Herald endorsement: Coral Gables Referendum 1 | Opinion
READ MORE
Editorial Board’s endorsements for Coral Gables election
Coral Gables registered voters will receive mail ballots for eight referendums April 21. Read the Miami Herald Editorial Board’s recommendations on each measure.
Expand All
Coral Gables will have a special election on April 21, conducted entirely via mail ballots. Voters will weigh in on eight referendums to amend the city’s charter.
Here is the Herald Editorial Board’s recommendation on Referendum 1:
Question: Should the city charter be amended to change the month and day of the city’s general elections from April of odd-numbered years to the date of national elections in November of each even-numbered year, starting in 2026? This would result in an approximately four-month reduction of current elected officials’ terms, and local elections would align with state and national elections.
Recommendation: YES
This measure is meant to increase voter turnout in municipal elections, which tends to be significantly lower compared to presidential and midterm elections. The city also says this will lower the cost of holding elections. If voters approve this referendum, the next election will be held in November 2026 instead of April 2027.
Critics contend that moving local elections to coincide with partisan elections will drown out smaller races for city commission and mayor. That could potentially hurt grassroot candidates who don’t have money to compete for voters’ attention.
We understand these concerns, though we question whether they would truly materialize. Other cities already hold elections in even-numbered years, and the higher voter participation will ensure that local elected officials appeal to a larger swath of the electorate.
The Coral Gables special election is April 21. It is a mail-ballot-only election. All registered voters will receive ballots in the mail. Ballots must be received by the elections office by 7 p.m. on April 21.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREWho decides the political endorsements?
In advance of local and state elections, Miami Herald Editorial Board members interview political candidates, as well as advocates and opponents of ballot measures. The Editorial Board is composed of experienced opinion journalists and is independent of the Herald’s newsroom. Members of the Miami Herald Editorial Board are: Amy Driscoll, editorial page editor; and editorial writers Isadora Rangel and Mary Anna Mancuso. Read more by clicking the arrow in the upper right.
What does the endorsement process look like?
The Miami Herald Editorial Board interviews political candidates to better understand their views on public policy and how their policies will affect their constituents. Board members do additional reporting and research to learn as much as possible about the candidates before making an endorsement. The Editorial Board then convenes to discuss the candidates in each race. Board members seek to reach a consensus on the endorsements, but not every decision is unanimous. Candidates who decline to be interviewed will not receive an endorsement.
Is the Editorial Board partisan?
No. In making endorsements, members of the Editorial Board consider which candidates are better prepared to represent their constituents — not whether they agree with our editorial stances or belong to a particular political party. We evaluate candidates’ relevant experience, readiness for office, depth of knowledge of key issues and understanding of public policy. We’re seeking candidates who are thoughtful and who offer more than just party-line talking points.
This story was originally published March 31, 2026 at 1:57 PM.
