Democratic contender Eliott Rodríguez confidently states he is the sole candidate capable of reclaiming Florida's 27th District seat from Republican María Elvira Salazar. He asserts, "The difference is that I can win. I can win in the general election."
Having announced his congressional run back in March, the former news anchor acknowledged in an interview with Tania Costa that he faces a primary challenge on August 18. However, he emphasized that his ability to win the general election is the key factor, saying, "That person has every right to run. The difference is that I can win."
The foundation of Rodríguez's campaign lies in his extensive four-decade-long presence in South Florida. "People in this district know me, they trust me, they know I am honest, and they know I understand the situations in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. I've traveled throughout Latin America," he stated.
Rodríguez traces his connection to the community back to May 1980, when he began his TV career covering the Mariel boatlift. "I've been there reporting on everything—The Mariel, the riots, the hurricanes, all the significant stories that have happened in this community," he pointed out.
Contrasting Relationships with Cuba
In the interview, Rodríguez drew a stark contrast between his interactions with Cuba and those of Salazar. He recounted an incident where he attempted to question Fidel Castro and was pushed by the dictator's bodyguards, describing it as "a completely different scene from how María Elvira Salazar behaved with that dictator."
This comment refers to Salazar's 1995 interview with Castro for Telemundo, a moment her opponents frequently use against her politically.
Internal campaign polls show Rodríguez leading with 54% support in the Democratic primary, according to Diario Las Américas, with 64% backing from Cuban American voters. His main competitor, Robin Peguero, a Harvard-educated former homicide prosecutor, has raised over $820,000 and has the backing of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
The Battle for Florida's 27th District
The 27th District, with a population that is 74% Hispanic, includes areas like Little Havana, Coral Gables, Kendall, and Key Biscayne, making it one of the most competitive in South Florida. Salazar secured her third term in November 2024 and has the full backing of Donald Trump for the 2026 race.
The deadline for voter registration in the primaries is July 20, 2026, just six days away from today. Closing the interview, Rodríguez directly addressed undecided voters, saying, "This election is extremely important. We are fighting for the democracy of this country."
Key Questions About Florida's 27th District Race
Who is Eliott Rodríguez?
Eliott Rodríguez is a Democratic candidate for Florida's 27th District, known for his long-standing presence in South Florida as a former news anchor.
What makes Florida's 27th District competitive?
Florida's 27th District is highly competitive due to its 74% Hispanic population and key areas like Little Havana and Coral Gables, making it a crucial battleground in South Florida politics.
How does Eliott Rodríguez differentiate himself from María Elvira Salazar?
Rodríguez differentiates himself from Salazar by emphasizing his long-term community involvement and contrasting their interactions with Cuban leaders, particularly regarding Salazar's interview with Fidel Castro.