Midterm Convention Watch: At the RNC’s first-ever midterm convention in Dallas, Florida voices are testing what comes next for MAGA—VP JD Vance is set to deliver a key 2028 pitch as some supporters look for a stronger economic message. Local Animal Welfare: Santa Rosa County is moving toward tougher dog tethering rules after advocates say current practices leave animals vulnerable. Free Speech & Campus Climate: Florida’s free-speech landscape is still shifting after Charlie Kirk’s death, with reports of firings tied to online celebrations and renewed state push to expand Turning Point USA chapters in high schools. Religious Freedom in Florida: Muslim leaders say Islamophobia is rising in Florida, pointing to incidents on campuses and fears that rhetoric from officials is fueling harassment. Surveillance Backlash: Ohio lawmakers are urging the state to remove Flock automated license plate readers from roads and reject future permits—another sign of growing resistance to private surveillance networks. State Housing: Nassau County received a statewide SHIP award for affordable housing rehabilitation, purchase assistance, and new construction. AI Policy Push: OpenAI is calling for mandatory national AI safety rules, urging Congress to act before adjournment. Transportation: FDOT outlined major I-75 expansion plans in Lee County, including express lanes and resurfacing. Education Funding: University of North Texas named a new AI and advanced analytics college after a $20 million donation from Anuradha and Vikas Sinha.