A recent memo from the House GOP Policy Committee, chaired by Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK), reveals a push within the Republican party to support former President Trump's ambition of regaining control of the Panama Canal. The memo, distributed to legislative directors, underscores Trump's concerns about China's growing influence in the region and his stated aim to bring the canal back under U.S. jurisdiction. This coincides with Secretary of State Marco Rubio's upcoming visit to Panama, his first in this role under the Trump administration.
The memo provides a historical overview of U.S. involvement with the canal, from its construction between 1904 and 1914 to its lease under the Hay–Bunau-Varilla Treaty of 1903. It highlights the transfer of control to Panama during Jimmy Carter's presidency, a decision that has drawn criticism from Trump. The document argues that Panama may have breached the terms of the treaties by allowing Chinese investment and imposing what Republicans consider excessive transit fees. It emphasizes the canal's strategic importance, handling approximately 5% of global maritime trade and offering a significantly shorter route compared to navigating around South America. The memo also notes the substantial U.S. foreign direct investment in Panama, totaling $3.8 billion annually.
The memo highlights the presence of Chinese companies operating ports at both ends of the canal and their involvement in a $1.4 billion bridge project in 2018. This growing Chinese influence has fueled concerns within the GOP about Panama's adherence to the treaty's neutrality stipulations. Several Republican lawmakers have introduced bills aimed at supporting Trump's objective. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) proposed legislation for the U.S. to repurchase the canal, while Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV) introduced a bill to expand Trump's tariff authority. Furthermore, Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) has put forth a bill authorizing negotiations for the purchase of Greenland, another of Trump's stated interests. The memo from Hern's committee signals a concerted effort within the House GOP to align with Trump's agenda regarding the Panama Canal, potentially paving the way for further legislative action, despite resistance from the Panamanian government.
