United States Senator Rick Scott recently engaged in a conversation with Cuban dissident José Daniel Ferrer shortly after Ferrer was released from prison, having endured three and a half years of confinement in Santiago de Cuba. Representing Florida, Senator Scott expressed his honor at speaking with Ferrer on the phone, where he heard firsthand the harrowing experiences endured under the Cuban regime. "I am incredibly proud of his resilience," Scott stated on his X account.
The Republican senator celebrated the fact that the leader of the Unión Patriótica de Cuba (UNPACU) is now safe and reunited with his family. "José Daniel MUST remain free and secure. I will continue to fight until every political prisoner is liberated," he emphasized.
Rick Scott's Advocacy for Cuban Political Prisoners
Rick Scott has been a prominent advocate among U.S. politicians for Ferrer's plight following his arrest on July 11, 2021. Ferrer was detained while attempting to join widespread protests in Santiago de Cuba. In March of last year, Scott demanded that the Cuban regime provide proof of life for the renowned activist, fearing for his safety amidst rumors of his potential assassination during the country's mass protests.
Marking the first anniversary of Ferrer's imprisonment in July 2022, Scott condemned President Joe Biden's handling of the situation, labeling it as disgraceful. He accused Biden of turning a blind eye to Ferrer's suffering and urged the president to demand an urgent humanitarian medical visit for Ferrer, who was held in isolation and subjected to physical and psychological torture by the regime.
Unyielding Support for José Daniel Ferrer
"I will not allow the suffering of José Daniel and the Cuban people to be ignored any longer," Scott asserted. "José Daniel's family reports that his health is rapidly deteriorating due to the brutal and frequent torture inflicted by Castro/Díaz-Canel’s thugs. Despite all this, his resolve and bravery remain unbroken. His response continues to echo: DOWN WITH THE DICTATORSHIP, DOWN WITH DÍAZ-CANEL, DOWN WITH THE CASTROS," the Republican politician remarked.
Rick Scott's Efforts for Human Rights in Cuba
What did Rick Scott promise José Daniel Ferrer?
Rick Scott promised to continue fighting for the release of all political prisoners in Cuba, ensuring that José Daniel Ferrer remains free and safe.
Why was Rick Scott concerned about José Daniel Ferrer's situation?
Rick Scott was concerned about Ferrer's safety due to his imprisonment, reports of physical and psychological torture, and rumors about his potential assassination following his participation in protests.
How did Rick Scott criticize President Joe Biden?
Rick Scott criticized President Joe Biden for failing to address José Daniel Ferrer's suffering, describing Biden's response to the situation as shameful and inadequate.