BREAKING NEWS
Florida ties: Trump’s transition team leaning heavily on Florida allies as cabinet assembly process begins
Read full article: Florida ties: Trump’s transition team leaning heavily on Florida allies as cabinet assembly process beginsJust one week after winning the 2024 presidential election, President-elect Donald Trump and his transition team are moving quickly to fill key positions, and the pace has surprised political analysts.
Results in these three battleground states may provide early hints about party momentum on Election Day
Read full article: Results in these three battleground states may provide early hints about party momentum on Election DayIn just over 24 hours, the first polls will close in this election, and political analysts say a few early signals could offer Americans hints about which candidates are gaining the upper hand.
What you need to know about the ‘Red Mirage’ while votes are counted on election night
Read full article: What you need to know about the ‘Red Mirage’ while votes are counted on election night"Red Mirage" is a term that describes Republican candidates doing better in states where day-of voting happens on election night but mail in ballots aren't counted until later. Historically Republicans do better on election day but Democrats fare better in mail-in ballots. In some swing states like Pennsylvania and Nevada mail-in ballots aren't counted until after day-of votes.
Fact Check: A Trump ad claims Harris wants seniors to pay more social security taxes. Is it true?
Read full article: Fact Check: A Trump ad claims Harris wants seniors to pay more social security taxes. Is it true?Trump ad playing around the country claims Kamala Harris "wants struggling seniors to pay more social security taxes while she gives medical and social security to illegals". The claim is dubious as Harris is only calling for a payroll tax cap to be lifted which would affect working Americans who make more than $168,000.
Analyzing third parties and the Jill Stein factor following RFK Jr. dropping out
Read full article: Analyzing third parties and the Jill Stein factor following RFK Jr. dropping outFollowing RFK Jr. dropping out of the race and endorsing Trump, we analyze the remaining third party candidates and their impact on the race. The highest profile of the remaining third party candidates is Green Party Candidate Jill Stein who many political observers believe impacted previous Presidential elections.
How VP Kamala Harris might approach key issues during her campaign
Read full article: How VP Kamala Harris might approach key issues during her campaignMany top Democrats are endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 presidential race, setting the stage for a likely showdown between Harris and former President Donald Trump in November.
This Week in Jacksonville Special Edition: Discussing the assassination attempt of Donald Trump
Read full article: This Week in Jacksonville Special Edition: Discussing the assassination attempt of Donald TrumpDonald Trump’s campaign says he is “fine” after what law enforcement officials are treating as an assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Officials said the man who opened fire was a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania. News4JAX Political Analyst Rick Mullaney and Government Law Attorney Chris Hand joined Kent Justice in this special edition of This Week in Jacksonville focused on the assassination attempt of former President Trump.
This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition - Breaking down funding for the $1.4B stadium deal
Read full article: This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition - Breaking down funding for the $1.4B stadium dealIt took almost a year to come together, but the city of Jacksonville and the Jaguars have an agreement to renovate EverBank Stadium.
Trump ordered to pay $175M in civil fraud case, hush money trial to start April 15
Read full article: Trump ordered to pay $175M in civil fraud case, hush money trial to start April 15Donald Trump’s bond in his civil fraud trial has been lowered from $454 million to $175 million and he’s been given 10 days to pay it. His criminal hush money trial will start in New York on April 15.
Are there any lessons learned after Jacksonville came close to losing one of its most important entities...JEA?
Read full article: Are there any lessons learned after Jacksonville came close to losing one of its most important entities...JEA?Now that the JEA scandal has finally concluded with a federal trial leading to the conviction of the public utility’s former CEO Aaron Zahn, there’s one question that still lingers:
How a third party or additional candidate could affect the race for president
Read full article: How a third party or additional candidate could affect the race for presidentWith President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump collectively polling as the least popular matchup in modern history, there's been a lot of buzz about other potential names on the ballot. That buzz ratcheted up in the past couple weeks when Jets Quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ name was dropped as a possible running mate for independent candidate Robert F Kennedy Junior. While an independent or third party candidate isn’t expected to win… it could significantly affect the race.
Florida’s primary election, how strongly has the GOP solidified its support of Trump?
Read full article: Florida’s primary election, how strongly has the GOP solidified its support of Trump?Tuesday is election day in Florida with the GOP Primary -- although you may not have known it with both Presidential primaries being over before it even began. Former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden have secured the delegates to get their party’s nomination.
Path to the Polls: Biden faces first big test in Michigan; does Haley have a path forward against Trump?
Read full article: Path to the Polls: Biden faces first big test in Michigan; does Haley have a path forward against Trump?Even though former President Donald Trump easily won on Nikki Haley’s turf -- it looks like Haley’s going to stay in the race and continue to clash with Trump.
Path to the Polls: How age is becoming more of a factor in race to White House
Read full article: Path to the Polls: How age is becoming more of a factor in race to White HouseOur latest candid conversation includes a familiar face for News4JAX viewers: News4JAX political analyst Rick Mullaney, who is the head of the Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute.
What’s next for Ron DeSantis after dropping out the GOP race?
Read full article: What’s next for Ron DeSantis after dropping out the GOP race?Now that Governor Ron DeSantis is off the campaign trail, his focus will no longer be split between running the state and running for president. Local experts weigh in on what’s next for DeSantis.
Would proposal to tax EV owners in Florida level the playing field?
Read full article: Would proposal to tax EV owners in Florida level the playing field?Some are questioning whether a proposal to tax electric vehicle owners is trying to address the infrastructure issue or if it is politically motivated.
Guns, TikTok, gender identity: Dozens of new laws are set to begin in Florida on July 1. Here are the highlights
Read full article: Guns, TikTok, gender identity: Dozens of new laws are set to begin in Florida on July 1. Here are the highlightsMore school vouchers. Expanded restrictions on teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity. Limits on using TikTok. Carrying guns without concealed-weapons licenses. A larger Florida State Guard.
A break down of the candidates running for president in 2024
Read full article: A break down of the candidates running for president in 2024More politicians are jumping into the race for president. Republican Tim Scott announced his presidential run Monday. He's one of six republican candidates whose campaigns have raised over $1 million each.
Who voted? A look at Tuesday’s election turnout in Duval County
Read full article: Who voted? A look at Tuesday’s election turnout in Duval CountyTaking a closer look at Tuesday's election results – which saw more voters show up - than in the March election. And, it wasn’t just how many turned out – but who those voters were.
Gov. DeSantis’ international trip is a trade mission with a presidential feel
Read full article: Gov. DeSantis’ international trip is a trade mission with a presidential feelThe second international trade mission for Governor Ron DeSantis is raising questions about what the trip means for Floridians and who is paying for the 4-nation tour.
More ads hit the airwaves in Jacksonville’s neck-and-neck mayor’s race. How the candidates are responding
Read full article: More ads hit the airwaves in Jacksonville’s neck-and-neck mayor’s race. How the candidates are respondingWith more and more political ads hitting the airwaves Thursday, many of them negative, News4JAX is hearing from voters about the impact they have on their choices for mayor.
Politic observers say increase in voter turnout is imperative for mayoral runoff election in May
Read full article: Politic observers say increase in voter turnout is imperative for mayoral runoff election in MayIn less than a month, Jacksonville residents will elect a new mayor in a runoff election and the latest polls show the race is neck and neck between Republican Daniel Davis and Democrat Donna Deegan.
JU honors former councilman with inaugural Shircliff Courage Award for launching JEA investigation
Read full article: JU honors former councilman with inaugural Shircliff Courage Award for launching JEA investigationThe Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute presented former City Council President Scott A. Wilson with its inaugural Shircliff Courage Award in recognition of his role in launching a historic and unprecedented city council investigation into the proposed JEA sale and bonus plan in 2019.
Differing campaign ad approaches on full display for Jacksonville mayoral hopefuls Deegan, Davis
Read full article: Differing campaign ad approaches on full display for Jacksonville mayoral hopefuls Deegan, DavisWith the mayoral race now in the runoffs, new campaign ads for the remaining candidates are now airing.
Vote 2023: Early voting percentage increases slightly as election day draws near
Read full article: Vote 2023: Early voting percentage increases slightly as election day draws nearIt appears voter turnout for the Jacksonville city election is going to be low. As of Friday, early voting and mail-in voting stands at 11%.
Political analyst calls Jacksonville mayoral race 1 of the most negative in recent history
Read full article: Political analyst calls Jacksonville mayoral race 1 of the most negative in recent historyVoters are about a month away from heading to the polls to select new city officials, including the tense race for Jacksonville mayor, and some are exhausted at the back-and-forth between candidates.
‘It’s gotten too personal’: Political analyst calls Jacksonville mayoral race 1 of the most negative in recent history
Read full article: ‘It’s gotten too personal’: Political analyst calls Jacksonville mayoral race 1 of the most negative in recent historyVoters are about a month away from heading to the polls to select new city officials, including the tense race for Jacksonville mayor, and some are exhausted at the back-and-forth between candidates.
Duval Democratic Party chairman weighs in on DNC’s new primary calendar
Read full article: Duval Democratic Party chairman weighs in on DNC’s new primary calendarA major change to how Democrats vote in the presidential primaries is in the works as the Democratic National Committee is moving South Carolina to be the first primary in the nation, which could bypass Iowa and New Hampshire.
Large voter turnout expected for high-stakes city election as redistricting issues loom
Read full article: Large voter turnout expected for high-stakes city election as redistricting issues loomIn March, Jacksonville will be voting for a new mayor and new city council members to run the city. Political observers anticipate a high turnout compared to past local elections as races began to become very competitive.
Could Jacksonville again be chosen to host Republican National Convention?
Read full article: Could Jacksonville again be chosen to host Republican National Convention?It almost happened in the summer of 2020 — and, once again, Jacksonville could be the site of the Republican National Convention. Local and national leaders are tiptoeing around the topic, but it seems the River City is under consideration as the host of the event in 2028.
Appeals court denies city of Jacksonville’s motion for stay of redistricting order
Read full article: Appeals court denies city of Jacksonville’s motion for stay of redistricting orderThe 11th Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals has denied the city of Jacksonville’s request for a stay of a federal judge’s ruling on redistricting.
Analyst: Warnock’s win in Georgia changes dynamics on Capitol Hill
Read full article: Analyst: Warnock’s win in Georgia changes dynamics on Capitol HillDemocrat Raphael Warnock defeating his Republican challenger Herschel Walker in Georgia to win reelection to the U.S. Senate creates a new reality on Capitol Hill.
Your Voice Matters: Issues you & our political analyst say are biggest for next Jacksonville mayor
Read full article: Your Voice Matters: Issues you & our political analyst say are biggest for next Jacksonville mayorIn March, Jacksonville voters will submit a ballot for the city’s next mayor. Republican Lenny Curry is term-limited and someone new will be taking the seat.
If Donald Trump runs for president in 2024, it could have major political impacts on Florida and Georgia
Read full article: If Donald Trump runs for president in 2024, it could have major political impacts on Florida and GeorgiaThe nation is watching to see if former President Donald Trump will announce a 2024 run for president during a speech planned for Tuesday night.
Jacksonville sheriff candidates are breaking records with millions in fundraising. Who are their top donors?
Read full article: Jacksonville sheriff candidates are breaking records with millions in fundraising. Who are their top donors?Millions of dollars have poured into the highly competitive race to become the next sheriff of Jacksonville.
Your Voice Matters: Georgia voters react to personal allegations against Senate candidate, Herschel Walker
Read full article: Your Voice Matters: Georgia voters react to personal allegations against Senate candidate, Herschel WalkerThe race for U.S. Senate in Georgia is making headlines as numerous personal allegations have been levied against Republican candidate Herschel Walker. They involve allegations he paid for a woman’s abortion several years ago, which he denies, and a critical video of Walker released by his own son.
Does former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels have a clear path to re-enter politics?
Read full article: Does former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels have a clear path to re-enter politics?Following last Thursday’s acquittal of former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels we’re looking into whether he has a viable path to re-enter politics. This comes after Daniels released a statement following his acquittal and statement that he is the victim of a political witch hunt.
Analysis: Florida Supreme Court will have 3 options to consider with Florida’s abortion ban
Read full article: Analysis: Florida Supreme Court will have 3 options to consider with Florida’s abortion banThe new law is in effect for now because the judge’s order won’t have an impact until he puts the ruling in writing.
‘A major curveball’: With Williams announcing retirement, challenges emerge in race for Jacksonville sheriff
Read full article: ‘A major curveball’: With Williams announcing retirement, challenges emerge in race for Jacksonville sheriffJacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams on Thursday announced his sudden retirement amid controversy about a recent move from Duval to Nassau County. Meantime, six people had previously announced their intentions to run for sheriff in spring 2023 during the general election, which follows the special elections later this year.
Analyst: Leak Justice Thomas calls ‘unthinkable breach of trust’ has led to historic protests
Read full article: Analyst: Leak Justice Thomas calls ‘unthinkable breach of trust’ has led to historic protestsJustice Clarence Thomas says that the Supreme Court has been changed by the shocking leak of a draft opinion earlier this month.
‘Haven’t seen anything quite like this’: Leak of draft opinion on Roe V Wade ‘unprecedented,’ analyst says
Read full article: ‘Haven’t seen anything quite like this’: Leak of draft opinion on Roe V Wade ‘unprecedented,’ analyst saysIt is a bombshell. A draft opinion leaked from the Supreme Court suggests after nearly 50 years the nation’s highest court is poised to overturn the right to abortion ensured by the nearly 50-year-old Roe v Wade decision.
Property tax referendum to help Duval schools clears City Council, goes to voters in August
Read full article: Property tax referendum to help Duval schools clears City Council, goes to voters in AugustA measure requested by the Duval County School Board that would put a property tax referendum on a ballot this year is poised for a final reading during Tuesday’s meeting of the Jacksonville City Council.
Is Jacksonville really a ‘mess’ as Fox News host said? No, and here’s why, according to our expert
Read full article: Is Jacksonville really a ‘mess’ as Fox News host said? No, and here’s why, according to our expertIt’s the back-and-forth that’s had much of Jacksonville talking for more than a week.
Special election ends; campaigning for next year’s election begins
Read full article: Special election ends; campaigning for next year’s election beginsYou may have thought campaigning for Jacksonville‘s City council ended for a while with Tuesday’s special election where Nick Howland will now take the seat vacated by the late Tommy Hazouri.
20% voter turnout in City Council special election: Higher than anticipated
Read full article: 20% voter turnout in City Council special election: Higher than anticipatedIn a special election Tuesday that was triggered by a runoff for the Jacksonville City Council At-Large Group 3 seat, Republican Nick Howland clinched 51% of the vote to his Democratic opponent Tracye Polson, who received 48% of the vote.
Democrats don’t have steam to break stalemate of Republican filibuster on voting rights bill, expert says
Read full article: Democrats don’t have steam to break stalemate of Republican filibuster on voting rights bill, expert saysThe heated debate over voting reform in Congress is about to come to conclusion. Senate Democrats are pushing for an overhaul in our nation’s election system but they may frankly not have the votes as Republicans are unified in stopping the legislation.
Political analyst weighs in on Supreme Court decision to halt vaccine rule
Read full article: Political analyst weighs in on Supreme Court decision to halt vaccine ruleSome workers will still have to vaccinate or get tested for COVID-19, but the U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that large businesses do not have to follow that plan.
What effect could congressional investigation into Capitol riot have on midterm elections?
Read full article: What effect could congressional investigation into Capitol riot have on midterm elections?It’s been one year since the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. As the congressional investigation continues, we’re looking into what effect it could have on the midterm elections later this year.
What to expect from the Florida Legislature’s special session on COVID-19 mandates
Read full article: What to expect from the Florida Legislature’s special session on COVID-19 mandatesFlorida lawmakers are in the midst of a special session in Tallahassee aimed at blocking federal COVID-19 mandates. That includes President Joe Biden’s mandate for larger businesses.
Special election planned to fill empty city council seat left by Tommy Hazouri
Read full article: Special election planned to fill empty city council seat left by Tommy HazouriAs the community mourns the death of local political icon Tommy Hazouri the city council works to figure out how to fill his empty seat.
Baptist Health CEO on COVID-19 surge; vaccinations & masks
Read full article: Baptist Health CEO on COVID-19 surge; vaccinations & masksBaptist Health is just one of the hospital systems in our region reeling from the sudden increase in COVID-19 cases. Baptist Health CEO Michael Mayo joins this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville” to explain some of his biggest concerns. Plus, the battle of vaccinations and masks, and what’s at stake if school districts or local governments decide to make them mandatory. News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney and political expert Pastor John Newman join us.
Expect more school boards to take ‘measured approach’ to masks, political analyst says
Read full article: Expect more school boards to take ‘measured approach’ to masks, political analyst saysSchool leaders and city leaders have different considerations when they determine if they want to develop policies that adhere to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ executive order on mask mandates.
Jacksonville City Councilman Terrance Freeman; Historic spending in Washington, D.C.
Read full article: Jacksonville City Councilman Terrance Freeman; Historic spending in Washington, D.C.On this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville,” Terrance Freeman, the new vice president of the Jacksonville City Council, joins us as he prepares for his new role. We talk about development, crime and a literacy program he’s passionate about. And Democrats and Republicans are facing off in Washington, D.C., on important issues that impact you -- much of it centering around historic spending. U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack shares her views. We also hear from News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney for his perspective.
Rick Mullaney: News4Jax political analyst
Read full article: Rick Mullaney: News4Jax political analystRick Mullaney is a political analyst for News4Jax and provides commentary on law, policy and government at the local, state and federal level. He regularly appears on The Morning Show, evening news broadcasts, This Week in Jacksonville and special programming during elections and breaking news.
Jacksonville City Council votes to double gas tax; State’s new gambling agreement; Florida House speaker
Read full article: Jacksonville City Council votes to double gas tax; State’s new gambling agreement; Florida House speakerOn this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville,” News4Jax political analyst and Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute Director Rick Mullaney gives perspective on the Jacksonville City Council voting to double Duval County’s gas tax. State Reps. Tracie Davis and Clay Yarborough discuss the pros and cons of the state’s new gambling agreement. And Florida Speaker of the House Chris Sprowls talks about the 2021 legislative session.
Changes to health care; plans for Emerald Trail; tribute to former JU President Fran Kinne
Read full article: Changes to health care; plans for Emerald Trail; tribute to former JU President Fran KinneOn this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville,” we are joined by Mayo Clinic Jacksonville CEO Dr. Kent Thielen to discuss the changes to health care becoming permanent following the pandemic. We’re also digging deeper into plans for Emerald Trail in Duval County with Groundwork Jacksonville CEO Kay Ehas and Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute Director Rick Mullaney. And we’re closing our show with a tribute to JU’s beloved former President Fran Kinne and a look back at her 62-year association with the university.
Impact of Derek Chauvin’s conviction; Jacksonville’s infrastructure needs & proposed gas tax increase
Read full article: Impact of Derek Chauvin’s conviction; Jacksonville’s infrastructure needs & proposed gas tax increaseOn this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville,” Northside Coalition President Ben Frazier and Jacksonville Fraternal Order of Police President Steve Zona each discuss the impact of the guilty verdict in the Derek Chauvin verdict. Then Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute Director Rick Mullaney joins the show as Jacksonville Transportation Authority CEO Nat Ford and Jacksonville Civil Council Chairman John Delaney each discuss the city’s infrastructure needs and the proposed gas tax increase.
Political analyst: Disagreement but some chance for bipartisan support on Biden’s infrastructure plan
Read full article: Political analyst: Disagreement but some chance for bipartisan support on Biden’s infrastructure planOne is traditional infrastructure, capital spending on roads, bridges, highways, electrical grids, water, even broadband. The other areas he focused on were climate and green energy and the controversial $400 billion home care aspect of the plan. Biden hopes to pass an infrastructure plan by summer, which could mean relying solely on the slim Democratic majorities in the House and the Senate. Ad“Ninety-one Fortune 500 Companies, including Amazon, pay not a single solitary penny in income tax,” Biden said. AdStandard & Poor’s chief U.S. economist, Beth Ann Bovino, estimated last year that a $2.1 trillion boost in infrastructure spending could add as much as $5.7 trillion in income to the entire economy over a decade.
JTA CEO on gas tax increase proposal; JEA CEO on new direction of utility
Read full article: JTA CEO on gas tax increase proposal; JEA CEO on new direction of utilityJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute Director Rick Mullaney guest hosts this edition of “This Week In Jacksonville.”Mullaney sits down with JTA CEO Nat Ford to discuss the gas tax increase proposal. Also, JEA CEO Jay Stowe talks about the new direction of the utility.
Does Gov. DeSantis deserve criticism over election proposals, honoring Rush Limbaugh?
Read full article: Does Gov. DeSantis deserve criticism over election proposals, honoring Rush Limbaugh?AdAfter announcing his election proposals, DeSantis called on the state’s former Republican Party chairman to make remarks that attacked how other states ran their elections last fall. On Limbaugh, DeSantis said he would announce the dates to lower the flags once the date of Limbaugh’s internment was announced. “There’s no doubt that Rush Limbaugh was a pioneer but he was also was a very polarizing figure,” Mullaney said. Crist has announced he’s running for governor,” Mullaney said. DeSantis was doing this because of age and seniors in those communities or whether it was, in fact, inequitable.
News4Jax political analyst: Expected impeachment vote came with a few surprises
Read full article: News4Jax political analyst: Expected impeachment vote came with a few surprisesIn addition to Burr and Cassidy, voting to find Trump guilty were GOP Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Mitt Romney of Utah, Ben Sasse of Nebraska and Patrick Toomey of Pennsylvania. The seven votes were easily the largest number of lawmakers to ever vote to find a president of their own party guilty at impeachment proceedings. He pointed out that after the vote, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell made comments that echoed his earlier harsh criticism of Trump’s conduct. But McConnell said his vote to acquit in the end was based on the fact that Trump is a former president.
Discussion on article of impeachment against Trump; Look at Biden administration
Read full article: Discussion on article of impeachment against Trump; Look at Biden administrationJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Rick Mullaney of the Jacksonville University Public Policy Insitute joins this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville” to talk about the article of impeachment against former President Donald Trump that will be sent to the Senate, as well as the ramifications and possible repercussions for continuing the impeachment process. Then, U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz joins the show to talk about his views on the impeachment process and the impacts of the riot at the Capitol. Finally, Jacksonville City Councilwoman Brenda Priestly Jackson joins the show to talk about her views and optimism for President Joe Biden’s administration and the historic moment of Vice President Kamala Harris being sworn in.
FBI Jacksonville ‘ready to respond to any threat of violence or criminal activity’
Read full article: FBI Jacksonville ‘ready to respond to any threat of violence or criminal activity’JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The FBI Jacksonville Division is prepared to respond to any threats of violence or criminal activity in North Florida. The letter, dated Jan. 15, reads, in part:“As the leader of the FBI Jacksonville Division, I want to assure you that my team stands ready to respond to any threat of violence or criminal activity that falls within our federal jurisdiction. Instead of 200,000 people attending, you may have 2,000.”Mullaney said that while there has been heightened security at previous inaugurations, this year’s will also be different. Ron DeSantis on Friday activated the Florida National Guard to assist state and local law enforcement agencies. The governor’s executive order mobilizing the National Guard was issued “in response to reports of potential civil unrest,” DeSantis’ office said in a news release.
Capitol riot aftermath; impeachment of President Trump; Inauguration Day safety
Read full article: Capitol riot aftermath; impeachment of President Trump; Inauguration Day safetyJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Rick Mullaney of Jacksonville University’s Public Policy Institute, U.S. Rep. Al Lawson, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack and former U.S. Rep. David Jolly join this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville” to talk about their experiences during the riot at the Capitol. They also discuss their views on the impeachment of President Donald Trump, including how they voted and why, and look ahead to the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden.
Invasion of halls of Congress; impeachment talks; former adviser to President Trump on Capitol breach
Read full article: Invasion of halls of Congress; impeachment talks; former adviser to President Trump on Capitol breachJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney of Jacksonville University’s Public Policy Institute, Florida Sen. Audrey Gibson, U.S. Rep. John Rutherford and News4Jax anchor Tom Wills join this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville” as they discuss the invasion of the halls of Congress, objections to Electoral College votes and whether impeachment should be attempted. In addition, former advisor to President Donald Trump, Omarosa Manigault Newman, provides her perspective on the breach of the U.S. Capitol.
Georgia Senate candidates make final push in high-stakes runoff
Read full article: Georgia Senate candidates make final push in high-stakes runoffATLANTA – Polls will open Tuesday for a rare Georgia runoff election because no candidate for either Senate seat had 50% of the vote in November. Election Day. That would give Democrats a Senate majority to go along with their control of the House and executive branch. A recorded phone call with Brad Raffensperger, Georgia’s secretary of state, has sparked debate from both Republicans and Democrats. “You just can’t let them steal the U.S. Senate, you can’t let it happen.”More than 3 million Georgians already have voted.
Discussions continue on Lot J plan; US Senate runoffs in Georgia
Read full article: Discussions continue on Lot J plan; US Senate runoffs in GeorgiaJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – On this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville,” OurJax representatives Michael Ward and Audrey Moran talk about their objections to the Lot J development deal with the city. After that, Pastor John Allen Newman and News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney discuss the upcoming U.S. Senate runoff elections in Georgia and the use of attack ads during the campaigns. They also talk about memorable moments of 2020 and what they are looking forward to in 2021.
US Senate candidates spend Saturday wooing Southeast Georgia voters
Read full article: US Senate candidates spend Saturday wooing Southeast Georgia votersIf either Republican wins, their party will keep a one-vote majority that could block Biden’s legislative initiatives and judicial nominees. The Republicans are driving that point home with traditionally conservative South Georgia voters, calling their opponents radicals and portraying them as puppets of liberal Democrats in Washington. “This is week two of my ‘Georgia Firewall Tour,’” Loeffler said Saturday during her campaign stop in Glynn County. “It does seem to me like we’re in for a higher turnout election than is typical for a runoff,” McDonald said. The last time there was a runoff for a U.S. Senate seat in Georgia -- 2008 -- about 2 million votes were casts and Republican Saxby Chambliss defeated Democrat Jim Martin.
Supreme Court rejects Republican attack on Biden victory
Read full article: Supreme Court rejects Republican attack on Biden victoryKathy Kratt of Orlando, Fla., displays her Trump flags as she and other protesters demonstrate their support for President Donald Trump at the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020. Trump bemoaned the decision late Friday, tweeting: “The Supreme Court really let us down. Two days after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed his suit, Trump jumped into the high court case. “If the Supreme Court shows great Wisdom and Courage, the American People will win perhaps the most important case in history, and our Electoral Process will be respected again!” he tweeted Friday afternoon. Many Republican voters in several states won by Biden have demanded that their elected officials find a way to invalidate the president-elect's victories.
Exploring pros and cons of Lot J development with city leaders
Read full article: Exploring pros and cons of Lot J development with city leadersJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney of Jacksonville University’s Public Policy Institute joins this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville,” which explores the Lot J proposal from multiple angles with Downtown Investment Authority CEO Lori Boyer, Jacksonville Civic Council CEO and President Jeanne Miller, Urban Land Institute Chair Tarik Bateh, Jaguars Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer Megha Parekh and Mayor Lenny Curry’s Chief of Staff Jordan Elsbury.
Trump’s legal battles continue; Biden forges ahead with transition
Read full article: Trump’s legal battles continue; Biden forges ahead with transitionWe’ve heard your concerns about the election results, and we will continue to report the facts. We didn’t win the election,” Clinton said during her concession speech. Clinton and the Democrats didn’t really accept the outcome, according to News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney. “Joe Biden has 290 electoral votes because they haven’t finished counting in Georgia, but Georgia appears to be trending towards Joe Biden,” Mullaney explained. And we will continue to report the facts of the election provided to us by election officials counting the votes.
Legal experts explain what it will take for Trump to overturn election
Read full article: Legal experts explain what it will take for Trump to overturn electionJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As President Donald Trump’s campaign continues to make allegations of fraud and systemic problems in last week’s election, without enough evidence in court, he will not be able to overturn his election loss to President-elect Joe Biden. News4Jax on Monday spoke with legal experts about what it will take for Trump to have any hope of overturning the election but didn’t speak with one attorney or analyst who thinks this is an easy path for the president. The most critical state where Trump would need to win a lawsuit would be in Pennsylvania. Some wonder whether Trump would have more success in the U.S. Supreme Court, where he has installed three justices during his term. There are some critical deadlines Trump’s legal process is fighting against to win in court.
Analysis: COVID-19, ‘Big Blue Wall’ keys to Biden’s win
Read full article: Analysis: COVID-19, ‘Big Blue Wall’ keys to Biden’s winJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The COVID-19 pandemic and the “Big Blue Wall” of Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania were what turned the 2020 presidential election in favor of president-elect Joe Biden, according to News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney. Mullaney said it was fitting that Biden’s birth state of Pennsylvania was the one to propel him over the top. Mullaney said Biden’s projected victory hinged on several key moments, including his win in the South Carolina primary and the reaction to the candidates' first debate. “Prior to South Carolina, Joe Biden was a long shot. South Carolina really changed everything,” Mullaney said.
Spotlight to shine on Florida, but will it be brighter than 2000 election?
Read full article: Spotlight to shine on Florida, but will it be brighter than 2000 election?JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The state of Florida always gains the attention of voters during an election cycle. But the national attention has perhaps never been higher for the Sunshine State during an election than in the year 2000. The mere mention of the 2000 election unsettles people in Palm Beach County. But George W. Bush became president after the Supreme Court decided, 5-4, to halt further Florida recounts, more than a month after Election Day. But as we learned in 2000, Election Day isn’t the end.
Duval County Supervisor of Elections Mike Hogan shares advice for those who haven’t voted yet
Read full article: Duval County Supervisor of Elections Mike Hogan shares advice for those who haven’t voted yetJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Duval County Supervisor of Elections Mike Hogan appeared Sunday on “This Week in Jacksonville" ahead of Election Day. Hogan reminded voters that Election Day is always busy and there are usually lines, so if voters come prepared, the lines will be shorter. “And we still believe that.”But he went on to say there was a spike in provisional ballots this week. “So we’re right at 500, I think, provisional ballots," Hogan said. We want to get ahead of that as best we can.”As far as projected voter turnout, Hogan said: “We’ve always looked at between 85% turnout to 92% turnout.”As of Sunday morning, Hogan said, turnout was around 57%.
Barriers on Capitol Hill; Duval County Supervisor of Elections Office preps ahead of Election Day
Read full article: Barriers on Capitol Hill; Duval County Supervisor of Elections Office preps ahead of Election DayJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – On this edition of “This Week In Jacksonville,” News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney of Jacksonville University’s Public Policy Institute co-hosts alongside News4Jax anchor and reporter Kent Justice. Former U.S. Reps. David Jolly and Patrick Murphy discuss a new book, which they co-authored, designed to talk about barriers on Capitol Hill. Duval County Supervisor of Elections Mike Hogan talks about high voter turnout and concerns just before Election Day. And Mullaney describes the five things that could be affected if the Democrats earn a majority in the Senate.
Duval County poised to be key battleground in 2020 election
Read full article: Duval County poised to be key battleground in 2020 electionJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Political experts say it’s no fluke: the once-red Duval County has become more purple, a development that could give the county a key role to play in the 2020 general election. “Duval County is trending purple and it’s become very much a purple county,” News4Jax Political Analyst Rick Mullaney said. “People tend to think of Duval County as red because it’s surrounded by red counties when you look at Nassau, when you look at Clay County. Mullaney explains that Duval County is unique, with the largest Black voting population by percentage, among the state’s larger counties, at nearly 30 percent. That potentially is good news for Joe Biden when it comes to Duval County.”
Duval County school tax referendum; JEA referendum on ballot; Former Rep. Jason Altmire
Read full article: Duval County school tax referendum; JEA referendum on ballot; Former Rep. Jason AltmireJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney of Jacksonville University’s Public Policy Institute hosts this edition of “This Week In Jacksonville." Former Sheriff Nat Glover of Duval Citizens for Better Schools discusses the sales tax referendum on Duval County ballots. City Councilman Michael Boylan breaks down the JEA referendum for Duval County voters. Former U.S. Rep. Jason Altmire talks about his new book, “Dead Center: How Political Polarization Divided America.”
TWIJ: GOP view of ‘court packing;’ history of voting in Florida; state House candidates
Read full article: TWIJ: GOP view of ‘court packing;’ history of voting in Florida; state House candidatesJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The U.S. Supreme Court may have a new associate justice very soon. A future Florida House speaker who is also a local attorney discusses the process and the potential of “packing the court” after the election with host Kent Justice. Rick Mullaney also breaks down the way Florida votes historically and what we’re looking for on election night. Plus, the Democrat running hoping to unseat that future House speaker in District 24.
If you’ve lost friends over political posts on social media, you’re not alone
Read full article: If you’ve lost friends over political posts on social media, you’re not aloneJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Have you lost friends over political posts on social media? POLITICAL POSTS RUINING FRIENDSHIPS? We want to know: Have political posts you've made or seen from others cost you friends? She said political posts on social media have damaged relationships with people she personally knows. According to the Pew Research Center, 55% of United States social media users say they are worn out by political posts and discussions.
President diagnosed with coronavirus; Second Lady Karen Pence visits Jacksonville
Read full article: President diagnosed with coronavirus; Second Lady Karen Pence visits JacksonvilleDuval County Medical Society Foundation President Dr. Sunil Joshi breaks down the treatments President Trump is receiving after being diagnosed with COVID-19. News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney of JU’s Public Policy Institute describes how the president’s diagnosis could impact the campaign. Also, City Councilman Rory Diamond on launching a new program brought forward by Second Lady Karen Pence for military spouses.
Viewers' Guide: What to watch for during presidential debate
Read full article: Viewers' Guide: What to watch for during presidential debateAhead of the debate, there’s controversy over nominating a new Supreme Court justice. There’s also back-and-forth underway concerning a New York Times report on Trump’s taxes, saying he has paid less than a thousand dollars in recent years. President Trump has denied the report, but hasn’t specified what was inaccurate. “The truth is President Trump has accomplished more in 47 months than Biden has in 47 years," Black said. So Vice President Biden will give them a plan and a message that will resonate with them,” Henry said.
President Donald Trump nominates Judge Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court
Read full article: President Donald Trump nominates Judge Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme CourtJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – On this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville,” News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney, of Jacksonville University’s Public Policy Institute, discusses President Donald Trump nominating Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, of South Carolina, gives his thoughts on the nomination process. And local attorney Pat Kilbane, who knows Barrett on a professional level, shares his impressions and insight.
Politicians react after Andrew Gillum announces he’s bisexual
Read full article: Politicians react after Andrew Gillum announces he’s bisexualJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – During an interview on the Tamron Hall Show with his wife by his side, former Florida gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum told a television audience that he identifies as bisexual. Gillum said on the “Tamron Hall Show” that he doesn’t “identify as gay, but I do identify as bisexual. Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried tweeted: “Sending you love, acceptance, grace, and strength @AndrewGillum”Chris King was Gillum’s running mate in 2018. ?”Shevrin Jones, a Democratic member of the Florida House running for the State Senate, tweeted: "Love you Andrew Gillum. This interview is reason 2020 why Andrew Gillum is my brother and friend, and have been for over 18 years.