Congressman Carlos Giménez presented the award as a historic event for the Cuban-American community and for Miami.
MIAMI, United States. – Cuban-American Congressman Carlos A. Giménez (R-Florida) dedicated this Tuesday a speech on the floor of the United States House of Representatives to recognize Fernando Mendoza, whom he described as his “countryman” from Christopher Columbus High School in Miami and “the first Cuban-American to win the Heisman Trophy.”
In that speech, Giménez presented the award as a historic event for the Cuban-American community and for Miami, and framed the achievement in values such as faith, discipline and sacrifice. “I rise today to congratulate my partner ‘Columbus Explorer’, Fernando Mendoza, winner of the 2025 Heisman Trophy,” said the legislator.
He also maintained that the athlete’s career “began in Miami, Florida, at Christopher Columbus High School,” a center that, he stated, not only trains athletes, but also instills “faith, discipline, leadership and character.”
Giménez described Mendoza as a “talented athlete”, “man of faith” and “team player”, and stressed that his victory “has a special meaning” as he is the first Cuban-American to win the Heisman. “His story reminds us that in the United States, deep faith, hard work and determination have no limits,” Giménez remarked.
The Associated Press (AP) agency reported last Saturday that Mendoza, Indiana quarterback, had won the 2025 Heisman Trophy and had become the first player in program history to obtain it, beating other finalists such as Diego Pavia, Jeremiyah Love and Julian Sayin.
In his speech this Tuesday, Giménez linked the achievement to Miami’s local identity and school pride: “Miami is proud. The Columbus Explorers are proud. And today, the United States Congress proudly recognizes Fernando Mendoza for this historic achievement.” The legislator closed with congratulations and a slogan in Spanish: “Congratulations, Fernando, for a moment that will inspire generations. ‘Go ahead!'”
Giménez, the only Cuban-born U.S. lawmaker, represents Miami-Dade and the Florida Keys.
