Some think I’m too old to be the mayor of Miami. Here’s why they’re wrong | Opinion

In the last few day, since I declared my candidacy for Miami mayor again this November, I’ve been told — by relatives and strangers alike — that at my age, 76, I’m too old for the rigors of public office.

I’m told I should step aside and focus on family, as if elderhood is some quiet waiting room. That’s how some put it: encouraging me to dedicate myself to the grandkids and fade from public life after 40 years as mayor of Miami and a Miami-Dade commissioner.

I disagree — forcefully.

I may be older, but age alone doesn’t disqualify anyone from leadership. If anything, it brings perspective, steadiness and an even deeper sense of purpose. I can still think, handle public speaking and take decisive action.

Yes, I’m older. But with that age comes experience and clarity. And what I see — especially now — is a city that still needs steady hands and seasoned leadership as the current mayor, my son, Francis Suarez, prepares to leave office.

Each month since my youngest grandchild was born, it’s clear they need me less — not more. I try to be present at family gatherings, to offer guidance and support. But teenagers don’t need babysitters; they need role models. They need someone to fight for their futures beyond the living room.

To say I shouldn’t run for mayor because I’m “too old” ignores everything I’ve done — and all that I still can do. I was Miami’s first Cuban-American mayor, serving from 1985 to 1993 and again from 1997 to 1998. This year’s polls show that in a crowded race, I have the best chance of defeating the top contender, Miami Commissioner Joe Carollo. That’s no small thing.

There’s no denying that for four decades, my public voice has mattered — especially in defining moments. In 1989, Miami faced possible collapse after two motorcyclists were shot by then-Miami Police Officer William Lozano on Martin Luther King Day. I helped prevent riots from consuming the city.

During my political career, I’ve played key roles in bringing five major sports franchises to Miami, plus the Adrienne Arsht Performing Arts Center and the Frost Museum of Science. I worked to help preserve Miami Marine Stadium and protect our public waterfront access. I helped keep PeopleMover free and preserve the Coconut Grove Playhouse and other historic landmarks. I’ve helped grow the Homeless Trust to a $65 million agency with space for 2,000 people.

As a private citizen, my work has continued. I’m championing property tax reform with Tallahassee lawmakers. I’m pushing to extend free public transit countywide. I want the state to take over catastrophic insurance, and I’m advocating for cities to self-insure subsidized housing.

And now, because I’ve aged, I should walk away?

I don’t think so.

Xavier L. Suarez is a former mayor of Miami and a former Miami-Dade commissioner.