Trump Panama Canal plans get boost from Republicans leaders: Internal House memo
House Republican leadership is pushing for the return of the Panama Canal to U.S. ownership, according to a recent memo obtained exclusively by Fox News. The memo, sent by the House GOP Policy Committee, encourages lawmakers to support President Donald Trump’s goal of reclaiming control of the strategic waterway.
The two-page document, titled “Panama Canal,” begins by highlighting Trump’s concerns about China’s growing influence over the canal and his desire to “take it back.” It mentions that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be visiting Panama on his first official trip under the Trump administration.
The memo provides a brief history of the Panama Canal, emphasizing that it was built by the U.S. between 1904 and 1914. It points out that the canal was under U.S. control for nearly 75 years before being handed over to Panama by former President Jimmy Carter. Trump has criticized the treaties that transferred control to Panama, arguing that the country has not upheld its end of the deal.
The document raises concerns about China’s involvement in the canal, noting that Chinese companies now operate ports at both ends of the waterway. It also highlights a $1.4 billion bridge project funded by Chinese construction companies in 2018. The memo suggests that Panama’s transit fees and its openness to Chinese investment may violate the terms of the treaties with the U.S.
Republican lawmakers have introduced legislation to support Trump’s efforts to reclaim the canal. Main Street Caucus Chairman Dusty Johnson has proposed a bill to allow Trump to repurchase the canal, while Rep. Riley Moore has introduced a bill to expand the president’s tariff power. Rep. Andy Ogles has also put forward a bill to authorize Trump to negotiate the purchase of Greenland.
The memo from the House GOP Policy Committee serves as a directive to Republican lawmakers to continue supporting Trump’s push to acquire the canal. It signals a unified front within the party to explore legislative options to facilitate the transfer of ownership.
The Republican leadership’s stance on the Panama Canal issue is likely to intensify the debate over U.S. control of the waterway. With the Panamanian government opposing Trump’s plan, GOP lawmakers are expected to pursue legislative avenues to advance the president’s agenda.
In conclusion, the memo underscores the significance of the Panama Canal as a vital maritime route and the need for the U.S. to assert control over this strategic asset. The Republican Party’s backing of Trump’s initiative sets the stage for a contentious debate over the future of the canal and the implications for U.S. national security and economic interests.
