Florida

Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

Published

2 years ago

October 13, 2024

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared Perdue and Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida in Treasure Island to provide updates on Hurricane Milton response and recovery efforts.

First Lady Casey DeSantis also joined Governor DeSantis to visit a Hope Bus and Point of Distribution site at New College of Florida in Sarasota.

In Pinellas, Governor DeSantis announced several state initiatives to supplement local entities with debris removal efforts in storm-impacted areas.

Over 2,800 personnel from various state agencies, including FDOT, Florida State Guard, Florida National Guard, Florida Highway Patrol, and Urban Search & Rescue teams, have been deployed to assist in the cleanup.

Governor DeSantis directed FDOT to assist debris removal requests from fiscally constrained counties within the impact area, ensuring rural communities with limited resources can keep up with expedited debris removal efforts.

The Governor also reiterated that state regulations would be lifted to expedite debris removal:

FDEM is fast-tracking the permitting process for new debris management sites;
The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has temporarily suspended enforcement of mandatory driving hour requirements for truckers involved in emergency and cleanup operations; and
FDOT has also waived size and weight restrictions for vehicles conducting debris removal.

Governor DeSantis also instructed FDEM to issue an emergency order directing local entities to identify and expedite the creation of debris management sites and to operate around the clock for the first 90 days or until the cleanup is complete. In the emergency order, local entities are also required to daily report the amount of debris removed and engage with FDEM to file expedited project worksheets for FEMA reimbursements.

To provide the public with increased transparency in the debris removal process, the state of Florida will post the daily debris removal totals reported by each local government on a new website, the Debris Transparency Portal.

As of this 9 PM, approximately 496,792 Floridians are without power. The State of Florida has restored 3,574,391 accounts.

Federal Disaster Relief
Governor DeSantis announced that Florida secured approval of a major disaster declaration for Hurricane Milton from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The declaration includes Individual Assistance and Public Assistance (Categories A and B). Individual Assistance, which is assistance to residents and households, is available for Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia Counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. Public Assistance, which is available for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities, is available for Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia Counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance.

The State Assistance Information Line is now open and accepting calls 24/7 with English, Spanish and Haitian-Creole speakers available at 1-800-342-3557.

Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-215, amending EO 24-214 and declaring a state of emergency for 51 counties.

To learn more about navigating hurricane season, residents can visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide. For updates on county resources available visit FloridaDisaster.org/Counties for a list of all 67 county emergency management contacts.

State Response and Recovery Efforts

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1 since Tuesday, September 24, for Hurricane Helene, and is at a Level 1 for Hurricane Milton, leading coordination efforts for the State Emergency Response Team.
The State Emergency Response Team engaged in over 2,600 missions to assist counties in their preparations and immediate response for Hurricane Milton. These missions accomplish vital tasks like staging resources to deploy for immediate response, protecting critical infrastructure facilities like hospitals and utility stations, and coordinating personnel statewide.
Since landfall, nearly 1,800 individuals and 225 animals have been rescued by Urban Search and Rescue Teams and the Florida National Guard.
FDEM is coordinating the opening of Points of Distribution (PODs) in impacted areas. Over 20 PODs are open in impacted counties. To find locations and hours of operation, visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates.
FDEM has more than 870,000 gallons of diesel and nearly 500,000 gallons of emergency fuels on-hand, with 293,000 gallons of diesel and 398,000 gallons of gas deployed in the field supporting operations.
Public fuel distribution sites will be open tomorrow, Monday, October 14:
- New College of Florida – Heiser Natural Sciences Complex, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  500 College Dr
  Sarasota, FL 34243
- South Florida State College – Desoto Center, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  2251 NE Turner Ave
  Arcadia, FL 34266
- Charlotte Sports Park, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  2300 El Jobean Rd
  Port Charlotte, FL 33948
- Suncoast Technical College Northport, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  4445 Career Ln
  North Port, FL 34289
- St. Pete College Tarpon Springs, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  600 E Klosterman Rd
  Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
- East Bay Raceway, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  6311 Burts Rd
  Tampa, FL 33619
- Tom Bennett Park, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  280 Kay Rd.
  Bradenton, FL 34208
- Plant City Stadium, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  1810 S Park Rd.
  Plant City, FL 33563
- Central Lot – Parking Lot, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  800 1st Ave S.
  St. Petersburg, FL 33701
All open fuel sites: FloridaDisaster.org/Updates.
The State of Florida partnered with Lyft to provide residents in mandatory evacuation zones free rides returning home from local shelters.
Lyft has activated the Lyft Up Disaster Response Program to provide free and discounted rides to help those in affected areas travel to and from designated shelters with critical resources. Riders can use code MILTONRELIEF24 for two rides up to $25 to and from state-approved shelters.
Additionally, residents can find open shelters in their area by visiting FloridaDisaster.org/shelters.
The Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office’s US&R teams have successfully rescued 349 civilians, 47 pets and provided assistance to 164 others.
The Florida State Guard has completed over 267 rescues in the wake of Hurricane Milton. During the last 24 hours, in a joint operation between the Maritime, Aviation, and Crisis Response units, over 200 civilians were rescued after becoming stranded in their neighborhoods due to rising riverine flood waters in Pasco County. The Florida State Guard met with county officials regarding water levels of the Withlacoochee River and are prepared to continue evacuations and assist with any post-flood needs.
The Special Missions Unit deployed with search and rescue, K9, paramedic, and swift water rescue teams, assisting with route clearance and search and rescue, both on water and over land, in Pasco, Charlotte, and Volusia counties.
The Maritime Response Squadron deployed alongside FWC to assist in waterborne patrols, and search and rescue efforts in Charlotte, Pasco, Manatee, Hillsborough, and Sarasota counties.
The Aviation Response Squadron’s Blackhawk helicopters and UAS (drone) teams deployed to conduct aerial reconnaissance in Polk, Pasco, Sarasota, Flagler, Manatee, Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie, and Hillsborough counties.
The Crisis Response Battalion deployed to conduct hasty route clearance and high-water rescue missions in Pasco County.
The Florida National Guard (FLNG) has activated over 6,800 service members for Hurricane Milton response operations and is expected to grow to nearly 7,300 with EMACs from other states for Hurricane Milton preparedness operations.
FLNG is providing immediate response in affected areas with liaison officers, search and rescue, humanitarian assistance, route clearing, ground and air reconnaissance, protection of critical infrastructure, flood mitigation and high wheeled vehicle support with state and local officials.
FLNG has four rotary wing aircraft, approximately 500 high-wheeled tactical vehicles, including approximately 200 high-wheeled tactical vehicles and over a dozen boats prepared to provide search and response and damage assessment support post-storm.
Over 100 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers have rapidly deployed high-water vehicles and all other storm response resources to areas of Florida impacted by Hurricane Milton to assist Floridians in need.
In the 24-hour period following Hurricane Milton’s landfall, FWC officers rescued 645 individuals and performed 336 welfare checks. They also cleared trees, vessels, and debris from numerous roads, homes, and driveways.
FWC officers have responded by providing:
- 47 boats including airboats and shallow draft boats
- ATVs/Side-by-sides
- 132 high-water capable four-wheel drive vehicles
- 29 high-water capable swamp buggies and UTVs
- 3 SOG support trailers
- 4 aerial surveillance drones
- Self-sustainment equipment, including BERG container units, hygiene trailers, generators and mobile command posts
- Fuel trucks
- Skid Steers
In addition to search and rescue, FWC officers have conducted welfare checks alongside counterparts at the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.
38 strike teams embedded with local law enforcement in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Manatee, Charlotte, Lee, and Sarasota counties continue rescue and recovery efforts.
Officers also assisted with road clearing, including 17 road blockage removals, and conducted nine welfare checks.
FWC officers have conducted 216 welfare checks in Charlotte and Sarasota Counties.
Polk County FWC Officers are assisting Polk County Sheriff’s Office in conducting welfare checks by airboat in a flooded neighborhood in north Lakeland.
FWC Captive Wildlife Investigators are contacting captive wildlife facilities and conducting site visits storm impacted areas. There have been no reported escapes.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s (FDLE) mutual aid team is managing 53 active law enforcement missions with more than 90 completed. The missions include:
Security for fuel depots
Fuel and water escorts
Search and rescue
FDLE aviation assets are conducting overwatch missions for patrol officers
in impacted areas.
Nearly 600 law enforcement officers are assigned to missions related to Hurricane Milton.
The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ (FDVA) State Veterans’ Service Officers are available to take your call at (727) 319-7440 or via email at FDVA.VSO@FDVA.FL.GOV.
The VISN 8 Clinical Contact Center is operational 24/7/365 for virtual care and tele-emergency care to support Florida Veterans enrolled for VA Health Care. Call 1-877-741-3400.
All youth and staff in the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) facilities are accounted for and safe. DJJ continues to assess its facilities for damage and most facilities have had minimal storm impacts.Health and Human Services

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) deployed nearly 400 emergency response vehicles (e.g., ambulances, ambulance buses, paratransit vehicles) to support emergency evacuations and patient transport as needed.
DOH is supporting 13 special needs shelters, which are accepting clients, located in the following counties: Collier (1), Hillsborough (3), Manatee (1), Pasco (1), Pinellas (4), Polk (1), Sarasota (1), and Volusia (1).
DOH and the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) sent information regarding early prescription refills permitted under Executive Order 24-215. This information was sent to the public, health insurers, managed care organizations, pharmacy benefit managers, pharmacy chains and health care providers.
The State Surgeon General signed Emergency Order 24-003, which:
- Waives competitive procurement requirements in order to procure commodities, goods, and services expeditiously in response to the emergency.
- Permits emergency medical transportation services licensed in other U.S. states, territories, and/or districts to operate in Florida in response to the emergency.
- Permits paramedics, emergency medical technicians, and their medical directors licensed in other U.S. states, territories, or districts to practice in Florida in response to the emergency without penalty.
- Permits pharmacies and prescription department managers to operate in multiple or mobile locations.
There are 131 active Boil Water Notices as a result of Hurricane Milton. A comprehensive statewide list of notices for residents to access online can be found here:
- Charlotte (5), Citrus (5), Collier (1), Flagler (1), Hardee (1), Hernando (3), Highlands (3), Hillsborough (16), Lake (26), Lee (5), Levy (2), Manatee (2), Marion (15), Okeechobee (1), Orange (5), Osceola (3), Pasco (12), Pinellas (3), Polk (8), Putnam (2), Sarasota (1), Seminole (1), St. Lucie (1), Sumter (5), and Volusia (6).
There have been five (5) rescinded Boil Water Notice in the following counties:
Hillsborough (1), Putnam (2), Sarasota (1), St. Lucie (1).
The State Surgeon General signed Emergency Order 24-004, which:
- Permits paramedics, emergency medical technicians, and their medical directors, physicians and physician assistants, osteopathic physicians and physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, mental health counselors, clinical social workers and marriage and family therapists licensed in other U.S. states, territories, or districts to practice in Florida in response to the emergency without penalty.
- Waives telehealth registration requirements for physicians and physician assistants, osteopathic physicians and physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, mental health counselors, clinical social workers, and marriage and family therapists.
The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) has initiated an event in the Health Facility Reporting System (HFRS). Health care providers have been requested to provide information on census, available beds, evacuation status, accepting evacuees and generator needs from counties declared under EO-24-114. This information allows AHCA to assist health care providers in transferring patients if needed and ensure that health care providers in impacted areas have the necessary resources and adequate power.
- 249 health care facilities have reported evacuations. This includes:
- 24 adult family care homes
- 134 assisted living facilities
- 3 crisis stabilization and short term RFTs
- 4 hospices
- 12 hospitals
- 4 hospitals ED
- 4 intermediate care facilities for the developmentally disabled
- 41 nursing homes
- 4 residential treatment centers for children and adolescents
- 14 residential treatment facilities
- 5 Transitional living facilities
As of today, there are 345 health care facilities with loss of power across the state. This includes:
- 25 adult family care homes
- 228 assisted living facilities
- 7 crisis stabilization and short term RFTs
- 2 hospices
- 7 hospitals
- 5 hospitals ED
- 7 intermediate care facility for the developmentally disabled
- 41 nursing homes
- 3 residential treatment centers for children and adolescents
- 14 residential treatment facilities
- 6 Transitional living facilities
AHCA is conducting daily calls with the Florida Hospital Association and Florida Health Care Association.
The Agency has waived all prior authorization requirements for critical Medicaid services beginning October 7, 2024, until further notice.
Agency surveyors have completed 429 post storm assessment visits to ensure health care facilities in impacted areas are able to safely care for residents.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is working with Florida’s ports and fuel industry partners to ensure adequate fuel supplies are available, and with Florida’s agricultural partners so producers have adequate resources.
A total of 32 generators were deployed to commercial agricultural facilities to prevent disruption to food and agricultural critical infrastructure.
Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson has approved an emergency order temporarily suspending the intrastate movement requirements for the transportation of animals and livestock fleeing Hurricane Milton. In addition, the following states have waived their interstate import requirements for Florida pets, horses and livestock leaving the state: Alabama, Georgia (does not include livestock), Mississippi, and North Carolina.
Commissioner Wilton Simpson has issued an emergency order suspending requirements related to the distribution, delivery, storage, and sale of liquid fuels — such as gasoline and diesel — to assist with efforts to ensure adequate distribution and supply of fuel.
Commissioner Wilton Simpson has issued an emergency rule to aid the distribution of liquefied petroleum gas to disaster response and recovery operations.
Floridians are encouraged to call 1-800-HELP-FLA to report water-contaminated fuel issues to the department.
As of Oct. 13, inspectors completed preliminary inspections of 2,352 of an estimated 4,538 potentially impacted retail fuel stations. Of the 2,352 facilities, 1,432 are open and operating.
Agricultural partners can request critical assistance for livestock and animals in critical need, please complete this form and send it to DAIOPSAssessment@FDACS.gov, or call 863-993-5460.
Food safety inspectors are responding to impacted areas to conduct damage assessments and ensure the safe operation of over 36,000 potentially impacted food establishments.
As of Oct. 13, inspectors have completed 4,415 assessments of food establishments in impacted regions. 4,046 facilities are open for business.
UF/IFAS is studying the agricultural losses and damages resulting from Hurricane Helene. Producers can share information about impacts experienced at your farm, ranch, or aquaculture operation here.
The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) continues to contact all Area Agencies on Aging partners to receive updates. Post-storm call-downs to clients are ongoing and there are currently no unmet needs.
The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) continues its recovery efforts with post Hurricane wellness checks to clients, families, and Group Homes in affected areas verifying status and resolving immediate need requests. .
APD leadership teams have sourced and compiled sensory kits and delivered over 135 kits to families in need at Hope Florida distribution sites, group homes, and partners in counties affected by Hurricane Milton.
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is in the process of contacting all foster families, group homes, and providers to assess for unmet needs after the storm. So far DCF has contacted families and group homes serving over 20,900 individuals and over 9,900 providers in impacted areas to ensure all children and families served are safe and to determine needs.
Through Emergency wSupport Function 6 – Mass Care, DCF is supporting 8 shelters in impacted areas.
DCF has delivered and served over 144,000 meals, 124,000 bottles of water and other drinks, 4,400 snacks, and 1,000 boxes of food to 18 counties.
DCF is working with Mercy Chefs and Operation BBQ to serve hot meals throughout the Tampa Bay area and Manatee County.
The Hope Bus has been stationed in Charlotte, Lee, and Sarasota counties, and since the storm made landfall, we have served over 3,000 individuals. In addition, Hope Navigators have been deployed to Saint Lucie County to go into neighborhoods directly impacted by the storm and offered resources and support to over 700 individuals.
DCF has deployed Hope Navigators to support individuals and families in shelters.
Current SNAP recipients who lost food due to Hurricane Milton can apply for food replacement. To learn more, visit myflfamilies.com/milton
The Hope Line is available to assist those in need of resources or other assistance after the storm. It is now available 24/7 for the next two-plus weeks at 833-GET-HOPE.
Activate Hope has been deployed to help connect Floridians impacted by the storm with needed resources like food, supplies, home repairs, and more. Serving as the emergency response component of the Hope Florida initiative, Activate Hope connects the private sector, nonprofits, and government to help Floridians get back on their feet following a natural disaster. Fill out the form here to request help.

Infrastructure, Roads and State Closures

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has over 2,000 FDOT team members working directly on storm response.
FDOT established a field crew base camp in Seffner to be centrally located for emergency response and recovery efforts.
FDOT has shifted efforts towards debris pickup on state roads.
- Other state DOTs have sent crews to assist with debris pickup missions. Alabama DOT sent 18 team members and Tennessee DOT is sending 30 team members.
FDOT will perform debris pickup within fiscally constrained counties.
97% of traffic signals in the impacted area are operational. Crews have deployed over 400 generators statewide to temporarily restore power to locations that are non-operational.
FDOT continues to monitor water levels at low-lying bridges near major river crossings.
Cut and Toss Operations on state-owned facilities are complete, except for inaccessible areas or roadways with hazards. 486 crew members cleared over 12,000 miles of roadway.
FDOT completed bridge inspections on all accessible state-owned and locally-owned bridges. Over 150 Bridge Inspectors reviewed and cleared over 2,400 bridges across the impacted areas.
FDOT completed the removal of debris on barrier islands in Pinellas and Manatee Counties ahead of Hurricane Milton with the Florida National Guard, Florida State Guard, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Department of Agriculture, amongst others. In total, over 3,000 truckloads removed nearly 55,000 cubic yards of debris.
Tolls have been suspended on facilities in West Florida and Central Florida as well as Alligator Alley and 595 Express to help facilitate traffic flow as Floridians evacuate. Specific details and facilities can be found listed here.
FDOT has lifted weight restrictions and is allowing bypass of weigh stations for emergency response vehicles, including utility vehicles staging for rapid response.
FDOT has coordinated efforts with Georgia and Alabama to allow a bypass of weigh stations for emergency response and supply vehicles.
For current road and bridge closures and traffic conditions, please download the FL511 app or visit FL511.com.
Transportation Modes:
- Please check with your service providers directly regarding potential service impacts, such as flight schedules, passenger rail service, and transit schedules.
Seaports:
- Florida Seaports Fuel Supplies are being closely monitored and plans are in place for maintaining adequate supply levels across the state as we work to recover from the storm.
Airports:
- Commercial airports that remain closed: Sarasota/Bradenton International
Railroads:
- SunRail: Resuming service on October 14.
State-Owned Road & Bridge Closures (As of 2:30 p.m., 10/13/24)
State road & bridge closures listed below. For real-time updates, Check FL511.com.
*Please note some access may be restricted to residents only.
Flagler County
- Flooding on ramp from N State St to SR-100. All lanes closed.
Hillsborough County
- Flooding on Morris Bridge Rd Both Directions at High Meadow Ave. All lanes closed.
- Emergency Vehicles on SR-574 Both Directions from N Turkey Creek Rd to Sammonds Rd. All lanes closed.
Manatee County
- Flooding on Verna Bethany Rd Both Directions 0.48 Mi South of Sr-64 E. All lanes closed.
Orange County
- Flooding in Orange County on SR-436 / Semoran Blvd / Altamonte Dr North, at Line Dr. Right lane blocked.
- Flooding in Orange County on SR-436 / Semoran Blvd / Altamonte Dr South, at Line Dr. Right lane blocked.
Pinellas County
- Emergency vehicles on I-275 South, ramp to Mile Marker 13, Skyway North Rest Area. Off-ramp closed.
- Emergency vehicles on I-275 North, ramp to Mile Marker 13, Skyway North Rest Area. Off-ramp closed.
Seminole County
- Flooding on SR-426 Westbound near Wrights Rd.
Volusia County
- Flooding on I-4 West, before MM 129/US-92. On-ramp closed.
- Flooding on I-4 East, before MM 111/Saxon Blvd. Ramp closed.
- Major Road Damage on S Volusia Ave Southbound at Enterprise Rd. All lanes closed.
- Flooding on Saxon Blvd Eastbound near I-4 Westbound. All ramps closed.
- Flooding on SR-415 North, at Howland Blvd.
- Emergency road construction on SR-472 East, at N Kentucky Ave. Right lane blocked.
- Debris on Roadway on US Highway 17 Both Directions at Prevatt Rd.
- Flooding on US-92 East, at Beach St.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is actively working to provide any needed assistance to drinking water, wastewater and hazardous waste facilities. Outreach to these facilities to determine operational status is ongoing.
DEP’s online portal WaterTracker is live for drinking and wastewater facilities to report their operational status, and staff have begun outreach to facilities. DEP is working with Florida’s Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (FlaWARN), the Florida Rural Water Association and other response agencies to dispatch generators, fuel and pump trucks and other resources to assist drinking and wastewater facilities.
DEP has authorized 154 Disaster Debris Management Sites (DDMS) for Hurricane Helene and an additional 204 for Hurricane Milton. These sites are a critical component of expediting clean-up and reducing environmental and public health impacts post-storm. DEP is coordinating the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Landfill Strike Teams to assess DDMS operating as a result of these storms.
For counties and local governments in need of additional debris disposal locations, DEP has approved all pending DDMS site activation requests and DEP stands ready to approve the activation of any additional pre-authorized or new DDMSs that may be needed.
DEP’s Hazardous Area Response Teams, working in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard, are identifying oil spills and hazardous material releases in coastal and inland waterways.
Florida’s water management districts are actively engaging local governments and drainage operators throughout the state to support flood control efforts, including deploying temporary pumps to alleviate localized flooding.
- The St. Johns River Water Management has deployed two temporary pumps to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital.
- The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has deployed one temporary pump in Pasco County.
- The South Florida Water Management District has deployed two temporary pumps to the upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes to move more water south and provide relief to communities experiencing flooding.
DEP has activated the Tampa Bypass Canal System to help protect the cities of Temple Terrace and Tampa from river flooding. More than 4 million gallons a minute are being moved through this system. This action stops all or part of the flow of the Hillsborough River before it reaches the cities of Temple Terrace and Tampa and stores it in the Hillsborough Flood Detention Area. The stored water can then be safely moved down to McKay Bay using the Tampa Bypass Canal.
DEP is coordinating post-storm beach surveys to determine impacts to shorelines and erosion, as well as inspecting damage to beach projects in impacted counties along both coasts.
Beaches teams are performing assessments on the West Coast and will be utilizing aerial oblique videography (AOV) to conduct initial assessment of most impacted areas. On the East Coast, assessment teams are in place and have started initial assessments.
- So far, 97 windshield survey reports have been completed in Duval, Flagler, Nassau, St. Johns, Volusia and Indian River counties.
10 Florida State Parks strike teams have been assembled to assist with assessment and recovery efforts at impacted state parks. Five teams are on the ground today, and other teams and equipment will be deployed as conditions allow and needs are identified.
80 state parks have reopened following Hurricane Milton. DEP published a storm updates webpage to keep state park visitors updated of closures: FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates. Visitors with existing camping and cabin reservations at closed parks have been notified of their reservation status.
DEP’s Emergency Final Order removes barriers for expediting necessary repair, replacement and restoration of structures, including coastal structures, equipment, surface water management systems, works and other systems that may be damaged by the storm.
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) have deployed high-water rescue vehicles to areas impacted by Hurricane Milton.
FHP Unmanned Aerial Systems Teams are conducting surveys of bridges and hospitals for damage.
83 FHP QRF Members mobilized from Camp Blanding to the southwest Florida area to assist with road clearing and emergency relief efforts.
FHP is escorting fuel trucks to areas critically low on fuel.
FHP is escorting utility vehicles to expedite power and water restoration efforts.
FHP is conducting traffic control and site security at Hope Florida distribution sites in Lee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Pinellas and Hillsborough.
FHP is conducting traffic control at Port Tampa Bay to ensure fuel trucks reach their destination without delay.
FHP is providing security at fueling locations including public fuel sites in Bradenton, St. Petersburg, and Plant City.
FHP’s fleet of 13 skid steers is deployed in affected areas to clear debris, open roadways, and restore order.
FHP has deployed chainsaw cut teams to remove fallen trees from residences.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) will deploy Florida Licensing on Wheels (FLOW) mobiles to Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties to provide mobile driver license and vehicle registration services to those impacted by the storm.
The Florida Department of Education (DOE) is in contact with all school districts following Hurricane Milton and the Department is working with FDEM to address critical needs. Of the 50 traditional school districts that closed for Hurricane Milton, the Department expects at least 40 school districts will be open on Monday, October 14. For more information on school district, state college and university reopenings, visit https://www.fldoe.org/storminfo.
The State University System of Florida has been in communication with universities in all impacted areas. At least 9 out of the 12 universities within the State University System of Florida will be open Monday. For the latest information about the operational status of universities, please visit https://www.fldoe.org/storminfo.
The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) reported that all staff and inmates in the path of Hurricane Milton have been accounted for. Updates will be made available to the public at www.fdc.myflorida.com/weather-updates.

Resources for Employees, Businesses and Consumers

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is coordinating state agency participation at 17 Multi-Agency Resource Centers across the state.
DBPR’s Division of Regulation teams have performed sweeps to identify and combat unlicensed activity across Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie and Sarasota Counties.
DBPR’s Division of Hotels and Restaurants has shared emergency reopening guidance with 137,000 restaurants and lodging licensees across the state to ensure they are operating safely following the storm.
DBPR filed Emergency Order 2024-10 to streamline response and remove barriers to recovery efforts for Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In part, the order allows businesses or persons engaging in mold remediation to remove water damaged materials from hurricane related water damaged properties without licensure as a mold remediator.
DBPR’s Emergency Order 2024-08, issued at the direction of Governor DeSantis in response to Hurricane Helene, in part allows food service businesses to operate temporary food kitchens. The order also applies to businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton, and DBPR has encouraged impacted food service businesses to take advantage of this option as the Department works to help them re-open as soon as possible. Food service operators can register their temporary kitchens here.
The Florida Disaster Contractors Network has been activated to connect homeowners with licensed contractors and suppliers to perform emergency repairs. DBPR encourages Florida’s licensed contractors who provide post-storm construction-related services to register with its Florida Disaster Contractors Network at DCNOnline.org.
Volunteer Florida partner resources:
Disaster Legal Hotline is open to assist and refer callers: 833-514-2940
2-1-1 is open and ready to receive calls.
Red Cross Hotline is open to assist: 1-800-Red Cross
Crisis Cleanup number: 844-965-1386
Volunteer opportunities promoted through Volunteer Connect
New email for hurricane-related inquiries: hurricane@volunteerflorida.org.
FloridaCommerce is communicating and coordinating with more than 200 private sector partners across the state.
Governor Ron DeSantis activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $50 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton. Florida small business owners in need of assistance, including sole proprietors, are encouraged to visit www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. The program provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury or physical damage due to Hurricane Milton. Interested applicants can apply now through December 4, 2024, or until all available funds are expended.
In record time, FloridaCommerce has approved more than $1.6 million in funding through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program for small businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton. To date, 41 businesses have been approved to receive these funds to bridge the gap while they wait on other funding, such as insurance, with more applications being approved daily. FloridaCommerce has approved more than $10 million to 244 small businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.
FloridaCommerce and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Milton. Business owners can self-report physical and economic damage caused by Hurricane Milton. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite Hurricane Milton recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of impacted businesses. Businesses can complete the survey online by visiting FloridaDisaster.biz and selecting “Hurricane Milton” from the dropdown menu. More than 1,100 Business Damage Assessment Surveys have been completed.
FloridaCommerce deployed 45 agency employees into communities across the state providing outreach and support to individuals and businesses, including four small business canvassing strike teams in North Florida, Central Florida and South Florida, and other teams joining the Hope Florida buses and DBPR, DJJ, and APD in Charlotte County, Hillsborough County, Lee County, Manatee County Pinellas County and Sarasota County.
Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) has disaster relief resources and information for Floridians in need of housing options and other housing related support. For more information click here. FHFC has also activated FloridaHousingSearch.org to assist hurricane-impacted Floridians in locating an affordable rental property. This free, statewide search platform is being constantly updated to ensure all listings are accurate. Floridians can also call 1-877-428-8844.
FloridaCommerce continues to work with the Florida Chamber, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association and other private sector partners to consistently updates business open/close status at FloridaDisaster.biz. FloridaCommerce staff have made more than 1,000 calls to rural and small businesses to help with this effort.
FloridaCommerce is working with private sector banking partners to ensure that evacuees have access to banks and are able to withdraw cash.
FloridaCommerce activated the Private Sector Hotline at (850) 815-4925, open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Inquiries may also be emailed to ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
Briefings will be provided by Emergency Support Functions and private sector partners. For call information email ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
FloridaCommerce and CareerSource Florida is hosting daily calls with the
21 Local Workforce Development Boards and 38 Community Action Agencies across the state to assist employees and employers after the weather event.
FloridaCommerce has worked with Walmart, City Furniture, Citrus Springs Industrial Holdings, FloridaMakes, Amazon and TECO to successfully identify and secure sites for debris disposal and additional shelters for evacuees.
Wawa will be distributing ice and bottled water at various store locations in impacted areas. For more information click here.
Wawa stores in Florida provide free coffee and fountain beverages to all first responders, including the National Guard in Florida in appreciation for all they are doing to support and serve our communities during hurricane response and recovery efforts.
Wawa has donated $500,000 to the Florida Disaster Fund to support the state of Florida’s private fund established to provide financial assistance to communities as they respond to and recover from times of emergency or disaster.
The Wawa Community Coffee Truck has been deployed to Sarasota County and is distributing free coffee, water and ice to impacted Floridians.
Walmart has donated $5,000 in gift cards to HOPE FLORIDA for cleaning supplies, toiletries and water to assist with post-storm deployment in impacted areas.
Comcast has opened more than 261,000 public Xfinity WiFi hotspots in areas it serves across the state. The free and public hotspots are open for anyone to use, including non-Xfinity customers. For more information visit Finder.wifi.xfinity.com. Comcast is also positioning crews and equipment to immediately respond after the storm, should there be any service interruptions for Comcast Business or Xfinity customers.
Tesla has available charging stations for those evacuating with electric vehicles available at Tesla.com/findus. The live status and availability of superchargers can also be found in the Tesla app.
SpaceX has delivered another 400 Starlink kits to the state of Florida to support Hurricane Milton.
SpaceX has worked with T-Mobile to active Direct to Cell satellites to provide emergency alerts for all cell phones and carriers in affected areas. SpaceX and T-Mobile have enabled basic texting (SMS) via satellite for T-Mobile users in hurricane affected areas.
The AT&T Weather Operations Center has a team of degreed meteorologists delivering business-specific weather intelligence, analytics, and forecasts. The FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG) – led by a dedicated team of former first responders – is working around the clock to support public safety’s emergency communications and has liaisons engaged with local and federal agencies.
Spectrum announced it will help residents stay connected by offering free, unlimited access to Spectrum Wi-Fi access points in Florida. A map of locations can be viewed at Spectrum Out-of-Home WiFi Map: Get WiFi Access Anywhere.
VISIT FLORIDA Emergency Accommodation Modules on Expedia and Priceline are available to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
Rosen Hotels & Resorts activated its Florida Resident Distress Rates for those in the 51 counties declared as under a state of emergency by Governor Ron DeSantis.
Scenic Stays Vacation Rentals in Northwest Florida has a 35% discount with promotion code MILTON. Go to myscenicstays.com or call 850-407-2244 to book.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has extended special offers for Evacuees and First Responders in need of accommodations in the event of an evacuation. Please see the linked pages below for more information.
- EVACUEES Good for stays through October 31. Book by October 29
- FIRST RESPONDERS Good for stays through December 31. Book by December 29
The Florida SBDC Network is coordinating with regional offices and stakeholders to better understand impacts to small businesses and share information about state resources.
The Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) offers online resources to Floridians who may need help finding information about their financial services provider(s), including state-chartered banks and credit unions, mortgage servicers, and other financial businesses and professionals.
OIR, in coordination with the Florida Department of Health (DOH), sent information regarding early prescription refills permitted under Executive Order 24-215. This information was sent to the public, health insurers, managed care organizations, pharmacy benefit managers, pharmacy chains, and health care providers. Information can be found here.
The Department of Revenue (DOR) has the following update: Florida law allows exporters, petroleum carriers, and importers to request a temporary fuel tax license during a disaster or declared state of emergency. Out-of-state applicants are not required to submit a fee, secure bonding, or undergo a background check if they apply for and receive a temporary fuel tax license. Visit the Florida Fuel Tax webpage for more information on Florida’s temporary fuel tax licensing program: https://floridarevenue.com/taxes/taxesfees/Pages/fuel.aspx
The Florida Department of Management Services (DMS) has deployed 203 Starlinks for Hurricane Milton.
The Florida Department of State (DOS) Division of Elections has been reaching out to Supervisors to assess their needs post storm. The Division is prepared to coordinate communications between county Supervisors of Elections and appropriate disaster agencies, if needed. We have also reached out to United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding concerns about elections information and vote-by-mail ballots during this time. The Florida Department of State will continue to follow up with Supervisors throughout this time as their needs evolve.

For previous updates see below:
10/6/2024 (1)
10/6/2024 (2)
10/7/2024 (1)
10/7/2024 (2)
10/8/2024 (1)
10/8/2024 (2)
10/9/2024 (1)
10/9/2024 (2)
10/10/2024 (1)
10/10/2024 (2)
10/11/2024 (1)
10/11/2024 (2)
10/12/2024 (1)
10/12/2024 (2)
10/13/2024 (1)

Follow FDEM on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Hurricane Milton

Florida

Civil Rights Group Honors Nobel Peace Prize Winner Navi Pillay, Highlights Florida’s Trayvon Martin Connection

Published

2 days ago

October 13, 2026

FNN NEWS

FCRA representatives address reporters beside a “Justice for Trayvon” sign outside Florida’s regional offices in Orlando.

The Florida Civil Rights Association (FCRA) held a press conference outside the State of Florida’s regional offices in Orlando in 2012, calling on then-Gov. Rick Scott to take action following Trayvon Martin’s killing. Photo by FCRA

The Orlando-based civil rights association recalls supporting the former U.N. human rights chief’s 2012 call for an investigation into the teenager’s killing in Sanford.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Florida Civil Rights Association is congratulating 2026 Nobel Peace Prize winner Navanethem “Navi” Pillay, recalling her call for an investigation into Trayvon Martin’s killing and the international attention it brought to questions of racial equality and justice in Florida.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced Pillay’s selection Oct. 9 for her efforts to promote peace and international law. The South African jurist served as United Nations high commissioner for human rights from 2008 to 2014 and helped shape landmark international court decisions.

In a press release, FCRA President J. Willie David III said Pillay’s intervention connected a Florida family’s demand for answers to a broader concern for human rights.

“Pillay’s call for an investigation reinforced that a family’s demand for justice in Sanford mattered beyond Florida and the United States,” David said.
“We welcomed her intervention in 2012 because families deserve answers and the law must protect everyone equally.”

UN Human Rights Commissioner Navi Pillay (Photo credit: UN Photo/Jean-Marc Ferre)

FCRA recalls its response in 2012

Martin, an unarmed Black 17-year-old, was fatally shot by neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman on Feb. 26, 2012, in Sanford, northeast of Orlando.

In April 2012, Pillay called for an immediate investigation into the killing as the case drew international attention and scrutiny of Florida’s Stand Your Ground law.

FCRA welcomed that call. The association’s current release cites an April 7, 2012, West Orlando News report that quoted David discussing the case’s global impact.

“The shooting death of Trayvon Martin and Florida’s Stand Your Ground Law have created a worldwide movement that calls into question how justice is delivered to victims of color,” David said at the time, according to the release.

FCRA describes the activism surrounding Martin’s death as a defining moment that galvanized a new generation of civil rights advocates.

Zimmerman was charged with second-degree murder and acquitted in July 2013. In February 2015, the U.S. Justice Department closed its separate investigation, finding insufficient evidence to pursue federal criminal civil rights charges.

Why Florida’s case drew global scrutiny

The Florida connection shows how the handling of a local killing can draw international scrutiny over racial discrimination, access to justice and the protection of human rights.

Pillay’s intervention brought those concerns into the international discussion surrounding Martin’s death. In September 2013, U.N. human rights experts also urged the United States to complete its civil rights investigation and examine concerns about racial profiling.

The significance lies in human rights oversight: how public institutions investigate deaths and provide equal treatment can attract attention beyond national borders. Pillay’s call was an appeal for investigation, rather than an international court judgment about Zimmerman’s guilt or Florida’s compliance with international law.

For FCRA, that connection remains relevant to how Florida leaders evaluate laws and practices affecting the communities they serve.

Pillay’s record in international justice

Pillay challenged discrimination under apartheid before serving on South Africa’s High Court, the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the International Criminal Court.

At the Rwanda tribunal, she was part of the judicial panel that established that rape and sexual violence can constitute acts of genocide, a landmark development in international criminal law.

David said honoring that career should also encourage accountability at home.

“Her Nobel Peace Prize recognizes a career built on confronting injustice through the rule of law,” he said. “Honoring that work means demanding transparent investigations and equal protection here at home. Rights belong to everyone.”

A renewed call for fairness in Florida

FCRA urged Florida leaders to safeguard impartial investigations, examine whether Stand Your Ground and other laws are applied fairly, and address policies or practices that produce discriminatory outcomes.

Founded in 2005, the association advocates for civil rights, human rights and civil liberties through education, advocacy and accountability. Its statement links Pillay’s international recognition to a continuing demand for fairness and human dignity in Florida.

Florida

Florida Governor Candidates: Donalds Spent Longer as a Democrat; Jolly Reports Longer Republican History

Published

5 days ago

October 11, 2026

FNN NEWS

Byron Donalds, left, and David Jolly, right, pictured in separate portraits with American flags behind them.

Party changes and congressional votes offer a closer look at both candidates’ records on issues affecting Black Americans.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Republican Byron Donalds spent nearly seven years as a registered Democrat—longer than Democrat David Jolly’s approximately 18 months in the party. Jolly, however, reports having spent 25 years as a Republican, exceeding Donalds’ approximately 16½ years.

The two major-party candidates for Florida governor have political histories that cross party lines. Their congressional votes offer another basis for scrutiny: Jolly supported repealing the Affordable Care Act, while Donalds opposed major voting-rights and police-accountability proposals. Both also supported other legislation relevant to Black communities.

Why This Article Matters to Voters

Voters can examine previous decisions in public office alongside campaign promises. Party affiliation identifies a political association; legislative records show how candidates acted on specific proposals.

The measures examined here concern health insurance, employment opportunities, voting discrimination, police accountability and racial violence. These issues affect African Americans and the wider electorate, making the candidates’ records relevant to voters deciding who should lead Florida.

Who Spent Longer in Each Party?

Donalds was registered as a Democrat in Collier County from April 2003 until March 2010, according to Florida Politics. He then became a Republican. Jolly left the Republican Party in September 2018, became an unaffiliated voter and registered as a Democrat in April 2025.

Candidate	Time as a Democrat	Time as a Republican
Byron Donalds	Approximately 6 years, 11 months, April 2003–March 2010	Approximately 16 years, 7 months, March 2010–October 2026
David Jolly	Approximately 1 year, 6 months, April 2025–October 2026	25 years, according to his account, before leaving in September 2018

Durations are approximate as of Oct. 11, 2026. Jolly’s 25-year Republican history was reported by WUSF; his original Republican registration date was not independently verified for this comparison.

Donalds’ documented Democratic registration exceeds Jolly’s by approximately five years and five months. Jolly’s stated Republican history exceeds Donalds’ by approximately eight years.

Jolly’s Defeat, Party Change and Return to Electoral Politics

Jolly lost his 2016 congressional reelection bid as a Republican to Democrat Charlie Crist in Florida’s 13th Congressional District. Published election results show Crist received 184,693 votes to Jolly’s 171,149, winning by 13,544 votes.

Crist, a former Republican governor, had already moved from Republican to independent to Democrat. Jolly later followed the same sequence, although that does not establish identical motivations. Reporting republished on Jolly’s campaign website described his departure from the Republican Party as a response to its direction under Donald Trump.

Jolly declined to endorse Trump in 2016, according to Sunshine State News. PolitiFact subsequently found that a Democratic campaign advertisement portraying Jolly as a Trump ally was inaccurate.

After considering but declining another congressional run in 2018, as reported by Roll Call, Jolly returned to electoral politics with his governor campaign. He registered as a Democrat in April 2025, roughly six weeks before announcing his candidacy June 5—more than a year before the 2026 election.

Different Congressional Terms, Relevant Policy Questions

Official congressional biographies show that Jolly served in Congress from March 2014 through Jan. 3, 2017, during President Barack Obama’s administration. His service ended before Trump’s first inauguration. Donalds entered Congress in January 2021 after serving in the Florida House from 2016 through 2020.

Their congressional terms did not overlap, so this comparison examines different bills rather than votes they cast together.

Both served as Republicans during the votes examined below. Their subsequent or previous party affiliations do not change those legislative records.

Jolly Supported ACA Repeal and Workforce Training

Official U.S. House Clerk records show that Jolly voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act on Feb. 3, 2015. The proposal did not become law, but his vote supported removing a framework that expanded health insurance access for African Americans.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the uninsured rate among nonelderly Black Americans fell from 20.9% in 2010 to 10.8% in 2022 following implementation of the ACA’s coverage provisions. Those gains make health coverage relevant to examining repeal proposals, without establishing that Jolly’s unsuccessful repeal vote caused anyone to lose insurance.

House Clerk records also show that Jolly supported the final House agreement to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act on July 9, 2014. The legislation supported training and employment services for people facing employment barriers, including eligible Black workers and young people. Its programs serve people across racial groups, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Donalds Opposed Voting-Rights and Policing Bills, Backed Antilynching Measure

House Clerk records show that Donalds voted against the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act on Aug. 24, 2021. The proposal sought stronger federal safeguards against racial discrimination in voting, including renewed requirements for certain jurisdictions to obtain approval before changing election practices.

On March 3, 2021, Donalds voted against the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. The congressional bill summary describes proposed protections against racial profiling and changes to police accountability.

In a statement published by his congressional office, Donalds defended his opposition by arguing that the measure would defund and dismantle policing. That was his characterization of the proposal, whose provisions included measures addressing racial profiling and constitutional violations by law enforcement.

Donalds voted for the Emmett Till Antilynching Act on Feb. 28, 2022, according to House Clerk records, supporting federal legislation addressing lynching through hate-crime law—a measure with particular historical significance for African Americans.

What Voters Can Assess

These selected votes document Jolly’s support for ACA repeal and workforce opportunities, and Donalds’ opposition to major voting-rights and policing proposals alongside support for antilynching legislation.

They do not establish discriminatory intent or determine whose entire record benefited African Americans more. That would require a broader review of policies and measurable outcomes, including Donalds’ Florida legislative record.

Donalds spent longer as a documented registered Democrat, while Jolly reports a longer Republican history. Both cast the congressional votes examined here as Republicans.

Either Major-Party Candidate Would Bring a Republican History

If either of the two major-party candidates wins, Florida’s next governor will bring a substantial Republican history to office—Donalds as a current Republican and Jolly as a former Republican congressman now running as a Democrat. Voters can weigh those histories alongside their legislative records, current positions and plans for Florida.

Florida

FNN PERSPECTIVE | Byron Donalds Visits ONYX Gala in Orlando: Could Orange County Help Him Win Florida’s Governor’s Race?

Published

1 week ago

October 8, 2026

FNN NEWS

ONYX Magazine CEO and Publisher Rich Black, left, with U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds at the Men of Honor Awards in Orlando.

ONYX Magazine CEO and Publisher Rich Black, left, and U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, the Republican nominee for Florida governor, at ONYX Magazine’s Men of Honor Awards in Orlando on Oct. 3, 2026. Photo courtesy of ONYX Magazine’s Facebook page.

Democratic crossover endorsements provide context. Orange County’s vote margin could help shape the contest between Donalds and David Jolly.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Republican gubernatorial nominee Byron Donalds’ appearance at ONYX Magazine’s Men of Honor Gala in Orlando raises a broader electoral question: Could crossover support in Democratic-leaning Orange County help him reach the governor’s mansion?

Source: ONYX Magazine Facebook Page

Donalds and Democratic opponent David Jolly attended the Oct. 3 celebration at the Rosen Centre Hotel, according to Hoodline reporting citing the Orlando Sentinel. The gathering brought together elected officials, business executives, educators and community leaders to recognize leadership, achievement and service. Source: Hoodline

Organizers emphasized that the candidates’ attendance did not constitute an endorsement. Among the honorees was Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, selected for a lifetime achievement award. Source: Jacksonville Free Press

Orange County, home to Orlando, provides a setting for examining both candidates’ electoral prospects. Its history includes prominent Democrats backing Republicans, while its Democratic vote margins illustrate how the county can contribute to the statewide outcome.

Republican gubernatorial nominee Byron Donalds, left, and Gainesville City Commissioner Cynthia Moore Chestnut, a longtime Democrat who endorsed Donalds for governor.

Donalds Has Secured a Democratic Crossover Endorsement

Gainesville City Commissioner Cynthia Moore Chestnut, a registered Democrat, endorsed Donalds over Jolly in September, according to WCJB. She cited Black representation, dissatisfaction with the Democratic ticket and support for historically Black colleges and universities, while acknowledging disagreements with some of Donalds’ policies. Source: WCJB

Chestnut subsequently introduced Donalds at a University of Florida town hall, emphasizing access to his office and fair consideration of Gainesville’s needs. Source: WCJB

Her endorsement raises a question about whether other Democrats, including those with conservative or moderate views, might support Donalds. However, her stated reasons do not establish a broader ideological shift. Dissatisfaction with party leadership or progressive positions does not automatically translate into Republican votes.

Source: Winter Park Voice

Orange County Democrats Have Backed Republicans Before

Democratic Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer endorsed Republican state Rep. Mike Miller against Democrat Beth Tuura in the 2016 Florida House District 47 election — a partisan legislative contest. Source: Florida Politics

In the nonpartisan 2024 Orange County Commission District 5 race, Dyer endorsed Republican former Winter Park Mayor Steve Leary. Winter Park Voice also identified former Democratic state Sen. Gary Siplin, former Orange County Commissioner Victoria Siplin and Winter Park Commissioner Craig Russell as Democratic supporters of Leary. Source: Winter Park Voice

Dyer’s Orlando PAC contributed $4,000 to Neighbors for a Sensible Orange County, the political committee chaired by Leary, according to Winter Park Voice’s reporting on campaign finance filings. The committee also promoted Leary alongside Democratic candidates. This was financial support between political committees, rather than a personal donation by Dyer or a direct contribution to Leary’s candidate account. Source: Winter Park Voice

Former Orange County Chair Linda Chapin encouraged Democrats to support Republican Teresa Jacobs’ 2014 reelection campaign for county mayor while Democrat Val Demings was challenging her. Source: Orlando Weekly

Dyer and Orlando Commissioner Tony Ortiz also endorsed Republican Commissioner Jim Gray in the 2025 Orlando election. Ortiz had switched from Republican to Democrat earlier that year. Source: Orlando Weekly

These examples document individual cross-party support across different elections. They do not establish that those leaders endorse Donalds.

“The largest Puerto Rican population in Florida” has not been verified. “A large Puerto Rican community” preserves the context without asserting an unsupported ranking.

Then-state Rep. Daisy Morales, D-Orlando, sits at her district office in Orange County, Florida. Morales represented House District 48 from 2020 to 2022 and sponsored or co-sponsored more than 110 bipartisan bills that became law.

Montilla and Morales: Participation, Endorsements and Party Enforcement

Republican attorney Joel Antonio Montilla’s 2024 Orange County Commission campaign provides additional context about political participation and disputes over party loyalty.

Former Democratic state Rep. Daisy Morales participated on Montilla’s non-partisan campaign-launch host committee for Orange County Commissioner. Montilla separately confirmed to Florida Politics that Morales did not endorse his candidacy. Source: Florida Politics

Morales brings a record of electoral success in Orange County. In 2018, she won countywide reelection to the Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District board with 256,342 votes. In 2020, she defeated four opponents in the Democratic primary, including Samuel Vilchez Santiago, before defeating Republican Jesus Martinez in the general election to win Florida House District 48, a majority-Hispanic district with a large Puerto Rican community. Official general-election results show she received 47,341 votes, or 65.3%.

Morales alleges that Orange County’s Democratic establishment, including Vilchez Santiago, her 2026 House District 43 primary opponent and former Orange County Democratic Party chair, targeted her over an alleged violation of party endorsement rules while treating prominent Democrats who supported Republican candidates differently. She characterizes that treatment as selective enforcement in a defamation lawsuit filed in Orange County.

The documented crossover endorsements provide context for her allegation, but determining whether party rules were applied unevenly requires comparing the applicable rules, circumstances and disciplinary decisions in each case.

Endorsements, financial contributions, campaign management and host-committee participation represent distinct activities. Those distinctions matter when evaluating both crossover support and allegations of inconsistent party enforcement. Morales’ participation in Montilla’s event does not establish support for Donalds.

U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, left, the Republican nominee for Florida governor, and former U.S. Rep. David Jolly, the Democratic nominee.

Orange County: A Gateway to the Governor’s Mansion?

Orange County’s influence rests on the votes it contributes and the advantage it delivers to either candidate.

In the 2018 governor’s election, Democrat Andrew Gillum received 296,257 votes in Orange County, compared with Republican Ron DeSantis’ 174,228 — a Democratic advantage of 122,029 votes. DeSantis nevertheless won statewide by 32,463 votes. Source: Florida Division of Elections

The county also voted Democratic in the 2024 presidential election. Kamala Harris received 340,807 votes, while Donald Trump received 258,279, giving Harris an 82,528-vote advantage. Source: Florida Division of Elections

The elections involved different offices, candidates and turnout conditions. Their results provide historical context rather than a forecast for the governor’s race.

Neither Donalds nor Jolly must win Orange County to win Florida. The margin is what matters. A smaller Democratic advantage would improve Donalds’ statewide position, assuming results elsewhere remained unchanged. A larger advantage for Jolly could help offset Republican strength in other counties.

Changes in that margin could reflect turnout, crossover voting or choices by voters without a party affiliation. County totals alone cannot establish how many Democrats voted Republican.

Will Community Engagement Translate Into Votes?

The ONYX gala placed both candidates before a community gathering outside a conventional partisan campaign event. Whether such appearances generate support will depend on voters’ assessments of their records, proposals and priorities.

Endorsements have limits. Gray lost his 2025 reelection bid to Democrat Tom Keen despite Dyer’s backing and a fundraising advantage. Source: Florida Politics

Chestnut’s endorsement provides a documented example of Democratic support for Donalds. Polling and voter interviews would be needed to determine whether comparable support exists in Orange County and how significant it might be.

For Donalds, making a sustained case to Black voters would require addressing the issues they identify as priorities, including housing costs, economic opportunity, education, health care and public safety. Community appearances create opportunities to hear those concerns and explain specific proposals; electoral support depends on whether voters find the answers persuasive.

A Donalds victory would make him Florida’s first Black governor. Orange County could help shape the outcome through the Democratic advantage Jolly builds or the margin Donalds narrows.

What would most influence your choice for Florida’s next governor: party affiliation, the candidate’s record or specific policy proposals — and why?