Bryan Ávila Urges Cubans to Hold Onto Hope, Pledges Firm Stance Against Cuban Regime

State Senator Bryan Ávila, the Republican candidate for Florida's lieutenant governor, delivered a heartfelt message to Cubans enduring blackouts and economic turmoil on the island, as well as those in a migratory limbo in the United States: "do not lose hope."

Ávila shared this sentiment in an interview with Univision 23 Miami journalist Javier Díaz, marking his first Spanish-language media engagement since being nominated.

At 42, Ávila is the son of Cuban exiles and used the discussion to highlight three key issues: the plight of Cubans without permanent residency, the Byron Donalds-Ávila ticket's stance on the Cuban regime, and his vision for the state of Florida.

Addressing Immigration Concerns

When asked about Cubans living in fear of deportation without legal documentation, he was straightforward: "I would tell them not to lose faith and to continue through the legal process."

Commitment to a Tough Policy on Cuba

Regarding the ongoing crisis in Cuba, Ávila assured a continuation of strict policies: "The next governor of the state, Byron Donalds, will maintain a firm hand." He further emphasized the ticket's position: "We will uphold the stance that there will be no home in Florida for socialism."

Personal Connection to Freedom

Ávila expressed that the issue of freedom transcends political rhetoric, touching on his personal history. His parents left Cuba, abandoning their home and business, and found new lives in the U.S. as a truck driver and secretary to support their family.

Legislative Experience

The senator also reflected on his legislative career when asked about his contributions to the future governor: "I've dedicated my life to serving Florida. I've had the privilege of serving the residents of my community both in the House of Representatives and in the Senate."

Symbolic Nomination

Ávila was nominated as Donalds' running mate on August 25 at Miami's Freedom Tower—a site historically significant to the Cuban American community, having served as the Cuban Refugee Center from 1962 to 1974. On his family's reaction to the nomination, he remarked: "The whole family is very happy and proud of the nomination and the campaign we are building."

Donalds secured the Republican primary in August with about 47.8% of the vote and will face off against Democrat David Jolly, who is joined by Gwen Graham, on November 3. The election will determine the successor to Governor Ron DeSantis, who is ineligible for a consecutive third term.

Should the Republican ticket succeed, Donalds would become Florida's first African American governor, with Ávila stepping into the role of lieutenant governor.