The Republican Party of Miami-Dade County brought together more than 250 energized Republicans for a sold-out “Liberty Breakfast” at the stylish Kuba Cabana in Doral on Saturday morning. Headlining the event was Congressman Byron Donalds, who electrified the crowd with a bold vision for Florida’s future—one rooted in unity, economic growth, and unapologetic conservative leadership.
Local Republicans and elected officials packed the colorful venue despite the mid-July heat. Miami-Dade Republican Chairman Kevin Cooper was joined by State Representative Juan Carlos Porras, Republican Party of Florida Chairman Evan Power, Supervisor of Elections Alina Garcia, Mayor Steve Losner of Homestead, Sunny Isles Beach Mayor Larisa Svechin, Commissioner Ian Vallecillo, former Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado, School Board Member Adam Cervera, and Broward State Committeewoman Michele Merrell.
As guests mingled over Cuban coffee and breakfast, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. “This is exactly the kind of access we love—you can actually meet and talk with future leaders like Byron Donalds,” said one longtime GOP activist. “Byron is the real deal. He’s approachable, he listens, and he inspires confidence.”
When Donalds took the stage, he wasted no time in blending personal storytelling with a sweeping policy vision. He spoke of his humble upbringing, raised by a single Jamaican mother, and reminded the audience that “everyone is just two decisions away from washing dishes,” a nod to his own early years working in kitchens before turning his life around through faith and perseverance.
But it wasn’t just about his personal journey. Donalds made it clear he intends to build on Governor Ron DeSantis’ conservative legacy while pushing Florida to even greater heights. In 2022, DeSantis was the first Republican gubernatorial candidate to win Miami-Dade in two decades, and Donalds vowed to carry that momentum forward.
“In Florida, we have every ability to be the financial capital of the world,” he declared to thunderous applause. “No more New York. No more Chicago. Their policies are dumb… We’re done letting failing blue cities set the standard. Florida is the model.”
He laid out a vision for making Florida an economic powerhouse—the go-to state for tech, aerospace, and finance companies. He highlighted the potential for broader use of artificial intelligence, stronger public transit, and workforce development to support these industries.
Evan Power echoed that sentiment. “Florida is a conservative beacon of freedom, and people are flocking here to live, work, and invest,” Power told the crowd.
Donalds also didn’t shy away from acknowledging the natural tensions that arise within a growing party. “In parties, we sometimes have internal battles,” he conceded. “It happens. It’s like families. You mean to tell me you’ve never had an internal battle in your family come up?” His remarks drew knowing nods and laughter, striking a unifying chord for the GOP as Florida heads toward the 2026 election cycle.
And, of course, he underscored the endorsement that has given his campaign undeniable momentum. With a smile, he playfully teased Chairman Kevin Cooper: “Have you heard of this guy named Donald Trump? His endorsement’s a pretty big deal, don’t you think?” The crowd erupted in cheers as Donalds pivoted seamlessly: “Having President Trump’s endorsement has propelled us into a very dominant position in this race for governor.”
Donalds outlined his broader priorities for the next administration: lowering property insurance costs, cutting taxes, improving educational outcomes, reducing traffic congestion, and restoring the Everglades. He also emphasized attracting top-tier businesses like those already relocating to Miami-Dade, citing successes with firms like BlackRock, SoftBank, and Citadel.
“Miami-Dade is leading the way, and with another Republican as governor, we’re going to cement Florida as the world’s financial hub,” said Chairman Cooper.
Beyond policy, Donalds struck a unifying tone aimed at broadening the Republican coalition. He challenged racial stereotypes and explained, “The Republican Party is the party of opportunity, not identity politics. We are color-blind, and we welcome anyone who believes in freedom, family, and faith.”
Attendees were impressed not only with his message but also with the intimate feel of the event. “It’s so refreshing to have a leader who takes the time to connect with us personally,” said first time attendee Julio Torres. “Byron isn’t just a politician—he’s someone who understands the struggles of everyday Floridians.”
His wife Sophia added, “What I love about events like this is you feel like you’re part of a movement. This isn’t just another campaign stop; it’s the future of Florida coming into focus.”
The morning concluded with Donalds reiterating his commitment to keeping Florida the freest, safest, and most prosperous state in the country. With recent polls showing him leading Democrats by comfortable margins in the 2026 gubernatorial race, the momentum was palpable.
As guests left Kuba Cabana, many stopped for photos with Donalds and other Republican leaders, energized and optimistic about what lies ahead.
The Liberty Breakfast wasn’t just a political fundraiser—it was a statement. A statement that Miami-Dade County, once considered a Democratic stronghold, is now firmly at the heart of Florida’s Republican resurgence.
