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February 25, 2020

Bernie Sanders Defends Praise for Fidel Castro's Literacy Program
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Democratic front-runner Bernie Sanders has faced attacks following his
praise of some aspects of former Cuban leader Fidel Castro's government.
On CBS's "60 Minutes," Sanders stated he opposed "the authoritarian
nature" of Castro's rule but lauded Cuba's literacy program. Sanders
reiterated his comments on a CNN town hall Monday night.

Sen. Bernie Sanders: "They went out, and they helped people learn to
read and write. You know what? I think teaching people to read and write
is a good thing. I have been extremely consistent and critical of all
authoritarian regimes all over the world, including Cuba, including
Nicaragua, including Saudi Arabia, including China, including Russia. I
happen to believe in democracy, not authoritarianism."

Cuban Americans in Florida hit back at the remarks, as did some of
Sanders's presidential rivals, including Pete Buttigieg, who tweeted,
"After four years of looking on in horror as Trump cozied up to
dictators, we need a president who will be extremely clear in standing
against regimes that violate human rights abroad. We can't risk
nominating someone who doesn't recognize this."


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