Election Day has arrived in Coral Gables, where three commission seats—including the mayoralty—are on the ballot and the city’s political trajectory hangs in the balance.

According to unofficial turnout figures, 1,159 voters cast ballots at the Coral Gables Library on Saturday, April 5, followed by 1,369 on Sunday, April 6. Early voting drew a steady stream of residents, met by campaign staff and candidates eager to connect with constituents one last time before the polls close.

Outside the library, the political dynamics were as visible as the candidates themselves. Supporters and volunteers formed informal camps, with the west side of the entrance largely occupied by incumbent Mayor Vince Lago, Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson, and commission candidate Richard Lara. On the east side stood Commissioner and mayoral challenger Kirk Menendez, alongside commission candidates Felix Pardo and Tom Wells.

Mayoral hopeful Michael Abbott, a political newcomer, was also present—frequently waving an American flag as he greeted voters. Commission candidate Claudia Miro made appearances throughout the weekend, moving between both groups and appearing unaffiliated with either faction.

Current Commissioners Melissa Castro and Ariel Fernandez, both elected in 2023, were also seen outside the polling station on Saturday. Notably, they spent time with the Menendez, Pardo, and Wells camps. Since taking office, both have regularly clashed with Mayor Lago on key votes, aligning more often with Menendez in a shift that has reshaped the tone and direction of the city commission.

The 2025 election has underscored deepening political divisions in Coral Gables and raised questions about the city’s future leadership and governance. With incumbents and challengers staking out sharply different positions on development, preservation, and civic priorities, voters now have their say.

For more information on the candidates platforms and views, as well as the elections, click here and here.