A Republican congressman is set to introduce a provocative bill that would empower President-elect Donald Trump to negotiate the purchase and reclaim control of the Panama Canal.
Breitbart reported that the bill aims to authorize Trump to engage diplomatically with Panama to re-explore American ownership of the strategic waterway as a move to bolster national security and economic interests.
Rep. Dusty Johnson, a Republican from South Dakota, is the architect of the proposed legislation. He communicated his views to the Hill, articulating that President Trump has valid reasons to contemplate reacquiring the Panama Canal.
Johnson suggested that restoring U.S. control over the canal would be integral to fortifying a stronger America.
Johnson's legislative measure specifically seeks to authorize Trump, working alongside the Secretary of State, to begin discussions with Panamanian officials regarding the canal's purchase. Johnson emphasized that there are serious geopolitical concerns with China’s increasing interest in the canal's vicinity.
"China’s interest in the presence around the canal is a cause for concern," Johnson stated. He went on to convey that maintaining American strength on the global stage might necessitate managing the canal directly. This, he argued, would enhance American security and economic leverage.
In his advocacy for the proposal, Johnson argued that the Panama Canal has long been a vital national asset for the United States.
Its pivotal role in national security and commerce, by facilitating rapid naval deployment and reducing shipping times, underscores its significance to American interests.
President-elect Trump has, in the past, expressed his willingness to reclaim the canal if Panama continues imposing what he describes as exorbitant transit fees on U.S. vessels. His position highlights the canal's crucial importance both strategically and economically for the U.S.
Trump took to Truth Social to voice his concerns, referencing the canal as essential for America's economy and national security.
He elaborated on its strategic importance for U.S. naval operations and commercial shipping efficiency across both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
"The Panama Canal is considered a VITAL National Asset for the United States," Trump wrote, underscoring its critical operational significance in facilitating swift naval maneuvers and cutting down shipping times for American ports.
However, Panama, led by President José Raúl Mulino, has dismissed any notion of reopening discussions about the United States retaking control of the Panama Canal.
This dismissal comes in response to Trump's past threats to take back the canal should Panama maintain high transit fees.
President Mulino has "ruled out any possible discussions" with Trump concerning both the U.S.'s potential control over the canal and any reduction in transit fees levied on American ships.
Panama remains firm in its stance against conceding any control over the canal or altering its fee structures.
