The Brief

Miami-Dade County Commissioners Secure Unopposed Re-election Amid Budget Challenges

Five Miami-Dade County Commissioners were re-elected unopposed, while the county grapples with a significant budget deficit.

In a series of unopposed elections, five Miami-Dade County Commissioners have secured their positions for another term. Dr. Steve Gallon III, previously a member of the Miami-Dade County School Board, was elected to the District 1 seat, succeeding former Commissioner Oliver Gilbert. The other commissioners re-elected without opposition include Anthony Rodriguez (District 10), Juan Carlos "JC" Bermudez (District 12), Micky Steinberg (District 4), and Natalie Milian Orbis (District 6). These unopposed elections reflect a period of stability within the county's leadership. However, the county is currently facing significant fiscal challenges. In September 2025, Miami-Dade County Commissioners approved a $12.9 billion budget, aiming to address a substantial budget deficit that had initially exceeded $400 million. The budget process involved difficult decisions, including potential service cuts and fee increases, to balance the county's finances. The budget approval came after a contentious period marked by public hearings and debates over funding allocations. Residents expressed concerns over proposed cuts to essential services, leading to protests and public outcry. Despite these challenges, the county's leadership emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and the need to make tough decisions to ensure the long-term stability of Miami-Dade County. As the newly re-elected commissioners begin their terms, they will face the ongoing task of navigating the county through its fiscal challenges. Their leadership will be crucial in implementing the approved budget and addressing the concerns of residents affected by the recent financial decisions.

ℹ️ Researched and summarized from public reporting. Check the sources below.

Sources

Gallon among five to win Miami-Dade Commission seats unopposed | South Florida Times — sfltimes.com
Trade offs, cuts and drama: How Miami-Dade passed its budget | WLRN — wlrn.org
"Miami-Dade County commissioners approve $12.9 billion budget. Here's how you could be impacted." — CBS Miami
"Five Miami-Dade Commissioners were elected Tuesday — without a single vote" — Political Cortadito
"No Ballots, Big Power as Five Miami Pols Snag County Seats" — Hoodline
"Miami-Dade County faces Florida DOGE review in budget crisis" — Miami Herald
Miami-Dade School Board member Luisa Santos talks closures on 'This Week in South Florida' — YouTube · WPLG Local 10
Charter Revision Commission Meeting | May 18, 2026 — YouTube · Town of Miami Lakes
04.15.2026 - Infrastructure, Innovation, and Technology Committee Meeting