Miami Mayoral Election: A Critical Showdown for Democrats and Republicans

Tue Dec 09 2025 18:39:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a pivotal election, Eileen Higgins, a Democrat, and Emilio Gonzalez, a Republican, face off for Miami's mayoral seat, both aiming to sway Hispanic voters and influence the upcoming midterms.

Miami's mayoral runoff pits Eileen Higgins against Emilio Gonzalez, with national implications for both major parties. The election reflects the shifting political landscape influenced by Trump, and a Democratic victory could signify increasing momentum for the party amid a challenging political climate in Florida. Candidates focus on local and national issues, appealing to the city's diverse and immigrant-heavy populace.

MIAMI — A critical election is upon us as Eileen Higgins, a Democrat backed by prominent party figures, and Emilio Gonzalez, a Republican endorsed by national leaders, compete for the Miami mayoral seat in a city deeply influenced by immigrant populations.

Higgins aims to become the first Democrat to lead Miami in almost 30 years, while Gonzalez seeks to solidify Republican influence in a Hispanic-majority area. The runoff marks one of the last significant elections before the 2026 midterms.

The Democratic campaign highlights a test of the party's appeal among Florida's Latino voters, particularly in light of shifting political sentiments post-Trump's administration.

Florida's pivotal Republican figures, including Gov. Ron DeSantis and Sen. Rick Scott, are rallying behind Gonzalez, while Democrats such as Sen. Ruben Gallego are lending their support to Higgins, each side eager to sway the local electorate.

Florida's second-largest city, Miami, has seen political affiliations swing to the right in recent years, making this contest especially crucial for both parties as they forecast future electoral trends.

Higgins has identified herself as a representative of the community while pushing for local policy changes regarding housing and immigration. Meanwhile, Gonzalez emphasizes economic measures like tax reforms and regulations aimed at easing business permits, reflecting his belief in a federal approach to immigration enforcement.

The results of this election hold significant implications not just for Miami, but also for the broader political landscape in Florida as both parties prepare for the upcoming midterms.