Miami: Eileen Higgins has secured a landmark victory in Miami, becoming the city’s first Democratic mayor in almost three decades after winning a decisive runoff against Republican contender Emilio Gonzalez.
The former county commissioner clinched 59 percent of the vote, according to official results, defeating Gonzalez, who garnered nearly 41 percent and was backed by US President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Celebrating her win, the 61-year-old told supporters that Miami had ‘chosen a new direction’, adding that voters opted for ‘competence over chaos’. Her election also marks the first time a woman has been chosen to lead the city, US media reported.
Higgins’ campaign focused on immigration, affordable housing, and a promise to steer Miami toward inclusive leadership. She drew sharp contrasts with Trump, criticising the president’s immigration enforcement as inhumane. While pledging to cooperate with the administration where possible, she vowed to speak out firmly where their positions diverge.
The race, though officially non-partisan, drew clear political lines as Higgins received support from prominent Democrats, including former transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg. The win continues a wave of Democratic victories across the US, following key gains in New York, Virginia, and New Jersey last month.
As Eileen Higgins prepares to replace outgoing mayor Francis Suarez, Higgins said her victory marks the beginning of the work ahead, promising to tackle Miami’s pressing challenges and lead a city that belongs to everyone.
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