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The former Miami city manager, Cuban-American Emilio González, has officially announced his candidacy for mayor of Miami, delivering a clear message: "The nonsense will come to an end."
At 68 years old, the veteran military officer is entering the local political arena with a straightforward rhetoric against what he calls the "political elite," which, according to him, has the city stuck in chronic issues such as traffic, flooding, and a lack of affordable housing.
The race for the Miami mayoralty promises to be one of the most intense in years following the departure of current mayor, Francis Suárez, who is ineligible for a third consecutive term.
This has opened the stage to an increasing list of contenders, among whom González now joins, with a unique profile: conservative, retired colonel, former federal official, and with strong connections in Washington and Tallahassee.
Sources close to González's political circle have informed DIARIO LAS AMÉRICAS that in recent months he has held meetings with figures such as Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, seeking to secure high-level political and financial support. There are even discussions of discreet efforts to ensure backing from circles close to President Donald Trump.
"The city is in danger," he stated to the Nuevo Herald, assuring that it was precisely that message—repeated by friends, neighbors, and former colleagues—that motivated him to run.
González, currently a partner at an asset management firm based in California, resides in the neighborhood of The Roads, and has made it clear that his vision for the city is grounded in efficiency, transparency, and common sense.
With decades of experience in the public and federal sectors, including roles as the director of the Citizenship and Immigration Services under President George W. Bush and as the director of Miami International Airport, González is no novice in administration.
His tenure as the city manager of Miami from 2018 to 2020 was marked by clashes with local political power, particularly with Commissioner Joe Carollo, who even accused him of using his position to expedite a construction permit for his home.
Although the commission did not achieve the necessary votes for his dismissal, González resigned, citing personal reasons and the delicate health condition of his wife. Five years later, he continues to say that they tried to fire him because he refused to "be part of a circus."
An outsider or an old acquaintance?
Although his campaign will aim to position him as an outsider, González will have to confront the public perception of his past in local government. While his resignation was voluntary, the controversies surrounding his departure still resonate with some voters.
With the elections scheduled for November, the road ahead is still long. However, Emilio González's entry into the political arena marks an unexpected turn in the contest: a former administrator returning with promises of order, efficiency, and a break from the status quo.
Frequently Asked Questions about Emilio González's Candidacy for Mayor of Miami
Who is Emilio González and why is his candidacy for the mayor of Miami relevant?
Emilio González is a Cuban-American veteran with decades of experience in the public and federal sectors, including roles as the director of the Citizenship and Immigration Service and the Miami International Airport. His candidacy for the mayoralty of Miami is significant because he presents himself as an alternative to what he calls the "political elite" and aims to tackle chronic issues in the city such as traffic and the lack of affordable housing.
What are Emilio González's main proposals for the city of Miami?
González proposes an approach based on efficiency, transparency, and pragmatism. His priorities include improving public safety, preparing the city for climate change, and restoring trust in the everyday citizen. González emphasizes that he will not govern for interest groups or favors among friends, but will focus on tangible results.
How does Emilio González plan to differentiate himself from other candidates in the electoral race?
Emilio González seeks to establish himself as an outsider to the political system in Miami, emphasizing his background in federal agencies and his experience in national security as the cornerstones of his proposal. Additionally, he highlights his straightforward character and his willingness to challenge the established system, setting himself apart from candidates who come from the local political machinery.
What challenges does Emilio González face in his campaign for the mayoralty of Miami?
One of the main challenges facing González is the public perception of his past in local government, particularly the controversies surrounding his departure as city administrator. Although he resigned voluntarily, the accusations of having favored certain building permits still resonate among some voters. González plans to use these experiences to exemplify what he calls "the rot of the system."
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