Florida's Latest News

Dan Webster to retire from Congress, plans to devote ‘precious time’ to family

U.S. Rep. Dan Webster is not seeking re-election to Florida’s 11th Congressional District, according to a statement from his Office first shared with Florida Politics.

The Clermont Republican made clear his decision is not related to congressional redistricting plans, but rather to spend more time with his family.

“After much prayerful consideration and discussion with my beloved wife Sandy, I have decided not to seek re-election to the United States House of Representatives,” Webster said.

“It has been an honor and privilege to represent my beloved state in the U.S. House of Representatives. I’ve never taken for granted my responsibility to Florida’s hardworking taxpayers and families to advance common-sense reforms and principled policy. The time has come to pass the torch to the next conservative leader and spend more precious time with my wife, children and 24 grandchildren.”

Five former members of Congress line up behind Keith Gross in CD 2 race

Republican Keith Gross, who is running for Florida’s 2nd Congressional District, is announcing a new wave of endorsements in his bid to replace retiring Rep. Neal Dunn.

The Gross campaign says these endorsements show “growing momentum” in a competitive Primary. So far, five former members of Congress have backed Gross, pointing to his military service, legal experience, and business background as key strengths.

Endorsers include former U.S. Reps. Dan Burton of Indiana, Steve Buyer of Indiana, Gregory Laughlin of Texas, David Rivera of Florida and John Sweeney of New York. Buyer also chaired the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Together, these former lawmakers bring decades of experience in government. The campaign says their support gives Gross added credibility as he aims to become the leading conservative candidate.

Emily Gregory, Hilary Holley, Samantha Scott sworn into House seats during Special Session

Democrat Emily Gregory and Republicans Hilary Holley and Samantha Scott officially took their House seats Tuesday after being sworn in during a brief floor session Tuesday.

Bradenton Republican Rep. Will Robinson initiated a motion for the three new lawmakers to be sworn in, noting certifications of their respective March 24 victories by Secretary of State Cord Byrd’s Office.

The chamber unanimously approved it, after which Florida Supreme Court Justice Adam Tannenbaum administered the oath of office.

Gregory represents House District 87, which runs up the coast through Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, Juno Beach and areas around President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. She won a Special Election with 51.15% of the vote, defeating Republican Jon Maples, who has filed to again challenge her in November.

Florida Poly researcher searches for root cause of Florida algae crisis

Anyone who has lived along coastal Florida, or even near the state’s expansive network of rivers, lakes and streams, knows well that algae can turn paradise into stink and muck.

More than that, algae blooms pose serious public health threats to drinking water and threaten the state’s robust tourism economy.

A researcher at Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland has an idea to address the problem.

Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering Yudi Wu is developing and testing an innovative process to improve water conditions and reduce algae growth, using a $300,000 grant from the Department of Environmental Protection.