A recent memo from the House GOP Policy Committee indicates that House Republican leadership is backing President Donald Trump's interest in returning the Panama Canal to U.S. ownership. The memo, distributed by Chairman Kevin Hern, highlights Trump's concerns about China's influence over the canal and his intention to 'take it back.'
The document outlines the history of the Panama Canal, emphasizing that it was built by the U.S. between 1904 and 1914 and leased to the U.S. for nearly 75 years under the Hay–Bunau-Varilla Treaty of 1903. It mentions that Panama gained control of the canal under former President Jimmy Carter, a move criticized by Trump.
Republicans argue that Panama has violated the terms of the treaties by charging high transit fees and allowing Chinese companies to operate ports at both ends of the canal. They believe that Chinese investments in the canal zone breach the agreements on neutrality and fair transit fees.
Congress has granted the president broad authority over international commerce in emergencies, but GOP lawmakers are considering further easing restrictions. Rep. Dusty Johnson introduced a bill to enable Trump to repurchase the canal, while Rep. Riley Moore proposed expanding Trump's tariff powers. Rep. Andy Ogles also has a bill to authorize Trump to negotiate the purchase of Greenland.
The memo serves as a directive to House Republicans to support Trump's efforts to acquire the canal, potentially leading to legislative actions in line with the president's plan. This move could escalate tensions with the Panamanian government, which opposes Trump's proposal.
