Having experienced immigrant struggles firsthand, Rolando Escalona says it is time for transparency, safer streets, and stronger neighborhoods
Rolando Escalona’s journey to Miami began eleven years ago with nothing but determination. He came from Cuba with no money, no family, and limited English skills. Today, he is running to be the next City of Miami Commissioner for District 3.
When Escalona first landed in Miami, he worked as a busboy at the well-known restaurant Ceviche 105. From there, he climbed the ladder with dedication and persistence, becoming the general manager of a prominent Brickell restaurant, where he oversees a team of 157 employees. While building his career, he also studied at Miami Dade College and later obtained a degree in Political Science and International Relations from Florida International University. Escalona says his personal journey is what inspires him to step into public service.
“I know what it feels like to start from zero,” he said. “That’s why I understand the challenges people in District 3 are facing. I’ve lived them myself.”
Rolando Escalona's vision in three words
Safety, affordability, and infrastructure. These are the top three priorities Escalona promises to take on as commissioner. He believes these are the issues most residents worry about, and he intends to make them the foundation of his work as commissioner.
He says District 3 has been neglected for too long, calling its current state “a disaster.” He argues that it is time for new leadership, not a recycling of the same politicians who, in his view, have failed to deliver meaningful results.
Building consensus at City Hall
Escalona believes change is only possible when you build relationships. He says his style of leadership will focus on communication and collaboration.
“I will explain to my fellow commissioners why certain policies matter, how they affect my district, and why their support is needed,” he said. His goal is to find common ground while keeping the needs of District 3 front and center.
Supporting small businesses
Small businesses are the backbone of any district, and Escalona wants to ensure that they thrive, especially in Calle Ocho. He believes the area has huge potential to attract more visitors and finally give local entrepreneurs a chance to grow.
Among his ideas is connecting 22nd Avenue all the way down to Brickell, which would make the area more accessible for tourists and small business owners. He also wants to create grant programs to support the opening of new businesses and cultural spaces that showcase Little Havana’s Historic Cuban identity.
“Tourists come here expecting to see Little Havana, to feel the culture, to see something that represents Cuba without having to go to Cuba,” Escalona said. He argues that while some businesses help achieve this, many storefronts and facades are deteriorating, and the streets do not do justice to the spirit of the neighborhood. Fixing these issues, he believes, will benefit residents, businesses, and visitors.
A legacy of unity
When asked how he wants to be remembered if elected, Escalona points to the values of love, unity, and collaboration. He hopes his legacy will bring residents, businesses, and government closer together.
“I want people to remember me as someone who worked to fix our infrastructure, keep our community clean, support small businesses, and make our police closer to our community,” he said.
Fighting corruption with transparency
Escalona does not shy away from the elephant in the room. Miami politics has been plagued by scandals and corruption, and he says his approach will be different.
He promises to hold town hall meetings before major city decisions so residents can voice their opinions. He also pledges an open-door policy at his office, which would make himself accessible to anyone who wants to raise concerns.
“Residents are the bosses. They elected me to represent them, and I report to them,” Escalona said. He believes this philosophy will help restore trust in local government.
On the issue of term limits, he has made his stance perfectly clear. He believes two terms, or eight years, is more than enough for any elected official to achieve their goals.
“If you cannot get it done in eight years, you never will,” he said. He argues that term limits prevent politicians from getting too comfortable and open the door for new leaders to step up.
Campaign funding with no strings attached
Escalona’s campaign finance reports show he raised over $37,000 in early 2025. When asked whether donors influence his priorities, he gave a clear answer.
“The people who donated believe in me and in my vision. But I will not compromise or do favors. No backroom deals. No strings attached,” he said. His promise is to serve the people of District 3 without any external pressure.
Infrastructure before new development
Rolando Escalona argues that years of poor maintenance are the root of District 3’s crumbling infrastructure. From roads and sidewalks to drainage and lighting, he says the basics have been ignored.
“If you don’t maintain something, it deteriorates,” he explained. His plan includes prioritizing maintenance, securing funding for underserved neighborhoods, and ensuring proper infrastructure is in place before approving new construction.
“It’s the same as building a house,” he added. “You need the foundation first. Then you build on top.”
Public safety and stronger policing
Crime and safety are significant concerns in Miami, and Escalona’s approach to them is straightforward. He wants to hire more police officers, bring back regular street patrols, and make sure officers are equipped with modern tools and resources.
“I love our police, but they are short-staffed and using outdated tools. We need to support them so they can do their jobs effectively,” he said.
For Rolando Escalona, improving public safety also means building trust between law enforcement and our community. He wants to organize community activities where officers and neighbors can interact.
A message to voters
With the November 4 election inching closer, Rolando Escalona’s message to District 3 residents is simple.
“This election is very important. Do your research. Know who you are voting for. Look at the priorities and platforms. We have an opportunity now to bring transparency and change to Miami,” he said.
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