Cuban journalist Javier Díaz shared his deep emotion this Tuesday as he cast his vote for the first time in a democratic election, a right he was never able to exercise while living in Cuba.
In a Facebook post, Díaz expressed his excitement about participating in the local elections in Miami, emphasizing the importance of this democratic act. "What an emotion! I'm 36 years old and it's the first time I can vote in a country's election," wrote Díaz, making it clear that for those who have lived under a dictatorship like Cuba's, the idea of voting for a president or participating in a real electoral process is nonexistent.
In his message, he urged other American citizens not to miss the opportunity to exercise their right to vote, reminding them that local and state positions are equally significant for daily life.
Díaz stressed that although the election outcome may not always favor one's preferred candidate, the most important thing is not to miss the opportunity to choose the individual deemed most capable of representing the community's interests in the government, according to each voter's priorities and political affiliation.
The Univisión journalist, while grateful for the chance to participate in a democratic electoral process, proudly showcases his origins.
This Tuesday, August 20, the primary elections are being held in Miami-Dade County, where residents who registered in advance will have the chance to vote for candidates for county mayor and other local positions, among other roles, reported Diario Las Américas.
In these elections, voters will have the responsibility of deciding who will fill key positions such as mayor, sheriff, commissioners, school board members, and judges. Additionally, there will be primaries for some state congressional seats.
The mayoral race is fiercely contested by seven candidates, including Cuban-American influencer Alexander Otaola. This political contest has been one of the most attention-grabbing topics among the country's primary elections.
Current mayor Daniella Levine Cava is seeking a second term, highlighting her management over the past four years as a period of "tremendous progress."
Key Insights into Miami-Dade Primary Elections
Here are some frequently asked questions about the primary elections in Miami-Dade County and their broader implications.
Why was this election significant for Javier Díaz?
This election was significant for Javier Díaz because it was his first time voting in a democratic election, a right he never had while living in Cuba.
What positions were voters deciding on in the Miami-Dade primary elections?
Voters were deciding on key positions such as county mayor, sheriff, commissioners, school board members, and judges. Additionally, there were primaries for some state congressional seats.
Who are some of the notable candidates in the Miami-Dade mayoral race?
Notable candidates in the Miami-Dade mayoral race include Cuban-American influencer Alexander Otaola and current mayor Daniella Levine Cava, who is seeking a second term.