SUMMARY: Despite rising economic anxiety, UCF economist Sean Snaith forecasts no recession, predicting continued but slower growth amid trade policy uncertainties. Florida’s economy faces potential threats from geopolitics, domestic policies, and hurricanes, yet core sectors like tourism remain strong. By 2028, Florida’s nominal GDP is expected to surpass \$2 trillion, nearly 20% higher than last year. Economic growth rate will slow as the state nears full employment, resulting in modest labor and job growth. Key job sectors with steady growth include education and health services (1.9%), leisure and hospitality (1.5%), construction (1.4%), financial services (1.2%), and government (0.8%). Real personal income growth will average 2.9%, slightly above national rates. Per capita incomes are forecasted to rise across Florida’s metro areas by 6.1% to 10.1% through 2028.

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The post ‘It’s not easy:’ Here’s what could be coming for Florida’s economy appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: The IRS announced a new interpretation allowing pastors to endorse political candidates from the pulpit without risking their church’s tax-exempt status, softening enforcement of the 1954 Johnson Amendment. Conservatives praise the move as a defense of religious freedom, while some progressive religious leaders see it as leveling the playing field. However, tax and legal experts warn it could politicize churches and jeopardize their missions. Many faith leaders, especially in communities of color, remain cautious about potential church-state entanglement. The IRS clarified this applies to “good faith” religious communications, not outright campaign intervention.

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The post A surprise IRS move on political endorsements leaves faith leaders and legal experts divided appeared first on www.news4jax.com

SUMMARY: Stephanie Murphy, former U.S. Congresswoman from Winter Park, announced her candidacy for Orange County mayor in 2026, aiming to succeed Mayor Jerry Demings. In a video on X.com, she emphasized smart growth, affordable housing, safe communities, strong schools, and business improvement. Murphy, a Democrat, represented a swing district from 2016 to 2022 and chaired the moderate Blue Dog Democrats. She served on key committees, including those investigating the January 6 Capitol riot, and has a background in national security and business consulting. Murphy, the daughter of Vietnamese immigrants, joins a diverse mayoral field including Tiffany Moore Russell, Mayra Uribe, and Chris Messina. The race is nonpartisan.

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