Eileen Higgins Makes History as Miami’s First Democratic Mayor

Democrat Eileen Higgins has made history by winning the Miami mayoral race, becoming the first candidate from her party to secure the position in nearly 30 years. In the runoff election held on March 15, 2024, Higgins garnered 59% of the votes, defeating her Republican opponent Emilio Gonzalez, who received approximately 41%, according to official results. This victory marks a significant shift in Miami’s political landscape.

At her election celebration, Higgins expressed gratitude to her supporters, stating, “Miami chose a new direction… you chose competence over chaos.” Her win not only represents a Democratic breakthrough but also makes her the first woman elected as mayor of Miami. The 61-year-old former county commissioner emphasized that her victory signifies the beginning of a new chapter for the city, pledging to address pressing challenges such as immigration and affordable housing.

Higgins campaigned on a platform that sharply contrasted her leadership style with that of former President Donald Trump. In a recent interview with El Pais, she remarked, “He [Trump] and I have very different points of view on how we should treat our residents, many of whom are immigrants.” During a mayoral debate, she criticized Trump’s immigration policies as “inhumane and cruel,” while also expressing a willingness to collaborate with the Trump administration on issues of mutual interest.

Despite the non-partisan nature of the race, Higgins received endorsements from notable Democrats, including former transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg. In contrast, Gonzalez was supported by both Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Higgins replaces outgoing mayor Francis Suarez, who briefly pursued the Republican nomination for president.

Higgins’ election follows a series of key victories for Democrats in the first major elections of Trump’s second term. In recent contests, Zohran Mamdani defeated independent Andrew Cuomo in New York City, while Abigail Spanberger flipped the governor’s office in Virginia from Republican control. In New Jersey, Mikie Sherrill also secured a gubernatorial victory.

As she embarks on her term, Higgins has vowed to lead with inclusivity and address the diverse needs of Miami’s residents. “We will lead a city that belongs to everyone,” she asserted, setting a tone of unity and progress for her administration.