Trump Appoints Claver-Carone as US Envoy for Latin America Policy Shift

Mauricio Claver-Carone is set to become a pivotal figure in shaping the United States' approach to Latin America, as President-elect Donald Trump appoints him as the Special Envoy for the region. This appointment signals a strategic shift towards reasserting U.S. influence amid growing challenges.

Formerly a senior official at the U.S. Treasury and National Security Council during Trump's previous administration, Claver-Carone also led the Inter-American Development Bank between 2020 and 2022. His new role underscores Trump's commitment to “put America’s interests FIRST,” especially as Latin America faces significant political and social upheavals. “It is time to restore order in our own hemisphere,” Trump emphasized in his announcement.

Claver-Carone's vision for U.S.-Latin America relations includes a strong focus on economic cooperation and democratic revival. He has championed initiatives to expand trade agreements and boost investment in energy and infrastructure sectors across the Americas. "It's beyond time for U.S. agencies, together with U.S. investors, to aggressively pursue the capital-intensive, high-quality deals that abound throughout the region, without any self-imposed hindrances," Claver-Carone advocated.

A strong supporter of Trump's 'America Crece' program, Claver-Carone aims to revitalize this initiative, which seeks to enhance U.S. investments in Latin American infrastructure and energy, potentially countering China's growing influence in the area.

Although President Joe Biden had previously suspended America Crece, its revival could mark a significant policy shift under Trump's watch. Conservative voices have criticized Biden's stance on Latin America, pressing for a strategic realignment to bolster economic partnerships with democratic allies and impose stricter measures on authoritarian regimes.

Trump's choice of Claver-Carone aligns with the recent appointment of ex-Senator Marco Rubio to lead the State Department, suggesting a stronger Republican influence on U.S. diplomacy in Latin America. Pending Senate confirmation, Claver-Carone might begin his duties on a temporary basis once Trump takes office again.