When queried about President-elect Donald Trump’s recent statements that the U.S. should seize control of the Panama Canal and that he would acquire Greenland, Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) stated that voters gave him a “mandate” to do just that.
The canal was constructed by the United States in the early 20th century. Panama was granted some control over the passage in 1977, but it was wholly ceded to Panama in 1999.
“The United States has a vested interest in the secure, efficient, and reliable operation of the Panama Canal, and that was always understood,” Trump recently wrote on his Truth Social account regarding the canal.
“We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands! It was not given for the benefit of others, but merely as a token of cooperation with us and Panama. If the principles, both moral and legal, of this magnanimous gesture of giving are not followed, then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question. To the Officials of Panama, please be guided accordingly!” he added.
On Saturday, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with the increasing fees that operators pay to transport products through the canal.
Kellyanne Conway, a guest presenter on Fox News, inquired about Trump’s statements on Monday evening.
“Senator, I think many people have questions tonight about the Panama Canal, about Greenland, about President Trump issuing warnings about tariffs to comply or incentivize other countries’ behaviors. As a sitting United States senator, walk us through how this all works and why it’s important.” Conway said.
The senator responded by ostensibly implying that the purported mandate that voters granted to Trump encompasses the retaking of the canal and the acquisition of Greenland.
“Kellyanne, the American people have given President Trump a mandate. They are tired of our nation not putting Americans first. And we have seen the Biden administration have an America-last policy. So, when it comes to dealing with the Panama Canal and making certain that China is not being advantaged in this, and America disadvantaged, of course. Let’s put this issue on the table and talk about it.” Blackburn said in response.
“When you talk about securing our nation, that is where Greenland comes into the conversation, and being strategic and how we’re going to keep this nation safe. That is what Americans want to see.” she added.
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