Veterans for America First (VFAF) Endorses Ret. US Army Colonel Emilio T. Gonzalez for City of Miami Mayor

A retired Army colonel with federal appointments and a track record of upgrading municipal bonds has secured backing from a veteran group that was among Donald Trump’s first supporters in 2015. Veterans for America First (VFAF) has endorsed Emilio Gonzalez for Miami mayor, timing their announcement to coincide with the Army’s 250th anniversary celebration.

Christi Reeves-Tasker, VFAF’s National Press Secretary and Republican Executive Committee member for Miami-Dade County, announced the endorsement. Her group originally formed to back Trump’s 2015 campaign and maintains an 85% win rate in recent elections, demonstrating significant influence beyond Miami’s boundaries.

Veteran Support Enters Mayoral Politics

VFAF’s endorsement carries weight in Miami politics, where veteran voters lean heavily Republican at 63% nationally. The group has successfully backed candidates from Virginia to Georgia, focusing on those who combine military service with conservative governance principles.

‘Colonel Gonzalez has not only served his country with distinction, but he also transformed the City of Miami with transparent, fiscally responsible leadership,’ said Tasker. ‘He embodies the kind of values VFAF fights for.’

Gonzalez’s Governance Track Record

During his tenure as Miami City Manager from 2018 to 2020, Gonzalez oversaw substantial improvements in the city’s financial position. Moody’s upgraded Miami’s municipal bond rating from A1 to Aa2, reflecting stronger creditworthiness and fiscal health under his management. The upgrade affects borrowing costs for major infrastructure projects and signals improved financial stewardship to investors.

His administration managed a $1.7 billion municipal budget while implementing what supporters describe as record-low crime rates and reduced millage rates. For property owners and investors, these metrics translate to lower tax burdens and potentially enhanced property values through improved public safety.

However, his tenure wasn’t without controversy. Gonzalez faced political battles that led to his resignation, though he was later cleared of wrongdoing. His testimony regarding targeting of Little Havana businesses highlighted tensions between fiscal discipline and local political interests.

Federal Appointments and National Recognition

Gonzalez’s career spans significant federal roles, including Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and White House advisor positions. His appointments in 2024 to Florida’s Treasury Investment Council and the Department of Commerce Direct-Support Organisation signal continued recognition at state and federal levels.

His credentials extend beyond government service. With a Ph.D. in International Studies, recognition from nine foreign governments and membership in the Council on Foreign Relations, Gonzalez brings international perspective to municipal governance. He serves on advisory boards for the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation and regularly appears as a commentator on major news networks.

Policy and Regulatory Outlook for Miami Businesses

Gonzalez’s mayoral platform emphasises cutting property taxes and fighting corruption while curbing unchecked development. For wealth managers and property developers, this suggests a more regulated approach to development approvals balanced against tax reduction priorities.

His experience with municipal bond management could prove significant for major infrastructure projects. During his previous tenure, questions arose around the $400 million Miami Forever bond programme, highlighting his emphasis on transparent fiscal management and proper accounting practices that restore investor confidence.

His national security background may influence approaches to public safety and emergency preparedness – areas that affect business continuity planning and insurance considerations for commercial property owners.

Political Pressures and Opposition

Gonzalez faced ‘opposition from political insiders’ during his previous city management role. His conflicts with Commissioner Joe Carollo and ultimate resignation demonstrate the challenging political environment he navigated while maintaining what supporters characterise as a strong record of integrity and service.

These political battles may resurface in the mayoral race, particularly around his approach to business regulation and development oversight. His testimony in federal court regarding city policies affecting local businesses suggests he’s willing to challenge established political networks when governance principles are at stake.

What the Endorsement Signals

VFAF’s backing positions Gonzalez as the veteran-endorsed candidate in a race where military credentials and fiscal conservatism appeal to Miami’s substantial veteran community. The group’s connection to Trump’s initial campaign and their track record in local elections suggests organised support beyond traditional Republican voters.

For Miami’s business and wealth management community, Gonzalez’s candidacy represents a blend of federal experience, proven municipal finance management and national security expertise. His record on bond ratings and fiscal discipline may appeal to investors and property owners seeking predictable governance and controlled tax burdens.

The 24-member Military Affairs Board that advises Miami-Dade County reflects the organised veteran influence in local governance. Gonzalez’s military background and federal appointments position him to leverage this community’s political engagement.

Campaign details and position papers are available through Gonzalez’s official campaign website. Veterans for America First maintains information on their endorsement process and candidate criteria at their organisational website.