In a surprising twist, just a day after President-elect Donald Trump hinted at retaking the Panama Canal, House Republicans jumped into action. They’ve already started drafting a plan to pave the way for Trump to negotiate its return.
Yes, you read that right.
Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) wasted no time and introduced a bill on Wednesday that would give Trump the green light to start talks with Panama. The aim? To reacquire the iconic Panama Canal for the “symbolic amount” of just $1. The catch? Trump would need to report back to Congress with all the juicy details of these negotiations, including any potential or expected outcomes.
“President Trump is right to consider buying back the Panama Canal,” Johnson declared confidently. “China’s growing interest and presence near the canal is concerning. America needs to show strength on the global stage, and owning the canal could be a big step toward a stronger, more secure world.”
But wait, it gets spicier.
Just a day earlier, Trump didn’t rule out using military force to take back the canal. Yes, military force. The canal, which the U.S. handed over to Panama decades ago, has always been a sore spot for some Republicans who argue the U.S. should still control it, given that it built and paid for the monumental shipping route.
Trump, never one to shy away from bold claims, recently accused Panama of overcharging U.S. vessels “exorbitant prices.” He even threatened to take full control of the canal if those prices weren’t reduced, stating it would be done “without question.”
Unsurprisingly, Panama was quick to clap back. Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino didn’t mince words, asserting, “Every square meter of the Panama Canal belongs to PANAMA.” He also brushed off Trump’s accusations, pointing out that all countries are charged equally for using the canal.
Meanwhile, back in the U.S., not everyone is on board with the idea.
Democratic leaders in the House swiftly dismissed the proposal. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) didn’t hold back, saying, “We’re not sent to Washington to invade Greenland, rename the Gulf of Mexico, or seize the Panama Canal by force.” Ouch.
As for when this bill might see a vote? That’s still up in the air, but one thing’s for sure: Trump’s Panama Canal idea has already stirred up plenty of debate.
What’s Next?
Will the U.S. try to buy back the Panama Canal? Could it lead to a new chapter of international drama? Only time will tell.