A Cuban exile veterans\u2019 group is getting behind Miami-Dade Commissioner Vicki Lopez\u2019s effort to keep her District 5 seat at County Hall.<\/p>\n
The Bay of Pigs Veterans Association, Brigade 2506<\/a>, whose new museum opened this year<\/a>, endorsed Lopez in a letter thanking her for years of friendship and support, highlighting her efforts to recognize its members\u2019 service and participation in commemorative events.<\/p>\n Lopez said the nod \u201cis an incredible honor.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe heroes of Brigade 2506 represent extraordinary courage and an unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n \u201cThroughout 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.\u201d<\/p>\n Other groups<\/a> supporting Lopez include the South Florida AFL-CIO, UNITE HERE Local 355, AFSCME Florida<\/a>,\u00a0SEIU 32BJ<\/a>,\u00a0SEIU Local 1991<\/a>, the\u00a0South Florida Police Benevolent Association<\/a>,\u00a0Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403<\/a>,\u00a0Miami Beach IAFF Local 1510<\/a>, Associated Builders and Contractors \u2014 Florida East Coast Chapter, Miami Realtors PAC and the Miami-Dade chapter of the\u00a0Florida State Fraternal Order of Police<\/a>.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n