John Cardillo, host of “America Talks Live” on Newsmax, has expressed concerns regarding Florida Senate leaders, including President Ben Albritton and Senator Joe Gruters. Cardillo said that these leaders support left-leaning legislation due to the influence of trial attorney John Morgan and his Democratic allies.
“If you want to know why the FL State Senate, its president Senator Ben Albritton and guys like State Senator Joe Gruters consistently sponsor and support Democrat legislation on behalf of leftist lobbies, it’s because they are owned by John Morgan and his Dem buddies,” said Cardillo.
In December 2024, SeekingRents.com reported that Florida Senate President Ben Albritton raised approximately $1 million in just over a week from attorneys and businesses associated with Morgan & Morgan, a prominent personal injury law firm led by Democratic donor John Morgan. Morgan confirmed he would host a fundraiser for Albritton and described the donations as a strategic move to gain access in a GOP-controlled Capitol. Over $600,000 came directly from Morgan & Morgan attorneys, with an additional $400,000 from related industries. This surge in contributions linked to trial lawyers follows a legislative session in which Florida passed tort reform affecting firms like Morgan & Morgan. Since 2024, Albritton and House Speaker Danny Perez have adopted tougher stances toward insurance companies.
According to InsuranceBusiness.com, a Florida House panel advanced HB 1551, a bill intended to restore policyholders’ ability to recover attorney fees when they win lawsuits against insurers—partially reversing tort reforms enacted in 2022 and 2023. Introduced by Representative Hillary Cassel, the bill aims to roll back those reforms and could destabilize Florida’s already fragile insurance market. House Speaker Daniel Perez has indicated support for the measure, marking a shift toward reevaluating previous legislative changes.
On February 5th, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued a press release announcing significant improvements in the state’s insurance market. Major auto insurers—including GEICO, Progressive, and State Farm—have filed for rate reductions of 10.5%, 8.1%, and 6%, respectively. Citizens Property Insurance is also implementing premium decreases averaging 5.6% statewide, benefiting about 75% of homeowners in Miami-Dade County. Over the past two years, eleven new insurance companies have entered the Florida market, contributing to increased competition and stability.
In a January 8th press release, Florida Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky highlighted progress made by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR). Yaworsky said that “thanks to reforms championed by Governor Ron DeSantis,” Florida’s insurance industry is improving. The agency reported significant strides in stabilizing the property insurance market and strengthening the health insurance sector. Reforms aimed at protecting consumers and improving market conditions have shown tangible results, with OIR focusing on increased industry accountability and resilience.
John Cardillo is known as a radio host, conservative commentator, and former New York City police officer recognized for his outspoken views on law enforcement and politics. After serving with the NYPD for ten years, he transitioned into media roles such as hosting “America Talks Live” on Newsmax and “The John Cardillo Show,” a nationally syndicated radio program. Now based in Florida, Cardillo remains active in political commentary and public discourse.
