SUMMARY: President Donald Trump has pledged to lead a movement to eliminate mail-in ballots, calling them corrupt and promising an executive order to ban their use. Experts noted that election authority lies with states, not the federal government. Democrats condemned the move as a cheating tactic for 2026. Florida voters expressed concern, highlighting mail-in voting’s importance for seniors and disabled individuals. Over three million Floridians voted by mail in 2024, including Republicans and Trump himself. Florida GOP Chair Evan Power defended the state’s system, while Governor Ron DeSantis said Trump targets states with looser rules. The White House plans further discussions with Congress and states.

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SUMMARY: Apopka, Fla., residents may face up to 15.5% increases in water, reclaimed water, sewer, and up to 15% in garbage rates this fall. Mayor Bryan Nelson cited rising costs, including a $12 million upgrade to tap a deeper aquifer requiring costly ozone treatment mandated by the St. Johns Water Management District. The city emphasizes utilities must cover expenses without profit, maintaining funds for aging infrastructure. Despite rapid growth concerns, Nelson stated impact fees are among Central Florida’s highest and growth is managed. A public hearing on the proposal is set for Sept. 3, with new rates effective Oct. 1.

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The post Apopka mayor blames proposed water, sewer, and garbage rate hikes on higher costs  appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: Florida Republicans are renewing efforts to lower the minimum age for purchasing long guns from 21 to 18, reversing post-Parkland reforms. Florida GOP Chair Evan Power and new Lt. Gov. Jay Collins advocate the change, emphasizing constitutional rights for those eligible for military service at 18. While the bill has passed the Florida House and has Gov. DeSantis’s backing, it faces strong opposition in the Senate, especially from Senate President Ben Albritton. The debate intensifies after a deadly shooting by a 20-year-old at Florida State University. Democrats urge focus on economic issues, but the proposal may reemerge alongside other gun rights measures in 2026.

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