Stay informed about politics news and updates in Tampa Bay, FL.
Florida lawmakers are considering further restrictions on the ballot initiative process, particularly in the wake of a recent abortion amendment initiative. A report from Gov. Ron DeSantis’ election security office alleges widespread fraud in the signature collection process, prompting calls for reforms that critics argue could silence citizens' voices.
A federal judge has ordered Florida's health department to cease threatening TV stations with prosecution for airing ads supporting an abortion amendment. In a ruling emphasizing First Amendment rights, Judge Mark Walker highlighted the importance of political speech amid ongoing legal battles surrounding Florida's six-week abortion ban. The case is part of a larger discourse on reproductive rights in the state.
Florida's ballot initiatives to expand abortion access and legalize recreational marijuana are the most expensive in the United States, with supporters contributing over $178 million since summer 2022. An analysis shows that for every dollar raised in opposition, supporters have given seven, highlighting the significant financial backing behind these social policy measures.
A lawsuit has been filed in Florida to remove an abortion amendment from the upcoming ballot, citing allegations of widespread fraud in the petition-gathering process. The lawsuit, backed by anti-abortion advocates and represented by former Florida Supreme Court Justice Alan Lawson, claims that the amendment did not meet the required signature threshold. The amendment seeks to protect abortion access until viability, countering the state's current six-week limit.
President Biden toured the damage caused by Hurricane Milton in the Bay Area, emphasizing federal support for recovery efforts. The visit included meetings with local leaders, highlighting the administration's commitment to helping affected communities rebuild and recover.
The DeSantis administration released a report accusing organizers of Florida's abortion amendment of widespread petition fraud, just weeks before the election. This 348-page report calls for legislative changes to prevent future fraud and imposes a significant fine on the organizers, which they plan to contest.
President Joe Biden addressed the federal government's response to Hurricane Helene and the preparations for Hurricane Milton during remarks made on October 8, 2024, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House. His comments emphasized the administration's proactive measures to assist affected communities and ensure public safety. The event highlights the ongoing challenges posed by extreme weather events in the U.S.
Florida voters are faced with six constitutional amendments on the November ballot that could significantly shape the state's policies. The amendments range from making school board races partisan to enshrining the right to hunt and fish in the Constitution, requiring at least 60% voter support to pass.
Current Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez is campaigning to retain her position against her predecessor, Andrew Warren, in the upcoming November election. Warren was removed from office by Governor Ron DeSantis, adding a significant political dimension to this race. The outcome will have implications for local governance and legal representation in the county.
Manatee County is actively working to ensure a smooth election process following the impacts of Hurricane Helene. Local officials are implementing measures to address challenges posed by the hurricane to maintain voting integrity and accessibility.