Miami voters made a historic decision on March 5, 2025, electing Eileen Higgins as the city’s first Democratic mayor in nearly three decades. In a significant political shift, Higgins, a county commissioner, secured victory over former city manager Emilio González with approximately 59 percent of the vote compared to González’s 41 percent, according to preliminary results. This election marks the first time since 1997 that a Democrat has held the mayoral office in Miami.
The runoff election, which was the city’s first since 2001, garnered substantial national attention, highlighting its importance in a traditionally Republican stronghold. Higgins’ election not only represents a political breakthrough but also makes her the first woman to be elected mayor of Miami.
In her victory speech, Higgins addressed both local issues and broader national sentiments, stating, “We are facing rhetoric from elected officials that is so dehumanizing and cruel, especially against immigrant populations. The residents of Miami were ready to be done with that.” Her campaign focused on pressing local concerns including housing affordability, transit, and climate resilience, resonating with voters who participated in the election.
González, despite losing, received significant backing from high-profile figures, including Donald Trump, who endorsed him through a post on Truth Social. Trump emphasized González’s commitment to economic growth and immigration control, urging Miami voters to support him. The former president had previously won Miami-Dade County by an 11-point margin in 2024, although Vice President Kamala Harris narrowly triumphed in the city itself.
Higgins’ campaign themes appeared to have found traction among voters, who expressed a desire for change in the wake of divisive political rhetoric. Political analysts noted the limited executive powers of Miami’s mayor, suggesting that while this election is a noteworthy event, it may not signal a comprehensive political realignment in the region.
This election outcome is part of a broader trend of Democratic successes in off-year races across the United States, including the recent election of Zohran Mamdani as the mayor of New York City and significant gubernatorial victories in Virginia and New Jersey.
National Democratic leaders quickly recognized the implications of Higgins’ victory for upcoming elections. Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader, celebrated the milestone on social media, stating, “No Democrat has been elected Mayor of Miami in nearly 30 years. Until tonight. Congratulations to Mayor-elect Eileen Higgins on crushing Donald Trump’s candidate! We are coming for the three South Florida Republicans next.”
As Miami prepares for a new era under Higgins’ leadership, many will be watching closely to see how her administration addresses the pressing challenges facing the city and whether this election heralds further political shifts in Florida and beyond.
