President Donald Trump has announced a series of changes to the Obama-era Cuba policy, and is challenging the Cuban government to negotiate a better deal.Trump speaking this afternoon in Little Havana declaring the U.S. will not lift sanctions on Cuba until it releases all political prisoners and respects the Cuban people's right to freedom of assembly and expression.
The President is also calling for the legalization of all political parties, and free and internationally supervised elections. He says his new policy will also restrict the flow of American dollars to the military, security and intelligence services that are the core of the government led by Raul Castro. Trump has challenged Cuba to "come to the table" to strike a deal that serves both country's interests.
Cuban Americans gathering at Versailles Restaurant in Little Havana are divided as they react to the President's policy changes with Cuba.
Along with fighting for the Cuban people, the President is fighting for Governor Rick Scott to run for Senate.Before discussing his new Cuban policy, Trump told the crowd, "I hope he runs" against incumbent Sen. Bill Nelson next year.He then looked over at Scott and said, "Rick? Are you running?"Scott didn't respond, but in the past he acknowledged he was considering taking on Nelson.Nelson says he wants to stay in Washington for a fourth term.
Florida Senator Marco Rubio speaking at the event, giving a preview before doing so: