Jackson Urges New Approach to Caribbean

Summary

Representative Jonathan Jackson discusses the Trump administration's policies toward Haiti, Venezuela, and Cuba, warning of worsening instability, migration crises, and economic damage. He criticizes the plan to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, the opaque handling of Venezuelan assets, and the naval blockade of Cuba, framing these as policies that harm US interests and regional stability.

• Rep. Jackson argues that revoking TPS for 350,000 Haitians is morally bankrupt and will collapse remittances that make up nearly 50% of Haiti's economy.
• He describes Venezuela's political situation as fragile, with US control over oil sale proceeds creating opacity and undermining the country's sovereignty.
• Jackson asserts that the US is effectively at war with Cuba through a naval blockade, economically asphyxiating the island and causing rising infant mortality and late-stage cancer.
• He warns that instability in the Caribbean will drive a manufactured migration crisis toward the United States unless policies change.
• Tariffs on building materials and appliances from Mexico, Asia, and South America are raising costs for US consumers, he notes.
• The congressman calls for more transparency and a clearer vision from Secretary of State Rubio on Venezuela and Cuba.
• The discussion touches on broader themes of US foreign policy in the Western Hemisphere and the lack of congressional oversight.