Eileen Higgins

Pete Buttigieg addressed Florida Democrats at the Leadership Blue gala, expressing cautious optimism about the party's ability to compete and win in November elections despite Republican registration advantages. He highlighted recent Democratic victories in Miami and state legislative races as evidence of shifting opportunities.

Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins honored the Miami Department of Fire-Rescue team for their search-and-rescue efforts in La Guaira, Venezuela, following 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes. The U.S. State Department deployed 79 members of Florida Task Force 2, who searched rubble in the hardest-hit area and returned safely despite risks.

Relief efforts for Venezuela's earthquake victims continue in South Florida as volunteers and organizations collect and transport critical supplies. Local groups like Global Empowerment Mission, ProKel Mobility, and Latinos in Transit collaborate with Miami officials and the Miami Marlins to gather donations, while city leaders emphasize ensuring aid reaches those in need despite challenges in Venezuela.

Miami's fire rescue personnel are preparing to deploy to Venezuela's disaster zone following devastating earthquakes. The U.S. State Department activated Florida Task Forces 1 and 2, comprising 230 search-and-rescue personnel, to provide humanitarian aid. Miami officials emphasized the teams' training and commitment to supporting Venezuela.

Edwin Lopez is the new police chief of Miami, having previously served as chief of the Doral Police Department and the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department. He has 28 years of law enforcement experience and a background as a Miami native with immigrant parents. His new salary is $325,000.