Mark Pocan

A State Department report, attributed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, claims Cuba is a major threat and a 'capital of 21st century communism,' but critics argue it is biased and designed to justify military action. The report links Cuba to U.S. social movements like Black Lives Matter and Antifa, a connection lawmakers and experts dismiss as unfounded and paranoid.

Fmr. U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel reacts to developments in the Iran war. Rep. Mark Pocan discusses his observations of suffering in Cuba. Prof. Radley Horton analyzes the climate crisis, and Adrian Wooldridge discusses his new book 'The Revolutionary Center' and the meaning of 'liberal' in current politics.

The U.S. Treasury and State Department imposed sanctions on Cuba’s Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) and several state-owned entities, including GECOMEX and GEMAR, as part of efforts to counter Cuban regime activities. The sanctions also targeted energy sector companies and enforcement organizations like the Brigadas de Respuesta Rápida. A group of Democratic lawmakers visiting Cuba criticized the Trump administration’s policies.

Four Democratic Congress members visited Cuba and compared the US energy embargo to a 'silent Gaza,' citing its severe impact amid an ongoing crisis. They met with Cuban officials but noted no current talks to lift the embargo, which has worsened blackouts, transportation, and medical access.

Democratic lawmakers expressed pride in the U.S. despite disagreements with President Trump, with Rep. Al Green calling for impeachment as an option to address concerns about the administration. Other Democrats, including Rep. Lloyd Doggett and Rep. Shri Thanedar, affirmed the nation's strengths in democracy and innovation while criticizing the current leadership. Republicans highlighted constitutional freedoms as key to the country's prosperity.

Two US House members urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to use diplomatic and legal tools to halt Israeli settlement construction in the West Bank, particularly in the E1 area. They argued that such development would undermine prospects for a contiguous Palestinian state.

Nurses at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison, owned by SSM Health, are organizing a union election with the Service Employees International Union. The campaign faces opposition from hospital management, and a rally with U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Black Earth) is planned. The election, supervised by the National Labor Relations Board, reflects broader trends of healthcare workers seeking union representation amid centralized healthcare systems.

Democratic National Committee chair Ken Martin faces mounting pressure to resign from congressional Democrats following the release of a flawed 2024 election autopsy report. Multiple House Democrats have publicly called for his resignation, citing poor leadership and the DNC's weak fundraising performance. The chaotic handling of the autopsy release has intensified existing concerns about Martin's leadership capabilities.

Hundreds of animal welfare activists clashed with Wisconsin deputies at Ridglan Farms, leading to the use of pepper spray, tear gas, and rubber bullets. Activist Wayne Hsiung was arrested for conspiracy to commit burglary, and authorities described the protest as non-peaceful despite claims of 'compassion.' The incident involved road blockades and attempts to breach the facility's barriers.