ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN ) – According to the Orange County Supervisor of Elections website, former Florida State Senator Victor Torres, Jr. has officially filed paperwork to run for the newly created Orange County Commission District 8 seat (11/10/2025) — one of two new districts added as part of the county’s historic expansion of its governing board.

Veteran Lawmaker Eyes County-Level Leadership

At 78 years old, (born July 22, 1947) Torres is making a return to public service at the local level after more than a decade of elected leadership in the Florida Legislature, where he served in both the House of Representatives and the State Senate. Known for his advocacy on transportation, veterans’ affairs, and working-class families, Torres brings extensive legislative experience and name recognition to the race.

Overview: New Orange County Commission Districts 7 and 8

The Orange County Commission expanded from six to eight districts following population growth revealed in the 2020 U.S. Census and the adoption of new district boundaries. The addition of Districts 7 and 8 aims to ensure more equitable representation for residents across Central Florida’s diverse and expanding communities.

• District 7 includes portions of northwest Orange County, designed to represent urban neighborhoods and fast-developing residential zones.

• District 8, where Torres has filed to run, covers southern and southeastern Orange County, encompassing areas of rapid growth, economic development, and suburban expansion.

The 2026 local elections will mark the first time voters in these new districts elect their representatives to the Orange County Board of Commissioners.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) – Environmental advocates, community leaders, and concerned Floridians are preparing to rally at the Florida State Capitol on Monday, November 17, urging Governor Ron DeSantis to stop the state’s proposed black bear hunt, the first in nearly a decade.

The demonstration, organized by Sierra Club Florida, seeks to protect Florida’s recovering black bear population and raise public awareness about the ecological importance of these native animals. Supporters say the hunt could reverse years of conservation progress and threaten an already vulnerable species.

To encourage participation from across the state, Sierra Club Florida is providing three free round-trip charter buses from key regions, giving residents a chance to unite their voices in defense of Florida’s wildlife.

The “Rally to Stop the Florida Black Bear Hunt” will feature remarks from environmental advocates and coalition leaders, including:

• Susannah Randolph, Sierra Club Florida

• Katrina Shadix, Bear Warriors United

• Adam Sugalski, Bear Defenders

• James Scott, Speak Up for Wildlife

• Bobbie Lee Davenport, Environmental Confederation of Southwest Florida (ECO SWF)

• Patti Whitehead, Responsible Growth Management Coalition

WHEN: Monday, November 17 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST
WHERE: Florida State Capitol, 400 S. Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32399

Organizers are calling on Floridians to join the rally, stand in solidarity, and urge state leadership to prioritize science-based wildlife management and the protection of Florida’s black bears for future generations.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – Hon. Daisy Morales honors Veterans Day with a message of gratitude and legislative impact, which the former Florida state lawmaker shared on her official Facebook page.

In observance of Veterans Day, former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales shared a heartfelt message recognizing the bravery, sacrifice, and service of America’s military veterans and their families. Morales, a proud mother of a U.S. military veteran, emphasized her deep respect for those who have worn the nation’s uniform and her continued commitment to advancing veteran-related policy.

Honoring the Heroes Who Serve

“As a proud mother of a U.S. military veteran and as a former member of the Florida House of Representatives, I hold deep respect and gratitude for the men and women who have served our nation in uniform,” Morales said. “Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to defending our freedoms embody the very best of America.”

Legislative Leadership for Veterans and Military Families

During her first term in the Florida House of Representatives, Morales sponsored and co-sponsored several key pieces of legislation designed to support veterans and their families. Among her most notable contributions was House Bill 45: Educational Opportunities for Disabled Veterans, which became a national model for recognizing and assisting those who have served.

“These efforts reflect my commitment to ensuring that our veterans receive not only our gratitude but also the tangible support they deserve,” Morales added.

A Call to Action for All Floridians

As Veterans Day is commemorated across the state, Morales encourages residents to reflect on the service of veterans and to show appreciation in their communities.

“This Veterans Day, I encourage all Floridians to take a moment to honor our heroes—past and present—and to extend a hand of friendship and community to veterans and military families in your neighborhood. Let us stand united in appreciation and continue working to make Florida the most veteran-friendly state in the nation.”

— The Honorable Daisy Morales, Former Florida State Representative