Eileen Higgins has made history in Miami. On December 9, 2025, the former Miami-Dade County Commissioner secured a decisive victory in the city’s mayoral runoff election, defeating Republican candidate Emilio Gonzalez with an impressive 59% of the vote. This landmark win makes Higgins both the first woman ever elected as Miami’s mayor and the first Democrat to hold the office in nearly three decades.
The election results sent shockwaves through Florida’s political landscape. In a state dominated by Republican leadership and with strong support for President Donald Trump, Higgins’ victory represents a significant shift in Miami’s political dynamics. Her win has been interpreted as a message from voters about their priorities—affordable housing, government transparency, and practical solutions over partisan politics.
For residents wondering who Eileen Higgins is and what her leadership means for Miami’s future, this comprehensive guide explores her background, campaign promises, political journey, and the implications of this historic election.
Who Is Eileen Higgins? Background and Early Career
From Engineering to International Service
Born in Dayton, Ohio, and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Eileen Higgins brings a unique blend of technical expertise and international experience to Miami’s mayor’s office. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of New Mexico, demonstrating early analytical and problem-solving skills that would later define her political career.
Higgins furthered her education with a Master of Business Administration from Cornell University, one of the nation’s premier business schools. This combination of engineering precision and business acumen has proven invaluable in her approach to urban governance and policy development.
International Development and Public Service
Before entering local politics, Higgins dedicated years to international service and development work. Her career trajectory includes:
- Peace Corps Country Director in Belize (2006) – Leading American volunteers and development initiatives in Central America
- U.S. Department of State Foreign Service Officer – Focusing on economic development in South Africa and matters related to Mexico
- International development consulting – Specializing in transportation and infrastructure projects throughout Latin America
This international perspective gave Higgins firsthand experience with infrastructure challenges, community development, and government operations—experience she would later apply to Miami-Dade’s complex urban environment.
Transition to the Private Sector
After returning to the United States from her foreign service work, Eileen Higgins transitioned to the private sector, working in marketing for major brands including Pfizer and Jose Cuervo. This corporate experience provided insight into business operations and economic development that would inform her later policy positions on supporting Miami’s small business community.
Eileen Higgins’ Record as Miami-Dade County Commissioner
Election and Tenure
Eileen Higgins entered electoral politics in June 2018 when she won a special election to fill a Miami-Dade County Commission seat vacated by Bruno Barreiro. Representing District 5, which covers parts of central Miami-Dade, Higgins quickly established herself as a results-oriented commissioner focused on tangible improvements for residents.
She won re-election in 2022 and again in 2024 without opposition—a testament to her effectiveness and constituent satisfaction. By the time she resigned in November 2025 to run for mayor (as required by Florida’s resign-to-run law), Higgins had become the commission’s longest-serving member with more than six years of experience.
Key Achievements and Policy Wins
During her tenure as County Commissioner, Eileen Higgins built an impressive track record:
Affordable Housing Development:
- Planned or created nearly 7,000 affordable and workforce housing units
- Addressed Miami’s housing crisis with concrete solutions
- Focused on making housing accessible to working families
Small Business Support:
- Invested approximately $3 million in grants for hundreds of small businesses
- Cut through bureaucratic red tape to help entrepreneurs
- Supported local economic development initiatives
Environmental Leadership:
- Passed the toughest fertilizer ordinance in Florida
- Worked to eliminate styrofoam and single-use plastics
- Funded the Million Trees Miami-Dade plan to improve tree coverage
- Championed Biscayne Bay protection initiatives
Transit and Transportation:
- Led the implementation of the “Better Bus Network”
- Expanded Metrorail and trolley systems
- Improved walkability and cycling infrastructure
- Enhanced connectivity between Miami communities
Transparency and Good Governance:
- Emphasized government accountability
- Protected taxpayer dollars
- Worked to restore public trust in local government
The 2025 Miami Mayoral Campaign: Eileen Higgins’ Path to Victory
Announcing Her Candidacy
In early 2025, Eileen Higgins announced her campaign for Mayor of Miami, seeking to succeed term-limited incumbent Francis X. Suarez. From the outset, she was considered a frontrunner, with early polling showing strong name recognition and significant leads over competitors.
Rather than pay the qualifying fee, Higgins chose to collect 3,000 voter signatures to qualify for the ballot—a strategic decision that demonstrated grassroots support and built campaign momentum through direct voter engagement.
Campaign Platform and Key Issues
Eileen Higgins’ mayoral campaign focused on issues that resonate with everyday Miami residents:
Housing Affordability:
- Addressing Miami’s housing crisis with practical solutions
- Expanding affordable housing options for working families
- Streamlining permitting processes for housing development
Government Transparency and Efficiency:
- Restoring trust in City Hall after years of corruption scandals
- Making government more accountable to residents
- Fixing bureaucratic processes that slow progress
Climate Resilience:
- Protecting Miami from flooding and sea-level rise
- Investing in sustainable infrastructure
- Securing a resilient future for coastal communities
Public Transportation:
- Improving transit options and connectivity
- Upgrading trolley systems and expanding routes
- Making Miami more walkable and bikeable
Public Safety:
- Supporting Miami’s police force
- Building safer neighborhoods through community engagement
- Balancing enforcement with community needs
High-Profile Endorsements
Eileen Higgins secured support from prominent Democratic leaders and local officials:
- Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg
- Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona)
- Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz
- Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber
- Numerous Jewish community leaders and elected officials
These endorsements provided credibility, fundraising support, and helped mobilize voters across different communities.
The First Round and Runoff Election
In the November 2025 first-round election, Eileen Higgins led all candidates but fell short of the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff. She advanced to face Republican-backed Emilio Gonzalez, the former Miami city manager, in a December 9th runoff that attracted national attention.
The race took on partisan significance despite being officially nonpartisan, with President Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis backing Gonzalez while national Democrats rallied behind Higgins.
The Historic December 9, 2025 Victory
Election Night Results
The results came quickly on election night. Decision Desk HQ called the race less than 10 minutes after polls closed at 7 p.m., with Eileen Higgins holding a commanding lead from early and absentee voting. Gonzalez conceded at 7:30 p.m.
Final results showed Higgins winning decisively:
- Eileen Higgins: 59.3% of the vote
- Emilio Gonzalez: 40.7% of the vote
- Margin of victory: Nearly 19 percentage points
What the Victory Means
Eileen Higgins’ election represents multiple historic firsts:
- First woman ever elected Mayor of Miami – Breaking a glass ceiling in one of America’s major cities
- First Democrat elected since 1997 – Ending a 28-year Republican hold on the office
- First non-Hispanic person to lead Miami in nearly three decades – Representing the city’s evolving demographics
National Implications
The victory has been interpreted as a warning sign for Republicans nationally. Democratic National Committee officials cited the win as evidence that voters are rejecting out-of-touch agendas, particularly on issues like affordability and immigration enforcement.
Coming ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, Higgins’ success adds to recent Democratic momentum in local races nationwide, suggesting that voters prioritize practical governance over partisan politics when choosing local leaders.
Eileen Higgins’ Vision for Miami’s Future
Immediate Priorities
As mayor-elect, Eileen Higgins has outlined clear priorities for her administration:
Restoring Trust in City Hall:
- Ending corruption and scandal
- Increasing transparency in government operations
- Making City Hall responsive to residents’ needs
Making Miami More Affordable:
- Expanding affordable housing development
- Addressing cost-of-living concerns for working families
- Supporting small businesses and local entrepreneurs
Improving City Services:
- Fixing the permitting process that frustrates homeowners and businesses
- Upgrading infrastructure and transit
- Delivering better services with taxpayer dollars
Environmental Protection:
- Protecting Biscayne Bay from pollution
- Investing in flood mitigation projects
- Preparing Miami for climate change impacts
Differentiation from Opponents
During the campaign, Eileen Higgins distinguished herself through her experience delivering tangible results rather than just making promises. Her record on the County Commission provided concrete evidence of her ability to navigate bureaucracy and accomplish policy goals.
She also took clear stances on controversial issues. On immigration enforcement, Higgins criticized what she called “cruel and inhumane” tactics, including the detention facility opened by Governor DeSantis, nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz.” She emphasized treating immigrant residents with dignity—a sharp contrast with her opponent’s harder-line positions.
The Miami Context: Why This Election Matters
Miami’s Political Landscape
Miami presents a complex political environment. The city has a predominantly Hispanic population with diverse viewpoints shaped by different national origins and immigration experiences. Cuban-Americans have traditionally leaned Republican, while other Hispanic groups have more varied political affiliations.
The city has faced governance challenges in recent years, including corruption scandals that eroded public trust. Residents have expressed frustration with rising costs, infrastructure problems, and concerns about both development and affordability.
Breaking the Republican Streak
Republicans had held Miami’s mayor’s office continuously since 1997—through both Democratic and Republican presidential administrations. Eileen Higgins’ ability to break this streak suggests several factors:
- Voter prioritization of local issues over national partisan politics
- Desire for change after years of city government instability
- Effective campaigning focused on practical solutions
- Strong candidate with proven track record
Demographic and Political Shifts
Higgins’ victory may reflect broader demographic changes in Miami, including:
- Growth in non-Hispanic populations
- Younger voters with different priorities than older generations
- Increased focus on environmental issues and climate resilience
- Economic concerns transcending traditional partisan divides
Comparing Eileen Higgins to Her Opponent
Emilio Gonzalez: The Republican Challenger
Emilio Gonzalez brought his own credentials to the race as former Miami city manager. He campaigned on:
- Repealing Miami’s homestead property tax
- Streamlining business permits
- Strong immigration enforcement support
- Controlled development approach
Gonzalez criticized Higgins for what he characterized as excessive development plans, claiming she wanted to “put a skyscraper in every corner” under the guise of affordable housing.
Key Differences
The campaign highlighted stark contrasts:
On Immigration:
- Higgins: Called for humane treatment of immigrants and criticized harsh enforcement
- Gonzalez: Supported aggressive federal enforcement against “migrant criminals”
On Housing:
- Higgins: Emphasized expanding housing supply including affordable units
- Gonzalez: Questioned whether new “affordable” housing truly serves low-income residents
On Government Style:
- Higgins: Emphasized transparency and proven record of delivery
- Gonzalez: Stressed business efficiency and tax reduction
What’s Next for Mayor-Elect Eileen Higgins?
Transition and Inauguration
Eileen Higgins will be inaugurated as Miami’s mayor in early 2025, taking over from term-limited Mayor Francis X. Suarez. The transition period involves:
- Building her administration team
- Developing implementation plans for campaign priorities
- Meeting with stakeholders across Miami’s diverse communities
- Preparing budgets and policy proposals
Challenges Ahead
Despite her decisive victory, Eileen Higgins faces significant challenges:
Economic Pressures:
- Miami’s high cost of living continues squeezing residents
- Housing affordability remains a critical concern
- Balancing development with community character
Infrastructure Needs:
- Aging infrastructure requiring investment
- Climate adaptation and flood protection urgently needed
- Transit improvements to reduce traffic congestion
Political Navigation:
- Working with a Republican-dominated state government
- Building consensus in a diverse city
- Managing expectations from supporters
Governance Issues:
- Restoring credibility to City Hall after scandals
- Reforming bureaucratic processes
- Delivering visible results quickly to build momentum
Opportunities for Success
Higgins brings advantages to the role:
- Extensive experience in local government
- Proven ability to deliver on promises
- Strong relationships across the political spectrum
- Technical expertise in infrastructure and development
- International perspective on urban challenges
Conclusion
The election of Eileen Higgins as Miami’s mayor marks a turning point for the city. Her historic victory—both as the first woman to hold the office and as the first Democrat in nearly three decades—reflects voter desire for change, effective leadership, and practical solutions to everyday challenges.
Higgins brings a unique combination of technical expertise, international experience, proven local government success, and a clear vision for Miami’s future. Her track record on the County Commission demonstrates she can deliver on promises, from affordable housing to environmental protection to improved transit.
The challenges facing Miami are substantial: rising costs that squeeze working families, infrastructure needs that demand investment, climate risks that threaten coastal communities, and government credibility that must be restored. But Eileen Higgins has shown throughout her career an ability to tackle complex problems with competence and determination.
As she prepares to take office, expectations are high. Supporters hope she will bring stability, transparency, and results-oriented governance to City Hall. Her opponents will watch closely, ready to challenge her approach. But regardless of political perspective, Miami residents deserve a mayor who works tirelessly for their interests—and Higgins’ record suggests she understands that responsibility.
The national significance of her victory extends beyond Miami. In a political climate often characterized by partisan division, Eileen Higgins’ success demonstrates that voters still respond to candidates who prioritize problem-solving over ideology, who have records of achievement rather than just rhetoric, and who treat all residents with dignity and respect.
Miami’s future under Mayor Eileen Higgins begins with promise and possibility. Whether she can fulfill her ambitious agenda and meet voters’ high expectations will be determined in the months and years ahead. But on December 9, 2025, Miami voters sent a clear message: they’re ready for new leadership, historic change, and a mayor who gets things done.
FAQs
Q Who is Eileen Higgins?
Eileen Higgins is the mayor-elect of Miami, making history as the first woman and first Democrat in nearly 30 years elected to the position. She previously served as a Miami-Dade County Commissioner from 2018 to 2025, where she built a strong record on affordable housing, transit, and environmental issues.
Q What is Eileen Higgins’ background?
Born in Dayton, Ohio, and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Eileen Higgins holds a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of New Mexico and an MBA from Cornell University. She served as Peace Corps Country Director in Belize and as a U.S. State Department Foreign Service Officer before entering local politics in Miami.
Q When did Eileen Higgins win the Miami mayoral election?
Eileen Higgins won the Miami mayoral runoff election on December 9, 2025, defeating Republican candidate Emilio Gonzalez with 59.3% of the vote. She will be inaugurated as Miami’s next mayor in early 2025.
Q What are Eileen Higgins’ main policy priorities?
Eileen Higgins’ priorities include expanding affordable housing, restoring transparency and trust in City Hall, improving public transit, protecting the environment and Biscayne Bay, supporting small businesses, and making Miami more resilient to climate change.
Q Why is Eileen Higgins’ election historic?
Eileen Higgins is the first woman ever elected Mayor of Miami and the first Democrat to win the office since 1997, ending a nearly 30-year Republican hold on Miami’s mayoral seat. Her victory is seen as significant both locally and nationally.
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