William R. Richardson: “after much consideration, I find that I must vote against this bill. My decision is based primarily on my belief that…”

“after much consideration, I find that I must vote against this bill. My decision is based primarily on my belief that this is an intrusion on the President's prerogative to conduct foreign policy. This bill restricts Presidential authority and flexibility by codifying the embargo into law. The Helms-Burton conference report contains a provision requiring the President to seek approval of both the House and Senate before changing any aspect of the current embargo. This is an unacceptable infringement on Presidential authority. Further, this bill will interfere with the principles of free trade, exemplified by the North American Free Trade Agreement, an issue dear to my heart. Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean nations have already expressed their concerns for this infringement of their sovereignty. I must convey however, that I did strongly consider voting for this bill as a sign of protest against the downing of the two Hermanos al Rescate planes. That was an indefensible act, and I feel sadness for the people who were killed and their families. In addition, this is an emotional, and enormously important issue for my Cuban-American friends, and I have deep respect for their views, particularly Bob Menendez, Lincoln Diaz-Balart, and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. Accordingly, my decision to vote ``no'' is a difficult one given the support to have always given President Clinton and the Cuban-American community.”