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Veterans for America First Endorses Ret. Colonel Emilio Gonzalez for Miami Mayor

National Security Expert and Former City Manager Receives Prestigious VFAF Endorsement
MIAMI, FL – June 13, 2025 — Veterans for America First (VFAF.us), the original veterans coalition to endorse Donald J. Trump in 2015, has officially endorsed retired U.S. Army Colonel Emilio Gonzalez for Mayor of the City of Miami. The announcement was made by Christi Reeves-Tasker, VFAF National Press Secretary.
Gonzalez, a decorated Army officer, former U.S. Army Attaché, and national security expert, has a longstanding record of service to both country and community. His leadership roles include Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), City Manager of Miami, and CEO of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department.
As Miami’s City Manager, Gonzalez oversaw historic improvements in city governance, including:

•        Upgraded municipal bond ratings to their highest levels
   
•        Billions in investments and economic development
   
•        Record-low crime rates and reduced millage
   
•        Adoption of fiscal and technology innovations
   

“Colonel Gonzalez has not only served his country with distinction, but he also transformed the City of Miami with transparent, fiscally responsible leadership,” said Tasker. “He embodies the kind of values VFAF fights for.”
Despite opposition from political insiders, Gonzalez maintained a strong record of integrity, service, and innovation. In 2024, he was appointed to the Florida Treasury Investment Council by CFO Jimmy Patronis, and later to the Department of Commerce Direct-Support Organization by Speaker Paul Renner.
Gonzalez’s extensive resume includes:

•        Service in the U.S. Southern Command and at the White House
   
•        A Ph.D. in International Studies and two M.A. degrees
   
•        Recognition by nine foreign governments
   
•        Awards including the Gladfelter Award and Carnegie’s “Great Immigrant/Great American” honor
   

He is a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations and serves on advisory boards for the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation and the Vandenberg Coalition.
For interviews, media inquiries, or more information, contact:
Media Contact:
 Christi Reeves-Tasker
National Press Secretary
 Veterans for America First
 Websites:
www.VFAF.us
Miami District 17 Committeewoman
@Christi4Miami on Social Media
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