Miami Mayor Francis Suarez announced on Friday (18) his qualification for the Republican presidential debate, as well as his prospects and strategies to stand out on stage.

Francis Suarez, 45, became the ninth (9th) candidate to meet the fundraising and support requirements needed to qualify for next week's Republican presidential debate. As the only Latino/Hispanic candidate in the field, Suarez acknowledges that he is relatively less well-known on the political scene and hopes to use the debate to introduce himself to the public and contrast his personality with that of higher-profile opponents. He believes his unique profile puts him in an advantageous position to appeal to Hispanic and young voters, CBS News reported.

Suarez emphasizes the importance of personal connection in politics and highlights his ability to connect with voters, emphasizing that it goes beyond mere political agreement. He sees the debate as an opportunity to showcase that skill.

In all, nine candidates have met the debate's qualifications so far, though former President Donald Trump has indicated he may not participate. The Republican National Committee's requirements include support in national and state polls, as well as a minimum number of donors. Suarez claims to have met those criteria, highlighting his recent achievement of the voting requirement.

The publication also notes Suarez's critical stance toward Gov. Ron DeSantis, another Republican presidential candidate. He has avoided direct criticism of Trump but has not shied away from confronting DeSantis. It cites the release of leaked pro-DeSantis strategy documents outlining the governor's debate approach, and Suarez expresses his view that this approach could be detrimental to the country’s unity.

Suarez adopts creative fundraising strategies, such as offering the chance to see footballer Lionel Messi in exchange for donations. He also mentions Trump's possible absence from the debate and sees it as an opportunity to stand out even more, considering the former president is the front-runner in the polls.