On Friday, former President Donald Trump formally announced his support for Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar in her re-election bid for Florida's 27th Congressional District, just days before the November 3, 2026, election.
In a message shared on Truth Social, Trump praised Salazar for "doing an excellent job representing the wonderful people of Florida's District 27" and offered her his "Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-election."
The endorsement holds significant weight, as it comes only five weeks after a public rift between the two. On September 17, Salazar released a bilingual video from the White House, criticizing Trump's immigration policies as "going too far," noting that nearly half of the 50,000 individuals detained by ICE in July lacked criminal records.
Trump's response was measured: initially expressing continued support for Salazar despite disagreeing with her stance, he later, on September 26, amplified over 14 critical comments from other users on Truth Social labeling her a "traitor" and suggesting she be replaced.
Despite the public tension, Salazar mentioned on CBS's Face the Nation on September 21 that she had a "fantastic" private conversation with Trump, during which he listened to her arguments. Friday's endorsement marks a definitive reconciliation as the campaign heads into its final stretch.
In his post, Trump also launched a scathing attack on Salazar's Democratic opponent, Eliott Rodríguez, a Cuban-American journalist who spent 25 years anchoring for CBS Miami. Trump labeled Rodríguez a "radical left Democrat" opposed to proposals eliminating taxes on tips, overtime, and social security, calling him "reckless, radical, and dangerous."
"He wants massive tax increases, open borders, men competing in women's sports, and transgender mutilation of your children," Trump wrote about Rodríguez.
The race for FL-27 is among the most competitive in South Florida. Salazar, who has represented the district since January 2021 and is seeking her fourth consecutive term, clinched the Republican primary in August with nearly 81% of the vote.
Rodríguez, meanwhile, enjoys the backing of House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries and former President Bill Clinton, who publicly endorsed him on October 28.
Polls indicate a tight race in the district, which includes Coral Gables, South Miami, Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, and parts of Miami, with a population that is approximately 73.5% Hispanic. A survey conducted by RedBox Research between October 20 and 23 placed Salazar at 49% to Rodríguez's 46%, while VoteHub's electoral model gave the congresswoman a 67.4% chance of victory as of Friday's close.
By October 24, over 235,000 early votes had been cast in Miami-Dade, with in-person early voting available until November 1.
Florida's 27th Congressional District Race: Key Questions Answered
What is the significance of Trump's endorsement for María Elvira Salazar?
Trump's endorsement is crucial as it signals a reconciliation after a public disagreement, potentially consolidating Republican support for Salazar's re-election campaign in a highly contested district.
How competitive is the race for Florida's 27th Congressional District?
The race is highly competitive, with polls showing a close contest between Salazar and Rodríguez, reflecting the district's diverse and predominantly Hispanic demographic.
Who is Eliott Rodríguez and what is his political stance?
Eliott Rodríguez is a Cuban-American journalist and Democratic candidate, described by Trump as a "radical left Democrat." He has the endorsement of prominent Democrats like Hakeem Jeffries and Bill Clinton.