MIAMI – A Miami-Dade County commissioner has filed a statement of candidacy to replace outgoing U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, R-Florida.
Commissioner Bruno Barreiro announced Wednesday that he will seek the congressional seat currently occupied by Ros-Lehtinen, who is retiring at the end of her term.
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"Throughout my years as a public servant, I have witnessed first-hand how my efforts can positively contribute to the growth and well-being of our residents in South Florida," Barreiro said. "It truly would be an honor and a privilege to serve our community, and our country, as a United States congressman."
Barreiro was first elected to public office in 1992, serving in the Florida House. He was elected to the Miami-Dade County Commission in 1998.
The Cuban American was born in Clearwater but grew up in South Florida, attending Christopher Columbus High School and the University of Miami.
Florida's 27th Congressional District includes portions of Miami and all of Miami Beach, Coral Gables, West Miami, South Miami, Pinecrest, Cutler Bay, Palmetto Bay, Key Biscayne and North Bay Village.
The Republican will be vying for a seat in a district that includes all of his current constituents.
Ros-Lehtinen became the first Cuban American to be elected to Congress in 1989.