Maria Cardona, a prominent Democratic strategist and CNN political commentator, is a leading voice in American politics, known for her advocacy for Latino communities. Born on November 12, 1966, in Bogotá, Colombia, she is 58 years old as of 2025. Married to Bryan Weaver, a community activist, they share two children and reside in Washington, D.C. Her net worth is estimated at $1–3 million, with a salary reflecting her high-profile roles at the Dewey Square Group and CNN. This article explores Cardona’s biography, career, married life, and more, offering fresh insights into her influence.
Early Life and Background: Maria Cardona’s Roots and Age
Maria Teresa Cardona was born in Bogotá, Colombia, and moved to the United States at age two with her parents, Myron and Regina Rosen. Raised in Leesburg, Florida, after a brief stint in Ohio, Cardona grew up immersed in Colombian culture, which shaped her advocacy for Latino issues. At 58 years old in 2025, her journey from a small-town upbringing to a national political figure is inspiring. Her parents’ emphasis on maintaining their native language and traditions instilled a strong sense of identity, which she credits for her resilience. A personal anecdote she shared on Facebook recalls Sunday gatherings filled with cumbia and empanadas, fostering community ties despite being one of the few Hispanic families in her neighborhood.
Her education at Duke University laid the foundation for her career. Graduating with honors, she developed a passion for public policy and communications, skills that would define her professional trajectory. This blend of cultural pride and academic rigor sets Cardona apart, offering a unique perspective on navigating identity in American politics.
Career Journey: From Press Secretary to CNN Political Commentator
Maria Cardona’s career spans over two decades in government, politics, and media. She began as Deputy Press Secretary to Commerce Secretary Ronald H. Brown, navigating a high-pressure role during a tragic plane crash in 1996. She later served as Press Secretary for Secretaries William Daley and Mickey Kantor, playing a key role in the passage of NAFTA in 1993, earning the Department of Commerce’s Silver Medal Award in 1997.
From 1998 to 2001, Cardona was Director of Communications at the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), tackling complex issues like the Elián González affair. Her tenure at the Democratic National Committee (DNC) as Communications Director (2001–2003) and her role at the New Democrat Network (NDN) as Vice President for Media Relations further solidified her influence. In 2005, she joined the Dewey Square Group (DSG) as a Principal, founding Latinovations, a Latino-focused advocacy practice. Her work at DSG includes guiding clients to build support within Hispanic communities, as detailed on their website.
Since 2011, Cardona has been a CNN and CNN en Español political commentator, becoming the first Latina Democratic contributor on the network. Her show, ¡MARIA!, launched in 2020 on the El Rey Network, dissects Latino advocacy and public policy. Her insights, drawn from extensive experience, make her a sought-after voice on networks like MSNBC, FOX, and Univision. Cardona’s salary as a CNN contributor and DSG principal is substantial, though exact figures remain undisclosed, contributing to her net worth of $1–3 million as of 2022.
Married Life and Family: Maria Cardona and Husband Bryan Weaver
Maria Cardona is married to Bryan Weaver, a community activist and former Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner (ANC) in Washington, D.C. Their relationship, rooted in shared political passions, began at the DNC, where their differences—her vibrant Latina flair and his West Coast style—sparked an unlikely bond. Weaver, a Howard University graduate with over 15 years in progressive causes, complements Cardona’s activism. They reside in Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C., with their two children, Sebastian and Maya Luna.
Their married life is marked by mutual support, with no signs of divorce, as noted in various sources. A 2020 POLITICO interview highlighted their family’s birthday traditions, including Weaver’s culinary skills and their children’s dreams of opening a restaurant. Cardona’s commitment to her children’s education, inspired by her parents, is evident in her advocacy for STEM and community programs like Hoops Sagrado. This family dynamic, balancing high-profile careers with parenting, offers a relatable perspective for working professionals.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success in Politics
Maria Cardona’s net worth is estimated at $1–3 million as of 2022, driven by her roles at Dewey Square Group, CNN, and Latinovations. Her salary likely reflects her senior positions, with political strategists of her caliber earning upwards of $100,000 annually, based on industry standards. Her financial success stems from decades of high-impact work, including advising Hillary Clinton’s 2008 campaign and Barack Obama’s general election campaign. A 2016 HPRA National BRAVO! Award and her listing among the Top 50 Most Influential Latinos in 2012 underscore her value in political and media spheres.
Unique Insights: Advocacy and Impact on Latino Communities
Cardona’s creation of Latinovations revolutionized how organizations engage with Latino communities. Her blog, La Plaza, covers national policies affecting Hispanics, offering actionable insights for advocates. A case study from her work with inSPIRE STEM USA shows her mobilizing Latino voices for education reform, emphasizing math and science in classrooms and homes. Her approach, inspired by her father’s advice to “pull up a chair” at decision-making tables, empowers others to claim their space, as shared in a Hispanic Executive feature.
A 2024 controversy involving a $50 million lawsuit by Javier Palomarez, former head of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, alleged Cardona spread damaging rumors. The lawsuit, unresolved as of 2025, highlights the challenges of navigating high-stakes political environments. Cardona’s resilience in facing such disputes underscores her strength as a public figure.
Biography Table: Maria Cardona’s Life at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Maria Teresa Cardona |
| Date of Birth | November 12, 1966 |
| Age | 58 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Bogotá, Colombia |
| Nationality | American (Colombian descent) |
| Education | Duke University, Bachelor’s with Honors |
| Husband | Bryan Weaver, Community Activist |
| Children | Sebastian and Maya Luna |
| Residence | Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C. |
| Career Start | Deputy Press Secretary, U.S. Department of Commerce (1990s) |
| Key Roles | Principal at Dewey Square Group, Founder of Latinovations, CNN Commentator |
| Major Achievements | HPRA National BRAVO! Award (2016), Commerce Silver Medal (1997) |
| Net Worth | $1–3 million (2022 estimate) |
| Salary | Estimated $100,000+ annually (based on industry standards) |
| Notable Campaigns | Hillary Clinton (2008), Barack Obama (2008) |
| Social Media | Twitter: @MariaTCardona, Facebook |
Conclusion: Maria Cardona’s Lasting Legacy
Maria Cardona remains a trailblazer in politics and media, blending her Colombian heritage with American ambition. Her 58 years have been marked by impactful advocacy, from Latinovations to CNN, with a net worth reflecting her success. Married to Bryan Weaver, their partnership exemplifies shared values and resilience. Follow her insights on Twitter or explore her work on Wikipedia. Cardona’s story inspires those navigating identity, career, and family in a complex world.
