In this episode of Standpoint, Gabe Groisman sits down with Stephen Miner, the mayor of Miami Beach, Florida, in his home studio in South Florida. Miner, a former SEC prosecutor, has spent his tenure shaping Miami Beach into a safe, orderly city. Under his leadership, crime and homelessness have decreased while residents and the thousands of tourists who visit the city’s sun-drenched streets, pastel Art Deco buildings, palm-lined avenues, and iconic beaches feel secure. He has also addressed long-standing challenges such as spring break disruptions, ensuring the city’s streets remain calm even during busy tourist seasons. His focus on public safety has included increased police visibility, prosecuting cases that were previously neglected, and passing legislation to reinforce safety and accountability in the city.
Miner has also managed aggressive protests, including demonstrations carrying Hamas flags following October 7th. While acknowledging that free speech is a fundamental right, he made it clear that citizens, especially the elderly, cannot be surrounded or intimidated. By implementing reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions, he created safe zones that respected demonstrators’ rights while protecting residents. These measures were effective enough to shut down many of the aggressive pro-Hamas protests, preventing harassment while maintaining the city’s open forum for expression. Miner notes that many leaders hesitate to act in similar situations out of fear of backlash. In Miami Beach, however, the policies have been strongly supported across the community, from the Jewish residents to the Hispanic population, with most criticism coming from media or outside groups rather than locals. These measures have not been without challenge, as lawsuits have been filed, but Miner remains committed to doing what he believes is right for public safety.
As a lifelong Orthodox Jew, Miner brings a personal perspective to public service. He is unapologetically pro-Israel and protective of the Jewish community, yet he serves all residents equally. Miner attends every neighborhood association meeting, responds to all inquiries, and ensures that every community group has a voice. He confronts hate and anti-semitism directly, whether it appears in public meetings or private correspondence, emphasizing that bigotry of any kind is unacceptable.
Beyond city governance, Miner is general partner of a resiliency fund focused on boosting agricultural production and food security in Israel. The fund provides capital and technology to smaller farms, helping them compete and innovate while strengthening the country’s independence. Miner explains that Israel faces vulnerabilities in its food supply, and the fund complements government efforts to improve agricultural resilience.
Miami Beach residents prioritize safety, clean streets, manageable traffic, and infrastructure resilience, particularly in response to flooding and king tides. Miner has focused resources on these areas, including improving sanitation, traffic flow, and flood protection measures. He credits the city’s success to a highly engaged population that holds leadership accountable. His responsiveness to residents has earned widespread support and continues to set a standard for local governance.
Miner encourages New Yorkers and others considering relocation to visit Miami Beach, highlighting the city’s unique culture and strong community values. With its Atlantic breeze, lively Ocean Drive, tropical greenery, and wide, sun-soaked beaches, Miami Beach offers a safe and welcoming environment for families, businesses, and tourists alike. Miner’s goal is to make Miami Beach the safest city in America, and he continues to pursue it with determination and focus.
This episode showcases Miner’s hands-on approach to leadership, his commitment to resident safety and engagement, and his work beyond the city, including initiatives to strengthen Israel’s food security. Through these efforts, he positions Miami Beach as a city that protects its residents, welcomes newcomers, and remains resilient despite national and global challenges.
