Two Very Tight Miami Races You Should Pay Attention To

These races will make a difference in the lives of South Florida voters, as they will decide affordable housing, healthcare for all, and how the COVID-19 pandemic is handled, among other important issues.

Although the race between Republican incumbent Donald Trump and Democratic contender Joe Biden for the presidency of the US is the undisputed main event this Nov. 3, there are other important tight races on the Florida ballot. 

In Miami-Dade, voters will decide between Steve Bovo and Daniella Levine Cava for a new county mayor, while Florida’s 26^th pits Carlos Giménez against Debbie Mucarsel-Powell. 

RELATED: Everything You Need to Know to Vote in Florida

The outcome of these races will make a difference in the lives of South Florida voters, as they will decide matters as crucial as affordable housing, how the COVID-19 pandemic is handled, and the future of the Affordable Care Act, among other important issues.

Here’s a rundown of the four candidates and what they stand for.

County Mayor

Daniella Levine Cava 

If elected, the Democrat would be the county’s first female mayor. Levine Cava, who has a history of championing causes like women’s issues, climate change, discrimination, social justice, and gun violence, has been the representative in Commission District 8 since 2014, a position she renounced to run for mayor. She has promised that as county mayor she would take a more dedicated approach to handling the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as work to provide more affordable housing for all.

Steve Bovo 

The Republican candidate, who has represented Commission District 13 since 2011, has appealed to conservative principles throughout his campaign by touting himself as the fiscal conservative and the law-and-order candidate. He promises not to raise taxes if he becomes mayor, and calls expanding the rail service his number one priority. He started his political career as a Hialeah City Council Member. He also served in the Florida House of Representatives.

Florida’s 26th Congressional District

Debbie Mucarsel-Powell

The current representative of Florida’s 26th Congressional District in the US House is seeking reelection. The Democrat’s platform includes providing healthcare for all and protecting the Affordable Care Act (ACA), raising the minimum wage for Floridians, and creating a plan for debt-free community college. She fought to close the Homestead Detention Center for Migrant Children and supports extending Temporary Protective Status for Venezuelans and Haitians.

RELATED: Sen. Kamala Harris and Rep. Mucarsel-Powell Plan Big Boost for Latinos in South Florida

Carlos Giménez 

Announcing his run for Congress in a tweet where he thanked Donald Trump “for all you’ve done for our economy and to fight socialism,” the current mayor of Miami-Dade County received the president’s enthusiastic endorsement. The Republican candidate, who cut $400 million in Miami-Dade jobs and investment, is focused on reducing tax rates and spending. He has also voiced his approval of Washington Republicans’ lawsuit to repeal the Affordable Care Act in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic that so far has claimed nearly 15,000 lives in the state.