The Panama Canal Repurchase Act aims to authorize the President to negotiate reacquisition of the Panama Canal from Panama, reflecting national security concerns regarding China’s influence. Introduced by Representative Dusty Johnson, the bill has attracted Republican support but faces opposition from Panama’s leadership and U.S. officials emphasizing treaty commitments.
The Fulcrum presents Congress Bill Spotlight, a weekly roundup by Jesse Rifkin, spotlighting significant legislation amid the multitude introduced in Congress. With years of experience covering Congress, Rifkin examines intriguing bills that often lack comprehensive media coverage. Currently, a notable proposal is the Panama Canal Repurchase Act, which aims to empower the President to negotiate the reacquisition of the Panama Canal from Panama. Though initially suggesting a purchase price of $1—a nod to an urban legend—the final draft omits any price figure.
This bill, introduced on January 9 by Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD), applies to any sitting president, not just Donald Trump. The context reveals that the Panama Canal, a critical maritime passage completed between 1903 and 1914, was operated by the U.S. for decades. In an effort to foster better relations with Panama, President Jimmy Carter signed a treaty in 1977 to transfer control of the canal to Panama by the year 2000, with the Senate ratifying this treaty narrowly in 1978.
Recently, discussions around the canal have gained traction due to concerns over China’s growing influence in the region, as asserted by Trump in his inaugural address. He mischaracterized China’s role, although the nation’s economic presence has increased. Currently, the U.S. controls a significant portion of the canal’s cargo, while fears abound regarding Panama’s diplomatic ties with China and Chinese companies’ control over ports at each end of the canal. In light of these worries, Trump advocates for regaining U.S. control, emphasizing a peaceful approach, yet leaving military options on the table.
Proponents of the bill argue that the U.S. should regain ownership due to its significant investment in creating and maintaining the canal. Representative Johnson remarked, “President Trump is right to consider repurchasing the Panama Canal,” emphasizing concerns regarding China’s involvement. Officials in the Trump administration echo this viewpoint, stating that foreign control could endanger U.S. national security.
Conversely, the President of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, strongly rejects the bill, asserting that the canal and surrounding areas belong to Panama, and “the sovereignty and independence of our country are not negotiable.” Additionally, Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged the merit of concerns but affirmed that the long-standing treaty regarding the canal is settled and will remain unchanged.
The bill has gathered 29 Republican cosponsors and is currently awaiting a vote in the House Natural Resources Committee, led by Republican representatives. With Jesse Rifkin as the author, Congress Bill Spotlight will continue to provide important insights into legislative developments every Friday.
The Panama Canal Repurchase Act seeks to empower the President of the United States to negotiate its reacquisition from Panama, reflecting contemporary concerns about foreign influence, particularly from China. While advocates emphasize national security and historical context, significant opposition exists from Panama’s government and U.S. officials. The bill’s progress in Congress remains uncertain, currently pending a committee vote.
Original Source: thefulcrum.us
