The League of Women Voters hosted the Miami mayoral runoff forum at the Miami Dade College’s Koubek Center in Little Havana, bringing the top two candidates, Eileen Higgins and Emilio Gonzalez. Both candidates failed to secure more than 50% of the vote in the November general election.
With election day approaching, residents are listening closely as the remaining contenders make their final push.
Former County Commissioner Eileen Higgins led the first-round vote with roughly 36% of ballots cast. A former engineer and Peace Corps director, Higgins emphasizes affordable housing, climate resilience and government transparency.
Emilio Gonzalez, a former city manager and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services director, came in second with 19% of the vote. Backed by high-profile Republican endorsement, such as Gov. Ron DeSantis, he is running on a platform of fiscal discipline, smaller government and tax relief.
At the forum, residents were able to ask candidates directly about concerns such as housing affordability, transportation and corruption in City Hall.
The runoff reflects broader political shifts in Florida and in Miami itself. The city hasn’t required a mayoral runoff since 2001, and the low turnout in the first round, just over 21% of registered voters, raises questions about engagement in this pivotal election.
The next mayor of Miami will lead a city at a crossroads, and as the forum winds down tonight, the decision now moves to the voters.
Election Day for City of Miami mayor and city commissioner district 3 seat will be held on Dec. 9. Early voting will be on Dec. 5 through Dec. 7.
