Your trusted source for local Tampa Bay, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Florida Democrats are grappling with their party's future following another disappointing election, which saw significant losses in the state Legislature and Governor's office. Prominent critics, including filmmaker Billy Corben, are leaving the party, signaling a potential crisis in Florida's Democratic identity.
Scientists express concerns over public health as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is nominated for Secretary of Health and Human Services by Donald Trump. Critics warn that Kennedy's anti-vaccine stance could undermine decades of scientific advancements in public health, potentially reversing protections and approvals within the FDA.
Florida is becoming increasingly influential in U.S. politics, particularly under President Donald Trump's administration, where key positions are filled by Floridians. This article explores how Trump's appointments reflect Florida's growing political weight and the state's alignment with his administration.
State and local officials in Pinellas County are discussing beach renourishment efforts following the damage caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton. The county is pursuing its own proposal for shoreline restoration due to stalled negotiations with the Army Corps of Engineers, which has changed its policy on beach projects, requiring permanent easement agreements from property owners.
A Sarasota charter school, which has positively impacted thousands of students, is seeking community assistance for rebuilding efforts following Hurricane Milton. The school aims to restore its resources and services to continue supporting the local area after the damage caused by the hurricane.
The article critically examines Rep. Matt Gaetz's qualifications as an attorney following his nomination by President-elect Donald Trump for attorney general. While Gaetz is praised as an "accomplished attorney" by House Speaker Mike Johnson, the article reveals his limited legal experience, primarily in private practice, raising questions about his suitability for the position.
A Winter Haven woman has been arrested for allegedly stealing over $140,000 from a blind man she was employed to care for as a home health nurse and personal assistant. The Polk County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) reported that the theft took place over an extended period, raising significant concerns about trust and the vulnerabilities of elderly individuals. This incident underscores the importance of safeguarding vulnerable populations in home health care settings.
Allegations of sex parties and drug use have emerged against Matt Gaetz, the U.S. attorney general nominee, prompting criticism from Mat Staver, a prominent Florida Christian conservative lawyer. Staver argues that Gaetz lacks the necessary legal experience and urges him to withdraw from consideration. The controversy follows Gaetz's resignation from Congress amid ongoing ethics investigations.
The Tampa Bay area received positive weather updates as Tropical Storm Sara's threat diminished and a cold front brought cooler air, ending weeks of high temperatures. Rain is expected next week, marking a shift from a prolonged dry spell since Hurricane Milton. Residents can look forward to a pleasant weekend with temperatures dropping significantly.
A 77-year-old Clearwater woman, Grace Hunter, was acquitted of a felony charge related to a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred in August 2022. The jury determined that she was likely unaware of the collision with a bicyclist, who later died from injuries sustained in the incident. The case highlighted differing views on the bicyclist's riding behavior and the circumstances of the crash.