A Cuban exile veterans’ group is getting behind Miami-Dade Commissioner Vicki Lopez’s effort to keep her District 5 seat at County Hall.
The Bay of Pigs Veterans Association, Brigade 2506, whose new museum opened this year, endorsed Lopez in a letter thanking her for years of friendship and support, highlighting her efforts to recognize its members’ service and participation in commemorative events.
Lopez said the nod “is an incredible honor.”
“The heroes of Brigade 2506 represent extraordinary courage and an unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom,” she said.
“Throughout my time in public service, it has been a privilege to stand alongside these veterans, honor their sacrifices, and help preserve their legacy. I will always be grateful for their friendship and remain committed to ensuring that future generations never forget their service or the values they fought to defend.”
Other groups supporting Lopez include the South Florida AFL-CIO, UNITE HERE Local 355, AFSCME Florida, SEIU 32BJ, SEIU Local 1991, the South Florida Police Benevolent Association, Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403, Miami Beach IAFF Local 1510, Associated Builders and Contractors — Florida East Coast Chapter, Miami Realtors PAC and the Miami-Dade chapter of the Florida State Fraternal Order of Police.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz, Miami Commission Chair Christine King, Miami Commissioner Miguel Gabela, all six Miami Beach Commissioners and former Miami Beach Mayor and House Democratic Leader Dan Gelber are also backing her.
Lopez, a former Lee County Commissioner and state Representative, was appointed to the Commission in November 2025.
She faces Democrat Rob Piper and fellow Republican Joe Sanchez in the Aug. 18 Primary, as the County Commission and its races are technically nonpartisan. If no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote, the top two vote-getters will advance to a runoff in the Nov. 3 General Election.
District 5 covers parts of Miami and Miami Beach, including the neighborhoods of Brickell, Downtown Miami, Little Havana, Miami River, Mid Beach, The Roads, Silver Bluff, Shenandoah, South Beach and West Flagler.