Eileen Higgins elected as first Democratic mayor of Miami in three decades

December 10, 2025

Eileen Higgins has made history by becoming Miami's first Democratic mayor in approximately three decades and the first woman ever elected to the position. The 61-year-old former county commissioner defeated Republican opponent Emilio Gonzalez in a runoff election, capturing 59% of the vote despite Gonzalez having endorsements from President Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Higgins campaigned on issues like affordable housing and immigration, deliberately contrasting her approach with Trump's policies, which she characterized as inhumane.

Who is affected

Eileen Higgins (elected as Miami's first female and first Democratic mayor in nearly 30 years)
Emilio Gonzalez (defeated Republican candidate)
Miami residents, particularly immigrants
Outgoing mayor Francis Suarez
President Donald Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis (whose endorsed candidate lost)
The Democratic Party (benefiting from continued electoral momentum)

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions are currently described in the article. The article focuses on the completed election and future commitments rather than actions already underway.

Why it matters

This election represents a significant political shift in Miami, breaking nearly 30 years of Republican control and establishing a gender milestone with the city's first female mayor. The victory demonstrates Democratic momentum in a major Florida city despite the state's Republican leadership and Trump's direct involvement in supporting the opposing candidate. Higgins' win suggests voters prioritized local governance issues like affordable housing and immigration policy over partisan alignment with federal Republican leadership, potentially signaling broader shifts in urban political dynamics.

What's next

Higgins will tackle challenges Miami faces, including immigration and affordable housing issues
She will lead efforts to create "a city that belongs to everyone"
Higgins pledges to work with the Trump administration where common ground exists
When disagreements arise with the administration, she promises to make her voice heard

Read full article from source: BBC