Kevin Marino Cabrera has been appointed as the United States Ambassador to the Republic of Panama following the nomination by President Donald J. Trump and confirmation by the United States Senate on April 9, 2025. Ambassador Cabrera aims to enhance the U.S.-Panama relationship by focusing on regional security, expanding trade, and increasing cooperation on critical issues impacting U.S. prosperity and global competitiveness.
Ambassador Cabrera aligns his goals with American foreign policy pillars under President Trump's administration, which emphasize security, sovereignty, economic growth, and the promotion of freedom while safeguarding American interests. His extensive background in public service and leadership in international trade positions him well for these responsibilities.
Prior to this appointment, Cabrera served as a Miami-Dade County Commissioner, where he oversaw operations related to Miami International Airport and held the Vice Chair position of the Miami-Dade International Trade Consortium. In these roles, he organized trade delegations to crucial global partners such as France, South Africa, Japan, the Dominican Republic, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, thereby enhancing commercial connections, attracting investments, and broadening U.S. engagement globally.
Cabrera also brought together leaders from over two dozen cities across Latin America and the Caribbean during the 26th InterAmerican Conference of Mayors and Local Authorities. This forum tackled issues of infrastructure, governance, and regional development.
Throughout his public office tenure, Cabrera advocated for infrastructure modernization, innovation in public service, and economic opportunity expansion through efficient governance and strategic investment efforts.
Cabrera's previous roles include serving as Florida State Director for the Republican National Committee and in President Trump's 2020 re-election campaign in Florida. His efforts contributed to a significant electoral victory in Florida, a politically critical state.
Born in Miami, Florida, to Cuban exile parents, Cabrera's life story is rooted in the values of freedom and self-determination. He graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Florida International University and earned honors from Miami Dade College. His mission as an ambassador is driven by a dedication to promoting safety, strength, and prosperity across the Americas.