Staff Reports
A bold suggestion from President-elect Donald Trump has made waves among conservatives, as he proposes that the United States reclaim the Panama Canal. This proposal, shared during a series of posts on his social media platform, TruthSocial, highlights the historical significance of the canal to America while drawing attention to past missteps by politicians such as Jimmy Carter.
The Panama Canal, completed in the early 20th century, stands as a testament to American ingenuity, requiring tremendous resources and the sacrifice of many American lives during its construction. Over 38,000 workers tragically succumbed to diseases while tirelessly building this marvel, which has played an indispensable role in bolstering American trade and military capabilities. At the time, this monumental project transformed the U.S. into a global power, allowing for faster shipping routes between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Trump pointedly criticized the decision made during the Carter administration to transfer the canal to Panama for a mere dollar. Such a transaction, viewed through the lens of conservative principles, represents not only a poor business decision but a lapse in national sovereignty. In striking a nerve with many patriotic Americans, Trump underscored how the current management allows other countries, particularly China, to meddle in what should be a distinctly American interest. The notion that the canal, a cornerstone of U.S. commerce and security, is now subject to potentially exploitative foreign management is a bitter pill for conservatives to swallow.
'Complete Rip-Off' Will Stop: Trump Floats Making Panama Canal America's Againhttps://t.co/4bHmEE9ly6
— RedState (@RedState) December 22, 2024
The former president’s rhetoric aptly captures the frustration felt by many surrounding the exorbitant tolls imposed on American shipping interests by Panama. With over 70 percent of canal transits representing U.S. shipping, the superficial deal struck by Carter has come back to haunt American businesses and the Navy, as they navigate increasing costs to utilize a passage that America helped to create. The reference to the canal as a “complete rip-off” is not merely hyperbole; it reveals a deep-seated sense of betrayal felt by conservatives who see their government’s resources being squandered.
Moreover, Trump’s declaration that the canal is a “vested interest” of the United States reinforces the belief that America should maintain critical control over assets that directly impact its economy and national security. To many, the canal should not serve as a bargaining chip or a quaint gesture of goodwill; it represents a lifeline for trade, military logistics, and the nation’s ability to respond swiftly to global challenges. It is a point of pride, and any transgressions concerning its management will not go unnoticed by those who value American exceptionalism.
In light of these assertions, it is clear that Trump’s call to action resonates well within conservative circles. The debate surrounding the Panama Canal is not just about history; it is about reclaiming American pride and ensuring the country’s future is governed by principles that prioritize national interests over misguided international agreements. The suggestion to reclaim this vital asset presents an opportunity for a new chapter in American foreign policy, one that prioritizes American strength and pragmatism.
