Congressman Cleaver Releases Statement on Trump’s Reversed Cuba Policies

(Washington, D.C.) – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II released the following statement upon hearing the news that President Trump has decided to rollback key elements of the current Cuban policies with the United States.

"President Trump's decision to reverse reformed policies with Cuba sets the United States back decades. From my experience, Cuba has been eager to do business with the United States. Cuba imports about 60-80 percent of its food, and Missouri farmers should have the opportunity to fill some of that demand. Missouri is a top producer of pork, corn, soybeans and rice, and total exports to Cuba could represent $1.4 billion annually for U.S. agriculture. The U.S. agriculture industry is not the only sector that would benefit from increased trade with Cuba. The energy sector, healthcare, as well as telecommunications and technology could all benefit from better relations with Cuba. Ultimately, Americans understand how important trade and diplomacy are for our national security and a thriving, innovating economy. I wish President Trump understood that as well."

Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II Missouri's 5th District

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee, the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, and also a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. For more information, please contact Heather Frierson at 816-842-4545 or Heather.Frierson@mail.house.gov.