Rep. Val Demings advances measures to fight China and Russia in Latin America

Florida Rep. Val Deming’s measures to counter Russian and Chinese influence in Latin America and the Caribbean made it out of committee on Wednesday.

The FY2023 Intelligence Authorization Act, which authorizes funding for intelligence programs, passed the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.

Included were two measures championed by the Democratic congresswoman aimed at protecting national security interests in the region from authoritarian threats. The first, in the bill’s Latin American section, requires the Director of National Intelligence to submit a report to Congress on Russia and China’s malign influence campaigns, financial investments, and diplomatic, military, or other ties to Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Today I voted to strengthen America’s efforts to counter our global adversaries and keep the American people safe,” Demings said in a statement.

“Russia and the Chinese Communist Party are investing billions of dollars in disinformation, propaganda, military infrastructure, and economic projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. These Russian and Chinese campaigns are a direct threat to Latin America and to U.S. national security and I’ve led the fight to help uncover and counter these hazards.”

The report must also document Moscow and Beijing’s objectives, messaging, threat to U.S. interests, gaps in existing intelligence, and opportunities for disruption

Demings also helped include language in the IAA to enhance hiring and promotion opportunities for women and minority staff who are critical to understanding and countering global threats.

“Additionally, I’ve led efforts to strengthen our intelligence community’s efforts to boost hiring, retention, and promotion of women and minority staff,” she added.  

“Diverse perspectives, especially at leadership levels, are critical as we work to attract the best and brightest and to understand the full spectrum of threats to America national security. We know that overcoming barriers and hurdles in these areas will better equip our nation to handle anything that comes our way.”

Formerly Orlando’s chief of police, Demings has represented Florida’s 10th congressional district since 2017. She announced last June that she would not seek re-election to the House and declared a bid to unseat Republican Sen. Marco Rubio in 2022.

She is currently trailing the GOP incumbent in the polls, but analysts say there is still room for change before election day.