In a significant political development in Miami-Dade County, former Mayor Alex Penelas has thrown his weight behind former lawmaker and Miami Beach Commissioner David Richardson, endorsing him for the pivotal role of County Tax Collector. This endorsement could potentially tilt the scales in favor of Richardson, who is vying for the position of Miami-Dade’s first elected Tax Collector since 1957.
Penelas, who has a deep understanding of the responsibilities and challenges associated with the Tax Collector’s Office, expressed his confidence in Richardson’s abilities. “David is a tested leader who has proven his commitment to serving our community and improving the lives of residents across Miami-Dade,” Penelas said, emphasizing Richardson’s track record and credentials.
Alex Penelas’ endorsement
The endorsement from Penelas is especially noteworthy as he has previously served as the Mayor and is therefore well-versed with the dynamics of the county’s administration. He praised Richardson’s commitment to the community and his impressive experience as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for 39 years. Penelas believes Richardson’s background in accounting and budget management would be invaluable as the Tax Collector’s Office prepares to take on the responsibilities of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
In addition to Penelas, Richardson’s campaign has garnered support from Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and local and state chapters of AFSCME, SEIU, CWA, and Equality Florida Action PAC.
David Richardson’s response
Richardson, an LGBTQ trailblazer and self-described “budget guy,” expressed his gratitude for the endorsement. “Throughout his career, Mayor Penelas has been a visionary leader for our community and his work has improved the lives of residents throughout Miami-Dade,” he said. Richardson has pledged to ensure the Tax Collector’s Office operates with transparency, efficiency, and a focus on delivering needed services to the residents of Miami-Dade.
The road ahead
The forthcoming election is set to mark a significant shift in Miami-Dade’s political landscape. In 2018, Florida voters, including 58% of Miami-Dade voters, approved a constitutional amendment requiring every county in the state to elect a Tax Collector, Supervisor of Elections, Sheriff and Property Appraiser by Jan. 7, 2025. Richardson, without a Democratic Primary opponent, is set to face local business owner and Miami-Dade Community Council member Dariel Fernandez, who emerged victorious in the Republican Primary.
The General Election is slated for Nov. 5, which will decide the fate of these candidates and the direction of Miami-Dade’s administration. Whether Richardson’s vision and endorsements from significant political figures will help him secure the position of Tax Collector remains to be seen.
