Argentinian President Javier Milei has released a video message aimed at Miami voters, endorsing the re-election of Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar to the U.S. Congress. This announcement coincided with the commencement of early voting in Miami-Dade.
Shared by Salazar on her X account this Monday, the message features Milei praising the congresswoman as "one of the continent’s most steadfast and respected voices" who champions "freedom, democracy, free markets, and the right of individuals to succeed through their own efforts."
“We need leaders in Washington who understand Latin America, who will stand against the leftist socialists and boldly denounce the horrors and deaths socialism has wrought,” declared the Argentinian leader in the 40-second clip, concluding with his signature phrase: "Long live freedom, damn it!"
Salazar expressed her gratitude, framing Milei's endorsement as an ideological alliance: "Freedom unites us. I am honored to receive President Javier Milei’s support for my re-election to the United States Congress."
Salazar's Re-Election Bid Amidst Challenges
The congresswoman is seeking a fourth consecutive term in Florida’s 27th District, which includes Miami, Little Havana, Coral Gables, Kendall, Cutler Bay, and Key Biscayne. In this district, 73.5% of the residents are Hispanic, and more than half were born outside the United States.
Her opponent, Democrat Eliott Rodríguez, a former CBS Miami anchor and son of Cuban parents, is running a tight race. According to an internal poll cited by EFE, both candidates are tied at 45%, although Decision Desk HQ estimates a 76% chance of Salazar retaining her seat.
Financial and Political Challenges
On the fundraising front, the Republican has a significant lead, with approximately $2.4 million compared to her opponent’s $1.3 million, based on figures from September 30.
Milei’s endorsement comes at a time of some internal tension for Salazar within the Republican Party. In September, she released a bilingual ad in front of the White House criticizing Trump’s immigration policies for going "too far," causing friction with the administration, though the former president maintained his support for her.
Broader Support and Political Context
Milei’s backing adds to a series of endorsements from Latin American figures with a liberal-conservative profile. Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado showed her support on October 16, and Colombian leader Abelardo de la Espriella did so two days earlier. Trump had previously given his full endorsement to Salazar’s re-election in February of this year.
The video from Milei was released just a day after the Argentinian president concluded a tour in Washington, where he highlighted Cuba, Venezuela, and Argentina as examples of socialist failure and urged Latin American leaders to form "a true shield against socialism" alongside Trump.
The general election for Florida’s 27th District is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Insights into Florida's 27th District Election
Who is María Elvira Salazar's opponent in the election?
María Elvira Salazar's opponent is Democrat Eliott Rodríguez, a former CBS Miami anchor and son of Cuban parents.
What is the demographic composition of Florida’s 27th District?
Florida’s 27th District has a demographic where 73.5% of residents are Hispanic, and over half were born outside the United States.
How significant is the fundraising difference between Salazar and Rodríguez?
María Elvira Salazar has raised approximately $2.4 million, significantly more than Eliott Rodríguez's $1.3 million.