President-elect Donald Trump made waves on Christmas Day with a fiery series of Truth Social posts.
Trump’s remarks, which included harsh language and pointed accusations, have drawn both support and criticism online and in the politisphere.
In his post, Trump lashed out at those whose sentences were commuted, describing them as “the 37 most violent criminals, who killed, raped, and plundered like virtually no one before them.”
He continued, “I refuse to wish a Merry Christmas to those lucky ‘souls’ but, instead, will say, GO TO HELL!”
President Biden, in a decision announced earlier this week, commuted the death sentences to life in prison, framing the move as part of his administration’s push for criminal justice reform.
Trump, however, has repeatedly criticized the decision, painting it as dangerous and out of touch with public safety concerns.
Trump Targets Canada and Panama
Trump’s Christmas message wasn’t limited to domestic issues.
He pivoted to foreign relations, aiming sharp criticism at both Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the situation in Panama.
Taking aim at Trudeau, Trump wrote, “Also, to Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada, whose Citizens’ Taxes are far too high, but if Canada was to become our 51st State, their Taxes would be cut by more than 60%, their businesses would immediately double in size, and they would be militarily protected like no other Country anywhere in the World.”
Trump also accused Chinese soldiers of “illegally” operating the Panama Canal, an allegation he tied to his broader criticism of U.S. foreign policy in the region.
“Merry Christmas to all, including to the wonderful soldiers of China, who are lovingly, but illegally, operating the Panama Canal (where we lost 38,000 people in its building 110 years ago), always making certain that the United States puts in Billions of Dollars in ‘repair’ money, but will have absolutely nothing to say about ‘anything,’” Trump wrote.
New Ambassador to Panama Announced
In line with his tough talk on Panama, Trump announced on Wednesday his nomination of Miami-Dade Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera as ambassador to the Central American country.
“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 stated.
He praised Cabrera, who has a background in Latin American affairs and previously served as Trump’s Florida state campaign director in 2020, for his expertise.
President José Raúl Mulino, meanwhile, reaffirmed Panama’s sovereignty, stating on Sunday, “The sovereignty and independence of our country is non-negotiable.”
We could use Alberta, but certainly not left wing Quebec. And thank Jimmy Cater again for giving Panama to the Chinese.