Politics
Former State Rep Tom Keen eyes Orlando City Commissioner Seat 1
Published
1 year agoon
By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Former State Representative Tom Keen officially announced his campaign for Orlando City Commissioner in District 1, recently filing his candidacy in downtown Orlando.
Keen, who won a closely watched Special Election in House District 35 last year, lost re-election to Republican Erika Booth in November. His campaign for City Commissioner marks a shift in focus toward the Orlando Municipal Election, set for November 2025.
The Florida Democratic House minority caucus recently took a significant hit when two Democratic lawmakers switched to the Republican Party, citing a desire to prioritize their constituents’ needs over what one lawmaker described as serving in a “Protest Party.”
“As Buddy Dyer caps an incredible legacy as Mayor, the City Council will undergo drastic changes with members retiring or pursuing new roles in the region,” Keen said. “I want to make it clear early on that I am dedicated to making life better for the constituents in District 1.”
Keen, who previously flipped State House District 35 from Republican to Democrat in a January 2024 special election, emphasized his longstanding commitment to public service.
“I began my career in public service by spending 21 years in the Navy and continued that service in the Florida Legislature. My mission has always been the same: serving my community. This new step allows me to continue that mission by representing the people of District 1 of Orlando as a City Commissioner.
“Our city is growing incredibly fast, and we need leaders who are focused on protecting working families across Orlando. I’m launching my campaign because I’ve seen our citizens be put on the back burner, and we have glaring issues that need to be addressed.
“I will be a vocal advocate for public safety and clearing traffic, as well as encouraging smart growth policies that put citizens first while prioritizing small businesses. I’m looking forward to beginning this campaign, talking to voters, and traveling across the district to earn their support.”
Keen also announced several key endorsements:
- State Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith
- State Senator Kristen Arrington
- State Representative Lavon Bracy Davis
- State Representative Leonard Spencer
- State Representative Jose Alvarez
- Orange-Osceola Public Defender Melissa Vickers
- Orange County Commissioner Kelly Semrad
- Ocoee City Commissioner George Oliver III
- Orange County School Board Member Stephanie Vanos
- Orange County School Board Member Maria Salamanca
- Orange County School Board Member Anne Douglas
- Miami-Dade County School Board Member Joe Geller
- Former US Senate Candidate Debbie Mucarsel Powell
- Former State Senator Victor Torres, Jr.
- Former State Representative Ricardo Rangel
- West Lakes Partnership Executive DirectorTimothy Ayers
The district is currently represented by Orlando City Commissioner Jim Gray, who has held the seat since 2012. The only other candidate currently filed for the District 1 race is Kevin Kendrick.
_________________________________________________________________________
J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
news@FloridaNationalNews.com
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Florida
Florida Legislative Black Caucus Urges Due Process Amid Calls to Impeach Judge Tiffany Baker-Carper
Published
1 week agoon
April 3, 2026TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) — The Florida Legislative Black Caucus says it is aware of recent calls for the impeachment of Tiffany Baker-Carper following the signing of Missy’s Law, according to a press statement released by the caucus.
The caucus acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns raised but emphasized that impeachment should remain a constitutional process rather than a political response.
“We recognize the gravity of these concerns and the importance of accountability in public service,” the statement said. “However, we must be equally clear: impeachment is a constitutional remedy, not a political reaction.”
Facts Before Force
The caucus stated that any consideration of impeachment must be grounded in verified evidence rather than speculation or political pressure.
“Impeachment must be based on verified evidence,” the statement said. “The integrity of our democratic institutions depends on a disciplined commitment to truth.”
Due Process and Fairness
Members of the caucus also stressed the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence.
“Every individual — regardless of position — is entitled to fairness, due process and the presumption of innocence,” the statement said. “Rushing to impeachment without a complete factual record undermines the very justice we seek to uphold.”
Transparency and Public Trust
The caucus said Floridians deserve transparency and clarity as the situation unfolds.
“Any actions taken must be conducted openly, with findings made available to the public to ensure confidence in the outcome,” the statement said.
The caucus urged lawmakers and stakeholders to avoid premature political escalation and instead follow a responsible process that balances accountability with justice.
The Florida Legislative Black Caucus said it will continue monitoring developments and advocate for a process that reflects the highest standards of governance.
Politics
Donald Trump Marks Policy Shift on Gender Identity, Education, and Federal Programs
Published
2 weeks agoon
March 31, 2026By
Willie DavidWASHINGTON (FNN) — The administration of Donald Trump announced a series of policy changes affecting federal positions on gender identity, education standards, health care funding, and military service. Officials say the actions are intended to redefine federal policy around biological sex and limit government involvement in gender-related medical and educational programs.
The policy changes follow criticism from Republicans of earlier initiatives introduced during the administration of Joe Biden that expanded federal recognition of transgender individuals in several areas of public policy.
Federal Policy Defines Sex as Male or Female
The Trump administration declared that the official policy of the federal government recognizes only two sexes — male and female — based on biological characteristics.
Administration officials say the policy affects federal documents, agency rules and programs across multiple departments. The move also ended the practice of gender self-identification on certain federal records, including passports, according to officials.
Supporters say the change restores clarity to federal policy, while critics argue it removes recognition for transgender Americans in official government documentation.
Funding and Health Care Policies Adjusted
Federal agencies were directed to halt funding, sponsorship or promotion of certain medical procedures related to gender transition for minors. Administration officials say the directive is intended to prevent what they describe as irreversible medical interventions involving children.
Following the policy shift, several major health systems announced reviews, suspensions or changes to pediatric gender-related medical programs. The administration also directed the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to review existing medical evidence surrounding gender-related care for minors.
Changes in Education, Sports, and Military Policies
The administration also ended federal support for gender identity and equity curricula in public education programs receiving federal funds, stating the move reinforces parental rights and state oversight of school content.
Additional directives address athletic competition and military service. The administration announced policies intended to ensure that women’s sports competitions are limited to biological female athletes and reinstated standards for military service based on biological sex through the United States Department of Defense.
Officials say the changes are intended to focus federal programs on what they describe as fairness, safety and readiness across government institutions.
Central Florida News
Christine Moore Earns Endorsements From Five Former Orange County Commissioners in Apopka Mayoral Race
Published
2 weeks agoon
March 30, 2026By
Willie DavidAPOPKA, Fla. (FNN) — Apopka mayoral candidate Christine Moore has secured endorsements from five former Orange County Board of County Commissioners members, strengthening her campaign ahead of the city’s April 14 runoff election.
Former county commissioners Rod Love, Dr. Robert Sindler, Victoria P. Siplin, Betsy VanderLey and Scott Boyd announced their support for Moore, citing her leadership, collaborative approach to governance and commitment to improving the quality of life for Apopka residents.
ENDORSEMENTS FROM FORMER COUNTY LEADERS
The five former commissioners said Moore’s record of leadership and community service makes her well-qualified to lead the city of Apopka.
Rod Love, a former Orange County commissioner from Apopka, said Moore understands the importance of supporting seniors, helping small businesses grow and creating safe environments for children.
“Commissioner Christine Moore understands that a strong Apopka means taking care of our seniors, supporting small businesses and investing in children,” Love said. “She brings the experience, compassion and leadership Apopka needs.”
FOCUS ON ENVIRONMENT AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Former Commissioner Dr. Robert Sindler praised Moore’s environmental leadership and her efforts to expand outdoor recreation opportunities in the region.
Sindler highlighted Moore’s commitment to completing local trail systems and using the West Orange Trail as a catalyst to help revitalize downtown Apopka. He also pointed to her work supporting conservation land purchases, expanding county parkland and advancing septic-to-sewer conversions to protect water quality and Florida’s Class I springs.
COLLABORATION ON COMMUNITY POLICY
Former Commissioner Victoria Siplin said Moore demonstrated strong leadership through collaboration when the two worked together on issues impacting the Pine Hills area.
Siplin noted their joint efforts to improve infrastructure and expand services for residents, as well as policy initiatives allowing faith-based organizations with larger land holdings to build affordable housing.
RECOGNITION FOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE
Former Commissioner Betsy VanderLey credited Moore with working diligently to secure funding and services for residents in her district.
VanderLey pointed to Moore’s role in advancing the $125 million septic-to-sewer infrastructure projects and described Moore as strategic and thoughtful in her governance approach.
Former Commissioner Scott Boyd added that Moore’s ability to listen to constituents and collaborate with colleagues stood out during their work on school zoning issues.
“Her collegiality and willingness to listen to all sides before making decisions impressed me,” Boyd said. “I recommend Christine Moore for mayor of Apopka.”
MOORE RESPONDS TO ENDORSEMENTS
Moore expressed appreciation for the support from the former county commissioners, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in public service.
“I am grateful for the support of these outstanding and accomplished county commissioners,” Moore said. “Serving collaboratively has resulted in much success for county residents. It takes collegiality, patience and persistence to make progress in our community. It was my honor to work alongside them.”
Moore’s campaign said the endorsements reflect growing momentum from community leaders, residents and advocates focused on preserving Apopka’s character while planning responsibly for the city’s future.
The Apopka mayoral runoff election is scheduled for April 14.
Moore made history as the first woman elected to represent District 2 on the Orange County Commission and previously served on the Orange County School Board. During her tenure in county government, she helped lead major infrastructure initiatives, including the $125 million Wekiwa Springs septic-to-sewer conversion project in Apopka.
Moore holds the Advanced Certified County Commissioner (ACCC) and Certified Board Member (CBM) designations and is a graduate of the University of Michigan.
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