Trump Proposes Reclaiming Control Over Panama Canal During Rally

In a rally in Phoenix, Donald Trump hinted at reclaiming the Panama Canal, criticizing current shipping fees as excessive. He emphasized his administration’s economic goals and Republican unity, despite recent congressional challenges. Trump’s remarks celebrated his support network and outlined his priorities moving forward into his presidency.

In his first rally since being elected president, Donald Trump proposed that his administration may seek to reclaim control over the Panama Canal, which he characterized as a “foolish” concession made to Panama. During the event at the Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Phoenix, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the current toll system imposed on ships utilizing the canal, stating that it results in exorbitant fees. Trump assured his audience of loyal supporters that his anticipated “dream team Cabinet” would enhance the economy, secure American borders, and expeditiously conclude military conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, while proclaiming that a “Golden Age of America is upon us.”

Despite recent upheavals in Congress, where his authority faced challenges, Trump emphasized unity among Republicans during this gathering that attracted over 20,000 activists. He abstained from addressing the congressional negotiations directly; however, he highlighted the influence of billionaire ally Elon Musk, firmly denying any suggestion of Musk overshadowing his presidency. Trump maintained that the Democratic Party is experiencing a loss of confidence and predicted that they would eventually shift alignment towards Republican ideals.

Among various grievances, Trump notably lamented the U.S. relinquishing control of the Panama Canal, emphasizing the unfairness of the fees being charged to American businesses. He did not elaborate on the logistics of potentially reclaiming the canal, though he asserted that under his leadership, these perceived injustices would cease. As the gathering concluded, Trump acknowledged the contributions of grassroots organizations like Turning Point, which played a crucial role in mobilizing support for his causes. Moreover, Trump appointed Stephen Miran, a former Treasury Department staffer, as his choice to lead the Council of Economic Advisers. Australian businessman Anthony Pratt publicly supported Trump’s endeavors with significant financial donations, potentially marking a solidation of backing from key corporate allies.

The Panama Canal, a crucial waterway completed in 1914, has been under Panamanian control since 1999 following the terms of a treaty ratified in 1977. The canal is not only vital for international shipping routes between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans but also constitutes a significant component of the Panamanian economy, generating substantial revenue for the nation through tolls imposed on vessels traversing the canal. Trump’s comments reflect longstanding sentiments among some political factions in the United States who argue that the treaty should have never been established, claiming that American interests are not properly served under foreign control. Presently, the canal experiences operational challenges exacerbated by drought conditions, leading to increased fees, which further fuels concerns among U.S. exporters about the economic implications of these changes.

Donald Trump’s first rally since his electoral victory highlighted his assertive stance on reclaiming perceived losses to U.S. interests, particularly regarding the Panama Canal. His remarks centered on economic revival, Republican unity, and strategic leadership, underscoring his anticipated administration’s priorities. With significant support both from grassroots movements and wealthy backers, Trump’s rhetoric points towards a focus on restoring what he perceives as American entitlements, which may define the trajectory of his upcoming presidency.

Original Source: www.pbs.org