Bill To Reclaim Panama Canal Introduced In Congress
Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) is introducing legislation to authorize President-elect Donald Trump to negotiate the reacquisition of the Panama Canal. Johnson’s bill highlights Republican concerns over China’s growing influence in the region.
The Panama Canal Repurchase Act would allow Trump, in coordination with the Secretary of State, to engage with Panama’s government to reestablish U.S. control. Johnson described the canal as essential to U.S. security and economic interests, saying, “Owning and operating the Panama Canal might be an important step towards a stronger America and a more secure globe.”
BREAKING: Rep. Dusty Johnson recently introduced the “Panama Canal Repurchase Act,” which would allow Trump or any U.S. president to negotiate the purchase of the Panama Canal and bring it under U.S. control…
— Science Guy PhD (@ScienceGuyPhD) January 9, 2025
Republicans have criticized the Carter-Torrijos Treaties, which transferred control of the canal to Panama in 1999, as a historic blunder. Trump recently referred to the deal as “foolish” and argued that the U.S. essentially “gave it away.”
Trump has consistently emphasized the canal’s strategic importance, particularly for U.S. Navy deployments and shipping efficiency. “The Panama Canal is a vital national asset,” Trump stated in December, underscoring its role in facilitating U.S. commerce and security.
Republican Rep. Dusty Johnson plans to introduce legislation giving Trump green light to buy Panama Canalhttps://t.co/4DkcjPUIYW pic.twitter.com/0LLLFq7TLs
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) January 9, 2025
Panama’s President, José Raúl Mulino, has dismissed the proposal outright, refusing to consider renegotiating control or lowering transit fees. Meanwhile, the GOP is positioning the bill as a response to what they see as China’s encroachment in the area, arguing that the U.S. must reclaim the canal to counteract Beijing’s influence.
The legislation includes provisions for a progress report to Congress within 180 days, outlining negotiations, challenges, and anticipated outcomes. With Republican majorities in both chambers and Trump set to take office, the bill’s future remains closely watched.
President Trump laid down clear terms for China on trade negotiations, signaling that America will set the conditions if China...
A Minnesota state employee caught on camera vandalizing multiple Tesla vehicles causing over $20,000 in damages will face no criminal...
Federal regulations are forcing juvenile detention centers to house transgender inmates based on gender identity rather than biological sex, raising...