The Silence

Published: May 20, 2021, 4:15 a.m.

The Capitol halls are quiet, and lawmakers are heading home after concluding a three-day Special Session on gambling.

Also, on today’s Sunrise:

— Both chambers of the Legislature approved the new Seminole Gaming Compact by lopsided margins. Opponents made their last stand Wednesday in the House.

— Supporters admit there could be legal problems, especially the sports-betting provision ... but Rep. Randy Fine says Florida wins either way.

— Fine was also responsible for the most cringe-worthy comment during the debate when he forced lawmakers to imagine him naked. Pass the brain bleach, please…

— When the Session was done, House Speaker Chris Sprowls said passage of the Seminole Compact was history in the making.

— But it's not over yet. The deal still to be approved by the U.S. Department of Interior to see if it complies with the Indian Gaming Regulation Act; opponents promise a court challenge because there's a provision in the state constitution that says the voters must approve any expansion of casinos.

— The Governor's lawsuit to try to force the CDC to let cruise ships get back in business is going to mediation, which means the whole thing is pretty much moot. The chances are good that they'll be sailing again before the mediation process ends.

— Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried makes a virtual appearance at the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches, where she was asked if she'll announce a run for governor race next month.

— And finally, a Florida Man faces 20 years in prison after pledging his support for ISIS and posting a video on how to make a bomb. In reality, the FBI made the video, and if you follow the instructions, it doesn't explode.