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The article discusses how Palm Beach has become a hub for Donald Trump's transition to the Oval Office following his second term victory. Mar-a-Lago, Trump's club in Palm Beach, has been bustling with activity as he plans his return to the White House. The area, traditionally blue, has seen a surge in support for Trump from affluent residents, leading to a transformation into a MAGA mecca. The article also highlights the economic and political implications of Trump's presence in Palm Beach, with wealthy donors and political operators flocking to the area. [Extracted from the article]

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and billionaire Ken Griffin successfully campaigned against the legalization of recreational marijuana in Florida, leading to a significant drop in cannabis industry shares. The ballot measure known as Amendment 3 failed to garner the required 60% voter support, receiving 55.9% approval. DeSantis and Griffin's efforts to block legalization were supported by a substantial financial investment, resulting in a defeat for the cannabis industry in Florida. [Extracted from the article]

Florida voters rejected a ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana, falling short of the 60% threshold required by Florida law. Governor Ron DeSantis and billionaire Ken Griffin led the anti-weed campaign, with DeSantis diverting state funds to defeat the measure. The cannabis industry, particularly Trulieve Cannabis Corp, invested heavily in the campaign, hoping to tap into a potential market of 2.7 million people. Despite efforts by DeSantis and Griffin, the fight over recreational marijuana in Florida brought together unlikely allies, including Donald Trump and Roger Stone supporting the measure. [Extracted from the article]

Florida voters rejected a ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana, falling short of the 60% approval threshold required by Florida law. Governor Ron DeSantis and billionaire Ken Griffin led the opposition, with DeSantis diverting state funds to defeat the measure and Griffin donating $12 million. Despite efforts by advocates, including Trulieve Cannabis Corp., the measure failed, impacting the potential growth of the cannabis industry and national legalization efforts. The diverse range of supporters and opponents, including Donald Trump and John Morgan, highlighted the complex and divisive nature of the issue. [Extracted from the article]

Republican Senator Rick Scott has won reelection in Florida, defeating Democratic challenger Debbie Mucarsel-Powell. Scott's victory highlights the Republican Party's strong presence in the state, with a significant lead over Democrats. Despite hopes for a Democratic win, Scott's financial resources and alignment with former President Donald Trump contributed to his success in the race. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the clash in Florida over the legalization of recreational marijuana, with Governor Ron DeSantis and billionaire Ken Griffin leading the anti-cannabis campaign. The cannabis industry has poured $153 million into the ballot initiative known as Amendment 3, with strong support from figures like Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. The debate highlights concerns about public safety, crime, and the potential economic impact of legalizing marijuana in Florida. [Extracted from the article]

A French developer, Madar Group, has purchased over $40 million worth of plots on Miami's Fisher Island to build six new mansions priced up to $55 million each. The homes, ranging from 8,000 to 15,000 square feet, are part of a larger development known as Links Estates. Fisher Island, accessible only by ferry, is an exclusive enclave with limited space, attracting wealthy buyers seeking privacy and security. The real estate boom in Miami has led to increased interest in the area, with younger and international buyers showing interest in the luxury properties on the island. [Extracted from the article]

In a tight Senate race in Florida, Democrats are making efforts to regain ground in a state dominated by Republicans. The Villages, a retirement community, saw a golf-cart parade organized by Democrats in response to Trump supporters' events. Democratic candidate Debbie Mucarsel-Powell is challenging Republican Rick Scott for a Senate seat, with polls showing a close race. Both parties are mobilizing resources and support in a bid to secure victory in a challenging political landscape. [Extracted from the article]

The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami has purchased a 30,000-square-foot building in Miami's Design District for $25 million, doubling the museum's size. The purchase was supported by various donors, including Pretium CEO Don Mullen and his wife, Amanda, as well as the Witkoff family and other prominent figures. The building was previously owned by Carlos and Rosa de la Cruz and housed their art collection. The expansion of the museum reflects the growing influence of wealthy individuals in Miami's cultural scene. The museum also received a $5 million grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. [Extracted from the article]

A tornado spawned by Hurricane Milton caused significant damage and loss of life in Fort Pierce, Florida. The pastor of Lakewood Park United Methodist Church witnessed the storm and found that the church's roof had been ripped away. The tornado outbreak resulted in six deaths and complete devastation in the Spanish Lakes Country Club Village, a senior living community. The storms' intensity and unpredictability made it difficult to precisely predict their occurrence, and Fort Pierce was not under mandatory evacuation orders. Residents described being frightened and fearing for their lives during the violent weather. Recovery efforts have begun in the affected areas. [Extracted from the article]

Hurricane Milton caused significant damage in Florida, with tornadoes touching down in St. Lucie County and resulting in at least 10 deaths. The storm also caused the roof of Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg to be shredded and knocked out power to over 3 million homes and businesses. While Governor Ron DeSantis stated that Florida avoided a worst-case scenario, search and rescue operations are still ongoing. Residents who experienced the storm described it as a terrifying and unprecedented event, with some expressing concerns about the future of their communities. [Extracted from the article]

As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida's central Gulf Coast, over 6 million residents in vulnerable areas have been urged to evacuate by President Joe Biden, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and local officials. The storm, currently a Category 3 with winds of 125 mph, is expected to cause significant destruction as it moves towards the Atlantic Ocean. Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued in several counties, and shelters are being utilized, although occupancy is currently at about 31,000 out of a total capacity of 200,000. The storm is predicted to bring a storm surge of up to 15 feet and heavy rainfall, leading to potential flooding, damage to infrastructure, and prolonged power outages. Despite the warnings, some residents are choosing to stay due to concerns about property damage and work obligations. Local authorities are enforcing curfews and taking measures to keep people off the streets. [Extracted from the article]

Millions of Floridians have been ordered to evacuate from the Gulf Coast as Hurricane Milton threatens the Tampa Bay area. Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 51 counties, making it the largest evacuation since Hurricane Irma in 2017. The storm comes just days after Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage and loss of life. Residents are being urged to evacuate to avoid the potential storm surge and flooding. MacDill Air Force Base has also relocated its aircraft and ordered personnel to evacuate. [Extracted from the article]

Palm Beach County, known for its wealth, is requesting government assistance due to the high cost of protecting former President Donald Trump, which has reached $93,000 per day. The local sheriff's office had to increase spending on Trump's security after an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, and a second attempt near Trump's Florida home has led to calls for further funding. The county has asked for federal help and sent a letter to Congressional representatives outlining the expenses, including overtime pay for officers, security blockades, and costs incurred by the local Fire Rescue department. The Secret Service's protection of Trump has faced scrutiny, with demands for increased resources from Republicans and requests for more funding from President Biden and Senate Democrats. The recent security measures included street blockades and increased police presence around Mar-a-Lago, Trump's home and club. Concerns have been raised by Palm Beach residents about the duration and extent of the blockades, as well as potential restrictions and lockdowns in the event of a second Trump presidency. The possibility of closing Mar-a-Lago has even been discussed. Palm Beach County officials assure that they are prepared to ensure the safety of candidates and future presidents. [Extracted from the article]

Law enforcement officials are investigating the online presence of Ryan Routh, who has been charged with the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Routh's social media posts, which focus on recruiting fighters for Ukraine, are part of the FBI's investigation. The suspect was apprehended after a Secret Service agent spotted a rifle near a golf course where former President Donald Trump was playing. The Secret Service is now reviewing its protective methodology in response to the incident. Routh has previous convictions for possession of a weapon of mass destruction and possession of stolen goods. [Extracted from the article]

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill was briefly detained and handcuffed by police officers on his way to a game. Hill criticized the officers for their "hostile" attitude, while a police union claimed he was uncooperative. Body cam footage released by the Miami-Dade Police Department showed Hill lowering his car window and telling an officer not to knock on it before handing over his driver's license. The officer warned him to keep the window down, leading to officers dragging Hill out of the car, forcing him face-down on the ground, and handcuffing him. The incident is currently under investigation by the police department. [Extracted from the article]

Andreessen Horowitz, a venture capital firm, has closed its Miami office two years after opening it. The decision was reportedly made because employees were not using the office enough. This development raises questions about Miami's ability to sustain its recent influx of finance and tech companies. Venture capital funding in Miami has also declined since 2022, while San Francisco continues to dominate in this area. The former Andreessen Horowitz office is now occupied by Bausch + Lomb Corp. [Extracted from the article]

Former Nebraska Senator Ben Sasse will continue to receive a $1 million annual salary from the University of Florida after stepping down as the university's president in July. Sasse will serve as president emeritus, professor, and external adviser to the chairman of the school's board of trustees until 2028. The agreement is valid until he accepts a full-time position elsewhere. Sasse resigned last month after his wife was diagnosed with epilepsy. The University of Florida has not provided further information about Sasse's role. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been focused on culture wars in education, and Sasse eliminated diversity, equity, and inclusion jobs at UF. Sasse's predecessor, Kent Fuchs, has been named interim president of the university. [Extracted from the article]

Ken Griffin, the billionaire founder of Citadel financial empire, plans to break ground on a 54-story tower in Miami next year. The tower, located at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive, will house offices and a hotel, spanning a total of 1.7 million square feet. The project is expected to cost over $1 billion and will be one of the city's tallest buildings. Griffin aims to bolster Miami's reputation as a destination for professionals and their families. Philadelphia-based Gattuso Development Partners will consult on the project, and Foster + Partners will handle the design. [Extracted from the article]

The Trump Organization is seeking to build high-end condos and retail space at the Trump National Doral Miami resort in Florida. The project, estimated to cost between $2.5 billion and $3 billion, would include five towers and townhouses, totaling 1,498 residential units. The condos would start at $2 million, targeting wealthy individuals in the area. The proposal has received initial approval from the Doral City Commission, but final approval is still pending. The development could increase the value of the property, which has been a significant revenue generator for the Trump Organization. [Extracted from the article]

The Trump Organization is seeking to build high-end condos and retail space at the Trump National Doral Miami resort in Florida. The project, estimated to cost between $2.5 billion and $3 billion, would include five towers and townhouses, totaling 1,498 residential units. The condos would start at $2 million, targeting wealthy individuals. The proposal is awaiting approval from the Doral City Council, and if successful, it could increase the value of the property, which has been a significant revenue generator for the Trump Organization. Trump's real estate portfolio is valued at $2.7 billion, with Trump National Doral accounting for $305 million. [Extracted from the article]

Tom Brady, the NFL superstar, is renting office space in a new health-focused development in Bay Harbor, Miami. The development includes a spa managed by New York club The Well and offers amenities such as vitamin B12 drips and full-body acupuncture. Brady's lease is for 8,500 square feet at a rate lower than the asking rent of $125 per square foot. The new offices are expected to be completed by summer 2025 and will have access to The Well spa. Brady, known for his commitment to health and wellness, has been expanding his business ventures since retiring from the NFL, including investing in sports teams and launching his own clothing line. The move to Miami reflects the broader trend of wealthy residents moving to the area and the demand for boutique office spaces. [Extracted from the article]

Brazilian bank, Banco Master, has leased the last available office space in the Miami skyscraper, 830 Brickell, for a record-breaking rate of $190 per square foot. The tower, developed by Cain International and OKO Group, has attracted high-profile tenants such as Citadel, Thoma Bravo, and Microsoft Corp. The success of the building reflects Miami's transformation into a financial and tech hub. However, this may be the last major tower in Miami's Brickell district for the next five years, as other commercial real estate projects are struggling to replicate its success. [Extracted from the article]

Banco Master, a Brazilian bank, has leased the last available office space in the 830 Brickell skyscraper in Miami, which has become a symbol of the city's growing financial sector. The bank is paying a record-breaking rate of approximately $190 per square foot, comparable to Manhattan's most expensive office spaces. The tower, developed by Cain International and OKO Group, has attracted high-profile tenants such as Citadel, Thoma Bravo, and Microsoft Corp. The success of the building in attracting tenants reflects Miami's rapid transformation into a financial and tech hub. [Extracted from the article]

Tyko Capital, a real estate firm backed by Elliott Investment Management, is providing a $565 million loan to 830 Brickell, a new office tower in Miami. The skyscraper has already attracted tenants such as Citadel, Microsoft, and Thoma Bravo. The loan will be used to repay an existing construction loan. Tyko focuses on commercial real estate and was established as a joint venture between Elliott and Adi Chugh. The building has been a catalyst for business migration to South Florida and is expected to open in the fall of 2024. [Extracted from the article]

Sant Ambroeus, a high-end New York restaurant brand, is leasing space in a new Miami Beach office building called the Fifth Miami Beach. The building is being developed to attract smaller financial tenants, such as hedge funds and family offices, and is the first ground-up office project in Miami Beach's South of Fifth neighborhood in over 15 years. The move reflects the trend of Wall Street firms relocating to the Miami area for better weather and lower taxes. The Miami Beach location of Sant Ambroeus will feature floor-to-ceiling windows and a wrap-around patio, and will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Other New York brands, such as Carbone and Cote, have also expanded to South Florida. The Fifth Miami Beach is expected to have asking rents of around $170 per square foot, which is more than double the average for Class-A offices in Miami-Dade County. [Extracted from the article]

Marco Rubio, a senator from Florida, is being considered as a potential running mate for former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election. This move could help Trump gain support from the growing Latino demographic in the US, as Rubio's Cuban heritage and opposition to communism resonate with many Hispanic voters. However, it is uncertain whether Rubio's messaging and policies would appeal to Hispanic voters outside of Florida. Rubio's track record of raising money from GOP donors who have not supported Trump in the past could also be a factor in his selection. [Extracted from the article]

Donald Trump created suspense at his Miami rally by teasing the announcement of his running mate, but ultimately did not reveal his pick. He instead challenged President Joe Biden to another debate without moderators. Throughout the event, Trump hinted at the possibility of Florida Senator Marco Rubio being his choice, but also mentioned other potential candidates. Trump's rally marked his return to the campaign trail after a period of laying low, during which the media focused on Biden. He also used the rally to criticize Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump's campaign trail resurgence coincides with a more favorable Electoral College analysis for him. [Extracted from the article]

Donald Trump created suspense at his Miami rally by teasing the announcement of his running mate, but ultimately did not reveal his pick. He hinted at the possibility of sharing his decision during the event, but instead challenged President Joe Biden to another debate without moderators. Throughout the rally, Trump playfully teased Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who is rumored to be on his shortlist for vice president. Trump plans to make his announcement in the coming week, potentially during the Republican convention. This rally marked Trump's return to the campaign trail after a period of laying low, and it coincided with a favorable update to the Cook Political Report's Electoral College analysis. [Extracted from the article]

Ken Griffin, a major donor to Republican politicians, has donated $500,000 to support the reelection campaign of Miami-Dade County's Democratic mayor, Daniella Levine Cava. Griffin, who recently moved to Miami from Chicago, has pledged to become more involved in Florida politics and has also donated to other local politicians, including Governor Ron DeSantis and the city of Miami mayor, Francis Suarez. As Miami-Dade County mayor, Cava oversees 34 cities, an annual budget of about $10 billion, and nearly 30,000 employees. Griffin has praised Cava's leadership and has also contributed to charities endorsed by her. [Extracted from the article]

Ken Griffin, a major donor to Republican politicians, has donated $500,000 to support the reelection campaign of Miami-Dade County's Democratic mayor, Daniella Levine Cava. Griffin, who moved to Miami from Chicago two years ago, has expressed his intention to become more involved in Florida politics and has also donated to other local politicians, including Governor Ron DeSantis and the city of Miami mayor, Francis Suarez. As Miami-Dade County mayor, Cava oversees 34 cities, an annual budget of about $10 billion, and nearly 30,000 employees. Griffin has also contributed to charities endorsed by Cava, including a park and bike pathway project and a nonprofit focused on addressing issues like housing and climate change. [Extracted from the article]

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has eliminated $32 million in funding for a state program that supports music, theater, and culture, much to the dismay of billionaire real estate developer Jorge Perez. Perez, who has invested heavily in making Miami a cultural hub, believes that DeSantis' decision sends a negative message and undermines the city's efforts to attract affluent transplants from artistic cities like New York and Chicago. DeSantis defended his decision as part of a broader reduction in government spending and cited concerns about the content of some funded festivals. The funding cuts have left many smaller arts organizations in Florida struggling to stay afloat. [Extracted from the article]

JPMorgan Chase & Co is expanding its presence in Miami and Palm Beach to tap into the growing wealth in South Florida. The bank will double the size of its offices in Miami's financial district, allowing for an additional 400 employees. JPMorgan will also open a new office in West Palm Beach and three financial centers across South Florida. The expansion is estimated to add $151 million in economic activity to the region and create 380 construction jobs. JPMorgan's Miami offices serve as one of its largest international private banking operations, primarily catering to Latin America clients. The bank has been actively investing in Florida, including renovating its offices in Tampa and securing naming rights to a soccer stadium in Fort Lauderdale. JPMorgan's CEO, Jamie Dimon, has praised the business-friendly environment in Florida and Texas compared to New York. [Extracted from the article]

A major real estate developer is considering severing ties with a brokerage co-founded by Oren Alexander following sexual assault allegations against the agent. The firm, Official, is overseeing sales at a 90-story building in Miami, but the company behind the project, JDS Development Group, has been evaluating its options since the allegations came to light. Alexander has announced that he is stepping away from Official after two women filed civil lawsuits accusing him and his twin brother of drugging and raping them over a decade ago. Additional women have since come forward with similar allegations. The brokerage is seeking to reassure its partners that the news will not impact their projects or services. [Extracted from the article]

Citadel, the financial empire led by Ken Griffin, has leased two additional floors in a new tower in Miami's financial district. This brings their total occupancy to eight floors, or around 130,000 square feet. The tower, located in Brickell, has attracted other tenants such as Microsoft and Thoma Bravo. Citadel was able to secure the extra space by taking over floors vacated by law firms Kirkland & Ellis and Winston & Strawn. The company plans to have approximately 450 employees in Miami by the end of the summer. Griffin also has plans to build his own office building in Miami, but that project is still in the works. [Extracted from the article]

Walt Disney Co. has committed to spending $8 billion on expansion and improvements at its Florida resort and theme parks as part of a larger plan to invest up to $17 billion in the area. This comes after a settlement was reached in a two-year-long political battle between Disney and Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, who had stripped Disney of its self-governing status. The agreement allows for the addition of a fifth major park, two smaller "minor parks," more hotel rooms, office space, and a requirement for Disney to invest $10 million in "attainable" housing projects within a decade. [Extracted from the article]

Retired NFL quarterback Eli Manning, through his company Brand Velocity Group, is interested in purchasing a minority stake in an NFL team. This interest comes as the NFL is considering allowing private equity firms to own minority stakes in franchises. Manning believes that the high valuations of NFL teams limit the number of people who can afford ownership. Other star athletes, such as Michael Jordan and Alex Rodriguez, have also pursued ownership of sports franchises. Manning already has a minority stake in a women's soccer team and is a partner in Brand Velocity Group, which focuses on sports and consumer brands. The NFL has been hesitant to allow private equity ownership, while over 60 sports teams in North America are backed by private equity firms. [Extracted from the article]

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), a historically Black public school, received a surprise $238 million gift during its commencement ceremony. The gift, in the form of illiquid stock, came from Gregory Gerami, a 30-year-old businessman with no prior connection to FAMU. However, questions have arisen about the authenticity of the gift, leading FAMU to sever ties with Gerami and launch a third-party investigation. Gerami has also been linked to a collapsed $95 million pledge to Coastal Carolina University. This gift would nearly triple FAMU's endowment, but doubts remain about whether the university will actually receive the money. [Extracted from the article]

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), a historically Black public school, received a surprise $238 million gift during its commencement ceremony. The gift was given by Gregory Gerami, a 30-year-old man with no prior connection to FAMU. However, doubts have arisen about the authenticity of the gift, and FAMU has removed a press release about it from its website. Gerami has also been linked to a collapsed $95 million pledge to Coastal Carolina University. FAMU is one of the top-ranked historically Black colleges and universities in the country, and the gift would nearly triple its endowment if it is legitimate. However, questions remain about whether FAMU will ever receive the money, as the gift is in the form of illiquid stock from Gerami's hemp company. Gerami's business and wealth have also been called into question. FAMU is holding an emergency meeting to discuss the situation. [Extracted from the article]

Ajit "AJ" Khubani, the man behind popular infomercial products like the PedEgg and Horsepower, is set to purchase a $100 million waterfront compound on La Gorce Island in Miami Beach. The estate, which was initially listed for $170 million, consists of four parcels, with Khubani buying three and another buyer purchasing the fourth. If the deal goes through, it will be the most expensive home ever sold in the Miami area, surpassing the previous record of $107 million. Khubani, who was born to Indian immigrant parents in New Jersey, comes from a family involved in various companies that sell products under the "As Seen on TV" brand. [Extracted from the article]

Swire Properties Inc. is seeking $100 million for the penthouse on Brickell Key island, which is being marketed as the "crown jewel" of a long-term development project. The sale of the penthouse will depend on Swire's ability to attract buyers to an area that has historically been more popular among joggers and dog walkers than billionaires. Swire is investing over $1 billion to build two high-end towers on the island, with prices starting at $4.9 million for a two-bedroom unit. Developers in Miami are targeting wealthy newcomers with high-priced condos, with some potentially breaking the record for the most expensive condo in the city. [Extracted from the article]

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill that requires public schools in the state to teach about the "dangers and evils of communism." The law aims to prepare students to resist indoctrination on communism in colleges and universities and requires teachers to discuss the spread of communism in Latin America, Cuba's communist policies, and how communism clashes with the founding principles of the US. This move by DeSantis is seen as an attempt to increase his influence in the education system and appeal to conservative voters after a failed presidential bid. The signing of the bill took place in a museum dedicated to the Bay of Pigs Invasion, which is significant as DeSantis won a majority of voters of Cuban descent in his 2022 re-election. [Extracted from the article]

Ares Management Corp., a Los Angeles-based asset manager, is reportedly looking for office space in Miami Beach as the city aims to move away from its partying reputation. The firm is seeking around 15,000 square feet of space in the area, although no final decision has been made. This move by Ares would contribute to the city's efforts to diversify its economy beyond tourism, as many wealthy individuals have recently purchased property in Miami Beach. While most finance tenants have chosen the Brickell district on the Miami mainland, demand for office space in Miami Beach is increasing. In February, J. Goldman & Co., a New York-based hedge fund, leased space in a new Miami Beach office building with record-high rents. Other developers, including Michael Shvo, are also looking to build more office space in Miami Beach. Ares already has ties to Miami through its investment in Inter Miami CF, a soccer club, and has invested a total of $225 million in the team. [Extracted from the article]

Billionaire Ken Griffin is donating $9 million to bring a University of Chicago math-tutoring program to public school students in Miami. The donation will allow the university's Education Lab and the nonprofit Accelerate to offer "high-dosage math tutoring" at nine Miami-Dade County public schools for students in grades six to eight. The partnership aims to help students who may have fallen behind during the pandemic, as research shows that the average US public school student in grades three to eight lost at least half a year of math learning. Griffin has previously made significant donations to the University of Chicago and has been actively supporting education initiatives in Miami since moving his financial conglomerate there. [Extracted from the article]

Carnival Corp., a major cruise company, is putting its Miami headquarters up for sale after owning the property for about 30 years. The company plans to downsize to a new office space of around 300,000 square feet in the Miami area. The decision to sell is part of a larger trend of companies reevaluating their office space needs in the post-pandemic era. Carnival's move to upgrade its headquarters reflects the success of the cruise industry in recent years, with bookings reaching record levels. [Extracted from the article]

Apple Inc. is expanding its presence in the Miami area by leasing 45,000 square feet in a new building in Coral Gables. The company already has a smaller office in the vicinity, which focuses on Latin America and advertising. Apple is also expected to open a large retail store at the Worldcenter development in Miami. Other Big Tech companies, such as Amazon and Microsoft, have also set up offices in Miami, attracted by the area's appeal to the ultra-wealthy. The increased demand for office space has led to higher rents in Miami. [Extracted from the article]