Rock Star, Reality TV Personality Donate to Miami Congressional Race

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, a Real Housewives of Miami cast member, and numerous political power players appeared on campaign finance reports in Florida's 27th Congressional District last quarter as the closely watched race further took shape. Incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar is facing a tough challenge in the district, which includes parts of Miami-Dade County.

Why it matters

The influx of high-profile donors to the Miami congressional race highlights the national attention and importance of this district, which has been a battleground in recent election cycles. The involvement of celebrities and reality TV stars also reflects the increasingly blurred lines between entertainment, politics, and campaign fundraising.

The details

The campaign finance reports show that Salazar, the incumbent Republican, received donations from several prominent figures, including Emilio Estefan, the legendary Cuban-American musician and producer who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Salazar also received a contribution from Alexia Echevarria, a cast member of the reality TV show The Real Housewives of Miami. Other donors include local business leaders, political action committees, and individuals with ties to both the Democratic and Republican parties.

• The campaign finance reports cover the last quarter of 2025.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The campaign finance reports will be closely analyzed by political analysts and journalists to understand the dynamics of the race and the potential influence of these high-profile donors.