Trump names Kevin Marino Cabrera U.S. ambassador to Panama

MIAMI - President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that Miami-Dade County Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera will serve as U.S. ambassador to Panama.

"I am pleased to announce that Kevin Marino Cabrera will serve as the United States Ambassador to the Republic of Panama, a Country that is ripping us off on the Panama Canal, far beyond their wildest dreams," Trump said.

Cabrera's pick comes after Trump said recently that the U.S. should take over the canal unless its "ridiculous" shipping fees were lowered. He also accused Chinese soldiers of illegally operating the canal in a Truth Social post.

In a video message on Sunday, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino said the canal would remain in Panama's control despite threats from Trump. He also denied China of having any added influence over the waterway.

"Kevin is a fierce fighter for America first principles. As a Miami-Dade County Commissioner, and Vice Chairman of the International Trade Consortium, he has been instrumental in driving Economic growth, and fostering international partnerships. In 2020, Kevin did an incredible job as my Florida State Director and, this year, advanced our MAGA Agenda as a Member of the RNC Platform Committee," Trump continued.

The U.S. began building the Panama Canal under President Theodore Roosevelt in 1904. Opened in 1914, the 51-mile artificial waterway is a key trade route for major shipping between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

The canal is also used as a shortcut for commercial shippers, who use the canal instead of going the 8,000 nautical miles around Cape Horn on the southern tip of South America to transport goods and services.

Beginning with the Carter administration in the late 1970s, the U.S. officially handed over canal control to Panama in 1999.

"Few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin - He will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nation's interests in Panama," Trump added.

Cabrera currently serves District Six on the Miami-Dade County Commission, which includes Miami, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Miami Springs, Virginia Gardens, West Miami, and unincorporated neighborhoods of the county.

Born in Miami to Cuban exiles, Cabrera went to South Miami Senior High School and graduated with honors from Miami Dade College. He also received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida International University, where he graduated cum laude.

"Thank you, President Trump! I’m humbled and honored by your nomination to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to Panama," Marino Cabrera said. "Let’s get to work!"