MARK SCHUMANN

The latest installment of Steven Faherty’s “Utility Update” newsletter encourages attendance at two events today to feature State Senator Jack Latvala, one a Taxpayers Association luncheon, the other a reception schedule for this evening from 5:00-6:00, to be hosted by County Commissioner Bob Solari.  Facing charges of sexual harassment, Latvala cancelled his planned appearances in Vero Beach today.

Earlier this week, Latvala was replaced as Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee. He is now under investigation.

Florida’s Capitol culture under scrutiny after sexual allegations

FORT LAUDERDALE SUN-SENTINEL

Two months away from home in a highly competitive environment that is fueled by money, power and booze and in which careers are made or broken based on relationships built mainly after hours.

That’s the backdrop for the unfolding drama in Tallahassee in which insiders and onlookers have developed an obsession with who is sleeping with whom, and who will be the next to be outed.

The prurient explosion began last week, when high-ranking Democratic Sen. Jeff Clemens resigned from his seat after admitting he had an extramarital affair with a lobbyist.

On the heels of Clemens’s exit came news that state law enforcement officials are investigating a camera found by Senate Minority Leader Oscar Braynon in the hallway of a condominium building where he — and other lawmakers — live when they are in Tallahassee.  Continue reading…