The Cuban writer and political analyst, Orlando Luis Pardo Lazo, dismisses the notion that Marco Rubio's actions as Secretary of State are merely a ploy to secure the Cuban American vote in Florida. Instead, he argues that Rubio has set his sights on a much larger goal: the presidency of the United States.
In a discussion with CiberCuba, Pardo Lazo presented his thoughts against the backdrop of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's visit to the Guantánamo Naval Base last week, where Hegseth issued military warnings to the Cuban regime.
When asked if Rubio's policy toward Cuba is simply a "performance to win votes in the upcoming elections," the analyst couldn't completely rule it out but warned of the repercussions: "It seems like a very costly spectacle, and what will happen is that President Donald Trump and the Republican Party will be digging their own graves in the next elections."
Nonetheless, Pardo Lazo emphasized his belief that this is not the case.
Rubio's Political Evolution
"I believe Marco Rubio is fully aware of his actions," stated Pardo Lazo, adding that using Cuban policy solely to retain support from Florida's community would be "an outdated, backward, and anachronistic scenario" indicative of those "who don't understand what they're doing."
For the analyst, the key lies in grasping Rubio's new political scope: "Marco Rubio no longer needs Florida's vote in his life. He is vying for the presidency of the United States of America."
Pardo Lazo describes Rubio as a figure aiming to "be part of a team—vice president, president, or president at some point," highlighting that "he is now a national figure whom all politicians consider."
Shifting Political Landscape
"Marco Rubio is not just a senator, nor is he a local senator. He was back in 2016," Pardo Lazo clarified, noting the evolution from the Rubio of the past to the current Secretary of State.
Pardo Lazo himself acknowledged his journey: "I supported him with a shirt saying 'for Marco from day one.' Later, when I saw Trump's figure, I gravitated toward Trump."
The Cuban writer's analysis aligns with tangible signals within the Republican scene. Rubio was confirmed as Secretary of State in January 2025 with a unanimous vote of 99-0, becoming the first Hispanic to lead U.S. diplomacy, significantly boosting his national and international profile.
In prediction markets for the 2028 elections, Rubio appeared in March with 19% on Kalshi, nearly tied with JD Vance and Gavin Newsom.
In March, a group of Republican donors was strategizing to support a potential Rubio candidacy in 2028, while Trump himself fueled speculation by stating on the June 3 episode of the "Pod Force One" podcast from the New York Post that a Vance-Rubio ticket would be "very hard to beat": "I like them both... I don't know how you could beat them if they run together."
Rubio, meanwhile, has publicly stated that he would not run for the presidency in 2028 if Vance decides to enter the race, which suggests he is negotiating his position within the post-Trump Republican ecosystem rather than shutting that door completely.
Understanding Marco Rubio's Political Strategy
What is Marco Rubio's ultimate political objective according to Orlando Luis Pardo Lazo?
According to Orlando Luis Pardo Lazo, Marco Rubio's ultimate political goal is to become the President of the United States, rather than just securing votes in Florida.
How does Pardo Lazo view Rubio's strategy toward Cuba?
Pardo Lazo believes that using Cuban policy merely as a tool to secure the Florida vote is outdated and that Rubio's political maneuvering indicates a more significant ambition.
What signals suggest Rubio's growing national prominence?
Rubio's unanimous confirmation as Secretary of State and his presence in prediction markets for the 2028 elections reflect his increasing national and international prominence.
What did Donald Trump say about a potential Vance-Rubio ticket?
Donald Trump suggested that a Vance-Rubio ticket would be very difficult to beat, indicating his support for such a pairing in future elections.