Miami voters have just elected a new mayor, marking a historic shift in the city’s political landscape.
On Tuesday, Eileen Higgins secured the mayoralty in a runoff against former Miami City Manager Emilio Gonzalez, becoming the first Democrat to hold the office in nearly three decades.
With 99% of precincts reporting, Higgins captured more than 59% of the vote, a decisive margin that underscored the electorate’s desire for change.
Higgins, 61, is a former county commissioner who has served Miami‑Dade County for seven years. She entered the race as a Democrat, even though the contest is officially nonpartisan.
Gonzalez, who previously held the positions of Miami City Manager and Chief Administrative Officer, was the other top finisher in the November election and received the support of President Trump.
Throughout the campaign, Higgins focused on issues that resonate with the city’s Hispanic‑majority population, particularly criticizing Trump’s immigration crackdown and expressing concern over family members being detained.
“I’ve never been prouder to be a Democrat,” Higgins told The Associated Press. “We’re living in the state of Florida, where we have people that are building cages for our residents rather than affordable housing for them.”
The victory drew attention from both major national parties, with Democrats hoping to capitalize on the momentum heading into the midterm elections, while Republicans aim to maintain their grip on Florida’s political landscape.
Nationally recognized Democrats such as former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Senator Ruben Gallego, and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel traveled to Miami on Sunday and Monday to rally voters for Higgins.
Conversely, prominent Florida Republicans—including Governor Ron DeSantis and Senator Rick Scott—publicly supported Gonzalez, reflecting the polarized nature of the race.
Higgins will also become Miami’s first woman mayor, a role that is largely ceremonial but one she has pledged to treat as a full‑time job.
Miami, as Florida’s second‑largest city and a gateway to Latin America, attracts millions of tourists each year, giving Higgins a significant stage as mayor.
Her campaign platform centered on converting city‑owned land into affordable housing and cutting unnecessary spending, promising a more efficient and inclusive city administration.
Key Takeaways
- Eileen Higgins wins Miami mayoral runoff, first Democrat in 30 years.
- She secured 59% of the vote with 99% precinct reporting.
- National Democrats rallied behind her; Republicans backed Gonzalez.
With the city’s new leadership, Miami’s political future will be closely watched, as the outcome may influence broader state and national elections in the years to come.
