The Miami-Dade tax collector presented the meeting as part of a political line of rejection of any ties with actors who “support, defend or benefit from tyranny.”
MIAMI, United States. — Dariel Fernandeztax collector of Miami-Dade County, held a meeting with Mike Hammer, charge d’affaires of the United States in Cuba, with the objective of “supporting the Cuban people” and “advancing the fight for freedom, democracy and human rights”, prioritizing “the national security” of the United States.
In a post on XFernández presented the meeting as part of a political line of rejection of any link with actors who, in his opinion, “support, defend or benefit from tyranny.” “Miami-Dade will never be a safe haven for individuals or interests that support, defend, or benefit from tyranny,” he wrote.
Fernández maintained that the meeting “reaffirmed the need to confront the Cuban communist and socialist dictatorship, demand accountability and support those who continue to risk everything for freedom.” He also thanked Hammer “for the opportunity for this important dialogue and for his leadership and commitment.”
The tax collector added that, from Miami-Dade, he will maintain an active stance in support of Cubans leaving the Island: “We will continue to be a firm voice for freedom and a place where those fleeing oppression are welcomed, protected and heard,” he indicated in the same publication.
Hammer is the top US diplomatic representative in Havana. In May 2025, the diplomat announced in Miami the intention to impose more sanctions against Cuban officials, in line with the toughening policy towards Havana promoted by the Trump Administration. Days later, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX) of the Cuban regime issued a “verbal warning” for what it described as inappropriate behavior and violation of diplomatic norms.
Last December, Fernández advertisement the revocation of business licenses for companies accused of participating in illegal trade with the Cuban Government.
