News that Marco Rubio was joining in the 2016 presidential race was met with mostly pride Monday in Miami, the Republican senator's hometown.
From the cheers inside the Freedom Tower, to the conversation outside Versailles, the Cuban eatery in Little Havana where many exiles meet, drink coffee and chat about politics, Marco Rubio has a strong support system in his hometown.
"He's well prepared, he's an honest person and also willing to give this country what we need now, said Rubio supporter, Dr. Alejandro Borbolla.
The general consensus was that Rubio will tackle U.S.-Cuba relations head-on. Many older generation Cubans are not happy with the way President Obama is handling foreign policy.
They also said it's time for a Hispanic to be president and believe Rubio is very well-positioned at this time within the Republican party.
"I think it's wonderful, I'd love to see a Latino in office," Barbara Latham said.
Although some feel it's time for a Hispanic president, others think Rubio isn't the answer when it comes to immigration reform.
Rubio helped write the bipartisan immigration legislation in 2013 that supports a path to citizenship, however, recently he's stated the nation’s borders must first be further secured.
"We're here because Marco Rubio does not stand with the undocumented community," said protester Michael Sanchez. "He is against DAPA and DACA which would allow relief for five-million undocumented individuals."
Those who stand for immigration reform aren't the only ones who may not be voting for Rubio in 2016. Some South Florida Republicans are undecided, waiting to hear an announcement from Jeb Bush.
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"There would be a problem there because I grew up in Mexico," said Barbara Latham, who is undecided. "My parents are Cuban, but I lived in Texas for a while and I love the Bush's."
Mayor Tomas Regalado added, "I'll be happy with any of those two, but I will support one of the two."
Rubio's age was also a topic of discussion at Versailles. Some older Cubans say they're hesitant because he is too young at just 43, while others see his age as a plus, saying he'll bring fresh, new ideas to the table.
"If people are going to criticize Rubio over his level of experience, President Obama didn't have experience himself," said Rafael Velazco. "Because what Obama's done with foreign policy has been a disaster."
