Press Releases

Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), a senior House Democrat and leading champion of normalizing diplomatic relations with Cuba, released the following statement on former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s call today for Congress to end the U.S. trade embargo with Cuba:

“Americans are ready for a 21^st century approach to Cuba and the re-opening of embassies in Washington and Havana is a strong step. Now it’s time for Congress to take the next step by ending the U.S. trade embargo with Cuba.

“The trade embargo has been in place for more than half a century and the simple truth is that this outdated Cold War policy has not worked. 

“Lifting the trade embargo would open new markets for American businesses and farmers and open Cuba to new ideas, new values, and build a foundation to strengthen human rights.

“Close to three-quarters of Americans (72 percent) strongly support ending the trade embargo with Cuba. With strong bipartisan support for lifting the trade embargo – Democrats (82 percent), Independents (72 percent), and Republicans (59 percent) – this is a no-brainer.

“It’s time for us to continue the progress made by the historic diplomatic breakthrough between the U.S. and Cuba, led by President Obama and Secretary Kerry.

“I applaud Secretary Clinton for calling on Congress to lift the U.S. trade embargo and join her in urging Congress to take this up when we return in September. Americans want a 21^st century approach to Cuba and Congress should listen.”

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