In what could mark a watershed moment for Miami’s political landscape, the city is on the verge of electing its first female mayor in its 129-year history. Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins emerged as the clear frontrunner in the November 5 primary, capturing approximately 36% of the vote in a crowded field of 13 candidates.
Although Higgins led the race, she fell short of the 50% threshold needed for an outright victory, setting up a runoff election against runner-up Emilio Gonzalez, a former city manager, who garnered approximately 19% of the vote. The decisive runoff election is scheduled for December 9, 2025.
A Historic Opportunity
Despite being a major American city and the cultural capital of South Florida, Miami has never been led by a female mayor since its incorporation in 1896. Interestingly, Miami was founded by Julia Tuttle, known as the “Mother of Miami,” who remains the only woman to have founded a major U.S. city. However, in the nearly 130 years since, no woman has held the position of mayor.
For context, Miami-Dade County elected its first female mayor, Daniella Levine Cava, in November 2020. She was re-elected in August 2024 and currently oversees a metropolitan government serving nearly 3 million residents. Additionally, Miami Beach has been led by a female mayor, Matti Bower, who served three terms.
Meet the Candidates
Eileen Higgins: Breaking Barriers with Experience
Eileen Higgins, 61, brings extensive international and local government experience to the race. Born in Ohio and raised in New Mexico, she became the current longest-serving member of the Miami-Dade Commission after winning her seat in a 2018 special election and securing unopposed reelection last year.
Her diverse background includes:
- Leadership roles in global manufacturing in Europe and Latin America
- Executive marketing positions at major companies including Pfizer and Jose Cuervo
- Peace Corps Director in Belize (2006)
- Service as a U.S. Foreign Service officer
Emilio Gonzalez: Reform and Accountability
Emilio Gonzalez, who served as Miami City Manager from 2018 to 2020, finished in second place with approximately 19% of the vote, narrowly edging out former City Commissioner Ken Russell by just 700 votes.
González has centered his campaign on reform and accountability, promising to eradicate corruption at City Hall. His candidacy has received support from prominent conservatives in the state, including the endorsement of Governor Ron DeSantis.
Your Voice Matters: Vote on December 9
This runoff election is more than just choosing between two candidates—it’s an opportunity for Miami residents to shape their city’s future and potentially make history.
Every vote will determine whether Miami joins the growing number of major U.S. cities led by women, or whether the city chooses a different path forward with González’s reform-oriented approach.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR: DECEMBER 9, 2025
Find your polling place and learn more at:
www.miamidade.gov/elections
The stakes are high, the choice is clear, and the power is in your hands. Will Miami elect its first female mayor, or will the city chart a different course? The answer is up to you, Miami voters.
Don’t let this historic moment pass you by. Make your voice heard on December 9.
For more information about the candidates and election details,
visit the official Miami-Dade County Elections website.
