The 2024 elections marked a troubling turning point for Puerto Rican political representation in Florida. What was once a growing force of influence in state and national politics now faces a steep decline, raising alarms about the future of Puerto Rican voices in government.

In 2016, our community achieved historic milestones: Darren Soto became the first Puerto Rican from Florida elected to the U.S. Congress, Victor Torres won a seat in the Florida Senate, and four Puerto Ricans—John Cortes, Amy Mercado, René Plasencia, and Bob Cortes—held seats in the Florida State House. This wave of representation was a proud moment for Puerto Ricans, a sign that our voices were finally being heard at the highest levels.

2016 Representation Snapshot:

• 1 U.S. Representative Seat
• 1 Florida State Senate Seat
• 4 Florida State House Seats

Fast forward to 2025, and the numbers tell a much different story:

• 1 U.S. Representative Seat (Darren Soto)
• 0 Florida State Senate Seats
• 2 Florida State House Seats (Johanna López and Susan Plasencia)

The losses in 2024 have decimated our influence in state government. The Florida State Senate, once home to a Puerto Rican voice, is now silent. The reduction in House seats has further diminished our ability to shape policy and advocate for our community.

This is a moment for reflection and action. As a former Puerto Rican Florida State Representative, I understand the hard work it takes to elevate our community’s concerns and ensure they are heard. But these latest setbacks demonstrate that we cannot afford complacency.

We must:

1. Prioritize leadership development by identifying and mentoring the next generation of Puerto Rican leaders.
2. Strengthen voter engagement efforts to increase turnout and political awareness within our community.
3. Build coalitions across Florida to amplify our collective voice and work toward shared goals.
4. Focus on unity, setting aside partisan divides to protect and grow Puerto Rican representation.

Puerto Ricans in Florida contribute significantly to the state’s economy, culture, and community development. Yet, without strong political representation, our ability to advocate for critical issues—such as disaster recovery, housing, healthcare, and education—is severely hampered.

The time to act is now. If we fail to address this decline, the consequences for Puerto Rican communities across Florida could be dire. Let us remember that our representation is not just about holding titles but about driving meaningful change for the people we serve. Together, we can rebuild and ensure that Puerto Rican political power not only survives but thrives for future generations.

Daisy Morales
Former Florida State Representative
Advocate for Puerto Rican Leadership and Progress
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As one of the most powerful Democrat in America, Vice President Kamala Harris has redefined the Democratic Party’s vision and laid a foundation that resonates across generations. Her recent race may not have led to victory, but it achieved historic milestones and undeniable progress, positioning her as a strong candidate for a presidential run in 2028. Harris’s journey is more than a campaign story—it’s a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of representation.

Key Campaign Successes:
Kamala Harris’s 2024 campaign set records and defined new standards, underscoring her influence and appeal as the Democratic Party’s future:

• Unmatched Fundraising Power: Harris shattered expectations by raising a staggering $1 billion in just 107 days, mobilizing grassroots supporters and influential donors alike. This financial prowess is a rare asset, proving Harris has the power to energize her base and secure the resources for a robust campaign in 2028.
• A Historic First: Harris became the first nominee for the Democratic Party who is both a woman and Black — and South Asian, opening doors for diverse leadership and setting a historic milestone that inspired millions. Her groundbreaking nomination broadened the party’s reach, engaging a new generation of voters and energizing communities that may prove even more impactful in 2028.
• Electrifying Rallies: Harris’s campaign rallies drew some of the largest and most energized crowds, uniting diverse demographics and proving her ability to mobilize on a massive scale. This enthusiasm and reach will be invaluable as Democrats seek to connect with younger voters and maintain turnout momentum in future elections.
• Debate Dominance: Known for her sharp debating skills, Harris outperformed Donald Trump on the debate stage, refocusing on critical issues and strengthening her policy appeal. Her clear stances on healthcare, climate action, and reproductive rights won over progressives and independents alike, highlighting her capability as a skilled and effective communicator.

Notable Endorsements and Widespread Support
During her campaign, Harris garnered endorsements from leading Democratic voices, including former President Barack Obama, major labor unions, and key progressive organizations. These endorsements amplified her message, validated her leadership, and set the stage for her continued influence in Democratic circles. These alliances could be a solid foundation for another potential run, ensuring she has strong backing in 2028.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris gives remarks in the Statuary Hall of the U.S. Capitol during a ceremony on the first anniversary of the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol by supporters of former President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C., U.S., January 6, 2022. Greg Nash/Pool via REUTERS

Takeaways and Implications for 2028
While the 2024 outcome wasn’t in her favor, Harris’s campaign was a transformative experience, positioning her as the Democratic Party’s top hope to retake the White House in 2028:

• A Diverse Coalition: Harris has built a powerful coalition of young voters, women, people of color, and progressives. If she can retain and expand this base, she has the potential to bridge party divides and strengthen Democratic appeal in a way few others can.
• The Absence of Trump: With Donald Trump out of the 2028 race, Republicans may lack the singular, polarizing figure who drove voter turnout in 2024. This void could open the door for Harris to expand her base and draw in moderates looking for fresh, inclusive leadership.

A Campaign Beyond Politics
Harris’s 2024 bid wasn’t just a run for office; it was a bold vision of the Democratic Party’s future. Her achievements, historic firsts, and groundbreaking influence reflect a leader whose determination and resilience are unmatched. She has shown that every setback is an opportunity to regroup, rethink, and rise stronger. Success doesn’t come solely from victories but from the courage to persist, the flexibility to adapt, and the unyielding drive to try again.

Harris’s journey represents not only the thrill of competition but also the profound growth that emerges from the challenges. In politics, as in sports (the Super Bowl, the World Series), resilience fuels the comeback, and Harris’s experience has crafted her into a contender ready to lead in 2028. Her return to the national stage would embody the resilience and strength that the Democratic Party—and America—needs.

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Florida National News
opinion@FloridaNationalNews.com

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (FNN) – With a historic victory, President-Elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House has solidified Florida’s role as the center of American political power. In a stunning upset, Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign fell short, and with additional Senate control, the Republican Party has made Florida home to some of the nation’s most influential leaders.

With Trump’s victory, Florida emerges as the undisputed command center of Republican influence, where leaders like President-Elect Trump’s Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Governor Ron DeSantis, US Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, and Congressman Byron Donalds are set to drive national-state policies from the heart of the Sunshine State.

Source: Florida National News

Florida’s Power Players and the Potential Impact of a Trump White House:

• Donald Trump, President-Elect – A resident of Palm Beach, President-Elect Trump’s home base brings presidential influence directly to Florida.
• Susie Wiles, Trump’s Chief of Staff – Florida-based political strategist Susie Wiles will make history as the first woman Chief of Staff, bringing her expertise and loyalty from Trump’s past campaigns to the West Wing.
• Governor Ron DeSantis – Trump’s longtime ally and the state’s governor, DeSantis is expected to play a critical advisory role in federal-state relations.
• U.S. Senator Rick Scott – Likely to be tapped as the new GOP Senate Leader, Senator Scott could amplify Florida’s power in national legislation.
• U.S. Senator Marco Rubio – A strong contender for a Cabinet role, Rubio’s foreign policy expertise could shape Trump’s national security agenda.
• Congressman Byron Donalds – As Trump’s key ally, Donalds may receive a Cabinet position, strengthening Florida’s influence within the administration.

With Trump set to be sworn in on January 20, 2025, Florida’s status as a Republican stronghold solidifies it as a state of unprecedented influence, with powerful leaders guiding both state and national policies from the Sunshine State.

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Florida National News
opinion@FloridaNationalNews.com