FLORIDA POLITICS Understanding 2026 Races, Issues w/Tampa Bay Times Michael Van Sickler

News Director Nanette Wiser chats with Michael Van Sickler about his new role as Tampa Bay Times Politics Editor. The former Managing Editor of News & Engagement is no stranger to state, regional and local politics. We talk about the 2026 races, the candidates, the key issues and how you can keep track through responsible sources of what's happening in our community and beyond. Sign up for his newsletter and follow him on social media.
Says Michael: "Ever since I was a kid, I was a politics junkie. It was a way for me to relate to my dad, and we’d spend hours at the dinner table talking Reagan, Bush and Clinton. My interest in politics no doubt led to my poli sci major in college and then a career in journalism. Even when my beat or job didn’t hinge on politics, it was never too far. I’ve been at the Times for more than 20 years. As a reporter, I’ve covered everything from suburban sprawl (there’s politics in that) to the mortgage fraud that fueled the Great Recession (that got pretty political). I covered St. Petersburg as the city hall reporter and Florida’s Capitol under Gov. Rick Scott . As an editor, I’ve run our news coverage during some of the most divisive times our nation has ever faced. Now I’m back reporting on all things politics. Local. State. Federal. Send me tips, rants or keen assessments. I’m on it." Got a tip? Email  mvansickler@tampabay.com

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