Miami District 3 commission race pits political newcomer against dynast

MIAMI — A political novice is facing off Tuesday against a political veteran in Miami’s District 3 city commission race.

Rolando Escalona, a newcomer and the general manager of Brickell’s Sexy Fish restaurant, is facing off against two-term former Commissioner Frank Carollo, the brother of current District 3 Commissioner Joe Carollo.

District 3 covers the eastern part of Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood, as well as The Roads and a significant portion of Brickell.

Escalona said “chaos” at city hall inspired his run, along with the need for affordable housing.

Meanwhile, Carollo says he brings experience to the table. Should he win, analysts say it could spark litigation.

That’s because in November, voters in Miami chose to enact two-term lifetime term limits; Carollo did overcome a legal challenge to remain on the ballot, however.

Each candidate lists their policy priorities on their respective websites.

Escalona says he prioritizes safer neighborhoods, more affordable housing, improved transit and infrastructure, growing the economy through support for small businesses and greater transparency at city hall.

Carollo says he’s focused on safeguarding taxpayer dollars, expanding public safety and emergency response, enhancing parks and neighborhood livability, improving infrastructure resilience, adding traffic calming to neighborhoods and increasing mixed-income housing opportunities.

Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.