Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart, representing Florida’s 26th district and serving as Vice Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI), has publicly congratulated Secretary Marco Rubio on receiving the CHLI Lifetime Leadership Award. This award is regarded as a significant recognition for the highest-ranking Latino government official.
Díaz-Balart expressed his admiration for Rubio, stating: “Secretary Marco Rubio is a dear and close friend who has made our community extremely proud.” He commended President Donald J. Trump’s decision to appoint Rubio as Secretary of State, describing him as “an extraordinary, brilliant statesman” and one of the most qualified individuals to have held that position in recent decades.
Reflecting on their shared history, Díaz-Balart remarked on their collaborative efforts in Florida’s legislature and beyond: “From our days together in Florida’s legislature to our collaboration on bicameral efforts, it has been an honor to work alongside him and to know him on a personal level.”
He highlighted Rubio’s dedication to national security and freedom: “Secretary Rubio understands the importance of safeguarding our national security and is one of the staunchest defenders of the cause of freedom,” particularly against regimes such as those in Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Iran, North Korea, and Communist China.
Díaz-Balart praised Rubio’s career as a model of public service commitment: “Secretary Rubio’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and to building a stronger America.” He emphasized this achievement as an inspiration for young people pursuing the American Dream through hard work. Additionally, he acknowledged Jeanette Rubio’s support throughout her husband’s career.
Concluding his statement, Díaz-Balart extended heartfelt congratulations to Marco Rubio for receiving this prestigious award from CHLI.
