Net Assessment

Competing for Influence in Latin America

Mar 14, 2024

Exploring neglected US-Latin America ties, competing with China, and addressing immigration effects. Discussing historic neglect, strategic investments, and countering China's influence. Highlighting global issues like Haiti crisis, TikTok saga, and European security disputes. Calling for a new Truman Commission to address war profiteering and analyzing budgetary challenges. Reflecting on conference participation and upcoming collaborations in East Asia.

01:00:58

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Quick takeaways

The United States must enhance its engagement in Latin America to counter China's influence.

Former President Trump's indecision on TikTok divestment raises concerns about his changing stances.

Senator Wicker's warning on inadequate shipbuilding funds emphasizes the importance of maintaining investments in this sector.

Deep dives

The Neglected Crisis in Haiti

The crisis in Haiti, marked by gang warfare, escape of 3,700 inmates from a prison, and preventing the president from returning, is escalating rapidly. This situation demands urgent attention and effective solutions beyond the deployment of peacekeepers.

Introduction

2min

Repositioning US Engagement: Latin America's Strategic Value

26min

Navigating US-Latin America Relations

22min

International Issues and Political Disputes Analysis

5min

Proposing a New Truman Commission and Analyzing War Profiteering

2min

Government Officials' Challenges and Standouts in Budgetary Decisions

2min

Discussion on Conference Participation and Strategic Trade-offs in East Asia

2min

Chris, Melanie and Zack take a close look at the United States’ relationship with countries in Latin America. Why has the United States neglected Latin America in the last several decades? Should the United States government up its game in order to compete for influence with China in its own hemisphere? And, if so, how? And will improving U.S. ties in the region help to alleviate the immigration situation on the southern border?

Grievances for Donald Trump's love for TikTok, Americans ignoring Haiti, and Emmanuel Macron and Olaf Scholz who can't get along. Attas to Sen Roger Wicker for noting for months that there won't be enough money for shipbuilding — and being right!; to the members of the House who voted to compel TikTok to divest from Bytedance; and to Sen. Bernie Sanders and five other senators for calling for a new Truman Commission to root out wartime profiteering.

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