A judge has ruled that the City of Miami cannot delay the 2025 mayoral election to next year.
Commissioners approved a motion last month to move this year’s November election to 2026.
Supporters pushed for the change, claiming an even-year election would bolster voter turnout.
Mayoral candidate and former City Manager, Emilio Gonzalez, filed a lawsuit to block the move, saying it violates the state constitution and city charter.
The judge sided in favor of Gonzalez, ruling that any change in date must first be approved by voters.
“They were warned before they voted on first reading, they were warned before they voted on second reading, and they decided to violate the law regardless,” said Commissioner of District 3 Joe Carollo, one of the two commissioners that opposed the measure.
Three other commissioners voted in favor of the change in June.
“On the campaign people were constantly asking me about this,” said Commissioner of District 2 Damian Pardo. “The polling indicates there is broad support.”
The move would have also extended the terms of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez and Carollo one year past their term limit.
“Because it was totally illegal,” said Carollo. “On one hand, it was against the Florida State constitution, but also the City of Miami Constitution.”
The judge determined the move was illegal for two reasons:
“…The “general law” statutes do not grant the City the authority to enact Ordinance 14376, as the city contends.
The “general law” statutes conflict with… the Miami-Dade County Charter; and thus, are unconstitutional…
The decision comes as the list of mayoral candidates grows, with former mayor Xavier Suarez telling 7News that he intends to add his name to the ballot.
“That I will be filing myself for mayor and, so, this is a great result for me, obviously,” said Xavier.
Xavier Suarez is the father of current mayor Francis Suarez.
“Postponing an election and extending the current term of the commission without referendum vote, without consulting the electorate can’t possibly be legal,” said Xavier.
The announcement has the potential to dust off a decades-old rivalry, as speculation grows surrounding Carollo’s potential to join the mayoral race.
Carollo had some thoughts surrounding those who supported the idea to move the election without a public vote.
“And then I think the Governor is going to go forward in suspending those that voted for this, like he more or less indicated that he would do,” said Carollo.
The City of Miami said it will appeal this decision.