Statement from Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez on Secretary Rubio's Action Against Cuban Regime Influence Operations

For decades, the communist socialist Cuban dictatorship has relied on organizations like ICAP to spread anti-American propaganda, export communist ideology, conduct intelligence and influence operations, and advance the interests of a regime that has systematically denied the Cuban people freedom, democracy, and fundamental human rights. These efforts are not harmless exchanges or cultural outreach; they are part of a coordinated strategy to legitimize tyranny, silence dissidents, and influence free societies from within.

The United States cannot and must not allow agents of that dictatorship to exploit the liberties of this nation while working to undermine them. America has always been a beacon of hope for those fleeing oppression in search of freedom and opportunity. But our nation must never become a safe haven for those who defend, promote, or advance the agenda of the communist socialist Cuban dictatorship.

Individuals who engage in foreign influence operations, disseminate propaganda, or support efforts that threaten our national security should be held fully accountable under the law. Freedom of speech must never be used as a shield for those acting on behalf of a brutal regime that jails political prisoners, persecutes religious leaders, suppresses independent journalists, and forces millions into exile.

I thank Secretary of State Marco Rubio for sending a clear and unequivocal message: the United States stands with the Cuban people—not with the communist socialist Cuban dictatorship. This action reinforces that those who serve oppressive regimes and attempt to undermine our country will find no refuge here.

Dariel Fernandez

Tax Collector

Miami-Dade County