Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar | Maria Elvira Salazar Official Website
Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar | Maria Elvira Salazar Official Website
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Chairwoman of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), joined Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) in sending a letter to the State Department and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The representatives are demanding an explanation for what they perceive as inappropriate interference in Guatemalan internal affairs.
Representatives Salazar and Davidson were also joined by Representatives Andy Ogles (R-TN), Keith Self (R-TX), Scott Perry (R-PA), Carlos Gimenéz (R-FL), Chris Smith (R-NJ), Andy Harris (R-MD), Debbie Lesko (R-AZ), Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and Brian Mast (R-FL).
The use of U.S. federal resources, such as sanctions or influence through foreign aid, to achieve preferred political outcomes in another country is seen as violating that country's sovereignty and freedom. In this case, the State Department is accused of using its powers to impose progressive ideals on a conservative nation.
"U.S. State Department officials and USAID have no legitimate authority to press for ideological changes in Guatemala that compromise its Constitution or deeply rooted values related to life and family," wrote Representative Salazar. "The Administration's progressive ideological agenda is a national security concern, as it is increasing anti-American sentiment abroad, particularly in conservative nations."
Congresswoman Salazar has repeatedly denounced what she sees as poor treatment of our Latin American allies by the Biden Administration, including Guatemala. Instead of working with Guatemalan officials to address issues affecting our two countries, President Biden chose to sanction Attorney General Consuelo Porras, prioritizing ideology over U.S. national interest. The United States should treat our allies as sovereign nations rather than imposing progressive values.
To read the full letter, click here.
Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar represents thousands of Guatemalan-Americans in Florida's 27th Congressional District.
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