Anticipation and Tension Mount in Capitol as DeSantis Enters Final Term

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The recent legislative session in Tallahassee, Florida was marked by protracted debates and political friction among the state’s governor, the senate, and house leadership. With lawmakers gathering once more for a committee week, a question looms: Will the previous session’s tensions resurface as they gear up for January’s new legislative session?

State representatives are preparing for another round of legislative work, yet the unresolved issues from last year might cast a shadow over the upcoming discussions. The lingering effects of past disagreements could potentially influence the new year’s agenda.

In related news, a judge has issued a restraining order against Representative Cory Mills following allegations of harassment from a former girlfriend.

Looking Back: The 2025-2026 Legislative Session:

The 2025 legislative session stands as one of the longest in Florida’s history, initially anticipated to focus on making life more affordable for residents. Instead, the session became a battleground for contentious debates around immigration policies, property taxes, insurance reform, proposed tax cuts, and the unfolding Hope Florida scandal.

2026-2027 Legislative Session:

“I think this session is going to have its ups and downs,” said State Rep. Sam Garrison (R-Fleming Island).

“I don’t know fully what to expect this session. We’re all watching with anticipation, but I don’t know that relationships have necessarily improved. If anything, it feels like we took an intermission in a play and we’re coming back for Act 2,” said State Rep. Fentrice Driskell (D-Tampa).

As Florida Democrats wait and see what the start of session could shape up to be, Republicans say, it’s normal to see tensions rise across the rotunda and with the executive branch.

“It’s designed to be messy. It’s designed to have debate, and the speaker is not afraid of that. I’m not afraid of that. The governor is not afraid of that. The senate is not afraid of that. We’re going to wrestle with these sorts of things,” said Rep. Garrison.

Garrison believes it’s not how you get there; it’s about the end product that really matters.

“We can have our debates, we can have our discussions, but at the end of day, let’s keep our eye on the ball where we want to be and not be complacent,” said Rep. Garrison.

DeSantis is in his final term, and in his final wish list, state leaders expect to see pressure on redistricting, property tax reform, and a “medical freedom” package.