Here’s what you need to know this morning from Florida, across the country and around the world.

FLORIDA FLOCK CAMERA PULLBACK EXPANDS

Automated license plate reader camera.

Source: IRC Media supplied image.

Florida’s crackdown on automated license plate readers is rapidly expanding beyond the state-road removal order. FDOT has revoked approvals for readers in State Highway System rights-of-way and given local agencies 30 days to remove them.

As of Tuesday morning, at least 13 Florida counties have suspended, discontinued or moved to end their use of automated license plate readers as the response expands beyond FDOT’s state-road order. That count is separate from counties where agencies may simply be complying with removal requirements for cameras located in state highway rights-of-way.

Indian River County agencies are already preparing to remove affected cameras. Indian River Shores has two readers on State Road A1A that are slated for removal, Sebastian has one near U.S. 1 and Jackson Street that officials say will come down, and the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office says affected readers will also be removed. Vero Beach says its 10 readers are not on state highways.

Why it matters: What began as a privacy debate has become a statewide policy shift affecting both state and local law enforcement.

Further reading: IRC Media has been tracking the expanding statewide response, including the FDOT order and sheriff shutdowns.

https://www.ircmedia.net/news/desantis-orders-license-plate-readers-off-state-roads-gives-agencies-30-days

FLORIDA’S FOUR-MONTH HUNTING, FISHING AND CAMPING TAX HOLIDAY BEGINS

Florida’s 2026 Hunting, Fishing and Camping Sales Tax Holiday begins today, September 1, and runs through December 31.

Qualifying hunting, fishing and camping equipment is exempt from sales tax during the four-month period. The Florida Department of Revenue says the exemption does not apply to rentals or repairs, or purchases made in theme parks, entertainment complexes, public lodging establishments or airports.

Why it matters: This is a lengthy statewide tax break that can produce meaningful savings for Floridians buying outdoor equipment this fall.

TRUMP APPROVAL AT 33% AS MIDTERM ENTHUSIASM GAP FAVORS DEMOCRATS

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll puts President Donald Trump’s job approval at 33% for the third consecutive survey while also finding an enthusiasm advantage for Democrats heading toward the November midterms.

The national numbers are only one snapshot of the electorate, and they do not necessarily predict Florida turnout. Florida’s recent primary participation and Republican strength make the state an important test of whether the national enthusiasm gap is reflected on the ground.

Why it matters: Control of Congress could hinge on turnout, making enthusiasm among each party’s voters potentially as important as presidential approval.

DEMOCRATIC SOCIALISTS FACE NOVEMBER TEST AFTER PRIMARY WINS

Democratic Socialists of America-aligned candidates have gained momentum in several Democratic primaries, but the November general election will test whether that support extends to a broader electorate.

Florida’s U.S. Senate race provides a direct state connection, with Democratic nominee Angie Nixon among candidates associated with the movement and emphasizing affordability and economic issues.

Why it matters: The results could help determine both control of Congress and the ideological direction of the Democratic Party.

RUSSIA CONTINUES HEAVY ATTACKS ON KYIV

Russia has continued a sustained wave of missile and drone attacks against Kyiv and surrounding areas, with Ukrainian officials reporting deaths, injuries and significant damage.

The strikes come as Ukraine continues to warn about pressure on its air-defense supplies, including U.S.-made Patriot interceptors, while diplomatic efforts to end the war remain stalled.

Why it matters: Continued pressure on Ukraine’s air defenses creates another decision point for Washington over military support while efforts to negotiate an end to the war struggle to gain traction.

Stay with IRC Media for the latest developments throughout the day.