The Republican National Committee (RNC) issued a warning that a recent tribute to Fidel Castro by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) could negatively impact Democrats in upcoming elections. The tribute praised the late Cuban leader, while also calling for the prosecution of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio over his policies toward Cuba.
RNC’s national press secretary, Natalie Baldassarre, emphasized the risks of Democrats associating with socialist ideologies. “Democrats are openly embracing the same policies that have left countries like Venezuela and Cuba with empty shelves and restricted freedoms,” Baldassarre stated. “This ideology is political suicide and could lead to their defeat in November.”
Rubio, whose parents were Cuban immigrants, criticized Castro’s legacy, labeling him a failure who harmed Cuba and its citizens. “Fidel Castro only succeeded in destroying Cuba while impoverishing, jailing, and killing his own people,” Rubio commented. He warned others against emulating Castro’s actions.
The DSA portrayed Castro as a symbol of resistance against imperialism, noting his enduring influence in the Global South. They criticized U.S. policies under Rubio’s stewardship as acts of genocide, claiming American restrictions have severely affected Cuban civilians.
The group demanded an end to the U.S.’s so-called blockade, the normalization of relations, and reparations for the damages they allege have been caused. They further called for Rubio’s prosecution on charges of crimes against humanity.
The White House distanced itself from DSA’s assertions, blaming Cuba’s communist government for the country’s economic woes and human rights records. Anna Kelly, a White House spokesperson, conveyed willingness to improve relations with Cuba, provided the Cuban government changes its current practices.
In recent actions, Rubio has targeted several entities linked to Cuba’s military and leadership with sanctions. His aim is to restrict revenues fueling the Cuban regime. A State Department report recently identified Cuba as a hotbed of communism and cited DSA among organizations supporting pro-Cuban activism.
Fidel Castro, who handed over power due to illness in 2006, passed away in 2016 at age 90. Fox News Digital reached out to DSA for comment, but the organization had yet to respond.