Cuban-American lawmakers emphasized the urgency of the humanitarian and economic crisis in Cuba, urging the Trump administration to increase pressure on the Havana government. They see a potential turning point for the island and the wider Western Hemisphere.
The Push for Change
Rep. Carlos Gimenez from Florida expressed optimism about the possibility of significant change in Cuba. He highlighted the support of the U.S. government, stating, “There’s a lot of hope in Cuba right now… We have the right president, we have the right Secretary of State.” He assured the Cuban people of ongoing support, emphasizing actions within the House of Representatives.
“We have never been this close to seeing a change and this regime actually being ousted,” Gimenez said.
Concerns About Regional Security
Gimenez, joined by fellow Florida representatives Maria Salazar and Mario Diaz-Balart, elaborated on the challenges during an interview on “My View with Lara Trump.” They pointed to serious issues like blackouts, energy shortages, and growing unrest, framing Cuba as not only a humanitarian issue but also a national security threat.
Salazar noted the proximity between Cuba and the U.S., particularly Miami, stating, “We’re only 90 miles away from Miami, the city that I represent.” She credited President Trump with reviving possibilities for change after many administrations.
National Security Implications
Diaz-Balart echoed these security concerns, mentioning the presence of drones and fugitives in Cuba. He stressed that the Trump administration was aware of these threats and taking actions to address them. He referenced past atrocities by the Cuban regime, noting the lack of action until the current administration.
“Nobody has been willing to do anything about it until Donald Trump,” Diaz-Balart said.
Broader Impacts in the Hemisphere
Salazar emphasized the administration’s actions against antagonistic regimes, including the case of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. She linked Cuba’s influence to the repression in Venezuela and expressed hope for impending resolution.
“Look what he did with Maduro. That was a mothership of evil in Western Hemisphere,” Salazar noted.