Rubio, Diaz-Balart accuse bureaucrats of undermining Trump's hard-line Cuba policy

[Judi Lynn]

By SABRINA RODRIGUEZ 11/08/2017 04:21 PM EST Updated 11/08/2017 03:54 PM EST

Two Florida Republicans who led opposition to former President Barack Obama's push to normalize relations with Cuba are accusing pro-engagement federal bureaucrats of watering down President Donald Trump's effort to walk back some of Obama's policies.

“It is clear that individuals within the bureaucracy who support the former administration’s Cuba policy continue to undermine President Trump,” Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart said in a statement responding to regulations released Wednesday morning by the Treasury and Commerce departments. “I look forward to working with the president to ensure that his policy is fully implemented, and that the regulations are entirely consistent with his intent, unlike the ones announced today.”

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The regulations also drew criticism — but for far different reasons — from Engage Cuba and other groups that support increasing trade and engagement with Cuba. They contend the regulations are counterproductive to the interests of Americans as well as Cubans.

“These new regulations are a kick in the gut to Cuban entrepreneurs who are struggling to support their families. Americans are significantly contributing to the growth of Cuba’s private sector,” said James Williams, president of Engage Cuba, a coalition that supports normalized relations. “Today's announcement will only make it harder for Americans to travel to Cuba and support the growing private sector.”

More:
https://www.politico.com/story/2017/11/08/rubio-diaz-balart-accuse-bureaucrats-of-undermining-trumps-hard-line-cuba-policy-244707