Fact Check: Miami postpones 2025 election to 2026, extending officials' terms by one year!

Fact Check: Miami Postpones 2025 Election to 2026, Extending Officials' Terms by One Year

What We Know

On June 26, 2025, the Miami City Commission voted 3-2 to postpone the city's November 2025 election to November 2026. This decision effectively extends the terms of elected officials, including term-limited Mayor Francis Suarez and Commissioner Joe Carollo, by one year (CBS News, Miami Herald). The rationale behind this change, according to proponents, is to increase voter turnout by aligning city elections with the higher turnout seen in even-numbered years (Miami Herald). However, critics have labeled this move a "power grab," arguing it disenfranchises voters who were prepared to participate in the upcoming election (CBS News).

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and Governor Ron DeSantis have stated that the city lacks the authority to change the election date without voter approval, as the city charter mandates odd-year elections and requires voter consent for any amendments (Miami Herald). In contrast, City Attorney George Wysong cited a precedent from North Miami, which was upheld by the Third District Court of Appeals, allowing such changes via a commission vote (CBS News).

Analysis

The decision to postpone the election has sparked significant debate. Supporters, including Commissioner Damian Pardo, argue that moving elections to even years could increase voter participation from an estimated 10-15% to 60-65% (Miami Herald). However, critics, including mayoral candidate Emilio González, have expressed outrage, claiming that the decision undermines democracy and violates the law (Miami Herald).

The reliability of the sources reporting on this issue is generally high. Both CBS News and the Miami Herald are established news organizations with a history of covering local politics. However, the Miami Herald's coverage includes more detailed perspectives from various stakeholders, including public comments from residents and candidates, which adds depth to the analysis (Miami Herald).

The conflicting opinions from state officials and the city attorney raise questions about the legality of the commission's decision. Uthmeier's opinion suggests that the commission's actions may not comply with the city charter, while Wysong's defense relies on a legal precedent that may not be universally accepted. This discrepancy highlights the contentious nature of the decision and the potential for legal challenges in the future (CBS News, Miami Herald).

Conclusion

The claim that Miami has postponed the 2025 election to 2026, thereby extending the terms of its elected officials by one year, is True. The Miami City Commission's vote has been officially documented and reported by credible news sources. The implications of this decision, including potential legal challenges and public backlash, indicate a significant political controversy that may evolve as the situation develops.

Fact Check: Miami postpones 2025 election to 2026, extending officials' terms by one year!