Michael B. Fernández, also known as Mike Fernández, is the Cuban-American billionaire behind the contentious billboards labeling South Florida congress members as "traitors." For several months, Fernández has been quietly funding these advertisements to express disapproval of the silent stance taken by Cuban-American Republican lawmakers on the Trump Administration's immigration policies.
In a recent interview with Univisión Miami, the wealthy entrepreneur elaborated on his motivations for the campaign. "Cruelty has no place in this fight and it is the only weapon this government uses," Fernández remarked, referencing the immigration strategies implemented under Donald Trump's leadership.
Billboards Stir Controversy in Miami
The billboards have sparked significant debate, especially a particular sign along the Palmetto Expressway that brands President Trump as an "aspiring dictator." Fernández dispelled the notion that Democratic interests were behind the billboards, stating, "I am a Republican," and disclosed that he has the backing of over 30 individuals to keep the signs up.
Who is Mike Fernández?
Born in Manzanillo, Granma Province, Cuba, Michael B. Fernández migrated to the United States with his family in 1964. He has since amassed a fortune exceeding one billion dollars through his ventures in the healthcare sector.
In April, Fernández penned a public letter criticizing the four Republican representatives, accusing them of capitulating to the presidency out of self-preservation. "They will be remembered for turning their backs on their community," he asserted. Driven by a sense of moral duty, Fernández has dedicated part of his wealth to holding politicians accountable to the Cuban and broader Latin communities in the U.S.
"They haven't spoken up to defend this community. They can talk about what they say, but they do it in Washington, not here," he criticized, specifically calling out figures like Mario Díaz-Balart, Carlos Giménez, María Elvira Salazar, and Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State.
Beyond Billboards: A Tribute to Immigrants
Fernández's activism isn't limited to billboards. Recently, he donated two sculptures to the city of Miami, honoring immigrants and their contributions. These artworks were unveiled at the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity.
Regarding the billboards' duration, Fernández confirmed they will remain visible until the next U.S. elections. He described political betrayal as "one of the greatest betrayals of politicians against voters," specifically referencing Díaz-Balart.
The Billboard That Sparked Debate
The campaign launched in April with a billboard on the Palmetto Expressway, featuring the faces of the aforementioned Republican politicians, accompanied by the word "TRAITORS" and the message: "To immigrants. To Miami-Dade. To the American Dream." The initiative was supported by the Miami-Dade Democratic Hispanic Caucus, which criticizes Republican politicians for their silence on immigrant community issues.
Response and Narrative Warfare
Soon after, a counter-billboard surfaced in support of the congress members, funded by a group of over 180 Cuban migrants with I-220A status, located in Hialeah. This sign depicted dictators like Fidel Castro, Nicolás Maduro, Hugo Chávez, and Daniel Ortega with the message "The real traitors – To their people. To freedom. To human rights."
Ironically, the Cuban community with I-220A status faces daily deportation risks under Trump's immigration policies. Despite Republican representatives' supportive rhetoric, concrete aid is scarce, complicating their path to legal status in the U.S.
In April, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar praised the pro-congress billboards and reiterated her support for Cubans with I-220A, criticizing Democrats: "That's cheap propaganda in the Castro style," she declared.
Meanwhile, Mario Díaz-Balart responded sarcastically to Fernández's campaign, stating, "Being criticized and accused by the far left is a badge of honor." Yet, Fernández's recent comments reignited the controversy, as he emphasized, "I am a Republican."
Frequently Asked Questions on Mike Fernández's Billboard Campaign
What motivated Mike Fernández to fund the billboards?
Mike Fernández was motivated by a sense of moral obligation to hold politicians accountable for their lack of action on immigration issues affecting the Cuban and broader Latin community in the U.S.
Who finances the supportive billboards for the Republican congress members?
The supportive billboards for Republican congress members were financed by over 180 Cuban migrants with I-220A status, emphasizing their opposition to dictatorship and support for freedom and human rights.
How has the Cuban-American community reacted to the billboards?
The Cuban-American community has shown mixed reactions; while some support Fernández's campaign, others back the counter-billboards defending Republican lawmakers.