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Larry W Smith—EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Francis Suarez

Larry W Smith—EPA-EFE/Shutterstock 

Public service isn’t about grabbing headlines, but about solving real problems facing those who live and work in our communities. While federal policymakers play an important role, local government leaders are often on the front lines of these issues. Francis Suarez understands and relishes this civic duty.

A Miami native, Francis is a passionate advocate for the community he represents. While his efforts to solve the big problems—everything from sea-level resilience to solutions to gun violence—are clear, I personally witnessed his commitment to solving problems that fly under the radar when we visited public-housing complexes together in Miami’s Liberty City neighborhood.

Miami has a unique set of advantages and challenges. But Francis’ desire to serve his community has consistently guided the city toward a promising future.

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