A Republican, Díaz de la Portilla was a City of Miami commissioner for District 1[2] and a member of the Florida Senate from 2000 to 2010, representing parts of Miami-Dade County.

[3] Former Miami Commissioner Álex Díaz de la Portilla is no longer facing charges following an investigation into alleged bribery and money laundering.

In September 2023, Díaz de la Portilla was arrested on charges of money laundering, bribery, criminal conspiracy, and illegal compensation for official acts.

[6] The arrest affidavit[7] cited a combined 14 charges against Díaz de la Portilla and William “Bill” Riley Jr., an attorney and lobbyist.

[9] On November 21, 2023, Díaz de la Portilla was defeated by Miguel Angel Gabela in the election for Miami Commissioner District 1.