The Illusion of Doctrinal Shifts in Latin America
THE CLAIM: The article suggests that 'progressive Democrats' are actively working to reverse specific policies and approaches attributed to the Trump administration in Latin America, focusing on perceived departures from diplomatic norms and the re-emphasis on multilateralism and human rights. THE EVIDENCE: The Trump administration's approach to Latin America, as often described by its critics,
involved a transactional and often unilateral stance, prioritizing immediate perceived U.S. interests over long-term alliance building or, ostensibly, democratic principles. This included support for right-wing governments regardless of human rights records, and aggressive stances against socialist governments in the region. However, the 'Trump Doctrine' is not an aberration but rather a blunt
articulation of underlying U.S. interests that have historically manifested through various ideological guises. THE CONTRADICTIONS: The idea that Democratic administrations represent a fundamental ideological counterpoint to Republican ones in Latin America often disintegrates upon historical scrutiny. For instance, while progressives may criticize Trump's antagonism towards certain left-leaning
governments, previous Democratic administrations have also supported interventions or destabilization efforts against democratically elected leaders deemed unfriendly to U.S. interests. The 2002 attempted coup against Hugo Chavez in Venezuela, which saw tacit U.S. support, occurred under a Republican administration, but the underlying mechanisms of influence predate and postdate it across party