Trump Proposes Regaining Control of Panama Canal at First Rally Post-Election
Donald Trump, at his first major rally following the election, proposed the idea of regaining control of the Panama Canal, criticizing current tolls and reflecting on the past decision to cede it to Panama. He aimed to unite conservatives and asserted his administration’s future economic goals while addressing recent challenges with the canal’s operations due to droughts.
In his first major rally since his election victory, Donald Trump proposed regaining control over the Panama Canal, which the United States relinquished to Panama in 1999. Speaking to a large gathering in Phoenix, Arizona, he criticized current tolls as exorbitant and expressed discontent with the decision made decades ago, suggesting that it was a mistake. Trump boasted about his anticipated cabinet choices and vowed to quickly tackle economic issues, seal U.S. borders, and resolve conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, indicating a focus on strong governance once he assumes office on January 20, 2025.
While emphasizing party unity among conservatives, despite internal conflicts in Congress over budget issues, Trump declared that the United States is entering a new prosperous era, stating, “I can proudly proclaim that the Golden Age of America is upon us.” During the rally, he acknowledged the influence of groups like Turning Point USA in mobilizing grassroots support and referenced potential staff appointments, highlighting his administration’s direction and goals.
Trump’s remarks also touched upon the challenges faced by the Panama Canal, which was impacted by droughts leading to increased fees for shippers crossing the waterway. He stated that if he were president, the “complete rip off” regarding costs incurred by the U.S. would cease immediately and hinted at the possibility of returning the canal to U.S. control without elaborating on the feasibility of such an action.
Trump’s rally underscored his intention to unite various factions within the Republican Party and project strength, even as he navigates the complexities of political leadership and governance ahead of his inauguration.
The Panama Canal, a crucial waterway facilitating maritime trade between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was handed over from U.S. control to Panama in 1999 as part of a treaty signed during President Jimmy Carter’s administration in 1977. The canal remains vital to Panama’s economy and generates significant revenue for the government. Recent droughts in Central America have led to operational challenges for the canal, prompting increased fees for shippers, which has become a subject of political criticism from figures like Donald Trump, who views the original transfer of control as a strategic error.
In conclusion, Donald Trump’s remarks at his first rally since the election highlight his desire to position himself as a strong leader ready to reclaim perceived losses for the United States, particularly regarding the Panama Canal. His call to action resonates with his supporters while demonstrating his commitment to consolidating Republican unity and addressing economic and national security issues upon taking office.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
