A group of Cuban-American millionaires linked to the Republican Party met on Tuesday in Miami to support the Trump administration for democratic change in Cuba. They expressed willingness to invest millions on the island once democracy is established, requesting initial U.S. oversight. They plan further meetings, hoping Secretary of State Marco Rubio will attend the last one.
Business leaders including Ernesto Rodriguez, Michael Fux, Omar Sixto, and Nick Gutierrez attended the meeting organized to back the Trump administration. Rodriguez, an executive committee member, stated they seek "real and effective change in a democratic Cuba." The group plans at least three more meetings.
Michael Fux, who left Havana in 1958 and built his fortune in Miami's mattress industry, argued the U.S. should oversee the initial transition phase. "At least until Cuba gets back on its feet," he said, noting the country thrived before Castro.
Omar Sixto rejected Cuban Deputy Prime Minister Oscar Perez-Oliva's proposal, stressing investments would follow if Cuba becomes free, sovereign, and protects private enterprise via a constitution. Lawyer Nick Gutierrez, specializing in claims for properties confiscated in the 1960s, said "the freedom of the Cuban people is near" and praised the Trump administration's support.
The gathering coincided with controversy over the Trump administration's authorization of fuel exports from Florida firms to Cuba's private sector, including Hugo Cancio's business, which backs negotiations without preconditions. Rodriguez noted the event was for conservatives but they welcome others in future for economic backing.
