Annette Taddeo

[{"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Annette Taddeo completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Taddeo's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading-bio-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI’m Annette Taddeo, a proud immigrant born in Colombia and the daughter of an American WWII and Korean War veteran. I moved to the U.S. after my father was kidnapped by FARC guerrillas in Colombia, where I worked my way through college and built my own successful business, LanguageSpeak, named one of the Top 100 Minority Owned Small Businesses in Florida. In 2017, I made history as the first Latina Democrat in the Florida Senate, where I fought for the people of Miami-Dade, particularly during the pandemic. I was reelected and served in the Florida Senate until 2022, cutting through partisan noise to deliver results and put residents first. Now, I’m running for Miami-Dade Clerk of Court and Comptroller to continue my commitment to transparency, accountability, and ensuring every taxpayer dollar is protected.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading-key-message-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>I have a proven track record of public service, advocating for small business owners and fighting against government corruption to deliver results for Miami-Dade families. As your Clerk and Comptroller, my promise is simple- I will always work for you, and only you!</li><li>As Miami-Dade Clerk of Court and Comptroller, I will prioritize transparency, accessibility, and accountability in our justice system, ensuring residents’ tax dollars are protected and efficiently managed.</li><li>I bring decades of experience as a business owner and state senator, with a commitment to cutting through partisan noise and focusing on delivering real solutions for our community.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading1-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am deeply passionate about ensuring that every person has a voice in public policy, a value I inherited from my father, a proud Veteran who taught me the importance of serving the community. This belief was solidified when I moved to Alabama and faced racism and xenophobia while running for College Secretary at The University of Alabama. That experience shaped my commitment to fighting for inclusion and equality. Throughout my political career, I have been driven by the desire to advocate for those who have been overlooked and to protect the rights and well-being of all individuals, ensuring that no one is left out of the conversation.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading2-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThis office plays a unique and vital role in both state government and the legal system by overseeing the court system and safeguarding Miami-Dade's $12 billion budget. Its responsibilities require a balance of financial expertise and legal understanding, ensuring that court operations run smoothly while managing public funds with transparency and accountability. The Comptroller position is especially vital for Miami-Dade’s residents, as I will serve as the guardian of our budget, making sure that the money stays in Miami and isn’t sent to Tallahassee, where we rarely see it returned.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading3-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAbraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, worked throughout his administration to unite a country that was torn apart by civil war, beloved for his humble nature and quiet leadership style he changed the course of history when he freed the slaves from the confederacy.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading4-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tTransparency, Accountability, and Hard-working values.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading5-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tFirst and foremost, I have a strong commitment to transparency and accountability, which are essential for building public trust. My experience as a Business Owner for over 30 years has honed my financial expertise, allowing me to manage complex budgets effectively. Additionally, as a former State Senator I am a dedicated advocate for the community, always prioritizing the needs of residents and ensuring their voices are heard. My leadership skills enable me to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and foster a culture of integrity within the office. Together, these qualities equip me to serve Miami-Dade effectively and responsibly.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading6-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe core responsibilities for someone elected to this office are being accountable and transparent with taxpayers. Overseeing and managing the court system, as well as safeguarding Miami-Dade’s $12 billion budget, demands a dedicated public servant, not someone driven by political agendas. This role requires ensuring that every action is carried out with integrity, prioritizing the public’s trust and maintaining the highest standards of transparency in handling both the justice system and taxpayer dollars.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading7-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIn 1984 I fled from Colombia to the US after my father was kidnapped by FARC —an extremist Colombian guerrilla group, an experience shared by many Colombians during that turbulent time. In 1985, another extremist group, M19, stormed the Palace of Justice—which remains among the most iconic events in modern Colombian history—left the building largely destroyed and resulted in the disappearances of over a dozen civilians and the deaths of nearly one hundred civilians, including eleven Supreme Court justices.<br/><br/>\r\nThis attack on the Supreme Court encapsulates the violent era that defined Colombia in the latter part of the 20th century, a period I lived through firsthand and vividly remember. These experiences have deeply shaped my perspective on justice, resilience, and the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading8-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tNewspaper Printer Shop\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading9-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t100 Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. It is so much more than a novel from a Colombian author set in Colombia. It is a novel that explores solitude, boundaries and human desires, while also having some amazing political tones. Furthermore, it taught Western readers tolerance for other perspectives and experiences.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading10-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWonder Woman\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading11-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tTequila\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading12-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI was born with a bilateral cleft lip. When you are born without lips you can't feed on your mother’s breast milk. It's hard to learn to speak. The children at school cruelly mocked me. They told me that I was not \"normal\" and that I could never be \"normal\". I had 19 surgeries so that today I am fully fluent in two languages. People often ask me how come I am always smiling, and I tell them, because I couldn’t as a child, and anyway, the reason my smile is beautiful today, is not because of the surgeries, it’s because it comes from within.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading13-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tAre there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tOne of the lesser-known but important powers of the Comptroller is the authority to withhold payments if there are suspicions of mismanagement or wrongdoing in county projects. In addition to managing the county's finances, the Comptroller oversees the growth of public funds through strategic investments in the financial and stock markets, ensuring responsible stewardship. Essentially, this position serves as the CFO of the county, with the crucial responsibility of safeguarding taxpayer dollars and ensuring they are spent wisely and transparently.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading14-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes, having previous experience in government or politics is highly beneficial for the holder of this office. Managing Miami-Dade’s $12 billion budget and overseeing the court system requires a deep understanding of public service, financial management, and human resources experience managing large teams . My background as a State Senator has given me experience in navigating complex government systems and advocating for transparency and accountability. It’s crucial that the Comptroller can effectively collaborate with other government officials while prioritizing the best interests of taxpayers. Experience in public service ensures that the office is run efficiently, free from political agendas, and focused on the needs of the community.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading15-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading15-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe most helpful skills for holders of this office are financial expertise, managerial knowledge, and strong leadership abilities. As the Comptroller manages Miami-Dade’s $12 billion budget and oversees court operations, a deep understanding of public finance and budgeting is essential for ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. Managerial knowledge is crucial for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the office and ensuring effective management of resources and personnel. Additionally, leadership skills are necessary to maintain transparency, uphold accountability, and ensure that the office operates efficiently in the best interest of the public.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading16-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tTell us your favorite joke.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading16-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI only know dirty jokes\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading17-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMoms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate<br/>\n<p>AFL-CIO<br/>\r\nRuth’s list<br/>\r\nSave Action PAC<br/>\r\nSEIU Florida<br/>\r\nSEIU Local 1991<br/>\r\n32 BJ SEIU<br/>\r\nLatino Victory Fund<br/>\r\nKFPAC- Kendall Federation PAC<br/>\r\nUTD- United Teachers of Dade<br/>\r\nAFSCME Florida<br/>\r\nMayor Daniella Levine Cava<br/>\r\nNorth Miami Mayor Alix Desulme<br/>\r\nSouth Miami Mayor Javier Fernandez<br/>\r\nFlorida City Mayor Otis Wallace<br/>\r\nFormer Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber<br/>\r\nFormer Hialeah Mayor Raul Martinez<br/>\r\nNorth Bay Village Vicemayor Dr. Richard Chevrony<br/>\r\nState Senator Shevrin Jones<br/>\r\nState Representative Kevin Chambliss<br/>\r\nState Representative Marie Woodson<br/>\r\nFormer US Representative Donna Shalala<br/>\r\nFormer Republican County Commissioner Juan Carlos Zapata<br/>\r\nNorth Miami Council member Pierre Frantz Charles<br/>\n</p>\nPalmetto Bay Councilmember Steve cody\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-244964-2024-10-02\" id=\"heading18-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-244964-2024-10-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-244964-2024-10-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-244964-2024-10-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe that financial transparency and government accountability are essential to maintaining public trust. As someone seeking to manage Miami-Dade’s $12 billion budget, I am committed to ensuring that every dollar is tracked and reported clearly, so taxpayers know exactly how their money is being spent. Government officials must be open and accountable in their actions, prioritizing the public’s best interests over political agendas. I have vowed to publish an Annual Report to outline the County finances in easy to understand terms to highlight how your tax dollars are managed, invested and spent.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<p>Annette Taddeo did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2022 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>\n<p>The following issues were listed on Taddeo's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, <a class=\"external text\" href=\"http://annettetaddeo.com/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">click here</a>.\n</p>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nAnnette Taddeo completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Taddeo's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I’m Annette Taddeo, a proud immigrant born in Colombia and the daughter of an American WWII and Korean War veteran. I moved to the U.S. after my father was kidnapped by FARC guerrillas in Colombia, where I worked my way through college and built my own successful business, LanguageSpeak, named one of the Top 100 Minority Owned Small Businesses in Florida. In 2017, I made history as the first Latina Democrat in the Florida Senate, where I fought for the people of Miami-Dade, particularly during the pandemic. I was reelected and served in the Florida Senate until 2022, cutting through partisan noise to deliver results and put residents first. Now, I’m running for Miami-Dade Clerk of Court and Comptroller to continue my commitment to transparency, accountability, and ensuring every taxpayer dollar is protected. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? I have a proven track record of public service, advocating for small business owners and fighting against government corruption to deliver results for Miami-Dade families. As your Clerk and Comptroller, my promise is simple- I will always work for you, and only you! As Miami-Dade Clerk of Court and Comptroller, I will prioritize transparency, accessibility, and accountability in our justice system, ensuring residents’ tax dollars are protected and efficiently managed. I bring decades of experience as a business owner and state senator, with a commitment to cutting through partisan noise and focusing on delivering real solutions for our community. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I am deeply passionate about ensuring that every person has a voice in public policy, a value I inherited from my father, a proud Veteran who taught me the importance of serving the community. This belief was solidified when I moved to Alabama and faced racism and xenophobia while running for College Secretary at The University of Alabama. That experience shaped my commitment to fighting for inclusion and equality. Throughout my political career, I have been driven by the desire to advocate for those who have been overlooked and to protect the rights and well-being of all individuals, ensuring that no one is left out of the conversation. What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system? This office plays a unique and vital role in both state government and the legal system by overseeing the court system and safeguarding Miami-Dade's $12 billion budget. Its responsibilities require a balance of financial expertise and legal understanding, ensuring that court operations run smoothly while managing public funds with transparency and accountability. The Comptroller position is especially vital for Miami-Dade’s residents, as I will serve as the guardian of our budget, making sure that the money stays in Miami and isn’t sent to Tallahassee, where we rarely see it returned. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, worked throughout his administration to unite a country that was torn apart by civil war, beloved for his humble nature and quiet leadership style he changed the course of history when he freed the slaves from the confederacy. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Transparency, Accountability, and Hard-working values. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? First and foremost, I have a strong commitment to transparency and accountability, which are essential for building public trust. My experience as a Business Owner for over 30 years has honed my financial expertise, allowing me to manage complex budgets effectively. Additionally, as a former State Senator I am a dedicated advocate for the community, always prioritizing the needs of residents and ensuring their voices are heard. My leadership skills enable me to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and foster a culture of integrity within the office. Together, these qualities equip me to serve Miami-Dade effectively and responsibly. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? The core responsibilities for someone elected to this office are being accountable and transparent with taxpayers. Overseeing and managing the court system, as well as safeguarding Miami-Dade’s $12 billion budget, demands a dedicated public servant, not someone driven by political agendas. This role requires ensuring that every action is carried out with integrity, prioritizing the public’s trust and maintaining the highest standards of transparency in handling both the justice system and taxpayer dollars. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? In 1984 I fled from Colombia to the US after my father was kidnapped by FARC —an extremist Colombian guerrilla group, an experience shared by many Colombians during that turbulent time. In 1985, another extremist group, M19, stormed the Palace of Justice—which remains among the most iconic events in modern Colombian history—left the building largely destroyed and resulted in the disappearances of over a dozen civilians and the deaths of nearly one hundred civilians, including eleven Supreme Court justices. This attack on the Supreme Court encapsulates the violent era that defined Colombia in the latter part of the 20th century, a period I lived through firsthand and vividly remember. These experiences have deeply shaped my perspective on justice, resilience, and the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? Newspaper Printer Shop What is your favorite book? Why? 100 Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. It is so much more than a novel from a Colombian author set in Colombia. It is a novel that explores solitude, boundaries and human desires, while also having some amazing political tones. Furthermore, it taught Western readers tolerance for other perspectives and experiences. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? Wonder Woman What was the last song that got stuck in your head? Tequila What is something that has been a struggle in your life? I was born with a bilateral cleft lip. When you are born without lips you can't feed on your mother’s breast milk. It's hard to learn to speak. The children at school cruelly mocked me. They told me that I was not \"normal\" and that I could never be \"normal\". I had 19 surgeries so that today I am fully fluent in two languages. People often ask me how come I am always smiling, and I tell them, because I couldn’t as a child, and anyway, the reason my smile is beautiful today, is not because of the surgeries, it’s because it comes from within. Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of? One of the lesser-known but important powers of the Comptroller is the authority to withhold payments if there are suspicions of mismanagement or wrongdoing in county projects. In addition to managing the county's finances, the Comptroller oversees the growth of public funds through strategic investments in the financial and stock markets, ensuring responsible stewardship. Essentially, this position serves as the CFO of the county, with the crucial responsibility of safeguarding taxpayer dollars and ensuring they are spent wisely and transparently. Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics? Yes, having previous experience in government or politics is highly beneficial for the holder of this office. Managing Miami-Dade’s $12 billion budget and overseeing the court system requires a deep understanding of public service, financial management, and human resources experience managing large teams . My background as a State Senator has given me experience in navigating complex government systems and advocating for transparency and accountability. It’s crucial that the Comptroller can effectively collaborate with other government officials while prioritizing the best interests of taxpayers. Experience in public service ensures that the office is run efficiently, free from political agendas, and focused on the needs of the community. What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess? The most helpful skills for holders of this office are financial expertise, managerial knowledge, and strong leadership abilities. As the Comptroller manages Miami-Dade’s $12 billion budget and oversees court operations, a deep understanding of public finance and budgeting is essential for ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. Managerial knowledge is crucial for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the office and ensuring effective management of resources and personnel. Additionally, leadership skills are necessary to maintain transparency, uphold accountability, and ensure that the office operates efficiently in the best interest of the public. Tell us your favorite joke. I only know dirty jokes What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate AFL-CIO Ruth’s list Save Action PAC SEIU Florida SEIU Local 1991 32 BJ SEIU Latino Victory Fund KFPAC- Kendall Federation PAC UTD- United Teachers of Dade AFSCME Florida Mayor Daniella Levine Cava North Miami Mayor Alix Desulme South Miami Mayor Javier Fernandez Florida City Mayor Otis Wallace Former Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber Former Hialeah Mayor Raul Martinez North Bay Village Vicemayor Dr. Richard Chevrony State Senator Shevrin Jones State Representative Kevin Chambliss State Representative Marie Woodson Former US Representative Donna Shalala Former Republican County Commissioner Juan Carlos Zapata North Miami Council member Pierre Frantz Charles Palmetto Bay Councilmember Steve cody What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? I believe that financial transparency and government accountability are essential to maintaining public trust. As someone seeking to manage Miami-Dade’s $12 billion budget, I am committed to ensuring that every dollar is tracked and reported clearly, so taxpayers know exactly how their money is being spent. Government officials must be open and accountable in their actions, prioritizing the public’s best interests over political agendas. I have vowed to publish an Annual Report to outline the County finances in easy to understand terms to highlight how your tax dollars are managed, invested and spent.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.\n\nAnnette Taddeo did not complete Ballotpedia's 2022 Candidate Connection survey.\nThe following issues were listed on Taddeo's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here ."}]