendance was announced at 58,461.

Photo by Arthur Morgan / Florida National News

Sunday’s matchup also marked the Jaguars’ 2025 Salute to Service game, part of the NFL’s 15-year initiative honoring military members, veterans and their families. Since its launch, the league has raised more than $75 million for organizations supporting the military community.

Jacksonville next travels to Arizona to face the Cardinals on Sunday, Nov. 23 at State Farm Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4:05 p.m. The Jaguars then face the Titans before returning home to host the Indianapolis Colts on Dec. 7.

For more coverage, visit www.FloridaNationalNews.com.