SUMMARY: Florida Republicans retained their supermajority in both legislative chambers following the recent elections. The House now consists of 85 Republicans and 36 Democrats, while the Senate remains at 28 Republicans and 12 Democrats. Despite significant Democratic efforts, they only flipped one house seat, with Leonard Spencer defeating incumbent Carla Amesty, who faced felony charges. Republican Anne Gerwig holds a narrow lead in District 93, and Erika Booth secured a notable win against Tom Keen in District 35. House Speaker Daniel Perez and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo celebrated the continued Republican dominance, pledging to deliver results for Floridians.

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SUMMARY: In the recent Florida campaign, six proposed Constitutional Amendments were voted on, with four failing to meet the required 60% approval. Amendments three and four, addressing recreational marijuana and abortion access, did not pass. However, two amendments succeeded: Amendment two establishes a constitutional right to hunt and fish, a priority for fishing advocate Dylan Hubbard, who aims to protect these rights amidst potential threats. Amendment five adjusts property tax exemptions for inflation, potentially providing homeowners with modest but cumulative savings over time. This change could reduce local governments’ tax revenue but will not impact school funding.

Florida voters approved two amendments to the state constitution in Tuesday’s election, surpassing the 60% majority needed to become law.

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SUMMARY: Meteorologist Jessica Dobson provided an update on Hurricane Raphael, which is currently a category 3 major hurricane with winds at 115 mph. It is expected to make landfall in Cuba as a category 2 or 3, bringing heavy rainfall, flooding, and storm surge. Central Florida will experience indirect impacts, primarily heavy downpours, possibly leading to reduced visibility and brief tornadoes due to moisture and wind shear. While the storm will weaken after landfall, scattered showers may persist into Thursday. Residents are advised to stay alert for weather updates as the hurricane season continues.

FOX 35’s Jessica Dobson has an update on Hurricane Rafael, which became a major Cat. 3 storm.

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