Hector Mujica, a former Google executive who had been preparing a run for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Marco Rubio, has shifted his campaign to Florida’s 28th Congressional District. Mujica announced he is ending his Senate bid and launching a challenge for the open House seat, saying the district offers a more direct path to victory and a better opportunity to deliver for residents.
In an interview on CBS News’ The Takeout, Mujica—who is Venezuelan American—outlined why he chose the 28th district and what he would prioritize if elected. He described the district as roughly three-quarters Hispanic and largely working-class, with voters most concerned about jobs, the rising cost of living, safety and opportunities for their families. Citing internal polling, he said the race is within the margin of error, which he interprets as evidence of voter frustration and an openness to change.
On domestic policy, Mujica emphasized measures aimed at reducing financial strain on middle-class families. One headline proposal would eliminate federal income taxes for households earning under $150,000 a year, a step he framed as relief for families struggling with rising housing and everyday costs. He summarized his campaign around three priorities: lowering costs, expanding opportunity, and restoring trust in government. He repeatedly described his economic approach as building “strong floors and no ceilings” — ensuring basic stability while preserving upward mobility.
Mujica also weighed in on accountability and ethics in public office. Asked about the resignation of Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick amid allegations of misuse of public funds, he said stepping down is the appropriate response when credible accusations surface, arguing that holding leaders accountable is important both to constituents and to the integrity of institutions.
On foreign policy, Mujica drew on his personal background to discuss Venezuela. He said the removal or capture of Nicolás Maduro would improve regional security but stressed that removing a leader is not sufficient if the broader networks of corruption and paramilitary influence remain intact. Mujica urged continued pressure from the U.S. and allies to secure a genuine democratic transition, warning that leftover officials and criminal elements could otherwise perpetuate instability. He compared the situations in Venezuela and Cuba, calling both examples of authoritarian failures and advocating a sustained, strategic push toward democratic outcomes.
Positioning himself as a practical, results-oriented candidate, Mujica is pitching policies aimed at easing everyday pressures on working families in South Florida while promising to restore trust in government during a time of local and international political turbulence.