DeSantis keeps open mind on university consolidation plan

Gov. Ron DeSantis addressed a controversial university consolidation plan for the first time Thursday, saying that while he is not endorsing the move, he is “open” to discussing plans that can save money for the state. Rep. Randy Fine, a Palm Bay Republican who is sponsoring the bill (HB 7087), said Florida could save “tens of millions of dollars” if New College of Florida is merged into Florida State University and Florida Polytechnic University is folded into the University of Florida.…