Lincoln Diaz-Balart, a prominent figure in Cuban-American politics and former U.S. congressman, passed away at the age of 70, his family confirmed today. His brother, Mario Diaz-Balart, who currently serves Florida's 26th Congressional District, announced his death on social media. As reported by NBC Miami, Mario Diaz-Balart wrote on his post, "It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Lincoln Diaz-Balart. Defender of the silenced and oppressed, author of the democracy requirement for the lifting of U.S. sanctions against the Cuban dictatorship, and the author of the Nicaraguan. Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA). Lincoln’s legacy of achievements will endure for generations, and continues through the work of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) which he co-founded in 2003."
— Mario Díaz-Balart (@MarioDB) March 3, 2025
As per Local 10 report, Cuban human rights activist José Daniel Ferrer spoke about Diaz-Balart, calling him "a great Cuban" and a "firm and tireless defender of the cause for the freedom of Cuba." Ferrer praised his dedication to the Cuban people. Diaz-Balart was educated in Spain and Florida and earned a law degree from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio before starting his political career.
Diaz-Balart served in the Florida House of Representatives, the Florida Senate, and the U.S. House of Representatives. A member of the Republican party, he switched from Democrat early in his career, serving Florida from 1986 until his retirement from Congress in 2011.
Diaz-Balart is survived by his wife of 48 years, Cristina, his son Daniel, his daughter-in-law Estefania, and two grandsons. After retiring from politics, he practiced law and chaired the CHLI, focusing on Latino leadership and Hispanic issues.
