Trump taps Miami-Dade commissioner as ambassador to Panama

MIAMI – President-elect Donald Trump announced on Christmas that he intends to appoint Miami-Dade Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera as ambassador to Panama.

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Cabrera, of Coral Gables, is a staunch supporter of the president-elect and chaired his 2020 re-election campaign in Florida as state director.

His planned appointment comes as Trump threatens to take back the Panama Canal, which was once under U.S. control.

He referenced those threats in a Truth Social post announcing Cabrera’s appointment, calling Panama, a U.S. ally, “a Country that is ripping us off” on the canal, “far beyond their wildest dreams.”

Cabrera, above a screenshot of Trump’s post, posted to social media platform X, in part, “Thank, you President Trump” and said “I’m humbled and honored by your nomination to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to Panama.”

Cabrera, represents District 6 on the dais at county hall after being elected in 2022.

The district roughly centered around Miami International Airport and includes Miami Springs and Virginia Gardens, as well as unincorporated areas and portions of Hialeah, Miami and Coral Gables.

Cabrera attended South Miami Senior High School, Miami Dade College and Florida International University, where he earned a degree. He is married to Republican State Rep. Demi Busatta Cabrera.

Cabrera, like any other ambassador nominee, must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

If approved, Cabrera is would likely under another prominent South Florida Republican. Trump is nominating Sen. Marco Rubio as his secretary of state.