Your trusted source for local Tampa Bay, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is a leading candidate for the position of defense secretary under President-elect Donald Trump, but political insiders highlight several obstacles that could prevent this appointment. The article examines personal and political challenges that may affect both Trump's decision and DeSantis's willingness to accept the role.
The article provides a weather forecast for Tampa Bay, indicating a sunny and cool afternoon. It includes updates on local holiday events and D-SNAP registration in Tampa.
Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida is reportedly being considered by President-elect Donald Trump for the position of Secretary of Defense, a move that could significantly alter Florida's political landscape. Despite having two years left in his term, DeSantis shows interest in the role amid challenges faced by Trump's initial nominee, Pete Hegseth. This potential appointment highlights a series of strategic choices by Trump that continue to reshape Florida politics.
A 70-year-old man, Robert Beaty, was arrested after intentionally crashing his pickup truck into a financial building in Tampa Palms North. The incident, which caused an estimated $150,000 in damages, occurred after Beaty was denied entry to the USAA office. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but he faces multiple felony charges.
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot outside a Manhattan hotel in what authorities describe as a targeted attack. The incident occurred early Wednesday morning as Thompson was preparing to address investors at a conference, prompting an ongoing search for the shooter.
St. Petersburg police have recovered the body of a 72-year-old man from a lake at Vinoy Golf Club, with the death deemed suspicious by investigators. The incident, reported on Wednesday morning, has prompted further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man's death. Updates will follow as the investigation develops.
President-elect Donald Trump's nomination of Sen. Marco Rubio as secretary of state has resulted in his Senate office temporarily ceasing to handle new constituent services. Floridians are now directed to reach out to Sen. Rick Scott or their local U.S. Representatives for assistance with federal issues.
President-elect Donald Trump claimed he was responsible for pulling Hillsborough Sheriff Chad Chronister's nomination for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) administrator, contrary to Chronister's own reported decision to withdraw. In a post on Truth Social, Trump criticized media coverage of the situation and shared his reasons, though specifics were not provided. Chronister's spokesperson reaffirmed the sheriff's stance on his withdrawal.
The Pasco County Sheriff's Office has settled a lawsuit for $105,000 with individuals who claimed to have been subjected to unconstitutional monitoring under the agency's "prolific offender" program. This settlement comes after allegations that the program unlawfully targeted people, including minors, for crime prediction and monitoring without probable cause. The Sheriff’s Office stated that the decision was primarily a financial one to avoid costly trial expenses.
A fire in Polk City, Florida, early Wednesday morning destroyed a mobile home and resulted in one person being hospitalized. Polk County Fire Rescue reported that the victim was airlifted to a hospital, but details about their injuries remain undisclosed.