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DNC Chair: 'Unbelievable Oppression' In Cuba Makes Continuing Embargo Necessary

C. DiMattei

The leader of the Democratic National Committee says the U.S. embargo of Cuba should remain in place, in spite of recent reforms in the Communist island nation.

Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz spoke before a crowd of over 500 people Friday at an event sponsored by the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches. 

The DNC chair says it doesn't make sense to lift the embargo, in light of what she calls the "unbelievable oppression" in Cuba.

"I think there needs to be some progress and some willingness on the part of the Cuban regime to demonstrate that they want to join the community of nations that share our values," said Wasserman Schultz.

She acknowledged that Cuba has made some strides in the area of human rights; most notably, a new law allowing Cubans to travel abroad without an exit visa.  But Wasserman Schultz says the measures don't go far enough to earn a trade relationship with the United States.

Christine DiMattei is WLRN's Morning Edition anchor and also reports on Arts & Culture.
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