RNC Criticizes DSA for Praising Fidel Castro and Calls for Rubio's Prosecution

The Republican National Committee (RNC) stated on August 20, 2026, that the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) could harm the Democratic Party's prospects in the upcoming elections after the DSA praised Fidel Castro and called for the prosecution of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. RNC national press secretary Natalie Baldassarre claimed that Democrats are adopting policies similar to those that have led to economic hardships in countries like Venezuela and Cuba. Rubio, who has condemned Castro's legacy, referred to him as a failure and warned against emulating his example. The DSA characterized Castro as a symbol of anti-imperialist struggle and accused Rubio of leading a genocide through U.S. sanctions against Cuba. The White House rejected the DSA's claims, attributing Cuba's economic issues to its communist government and expressing a willingness to improve relations with Cuba. A recent State Department report labeled Cuba as the 'capital of 21st century communism' and identified the DSA as a group that supports pro-Cuba activism.