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WCA 2026: Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar on Congressional Priorities in the Western Hemisphere

The congresswoman outlined her view on the U.S. role in facilitating future democratic transitions in Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.

Speakers

  • Maria Elvira Salazar, Congresswoman
  • Kevin Sullivan, Vice President, Washington Office, Americas Society/Council of the Americas (moderator)

In a conversation at the 56th Washington Conference on the Americas, Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) spoke to AS/COA Vice President Kevin Sullivan about how the White House's renewed interest in the Western Hemisphere could lead to political changes in Cuba and Venezuela, and eventually Nicaragua. Salazar described congressional efforts to advance negotiations on a date for elections in Venezuela, prospects for a democratic transition in Cuba following the U.S. indictment of Raúl Castro, and the possibility that "right after Cuba, Nicaragua will be next."

The congresswoman also laid out her vision for immigration reform, referencing the Dignity Act she submitted in 2025 to Congress.

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