North Miami-Dade News

Today, Western Hemisphere Subcommittee Chairwoman María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) and Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) presented their landmark Americas Act before the Council of the Americas at the Organization of American States (OAS). This comes at a time when China's influence in the Western Hemisphere is increasingly growing. The proponents of the Americas Act believe it to be an effective tool for the United States to demonstrate its commitment to its Latin American allies as a steadfast trading partner and ally.

"We know that Latin America has been forgotten over the last few decades," said Chairwoman Salazar. "The Americas Act sends a message to our Latin American neighbors that if they improve their democracies, solidify their judicial systems, protect freedom of expression, and free their markets, the United States will allow them to join USMCA, the gold standard of trade agreements."

The Americas Act is premised on the belief that nations in our hemisphere who value democracy and free markets should have easier access to doing business with the United States. The legislation aims to encourage U.S. companies operating in China to return to the United States and Western Hemisphere, thus creating jobs and opportunities while reversing migration incentives.

Miami, often referred to as the Gateway to the Americas, plays a pivotal role in international trade between the United States and Latin America. Over 70% of Florida’s exports are destined for Latin America. A significant number of Congresswoman Salazar’s constituents have Latin American heritage and understand the importance of preventing China from gaining further control over our hemisphere.

The bill is expected to significantly expand economic opportunity for Miami by unlocking potential trade with our allies. It envisages strong trading relationships characterized by mutual respect for democracy, human rights, and rule of law, which will help Miami maintain its status as a beacon of American liberty and prosperity.

Salazar serves as Chairwoman of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and is recognized as a leader in Congress on Latin American foreign policy. She continues to promote U.S. priorities in the region and represents Florida’s 27th congressional district.