President-elect Donald Trump has named Miami-Dade County Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera as his choice to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to Panama, marking another significant appointment as he prepares to take office for his second term on January 20, 2025. This nomination, announced on Christmas Day, coincides with Trump's inflammatory rhetoric about the Panama Canal, where he alleges the Central American nation is "ripping off" American ships with exorbitant fees.
Trump made the announcement via his Truth Social account, stating, "I am pleased to announce... the United States Ambassador to the Republic of Panama, a Country... ripping us off on the Panama Canal, far beyond their wildest dreams." He expressed confidence in Cabrera's abilities, proclaiming, "Few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin – He will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nation's interests in Panama!" This sentiment is echoed by those familiar with Cabrera's work, including Rene García, who highlighted Cabrera's capability to navigate international relations effectively.
Cabrera, who has served as the Miami-Dade County Commissioner since 2022 and was previously Florida director of Trump's 2020 re-election campaign, expressed gratitude for the nomination: "Thank you, President Trump! I'm humbled and honored by your nomination to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to Panama. Let's get to work!" The burgeoning diplomat's political roots run deep; he is the son of Cuban exiles and has built his career on aligning closely with Trump’s policies, including his recent campaign slogan, 'Dade First.'
Trump's nomination of Cabrera also brings attention to broader issues surrounding the Panama Canal. The President-elect has repeatedly stated on social media his frustrations with the fees charged to U.S. vessels transiting the canal, calling them "ridiculous" and warning Panama to negotiate lower rates or risk the U.S. retaking control of the canal, which formally returned to Panamanian authority under treaties finalized by President Jimmy Carter.
Eduardo Gamarra, a professor of International Relations at Florida International University, remarked on the gravity of Cabrera's upcoming diplomatic mission, emphasizing the need for negotiations aimed at reducing fees. "I don’t think the U.S. will invade Panama over fees," Gamarra said. "Now, it may force the Panamanian government to reduce the fees, but if the Panamanian government reduces the fees, it will most likely reduce the fees for everybody (not only the United States)."
The Panama Canal, which was completed and opened for use more than 100 years ago, remains one of the world’s most significant waterways, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Trump indicated the necessity of U.S. vigilance over the canal’s operations, recently stating, "Merry Christmas to all, including to the wonderful soldiers of China, who are... operating the Panama Canal..." this statement has faced backlash as it inaccurately portrays Chinese influence on the canal's management.
Panama's President José Raúl Mulino Quintero has firmly rejected Trump's assertions about foreign control, declaring: "There are no Chinese soldiers... the world is free to visit the canal," reiterations emphasizing Panama’s sovereignty and its ownership of the canal. Mulino’s comments highlight Panama's longstanding diplomatic efforts to assert its independence from historical U.S. control.
If selected, Cabrera would be operating under considerable constraints, balancing Trump's aggressive trade rhetoric and high expectations for reducing shipping costs. His role as ambassador could extend beyond negotiating fees to addressing issues surrounding illegal immigration to the U.S., positioning him as a key player in U.S.-Panama relations which are under scrutiny amid Trump's America First agenda.
Despite Cabrera's promising career and strong backing from Trump, it remains unclear how he will navigate the nuanced waters of international diplomacy, particularly with his predecessor's controversial stance. Confirming Cabrera also marks the continuation of Trump's strategy to appoint loyalists who align closely with his policies and political vision.
Trump’s aggressive statements about reclaiming control of the Panama Canal undoubtedly influence Cabrera’s nomination, adding complexity to his expected role. While some view these comments as mere negotiating tactics, others concern how they may affect U.S.-Panama relations overall.
With the Senate confirmation looming for Cabrera, his ability to harmonize Colombia's border security efforts—linked to U.S. immigration policy—coupled with managing Panama's security around the canal, could be key metrics for assessing success or failure during his potential tenure as ambassador. Only time will tell if Cabrera's appointment signals a new chapter for Panama-U.S. relations or serves as another episode of tumultuous trade negotiations.
