Congressman Carlos Gimenez

CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ SECURES NEW F-35 JETS FOR HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE

Fri, 128 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

HOMESTEAD, FL - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez announced that Homestead Air Reserve Base has officially been selected as a candidate location to receive 24 new F-35 fighter jets, a major step toward recapitalizing the 482nd Fighter Wing and strengthening South Florida’s national security infrastructure.

The announcement comes after years of advocacy by Congressman Gimenez to secure a long-term mission for Homestead Air Reserve Base and protect the strategic importance of the installation to both the local economy and the defense of the homeland.

“When I was first elected to Congress, there were disturbing plans to scale back operations at Homestead Air Reserve Base in our district,” said Congressman Carlos Gimenez. “I joined the Armed Services Committee, worked with the Air Force and the Trump Administration to secure a new mission at the base. Today, I’m proud to announce that Homestead is now a candidate to receive 24 new F-35 fighter jets recapitalizing the 482nd Fighter Wing’s aging jets. With the regime in Communist Cuba just 90 miles away, we must ensure our community is protected from any nefarious threats posed by foreign adversaries. It’s an honor to represent South Dade in Congress and this announcement will ensure continued economic growth and limitless opportunities for our community.”

Read the Department of the Air Force announcement HERE.

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ SECURES NEW F-35 JETS FOR HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE

Fri, 128 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

Read the Department of the Air Force announcement HERE.

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ BACKS EXECUTIVE ORDER IMPOSING SANCTIONS ON CUBAN REGIME OFFICIALS

Fri, 121 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

MIAMI, FL - Today Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez issued the following statement in support of President Donald J. Trump's Executive Order, Imposing Sanctions on Those Responsible for Repression in Cuba and for Threats to United States National Security and Foreign Policy:

Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez said, "The newly implemented sanctions against the Cuban regime are necessary to target its security apparatus—the machine that jails political prisoners and oppresses its people.

"Anyone who props up this tyranny will face serious consequences.

"We must end this repressive regime that continues to pose a significant threat to our national security. The days of impunity are over. Freedom and our security are not negotiable."

Read President Trump's Executive Order HERE.

Read the White House Fact Sheet HERE.

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ HONORS THE LIFE OF KEY WEST LEADER ANTHONY YANIZ

Thu, 120 Apr 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez (R-FL) today took to the House Floor to honor the life and legacy of former Key West Commissioner Anthony Yaniz, a beloved Key West community leader.

Click HERE to watch the House floor proceedings or read the Congressman’s remarks below:

“MISTER SPEAKER I COME TO THE FLOOR TODAY TO HONOR THE LIFE OF ANTHONY YANIZA A PROUD SON OF KEY WEST AND A TRUE PILLAR OF THE FLORIDA KEYS COMMUNITY.

“TONY WAS A FORMER KEY WEST COMMISSIONER AND A LARGER-THAN-LIFE FIGURE WHO DEDICATED HIMSELF TO SERVING OTHERS AND STRENGTHENING THE COMMUNITY THAT HE LOVED.

“TONY’S WORK SUPPORTED IMPORTANT LOCAL INSTITUTIONS INCLUDING THE KEY WEST VETERANS MEMORIAL AND THE CENTER FOR ANIMAL WELFARE AND EDUCATION.

“HIS COMMITMENT TO HIS COMMUNITY WAS NOT JUST PUBLIC, IT WAS PERSONAL. HE SHOWED UP FOR HIS NEIGHBORS TIME AND TIME AGAIN.

“ANTHONY YANIZ LEAVES BEHIND A LEGACY OF SERVICE, PASSION, AND LOVE FOR KEY WEST. HE WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED, BUT HIS IMPACT WILL LIVE ON FOR GENERATIONS.

“MAY HE REST IN PEACE.”

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ RELEASES STATEMENT ON HAITI TEMPORARY PROTECTED STATUS

Thu, 106 Apr 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez released the following statement after the passage of H.R. 1689 - To require the Secretary of Homeland Security to designate Haiti for temporary protected status:

Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez said, "I’ve built my record on putting our community first and working across the aisle to get things done. I’m proud of my bipartisan track record—because doing what’s right shouldn’t be about politics, it should be about people.

"Haitian migrants are not strangers—they are our neighbors, our coworkers, and part of the fabric of our community.

"Haiti today is overrun by violent gangs. It is neither safe nor humane to force our neighbors back into those conditions. Providing Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is not just sound policy—it’s the right thing to do and I’m proud to vote for this commonsense, bipartisan solution that ensures our Haitian neighbors can continue contributing to our community."

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ CONDEMNS DEMOCRAT CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO COMMUNIST CUBA

Mon, 96 Apr 2026 12:00:00 EST

MIAMI, FL - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez (R-FL-28) issued the following regarding the recent travel of U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) and Jonathan Jackson (D-IL) to Cuba to meet with officials of the island’s Communist regime.

Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez said, "Here is the difference between Democrats and Republicans: While Democrats go to Cuba to meet leaders of a Communist, anti-democratic dictatorship, Republicans support the people in their quest for a free and democratic Cuba. As the only member of Congress actually born in Cuba, I say shame on you to Representative Pramila Jayapal and representative Jonathan Jackson for supporting this repressive and brutal regime. As supposed defenders of democracy, your hypocrisy knows no bounds."

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REPS GIMENEZ & SALAZAR URGE ORR TO RECONSIDER FUNDING FOR CATHOLIC CHARITIES’ UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN PROGRAM

Mon, 96 Apr 2026 12:00:00 EST

MIAMI, FL- Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-28) and Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) sent a sent a letter to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) calling on the agency to immediately reverse its decision to strip funding from the Archdiocese of Miami’s Residential Services for Unaccompanied Children, citing the critical role Catholic Charities plays in South Florida’s humanitarian infrastructure.

“South Florida is on the frontlines of humanitarian migration in our hemisphere, and now is not the time to weaken the very programs that have protected vulnerable children for decades,” said Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez. “With crises intensifying in Cuba and Haiti, we know what comes next—an increase in unaccompanied minors seeking safety in our community. Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami has the experience, infrastructure, and compassion to respond effectively. Cutting the Residential Services for Unaccompanied Children program is a strategic mistake that will cost more, delay response times, and put children at greater risk.”

“South Florida has always been the first to respond when crisis hits our hemisphere,” said Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar. “From Operation Pedro Pan to past surges of unaccompanied minors at our border, Catholic Charities's Children's Village has been a pillar of compassion and expertise. Preserving this capacity is essential so we are prepared to respond effectively if the next crisis arises."

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ DEMANDS URGENT INVESTIGATION INTO REPORTED KILLINGS ABOARD U.S.-REGISTERED VESSEL NEAR CUBA

Wed, 56 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

MIAMI, FL - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL) issued the following statement after alarming reports that agents of the Cuban regime executed four individuals aboard a Florida-registered vessel near Santa Clara Province, Cuba. The incident raises serious concerns about the use of lethal force against individuals on a vessel registered in the United States.

“I am calling for an immediate investigation into this massacre. United States authorities must determine whether any of the victims were U.S. citizens or legal residents and establish exactly what occurred. The regime in Cuba must be relegated to the dustbin of history for its countless crimes against humanity,” said Congressman Gimenez.

Congressman Gimenez is closely monitoring the situation and has requested additional details from the State Department and the United States military, to obtain all relevant facts and ensure this matter receives the urgent attention it demands.

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ DELIVERS +$78 MILLION IN INVESTMENTS FOR FL-28

Fri, 51 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-28) announced that 12 key projects across Florida’s 28th Congressional District have been awarded federal funding in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, delivering more than $78 million in critical investments for public safety, national security, infrastructure, education, water quality, housing, and economic development.

“I am proud to have secured more than $78 million in federal investments that deliver real, measurable results for the people of Florida’s 28th District,” said Congressman Gimenez. “From equipping our law enforcement officers and strengthening our water infrastructure, to advancing national security and expanding affordable housing, these funds directly enhance the safety, resilience, and economic vitality of our community. Every dollar was secured with accountability and purpose. I will continue fighting in Congress to ensure our district receives its fair share while protecting taxpayer dollars and putting America’s security first.”

The complete list of awarded projects and funding amounts appears below.

PUBLIC SAFETY & LAW ENFORCEMENT

City of Sweetwater Policing Equipment and Safety Project

Awarded: $1,050,000
Sponsor: City of Sweetwater – 500 SW 109 Avenue, Sweetwater, FL 33174

Funding will modernize policing equipment, including an integrated closed-circuit camera and license plate reader system connected to CAD operations. These upgrades will enhance crime prevention, intelligence sharing, resource allocation, and real-time officer awareness.

Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Vehicles Project

Awarded: $2,100,000
Sponsor: Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office – 9105 NW 25 Street, Doral, FL 33172

Funding will provide marked patrol vehicles and prisoner transport vans to meet operational demands in a county of 2.8 million residents. These investments will enhance officer visibility, community engagement, and operational efficiency while reducing strain on patrol resources.

NATIONAL SECURITY & DEFENSE

Joint Interagency Task Force – South Command and Control Facility

Awarded: $50,000,000
Sponsor: U.S. Southern Command – 9301 NW 33rd St, Doral, FL 33172

Funding will construct a five-story Command and Control facility at Truman Annex, Naval Air Station Key West. The facility will include a SCIF, Operations Center, and Network Operations Center, strengthening interagency coordination and national security operations in the Western Hemisphere.

FIU Interdisciplinary Engineering & Computing Initiative (Semiconductor & National Security)

Awarded: $2,100,000
Sponsor: Florida International University – 11200 SW 8 Street, Miami, FL 33199

Funding will establish state-of-the-art equipment to strengthen semiconductor supply chain resilience, train the workforce under the CHIPS Act, and mitigate national security vulnerabilities in advanced manufacturing.

HEALTH & INNOVATION

FIU Health Innovation District – Health Across the Lifespan

Awarded: $2,100,000
Sponsor: Florida International University – 11200 SW 8 Street, Miami, FL 33199

Funding will support advanced transcriptomics and genomics research equipment, strengthening medical research partnerships and expanding cutting-edge healthcare innovation across South Florida.

WATER & ENVIRONMENTAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Critical Water Infrastructure Improvements – Florida Keys

Awarded: $750,000
Sponsor: Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority – 1100 Kennedy Drive, Key West, FL 33040

Funding will support installation of a 6-mile redundant transmission pipeline to enhance system reliability and ensure continuous potable water supply.

Florida Keys Water Quality Improvement Project (FKWQIP)

Awarded: $5,578,000
Sponsor: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – 701 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Funding will advance water quality protection efforts that preserve the Florida Keys’ marine ecosystem and sustain the region’s $1.3 billion tourism economy and 21,000 related jobs.

Homestead Pump Station 11 Improvements

Awarded: $2,200,000
Sponsor: City of Homestead – 100 Civic Court, Homestead, FL 33030

Funding will upgrade wastewater pumping capacity and infrastructure, improving operational efficiency and long-term resilience.

TRANSPORTATION & COMMUNITY CONNECTIVITY

Sugarloaf Boulevard Bridge Replacement

Awarded: $2,300,000
Sponsor: Monroe County – 1100 Simonton Street, Key West, FL 33040

Funding will replace an aging bridge with a resilient structure designed to withstand future tropical storms, including shoulders and protected pedestrian/bicycle access.

South Dade Corridor Project – Segment 3

Awarded: $1,000,000
Sponsor: Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works – 701 NW 1 Court, Miami, FL 33136

Funding will support trail development connecting five municipalities and 14 BRT stations, expanding connectivity, recreation, and open space restoration.

EDUCATION & HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Historic Reynolds School Renovation

Awarded: $3,000,000
Sponsor: Monroe County School District – 241 Trumbo Road, Key West, FL 33040

Funding will restore the hurricane-damaged historic property, enabling its use for district operations and supporting future affordable workforce housing initiatives.

HOUSING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Sweetwater Housing Development Project

Awarded: $6,000,000
Sponsor: Miami-Dade Housing and Community Development – 701 NW 1st Court, Miami, FL 33136

Funding will support a 326-unit mixed-income development, including workforce and 55+ housing, addressing urgent affordable housing needs in Miami-Dade County.

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ICYMI: CONGRESSMAN CARLOS GIMENEZ AUTHORS FOX NEWS OP-ED: “CUBA IS APPROACHING ITS BERLIN WALL MOMENT — AMERICA MUST HELP THEM BREAK THROUGH”

Thu, 50 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

Miami, FL – Congressman Carlos Gimenez authored a major opinion piece in Fox News titled “Cuba Is Approaching Its Berlin Wall Moment — America Must Help Them Break Through.”

In the op-ed, Congressman Gimenez calls for decisive American leadership at what he describes as a historic turning point for the Cuban people. Congressman Gimenez emphasizes that American resolve, clarity of purpose, and principled leadership are essential to advancing liberty just 90 miles from our shores.

To read the full op-ed on Fox News, click HERE.

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REPS. GIMÉNEZ, DÍAZ-BALART, SALAZAR, AND SENATOR MOODY MARK 30 YEARS SINCE BROTHERS TO THE RESCUE SHOOTDOWN

Thu, 50 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

MIAMI, FL - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez (FL-28), alongside Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), María Elvira Salazar (FL-27), and U.S. Senator Ashley Moody, commemorated the 30th anniversary of the 1996 Brothers to the Rescue shootdown, an act of state-sponsored murder ordered by Raúl Castro that claimed the lives of four innocent men. The Members were joined by the victims’ families and leaders of the Cuban exile community to honor their memory and renew the call for justice.

The event paid tribute to Armando Alejandre Jr., Carlos A. Costa, Mario M. de la Peña, and Pablo Morale who were killed in cold blood when Cuban regime fighter jets, acting on Raúl Castro’s orders, deliberately targeted and destroyed two civilian aircraft over international waters.

“Today, we reaffirmed a simple truth: justice delayed is justice denied," said Congressman Giménez. "Nearly three decades after the 1996 Brothers to the Rescue shootdown, the Castro regime has never been held accountable for the cold-blooded murder of Americans carrying out a humanitarian mission. The facts are clear, the evidence is overwhelming, and responsibility leads directly to Raúl Castro. If America First means defending our citizens and confronting tyranny in our hemisphere, then the time has come for the Department of Justice to act and finally hold Raúl Castro accountable.”

“Thirty years ago, Raúl Castro carried out a brutal attack that murdered innocent Americans whose only mission was to save lives,” said Congressman Díaz-Balart. “We gather not only to honor their memory, but to reaffirm that crimes against Americans cannot be ignored, excused, or forgotten. There must be accountability for those responsible. I commend President Trump for his maximum pressure campaign against anti-American regimes and for always prioritizing our national security. The United States must continue to stand firmly with the Cuban people in their pursuit of freedom, justice, and democracy.”

“For 67 years, the Cuban people, in Miami and on the island, have lived through repression and exile under the Castro regime,” said Congresswoman Salazar. “As we mark the anniversary of the shooting down of two unarmed civilian planes and the killing of three U.S. citizens and one lawful permanent resident, we remember a crime that for decades went unanswered. But this moment is different. Under President Trump and Secretary Rubio, accountability is finally within reach. It’s time to indict Raúl Castro and bring this dictatorship to an end. Freedom is no longer a distant dream.”

“I’m honored to join Congressman Diaz-Balart in remembering the four lives tragically lost in the Brothers to the Rescue shootdown 30 years ago—four men who believed so deeply in freedom that they were willing to fly toward danger in order to save others seeking it," said Senator Moody. "It is essential that we continue putting pressure on the communist regime that ordered this horrific attack on civilians. America is at its best when we stand for liberty and lead through strength.”

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION TO CUT OFF CUBAN REGIME’S FINANCIAL LIFELINES

Tue, 48 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

MIAMI, FL – Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL) held a press conference at PortMiami alongside Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez, Ambassador Rosa María Payá, José Daniel Ferrer, Dr. Orlando Gutiérrez-Boronat, and leaders of the Cuban exile community to outline decisive measures aimed at ending the Cuban dictatorship and accelerating a democratic transition on the island.

Congressman Gimenez emphasized that funds and resources sent from the United States overwhelmingly benefit regime-controlled entities rather than the Cuban people, stressing that every dollar reaching the regime strengthens its machinery of repression.

“Humanitarian aid is necessary, but luxury goods and non-essential exports cannot continue funding a dictatorship. The regime is in its weakest position in more than 65 years, and the time for decisive action is now,” said Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez. “The United States stands firmly with the Cuban people, not with the Castro regime. We are calling for immediate action to shut down the regime’s financial lifelines, freeze assets tied to its officials, and fully enforce U.S. law to hold those responsible for human rights abuses, terrorism, and financial crimes accountable.”

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REPS. GIMENEZ, DIAZ-BALART, SALAZAR, AND MALLIOTAKIS MAKE THE CASE FOR INDICTING RAUL CASTRO

Sat, 45 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

MIAMI, FL – Today, U.S. Representatives Carlos A. Giménez (FL-28), Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), María Elvira Salazar (FL-27), and Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump urging his administration to pursue accountability for the 1996 Brothers to the Rescue shootdown by considering the indictment of Raúl Castro for his role in the cold-blooded murder of four individuals aboard two unarmed civilian aircraft.

Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez said, “For nearly three decades, the Castro regime has evaded justice for the cold-blooded murder of Americans in the 1996 Brothers to the Rescue shootdown, shot out of the sky while carrying out a humanitarian mission. The evidence is overwhelming, the chain of command is clear, and responsibility leads directly to Raúl Castro. America First means defending our citizens, confronting tyranny in our hemisphere, and ending decades of impunity. The time has come for the Department of Justice to act and hold Raúl Castro accountable for the murder of innocent Americans.”

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart said, “President Trump is a strong ally and a symbol of hope for the brave activists struggling for democracy, while also standing firm against the ruthless dictators that oppress them. Raul Castro has been at the center of the Cuban regime’s crimes for nearly seven decades. February 24 will mark thirty years since the heinous shootdown of two unarmed civilian aircraft in international waters by the Cuban military, under the command of then-Defense Minister Raul Castro. This resulted in the murders of four innocent humanitarians – three American citizens and one U.S. resident.

Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salzar said, “For decades, Raúl Castro and the regime officials who ordered this vile attack have hidden behind the protection of a brutal dictatorship, escaping justice while the families of the victims were left to carry the pain alone. Now we have a real chance to correct this historic injustice," said Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar. "We are calling on the Department of Justice to reopen the case, follow the evidence all the way to the top, and use every legal tool available, including international arrest notices, to hold those responsible for the murder of Americans accountable. This was a regime-sponsored military operation approved at the highest levels. The evidence is clear, the responsibility is undeniable, and the era of impunity must end.”

Read full letter HERE.

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REPS. GIMENEZ, DIAZ-BALART, SALAZAR DEMAND FULL REVIEW OF U.S. LICENSES AUTHORIZING BUSINESS WITH THE CUBAN REGIME

Wed, 42 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL), along with Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) and Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), sent a letter to the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) at the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) at the U.S. Department of Commerce demanding a full review and immediate action to deny any licenses that allow U.S. persons or entities to conduct business with the Cuban regime, a designated State Sponsor of Terrorism.

HERE is a list, provided by BIS to the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s Office, identifying companies that currently hold licenses to conduct business in Communist Cuba.

Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez said, “President Trump’s decisive actions have brought us closer than ever to the collapse of the Communist regime in Cuba. We’re asking to shutdown every source of income the regime uses to repress the Cuban people. Close the valve of free oil from Venezuela, close the valve of flight and remittances, and close the valve of these businesses shipping luxury products from the US to Cuba, which undermines the intent of Congress and President Trump’s common-sense policy against the regime. God willing, the Castro regime will not survive these four years of President Donald J. Trump!”

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart said, "I said it during President Trump’s first term, and I will say it again: I am convinced the anti-American dictatorships in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua will not survive another term of bold and decisive American leadership under President Trump.

"The Cuban regime is weaker today than it has ever been. History makes clear that there is only one approach that works against brutal dictatorships: zero tolerance and maximum pressure.

"That means enforcing U.S. law, which prohibits all businesses from dealing with the Cuban regime and cutting off every dollar that props up a State Sponsor of Terrorism, as Congress mandated in the LIBERTAD Act of 1996."

Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar said, “U.S. law is clear: sanctions exist to deny economic support to the Cuban dictatorship until real democratic change occurs. That is why we are urging the Administration to review and revoke any licenses that directly or indirectly benefit regime-controlled entities, strengthen scrutiny of future licenses, and fully enforce the LIBERTAD Act. Every dollar denied to the regime brings the Cuban people one step closer to freedom.”

Read the Fox News exclusive HERE.

Read the full letter sent HERE.

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ URGES AIRLINE CEO'S TO END FLIGHTS TO CUBA

Thu, 36 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL), Chairman of the U.S. House Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, sent letters to the chief executive officers of major U.S. airlines calling for an immediate end to all commercial flights to Communist Cuba, citing serious national security and public safety concerns.

Congressman Gimenez warned that continued commercial air service provides financial benefit and international legitimacy to the Cuban dictatorship while undermining U.S. law and longstanding bipartisan policy. Congressman Gimenez's letter follows President Donald J. Trump’s January 29, 2026, Executive Order declaring a national emergency due to the Cuban regime posing an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to U.S. national security.

“I just sent letters to American Airlines and all major U.S. carriers urging them to cancel all flights to the brutal regime in Cuba,” said Congressman Carlos Gimenez. “Continued commercial flights to Cuba directly benefit the regime, not the Cuban people, and contradict U.S. law and decades of bipartisan policy designed to deny the dictatorship resources and legitimacy.”

Watch Congressman Gimenez's video statement HERE.

Read the letter sent below or HERE:

"As Chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, I write to express my deep concern regarding your airline’s continued commercial operations to Communist Cuba and urge you to end all flights to the island.

"On January 29, 2026, President Trump issued an Executive Order declaring a national emergency due to the Cuban dictatorship posing an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to American security. The Cuban regime is currently designated by the United States Department of State as a State Sponsor of Terrorism. This designation reflects the regime’s long record of supporting hostile actors, harboring U.S. fugitives, and aligning itself with adversarial governments that actively undermine American national security interests.

"Allowing routine commercial air travel to a regime that is openly hostile to the United States presents serious national security and public safety risks. Cuba’s intelligence and security services maintain extensive surveillance and counterintelligence operations, and the regime has a documented history of exploiting international travel and commerce for its own purposes. These factors raise legitimate concerns regarding passenger safety, information security, and compliance with U.S. law.

"Moreover, commercial flights provide the Cuban dictatorship with hard currency that directly benefits the regime and its security apparatus, not the Cuban people. Continuing such operations risks legitimizing and financially sustaining a government that represses its citizens, threatens regional stability, and acts in direct opposition to U.S. security interests.

"As a South Florida Member of Congress, I am deeply concerned about the safety of our travelers during this critical juncture. I appreciate your attention to this matter and welcome further dialogue regarding how the private sector can align its operations with the safety and security interests of the United States.

"The United States cannot recognize and legitimize the Cuban dictatorship. The Helms-Burton Act, codified the principle that the United States must deny the Cuban regime resources and legitimacy until it makes verifiable progress toward democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law. Continued commercial air service undermines the intent of this law by providing financial benefit and international credibility to a regime that remains entrenched in repression and hostility towards its people and to the United States. Allowing such engagement contradicts decades of bipartisan policy designed to stand with the Cuban people against their oppressors."

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CHAIRMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ HOLDS HEARING ON U.S. COAST GUARD SPECIAL FORCES

Tue, 34 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Chairman Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security held a hearing to examine “Frontline Defenders: How the Coast Guard’s Deployable Specialized Forces Combat Narcoterrorists and other Maritime Threats on the High Seas.”

“For far too long, narcoterrorists and foreign adversaries have exploited weaknesses along our maritime borders to flood our country with deadly drugs, poison American communities, and undermine the rule of law. That era is over. Under President Donald J. Trump’s leadership, border security on land and at sea are once again a top national priority,” Chairman Carlos Gimenez said. “Operation Absolute Resolve delivered a decisive blow to a criminal narco-regime with the swift capture of Nicolás Maduro and set in motion the restoration of democracy and the rule of law throughout the Western Hemisphere. The United States Coast Guard plays a unique and indispensable role in defending our homeland in this region. As threats from Communist Cuba and Communist China continue to grow, we must ensure our Coast Guard has the specialized workforce, real-time intelligence sharing, coordinated strength, and cutting-edge capabilities needed to confront these threats head-on and keep America safe.”

Watch the full hearing HERE.

Read Chairman Gimenez's opening statement as prepared for delivery below:

Good morning, everyone, and thank you to our witnesses for joining us today. I appreciate you both being here despite a partial shutdown, including for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). I am hopeful we can reach a deal this week to reopen DHS so they can return to their
important work protecting and serving the American people.

Today’s hearing will focus on the Coast Guard’s Deployable Specialized Forces, and particularly their role in halting maritime narcotrafficking, smuggling of illicit goods, and related threats from Communist dictatorships.

For far too long, Venezuela’s export of sanctioned oil and drug cartels has prolonged the regime of Nicolas Maduro, harming both the Venezuelan people and the security of the United States.
On January 3rd, Operation Absolute Resolve marked a turning point in dismantling Venezuela’s regime with the swift capture of Nicolas Maduro and his wife. This powerful operation begins to restore democracy for the people of Venezuela and upholds the rule of law. I commend President Trump, our military, and diplomatic leaders for their coordinated efforts to complete this successful operation. This decisive action sent a clear message to adversaries worldwide: The United States
must not be trifled with.

This operation is personally significant to me, as my family fled to America from the Cuban Communist regime over seventy years ago. The United States is the shining light of democracy, and through this Operation, can support a future of democracy in Venezuela. America is a
leader in peace through strength and must continue to confront threats around the world.
Cuba must be considered next: Just the other day, I echoed President Trump’s executive order to impose strict tariffs on all countries that send oil to Cuba’s dictatorship, to end the Castro regime once and for all. I have called for the immediate end of oil shipments to Cuba that fund the
corrupt communist regime and crush the Cuban people.

It’s why I am eager to hold today’s hearing on the Coast Guard’s role in protecting our homeland from Venezuela’s actions, which helped pave the way for the success of Operation Absolute Resolve. Securing our maritime front by halting and disrupting these sanctioned oil tankers
from Venezuela is key to unlocking security and freedom in our corner of the Western Hemisphere. We are grateful for the Coast Guard’s bravery and exceptional tactical operations to properly conduct these right-of-visitation boardings and seize vessels found in violation of U.S. and international law.

This hearing will highlight the Deployable Specialized Force’s historic drug interdiction results, seizing nearly 510,000 pounds of cocaine in Fiscal Year 2025. We also have the opportunity to hear how the Deployable Specialized Forces have become one of the most tactically capable maritime forces of the United States, and what their future holds amid an ever-increasing maritime threat landscape.

We appreciate GAO for being here to testify to its review of the Coast Guard’s Deployable Specialized Forces and areas for improvement. Congress should consider GAO’s recommendations and provide further direction for the future of the Coast Guard. We should also consider the
initiatives laid out in the Coast Guard’s recently released Force Design 2028, which calls for a Deployable Specialized Forces Command.

We are grateful to have the witnesses here today to discuss this important topic, and also appreciate the Coast Guard’s willingness to work with us in order to continue this dialogue in a classified setting in the near future, so Members can learn more about the specifics of these oil tanker seizures off the coast of Venezuela. Hearing directly from operational leaders from the Joint Interagency Task Force South would be beneficial for Members to receive further details on operational impacts, emerging threats, and any ongoing challenges.

Thank you, and now I recognize the gentleman from Louisiana, Mr. Carter, sitting in for Ranking Member McIver today, for his five minutes for an opening statement.

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMÉNEZ ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF D.C. CHIEF OF STAFF

Mon, 33 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

Left to right: Lourdes Giménez, Alex Ferro (Chief of Staff), Rey Anthony (Chief of Staff - Capitol Hill), Congressman Carlos A. Giménez, and Roberto Lugones (Communications Director).

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez (R-FL) announced the appointment of Rey Anthony as his new Chief of Staff on Capitol Hill. Rey Anthony will work closely with Congressman Gimenez’s longtime Chief of Staff Alex Ferro, based in Florida’s 28th Congressional District.

Rey Anthony brings over a decade of experience in communications, policy advising, and government operations to the role. A Miami native and third-generation Cuban-American, he previously served as a Senior Advisor to United States Senator Ashley Moody, Deputy Chief of Staff to Rep. Carlos Gimenez, Director of Communications for Rep. María Elvira Salazar, and Director of Public Affairs in Florida’s Office of the Attorney General. His deep roots in South Florida and understanding of the issues facing FL-28, ranging from homeland security and foreign policy to economic opportunity and environmental resilience, make him exceptionally qualified to lead the congressional office.

“I am thrilled to welcome my former staffer and trusted advisor, Rey Anthony, as my new Chief of Staff on Capitol Hill,” said Congressman Carlos A. Giménez. “Rey is a dedicated, results-oriented professional with sharp strategic insight, unwavering integrity, and a genuine commitment to our community. He is incredibly respected by his peers and I am honored to have him back on my team.”

Rey Anthony is a proud graduate of FL-28’s Florida International University Green School of Public Affairs where he earned an MA in Political Science & Government.

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ CONGRATULATES COSTA RICA’S PRESIDENT-ELECT LAURA FERNÁNDEZ, REAFFIRMS STRONG BILATERAL TIES

Mon, 33 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez (R-FL) issued the following statement congratulating President-elect of Costa Rica, Laura Fernández.

Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez said, “From the United States Congress, I extend my congratulations to President-elect Laura Fernández on her resounding victory. Costa Rica is a valued democratic partner in the Western Hemisphere, and this election reflects the strength of its institutions and the will of its people.

“I have had the privilege of working with many dedicated officials from the Government of Costa Rica, including Ambassador Catalina Crespo-Sancho, whose leadership has fostered exceptional relations between Costa Rica, the White House, and the United States Congress.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with Costa Rica’s leadership to strengthen our shared commitment to democracy, expand trade, and deepen the bonds between our two sister nations. Costa Rica has a bright and promising future ahead.”

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ APPLAUDS PRESIDENT TRUMP'S EXECUTIVE ORDER TARGETING CUBAN REGIME

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

MIAMI, FL — Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL) issued the following statement in response to President Donald J. Trump’s executive order: “Addressing Threats to the United States by the Government of Cuba.”

Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez said, "President Donald J. Trump’s executive order imposing tariffs on all countries that send oil to the Cuban dictatorship is a decisive and historic step towards ending the Castro regime once and for all. This decisive action strikes at the heart of the Communist regime’s survival and sends a clear message: the United States will no longer tolerate foreign governments propping up tyranny in our hemisphere.

"Following today’s press conference, I again call for the immediate end of oil shipments, travel, and remittances that bankroll repression and suffering in Cuba. Every dollar and every barrel sent to Havana only prolongs the misery of the Cuban people and strengthens a failed communist state.

"I am proud to work alongside President Donald J. Trump and his administration to hold the Cuban regime accountable and to ensure that America stands firmly on the side of freedom. I thank President Trump for his leadership and for taking bold action that brings us closer to a free and democratic Cuba."

Read the Executive Order HERE.

Read the Fact Sheet HERE.

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CONGRESSMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ CALLS FOR THE IMMEDIATE END TO COMMUNIST CUBA’S FINANCIAL LIFELINES

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

MIAMI, FL - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R FL) held a press conference alongside Congressman Mario Díaz Balart (R FL), local elected officials, and leaders from the Cuban exile community to reaffirm their shared commitment to advancing freedom and democracy in the Western Hemisphere.

During the press conference, Congressman Gimenez called for an immediate end to oil shipments, travel, and remittances to Cuba. Rep. Gimenez urged Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to immediately halt Mexico’s oil shipments to the Cuban regime, which continues to finance and strengthen the dictatorship in Havana.

Congressman Carlos Gimenez said, "The job of government is to protect its citizens. There is no greater America First agenda than ensuring the cancer of tyrannical regimes is eliminated from our hemisphere. The regimes in Castro’s Cuba, Ortega’s Nicaragua, and Rodríguez’s Venezuela have systematically denied their people basic rights while repressing all forms of dissent. With the fall of Nicolás Maduro, and the Castro regime at its weakest point in over 60 years, now is the time to end every financial lifeline to the Communist dictatorship in Havana. President Claudia Sheinbaum must stop propping up the Castro regime if Mexico wishes to continue working alongside the United States of America. Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, the United States will not tolerate communist dictatorships in our backyard.”

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart said, “Just over a year ago, the Biden Administration was appeasing our adversaries, doing everything possible to legitimize anti-American regimes in our hemisphere. What a difference an election makes.

"Today, we are closer than ever to seeing a free and democratic Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. U.S. law, as codified by Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart and Congressman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, is clear that any normalization with Cuba requires real, democratic change, and that remains essential to our national security.

"I’m eternally grateful to President Trump’s bold, decisive leadership, as well as Secretary Rubio, for understanding that America First begins with the Americas, and this is the crucial moment to finish the job.”

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