Kevin Marino Cabrera was sworn in as the United States ambassador to the Republic of Panama at a ceremony held in the Miami‑Dade County Commission chamber on a date not specified. Justice John D. Couriel of the Florida Supreme Court administered the oath of office.

Miami‑Dade County Chairman Anthony Rodriguez opened the ceremony, calling Cabrera “a lifelong public servant, a thoughtful leader, and a true bridge builder.” Rodriguez noted Cabrera was born in Miami to Cuban exiles, said Cabrera earned a bachelor’s degree from Florida International University, and listed his roles on several county committees, including chair of the Miami‑Dade County Airport Committee and vice chair of the Appropriations Committee. Rodriguez said President Donald J. Trump nominated Cabrera on Dec. 25, 2024.

In remarks after taking the oath, Cabrera thanked President Trump and the U.S. Senate for his nomination and confirmation. “As I take this next step in public service, I do so guided by a question articulated by Sen. Marco Rubio: ‘Does this policy make America safer? Does it make it stronger or more prosperous?’ ” he said. Cabrera said he will carry with him lessons from local government, including efforts to make streets safer, open district offices, and secure “millions of dollars” for crime and human‑trafficking prevention (amounts not specified).

The ceremony included an invocation by former Chairman Oliver G. Gilbert III and the Pledge of Allegiance led by two of Cabrera’s relatives. Several Miami‑Dade elected officials and constitutional officers were acknowledged by name during the event.

Justice Couriel led the oath, with Cabrera repeating the traditional pledge to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States.” The swearing‑in concluded with an announcement that a reception would follow on the third floor.

The event was ceremonial; no commission votes or formal county actions were taken during the ceremony. Cabrera’s remarks and the commission’s acknowledgments focused on his local public‑service record, his nomination and confirmation, and the diplomatic role he is slated to assume.