MIAMI, FL — April 10, 2025 — Declaring that “politics-as-usual is failing this city,” retired U.S. Army Colonel (Ret.) Emilio T. González made his candidacy for Mayor of Miami official Wednesday, entering a crowded field with a clear message: Government must work for the people again.
González launched his campaign with sharp criticism of the city’s $3.4 billion budget and a promise to “put a microscope and a flashlight” on every dollar spent. His first action if elected? Enroll Miami in Governor Ron DeSantis’ state-run Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) program to expose wasteful spending — and cut property taxes in the process.
“Miami’s residents aren’t just paying higher taxes—they’re paying for the bad decisions of their elected officials,” he said during his announcement. “It’s time for a full audit and a full reset.”
The entry of González into the mayoral race marks a significant development, bringing a veteran executive and former Miami City Manager into the spotlight. His message is likely to resonate with voters seeking stability, competence, and a shift away from political infighting.
González has framed his platform around delivering meaningful taxpayer relief, instituting fiscal reforms to stabilize the city’s finances, enforcing anti-corruption measures, and ensuring that growth is aligned with Miami’s infrastructure capacity. He says he is running to restore a culture of public service over political ambition.
A decorated veteran and former Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Colonel (Ret.) González also brings recent national experience to the campaign. He served on President Donald J. Trump’s transition team focused on the Department of Homeland Security, and during the 2024 election, he was part of National Security Professionals for Trump and Veterans for Trump.
While González brings national credentials and a crisis-tested résumé, he is firmly focused on Miami’s future — and says it’s time for City Hall to start working for the people again.
“This is about making Miami work again—for everyone,” González said. “Families deserve better. Businesses deserve better. Miami deserves better.”
