Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Amid power outages, internet cuts, and food shortages under the illegitimate communist regime of Castro/Díaz-Canel, causing waves of peaceful demonstrations across Cuba, Senator Rick Scott issued a statement demanding an immediate vote on the bicameral Democracy Enforcement for Cuban Security and Tourism Opposition Act (DEMOCRACY). The DEMOCRACY Act holds the illegitimate Cuban communist regime accountable through severe sanctions and unprecedented financial pressure. Representatives Byron Donalds, Alex Mooney, Mario Díaz-Balart, and María Elvira Salazar introduced the complementary bill in the House of Representatives.

Senator Rick Scott, who has been condemning the oppressive actions of the Castro/Díaz-Canel regime towards the Cuban people since the protests began on July 11, emphasized the need for the United States to support the Cuban people. He stated, "It is time for a new day of freedom and 'Patria y Vida' in Cuba, and passing my DEMOCRACY Act would send a clear message that the United States will lead the nations of the world that stand for freedom and human rights in Cuba and Latin America."

Regarding the rumors of activist José Daniel Ferrer's possible assassination, Senator Rick Scott expressed concern, highlighting the failed appeasement approach by President Biden towards the regime, stating that it has only harmed the Cuban people. He urged the immediate adoption and approval of his DEMOCRACY Act to strengthen the fight for freedom in Cuba.

The DEMOCRACY Act authorizes the President to impose sanctions on individuals involved in activities with sectors of the Cuban regime responsible for human rights abuses or supporting international terrorism. It also targets those providing significant financial, material, or technological support to Cuban defense, security, or intelligence sectors.

The Act further empowers the President to impose sanctions on individuals involved in human rights abuses and corruption in Cuba, including members of the Communist Party of Cuba, the Ministry of the Interior, and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba, among others.

Additionally, the President is authorized to end these sanctions only upon certifying to Congress that Cuba has released all political prisoners, legalized all political parties, established a free press, and scheduled internationally observed free and fair multiparty elections in a timely manner.

The Act also mandates the President to provide unrestricted and reliable internet access to the Cuban people and establish a long-term solution for uncensored internet service in Cuba.

Senator Rick Scott's call for immediate action on the DEMOCRACY Act aligns with the ongoing peaceful protests in Cuba, urging support for the Cuban people in their quest for freedom and democracy amidst the oppressive Castro regime.