🏛️ DOME is The Florida Pundit’s daily briefing on the people, policies, campaigns, courts and controversies shaping Florida politics.

Good morning from Tallahassee.

Florida’s political landscape begins the day with former Democratic gubernatorial nominee Andrew Gillum facing new criminal charges, the DeSantis administration preparing for the next steps under Florida’s new anti-terrorism law, and statewide campaigns continuing to build momentum ahead of the 2026 elections.

Here’s what we’re watching today.

🏛️ Under the Dome

Former Democratic gubernatorial nominee Andrew Gillum was arrested in Alabama on drug possession charges after police said they discovered methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia during a traffic stop. The arrest marks the latest chapter in Gillum’s years-long legal and personal struggles following his narrow loss in Florida’s 2018 governor’s race.

➡️ Read our full coverage: Andrew Gillum Arrested in Alabama on Drug Charges.

⚖️ State Government

Gov. Ron DeSantis continues moving forward with Florida’s new anti-terrorism law after announcing plans to designate CAIR Florida, the Muslim Brotherhood and Antifa under House Bill 1471.

The recommendation now awaits action by the Florida Cabinet, which must approve or reject the FDLE recommendation under the procedures established by the new law.

➡️ Read our full coverage: DeSantis Seeks Terrorist Designation for CAIR Florida, Muslim Brotherhood and Antifa Under New State Law.

🗳️ Election Watch

Campaign activity continues across Florida as candidates prepare for the next round of fundraising, endorsements and voter outreach.

Republican legislative leaders have already lined up behind Attorney General James Uthmeier, Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, while both major parties continue positioning themselves for the August primary and November general election.

Meanwhile, Gov. Ron DeSantis has continued to withhold an endorsement in the Republican race for governor, even as other GOP leaders consolidate behind candidates.

💰 Money Trail

Campaign finance activity remains one of the strongest indicators of momentum heading into the summer campaign season.

The Florida Pundit will continue tracking:

• Campaign fundraising reports
• Independent expenditures
• Major endorsements
• Political committee activity
• Candidate qualifying developments

🏛️ Capitol Watch

State agencies continue implementing dozens of new laws that took effect July 1, while lawmakers and executive agencies begin preparing for the next phase of policy implementation.

Several new measures involving immigration enforcement, public safety and government operations are expected to generate additional legal and political challenges in the weeks ahead.

🐊 The Swamp

Government accountability remains at the center of Florida politics.

The Florida Pundit continues monitoring:

• Public spending
• Ethics investigations
• State audits
• Government transparency
• Public records
• Agency oversight

Expect additional investigative reporting throughout the week.

👀 What We’re Watching Today

• Possible Florida Cabinet action on terrorism designations
• Campaign fundraising announcements
• Additional reaction to Andrew Gillum’s arrest
• State agency implementation of new laws
• Court developments affecting Florida policy
• New endorsements in statewide races

Sources

Primary Sources

• Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
• Office of Gov. Ron DeSantis
• Florida Division of Elections
• Alabama law enforcement records regarding Andrew Gillum’s arrest

Related Coverage

• Andrew Gillum Arrested in Alabama on Drug Charges
• DeSantis Seeks Terrorist Designation for CAIR Florida, Muslim Brotherhood and Antifa Under New State Law
• Legislative Leaders Back Ingoglia, Simpson and Uthmeier
• Florida Elections 2026

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