Coral Gables Mayor Escalates Media War with New PSA Video

Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago has released a new video targeting Miami New Times, reading from cue cards in what appears to be a calculated campaign against the alternative weekly’s coverage of his administration.

The PSA-style video, posted to the mayor’s social media accounts, marks the latest escalation in an ongoing feud between Lago and the publication. The dispute stems from New Times’ investigative reporting on various city matters, though the mayor’s office has not specified which stories prompted the response.

In the carefully scripted video, Lago addresses viewers directly while consulting notes, suggesting a coordinated public relations effort rather than an off-the-cuff response. The production quality and formal tone indicate city resources may have been used in its creation.

This public confrontation raises questions about press freedom and government accountability in The Gables, where media relations have grown increasingly strained. Local journalism advocates worry about the chilling effect such direct attacks might have on investigative reporting throughout South Florida.

The timing of Lago’s video campaign coincides with several ongoing stories about municipal governance and transparency issues affecting Coral Gables residents. New Times has continued its coverage despite the mayor’s public criticism.

Similar conflicts between local officials and media outlets have erupted across Miami-Dade County, reflecting broader tensions about press coverage of municipal affairs. However, few elected officials have chosen to engage in such direct, public campaigns against specific publications.

The mayor’s decision to use official channels for what appears to be a personal grievance against a news organization has drawn criticism from government transparency groups. They argue that public officials should address concerns about coverage through proper channels rather than public attacks.

Lago’s media strategy represents a departure from traditional approaches to press relations, where disputes typically remain behind closed doors or are handled through formal complaints processes.