Former Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart has died at 70, his brother announced

Former Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart, a Republican from Florida, passed away at the age of 70, as confirmed by his brother and current House member Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart. Described as a “defender of the silenced and oppressed,” Lincoln was known for his work in advocating for democracy and human rights. He was the author of the democracy requirement for lifting U.S. sanctions against the Cuban dictatorship and the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA). His legacy of achievements will be remembered for generations to come, continuing through the work of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI), which he co-founded in 2003.

Lincoln Diaz-Balart began his political career as a Cuban refugee, initially involved with the Florida Young Democrats before switching his party allegiance to the Republican Party in 1985. He was elected to the Florida legislature in 1986, where he sponsored several impactful laws aimed at strengthening law enforcement, combating substance abuse, and promoting transparency in business dealings with Cuba.

In January 1993, Diaz-Balart was sworn into Congress, representing Florida until his retirement in 2010. His brother Mario succeeded him in the 21st Congressional District. Lincoln Diaz-Balart is survived by his wife Cristina, his son Daniel, two grandsons, and three brothers. Unfortunately, he was preceded in death by his first son, Lincoln Gabriel.

Throughout his life and 24 years of elected public service, including 18 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, Lincoln remained deeply committed to the cause of a free Cuba and had a profound love for the United States. His dedication and passion will be greatly missed by those who knew him.

In memory of Lincoln Diaz-Balart’s impactful contributions, his brother Mario Diaz-Balart shared a heartfelt statement, expressing the immense loss felt by those who knew and worked alongside him. The legacy of Lincoln Diaz-Balart will continue to inspire and drive positive change in the pursuit of democracy and human rights.

We honor the life and service of Former Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart and extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. May his legacy of advocacy and dedication to noble causes continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew him.