Critics proud to be targeted by Cuban regime meddling in US elections
With the presidential election looming just 90 miles off the U.S. mainland, the Communist Cuban government is once again attempting to influence down-ballot races as it did two years ago. One particular target-rich area is South Florida, home to a large population of Cuban émigrés and Cuban-Americans who fled the regime controlled by the Castro brothers.
In a recent briefing with reporters, an ODNI official confirmed that the Cuban government is trying to counter American candidates who oppose the communist regime, as reported by the Miami Herald.
Back in 2022, during the previous election cycle, the intelligence community uncovered Cuba’s efforts to “denigrate” certain candidates. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, R-Fla., who hails from Cuba and represents part of Miami-Dade and the Florida Keys, believed he was one such target of Cuban interference.
Other lawmakers suspected of being targets of Cuban meddling included Mario Diaz-Balart and Maria Elvira Salazar, both Republicans from Miami. Salazar, known for representing “Little Havana,” stated that she is the “No. 1 enemy… in Congress” of Miguel Diaz-Canel’s regime in Havana.
Gimenez proudly wears the target placed on him by Cuba as a badge of honor, conveying his determination to outlast the regime in El Capitolio Nacional. Diaz-Canel is the first non-Castro ruler of the island since the overthrow of Fulgencio Batista in 1959.
The lawmakers in South Florida, including Salazar, Gimenez, and Diaz-Balart, are resolute in their quest for freedom for the Cuban people, not backing down in the face of Cuban interference in U.S. elections.
Rep. Byron Donalds from Naples also condemned Cuba’s actions, calling the Communist Cuban regime oppressive and emphasizing South Florida’s commitment to freedom and human rights.
Although much of the report on Cuban interference was redacted, the unredacted portions revealed that Havana sought to undermine the electoral prospects of specific U.S. congressional and gubernatorial politicians perceived as hostile. The report also pointed out that political parties across the spectrum were targeted, with South Florida’s strong ties to Cuba making it a prime focus for influence operations.
In addition to targeting politicians, the Cuban government has also attempted to influence American voters through the media. Building relationships with journalists who share their views on Congress’ critics of Cuba has been a part of their strategy.
Despite these challenges, the individuals targeted by Cuban interference remain steadfast in their commitment to standing up for democracy, freedom, and the rights of the Cuban people. The Cuban regime’s attempts to sway elections in their favor will not deter these lawmakers from their mission.
