The Panama Canal Repurchase Act seeks to authorize negotiations for the US to reclaim the Panama Canal, which was transferred to Panama under a treaty signed in 1977. Introduced by Rep. Dusty Johnson, the bill has garnered limited bipartisan support and highlights concerns about China’s influence in the region. Opposition includes Panama’s President and US officials emphasizing the importance of current treaties governing the canal’s status.
The Fulcrum introduces a new weekly segment, Congress Bill Spotlight, by journalist Jesse Rifkin. This series will detail significant Congressional legislation that often receives insufficient media attention. Currently, a notable bill is the Panama Canal Repurchase Act, which aims to authorize negotiations for the United States to reclaim control over the Panama Canal from the Central American nation. While initially suggested at a price of $1, this figure has not been included in the official bill. This legislation, introduced by Representative Dusty Johnson on January 9, applies to any sitting president, not exclusively Donald Trump.
Historically, the Panama Canal was built between 1903 and 1914 to streamline maritime travel and commerce between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, eliminating a lengthy route around South America. Although the United States financed the construction, President Jimmy Carter signed a treaty in 1977 to transfer control to Panama by the year 2000, a move that received mixed support among lawmakers at the time. Despite the urban legend suggesting a purchase price of $1, there was no actual official price established for the transfer.
In recent years, amidst escalating concerns regarding China’s influence in the region, President Trump has advocated for US control over the Panama Canal. Although China does have a growing presence in Panama, the US remains the dominant user of the canal, handling 72% of its total cargo. Trump has expressed that maintaining the US’s strategic interests in this vital waterway is essential, indicating potential military action if necessary.
Supporters of the bill, including Representative Johnson, argue that returning control of the canal to the US is vital for national security, particularly in light of Chinese involvement. They assert that the United States should own the canal, with Representative Johnson stating, “President Trump is right to consider repurchasing the Panama Canal,” as China’s increased presence poses risks to US interests in the region.
Opposition voices include Panama’s President, José Raúl Mulino, who emphatically stated, “Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent area belong to Panama, and will continue to be,” asserting the nation’s sovereignty over the waterway. Secretary of State Antony Blinken echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of existing treaties and policies governing the canal’s status, noting, “that is not going to change.”
The legislation has garnered support from 29 Republican co-sponsors and is currently awaiting discussion by the House Natural Resources Committee. Should this bill progress, it could invigorate discussion regarding US foreign relations and the geopolitical significance of the Panama Canal.
The Panama Canal Repurchase Act is a significant piece of legislation introduced in Congress that aims to authorize negotiations for the United States to regain control over the Panama Canal. With a history rooted in a controversial treaty and ongoing concerns regarding foreign involvement, this bill brings to light critical discussions about national security and international relations. The reactions from both supporters and opponents reflect the complexities of this issue, illustrating the importance of the canal to US interests.
Original Source: thefulcrum.us
