A Cuban-American has been chosen as the Democratic candidate for Miami-Dade sheriff following Tuesday's Florida primaries. James Reyes, 46, was born in Cuba, and his family emigrated to the United States in the late '70s. Reyes is currently the head of Public Safety for Miami-Dade County, overseeing several critical departments such as the Police, Fire, and Corrections.
Growing up in Miami, Reyes built a 25-year career in law enforcement with the Broward County Sheriff's Office. He holds a degree in Criminology and a master’s in Criminal Justice. Reyes is married with three children. For him, Miami-Dade represents a place that offered his family freedom and the chance at the American dream after fleeing the dangers of communism and making a new home in Hialeah.
James Reyes' Journey to the Democratic Nomination
In Tuesday's primaries, supported by Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Reyes was elected as his party's candidate, easily surpassing three opponents with 46% of the votes. "When we reached out to the community, the support was overwhelming. I really fed off that energy over the past eight long months," Reyes said after his victory, as quoted by Local 10.
According to his campaign website, "Chief James Reyes' story begins with a journey in search of freedom, escaping the clutches of communism in Cuba to find a new home in Hialeah, Florida. His family's pursuit of the American dream laid the foundation for his deep commitment to duty, service, and community. These values drive his dedication to public safety and neighborhood security."
In the upcoming November general elections, the Cuban-American will face Republican candidate Rosie Cordero-Stutz, who overcame 10 rivals in her party on Tuesday. "The things that helped me win today will help me win in November. The experience of being number one is what helped me," Reyes expressed.
For the first time in over 60 years, voters in Miami-Dade selected candidates for the position of sheriff.
Key Points about James Reyes and the Miami-Dade Sheriff Election
This section addresses common questions regarding James Reyes' candidacy and the Miami-Dade sheriff election, providing valuable insights for our readers.
Who is James Reyes?
James Reyes is a Cuban-American and the current head of Public Safety for Miami-Dade County. He has a 25-year career in law enforcement and holds a degree in Criminology and a master’s in Criminal Justice.
What experience does James Reyes have?
James Reyes has 25 years of experience in law enforcement, primarily with the Broward County Sheriff's Office. He also oversees critical departments such as Police, Fire, and Corrections in Miami-Dade County.
Who will James Reyes face in the general election?
James Reyes will face Republican candidate Rosie Cordero-Stutz in the November general elections.