Republican leaders have urged President Biden to help provide internet access to Cubans during the country’s ongoing anti-communist protests.
Floridan Republicans Gov. Ron DeSantis and Sen. Marco Rubio have urged President Biden to restore internet access to Cubans after the country’s communist regime shut it down.
Cuba’s communist regime cut off internet access after anti-communist, pro-freedom protests broke out across the island. The shutdown was intended to disrupt the free flow of information as the protests continue.
“The one thing that communist regimes fear the most is the truth. And if we’re able to help Cubans communicate with one another, also communicate to the outside world, that truth is going to matter, that truth, I think, will be decisive,” Gov. DeSantis said. “And so, Mr. President, now’s the time to stand up and be counted.”
DeSantis added that every option should be considered, including the use of offshore and satellite technology to provide internet to Cubans.
This is a moment we cannot let pass.
Pleased to join @GovRonDeSantis + Florida leaders @LtGovNunez, @RepMariaSalazar, & @RepCarlos in Miami to urge the Biden Admin’s full backing for extending Internet service to Cubans to support their fight for freedom as Desantis called for. https://t.co/iZaIR3CKT3 pic.twitter.com/nvo1mkNQUX
— Brendan Carr (@BrendanCarrFCC) July 15, 2021
In addition, Sen. Rubio sent a letter urging Biden to provide internet to Cuba.
“I urge the administration to immediately authorize and allocate additional funding to provide internet to Cuba using the existing capacity of innovative American firms and readily available funding sources. In addition, the administration should move to shore up democracy broadcasting, internet access and programming through the Office of Cuba Broadcasting,” Rubio said.
The effort to provide internet—and thus, accurate information—to the people of Cuba is an effort that all Americans can get behind. As citizens of this great nation, we are always quick to stand up for freedom and give our support to those who are fighting for it.