Democratic candidate Eliott Rodríguez has demanded that Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar return $112,000 donated during the current electoral cycle by Honduran businessman Lenir Pérez. Pérez is facing criminal charges related to alleged environmental crimes connected to a controversial mining project in Honduras.
This demand was made public on Saturday following a Miami Herald investigation that revealed Pérez as one of Salazar's major political contributors in this election cycle.
According to campaign finance records cited by the newspaper, Pérez contributed $105,000 to joint fundraising committees and political leadership groups associated with Salazar. Additionally, he donated $7,000 directly to her campaign committee on May 5th.
On the same day, the businessman also donated another $88,000 to the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC), separate from the $112,000 linked to Salazar.
Lenir Pérez's Legal Troubles in Honduras
In September 2024, Honduras' Special Environmental Prosecutor's Office filed charges against Pérez and others for the alleged illegal exploitation of mineral and forest resources in the Carlos Escaleras Mejía National Park in the Colón department.
The charges claim that the Los Pinares project, focused on extracting and processing iron oxide, operated beyond its authorized boundaries from approximately 2013 to May 2021, stirring prolonged controversy with local communities and environmental groups.
Investigative Findings and Political Connections
The Miami Herald investigation also found that days after making his contributions, Pérez posted a photo on social media with Salazar at her equestrian property in Wellington, Florida, valued at about $10 million. This residence was searched by the FBI in April 2023 as part of a federal investigation into a U.S. steel company allegedly doing business with the Los Pinares mining project, as reported by the newspaper.
Neither Salazar, Pérez, nor Zambrano responded to the Herald's inquiries about the meeting's agenda or the motivations behind the significant political donations.
Rodríguez Criticizes Campaign Contributions
Upon learning of the investigation, Rodríguez accused his Republican opponent of embodying "Washington's culture of corruption, political hypocrisy, and disregard for accountability."
He questioned, "What did this donor expect in return for his substantial financial support? And why isn't Salazar addressing questions that South Florida voters rightfully have?"
The criticism comes amid a campaign in which Rodríguez has questioned other contributions received by Salazar. In December 2023, Salazar returned two donations totaling $750 from former U.S. diplomat Manuel Rocha, who was later convicted in April 2024 for acting as a covert agent for the Cuban government over decades.
Additionally, Fernando Armando Valdés Pérez, identified by U.S. authorities as a Cuban intelligence asset, had donated $3,900 to Salazar's campaign. The congresswoman announced she would direct that money to organizations advocating for a free Cuba.
An Intense Electoral Battle in Miami
Salazar and Rodríguez are competing for Florida's 27th Congressional District, which includes Coral Gables, South Miami, Pinecrest, and Palmetto Bay, among other areas in Miami-Dade County.
The Republican congresswoman, who has held the seat since 2021, is seeking a fourth consecutive term with endorsements from President Donald Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei, who released a video supporting her reelection.
Rodríguez, a former CBS Miami anchor and son of Cuban parents, has been endorsed by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Two polls cited during the campaign indicate a tight race: Bendixen & Amandi reported 45% support for each candidate, while Tulchin Research placed Salazar at 47% compared to Rodríguez's 46%. These differences should be considered in light of the margins of error and the specifics of each survey.
With over 235,000 early votes cast in Miami-Dade, both candidates are facing the final stretch of the campaign ahead of the November 3rd election.
Key Questions About the Campaign and Donations
Why is Eliott Rodríguez demanding María Elvira Salazar return donations?
Rodríguez is demanding the return of donations due to the legal issues surrounding Lenir Pérez, a major donor to Salazar, who faces criminal charges related to environmental crimes in Honduras.
What is the significance of the Los Pinares mining project?
The Los Pinares mining project in Honduras is controversial due to its alleged illegal operations and the environmental impact on a protected national park, leading to legal action and local opposition.
How have polling numbers reflected the race between Salazar and Rodríguez?
Polls show a close race, with Bendixen & Amandi reporting equal support for both candidates, and Tulchin Research giving Salazar a slight edge. These results highlight the competitive nature of the election.