PHOENIX — Donald Trump indicated during a recent rally that his administration may seek to regain control of the Panama Canal, which he described as a “foolish” loss for the United States. He criticized the substantial fees charged to shippers using this essential transportation route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Speaking at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Arizona, Trump celebrated his return to the political spotlight while addressing a crowd of over 20,000 supporters. He claimed that his “dream team Cabinet” would catalyze economic growth, secure U.S. borders, and expedite resolutions to ongoing conflicts in Israel and Ukraine.
“I can proudly proclaim that the Golden Age of America is upon us,” Trump stated, emphasizing a renewed spirit in the country.
Despite recent tensions in Washington, Trump’s appearance underscored a sense of unity among conservatives. A contingent of Republicans had recently disregarded his directives during a contentious budget battle in Congress, which he monitored from his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.
In his remarks, Trump touched on his grievances, singling out the Panama Canal issue. “We’re being ripped off at the Panama Canal,” he lamented, asserting that the U.S. “foolishly gave it away” when control was transferred to Panama in 1999 under a treaty signed in 1977.
The Panama Canal plays a pivotal role in Panama’s economy, generating approximately one-fifth of its annual revenue. The canal had been significantly affected by drought conditions in Central America in 2023, leading to reduced shipping slots and increased fees for crossing vessels. Although normal weather patterns have since resumed, further price hikes are anticipated for next year.
Trump vowed that if he is re-elected, this “complete rip-off” would come to an end and raised the possibility of the canal being “returned to the United States of America in full and without question,” though he did not elaborate on the logistics of such a move.
At the gathering, Trump further recognized the impact of grassroots organizations like Turning Point USA in bolstering his support among critical voter demographics. He expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, “It’s not my victory, it’s your victory.”
Additionally, Trump announced Stephen Miran, a former Treasury Department employee, as his choice to lead the Council of Economic Advisers. He also highlighted a $1.1 million donation to his inaugural fund from Australian billionaire Anthony Pratt, who has previously contributed substantially to his political endeavors.
As Trump charts his course towards the future, his engagement at the rally signals a strategic focus on unifying party members and addressing significant issues like trade agreements, while maintaining a strong connection with his base.
