Peter Lamelas | |
|---|---|
| United States Ambassador to Argentina | |
Designate | |
| Assumed office TBD | |
| President | Donald Trump |
| Preceded by | Marc Stanley |
| Personal details | |
| Born | |
| Education | Universidad Central del Este (MD) Nova Southeastern University (MBA) |
Peter Lamelas is aCuban-American diplomat, physician, and entrepreneur who has served as theUnited States ambassador-designate to Argentina since 2025. He is also the founder and former CEO of MD Now Urgent Care; one of Florida's largest urgent care networks.[1][2][3]
Peter Lamelas was born inCuba and immigrated to the United States as a child with his family to escape the communist regime.[4] His family arrived in the U.S. with limited resources, and their journey has been described as emblematic of the "American Dream." Lamelas pursued higher education in medicine, earning an M.D. fromUniversidad Central del Este and later completing an M.B.A. atNova Southeastern University.[1][3]
Lamelas is the founder and former CEO of MD Now Urgent Care, which he expanded into one of Florida's largest urgent care networks. Under his leadership, the company partnered with two private equity firms and became a leading healthcare provider in the nation. He also serves as a Board Advisor to MD Now and has over 20 years of experience in emergency medicine and emergency medical services.[1][3]
In addition to his entrepreneurial success, Lamelas has been actively involved in medical governance. He served on the Florida Board of Medicine, appointed by then-governorJeb Bush, and was a member of the board of directors for theUrgent Care Association of America. He has also contributed to community service through various non-profit organizations inSouth Florida.[1][3]
During Donald Trump's first presidential term, Lamelas was appointed to theDepartment of Justice's Medal of Valor Review board, which honors first responders for acts of extraordinary valor.[1][2]
On December 11, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump announced he would nominate Lamelas as theUnited States ambassador to Argentina. Trump's nomination emphasized Lamelas's medical and business credentials, as well as his personal story as a Cuban refugee. Trump stated that Lamelas's experience exemplifies the "American Dream" and described him as "a physician, philanthropist, and an incredible businessman".[1][2]
Lamelas has already engaged diplomatically with Argentina's leadership, having met PresidentJavier Milei during Milei's visit toMar-a-Lago in November 2024. He has publicly praised Milei's efforts to implement bold economic reforms aimed at reducing deficits and curbing inflation.[1][2]
During his confirmation hearing in July 2025, Lamelas explained that his objectives were to make Argentina a “partner of choice” for the United States. In the context of therivalry between Argentina and the United Kingdom over control of theFalkland Islands, he reiterated the “neutrality” of the United States on this issue. Lamelas confirmed his intention to combat the influence of certain countries in Argentina, such as China and Venezuela. He also announced his support for the judicial proceedings against former PresidentCristina Fernández de Kirchner. The Chinese Embassy in Argentina criticized his remarks, saying they were “plagued with ideological prejudice and Cold War mentality.” Regarding his statements about former President Kirchner, Buenos Aires GovernorAxel Kicillof said they “evoke the darkest eras of U.S. interference in the democratic life of our region.”[5]
On September 18, 2025, Lamelas was confirmed by theSenate.[5]
Lamelas has been vocal about his views on socialism and governance, shaped by his experiences as a Cuban refugee. He has described socialism as "inefficient, cruel, and deceitful," emphasizing the importance of economic freedom and limited government for national development. Lamelas has drawn parallels between Trump and Milei, praising their commitment to streamlined governance and economic growth.[1][2][6]