Polls & Research

Americans Open to Relations with Cuba

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Many adults in the United States think it is time to end the policy of isolation towards a Latin American country, according to a poll by Ipsos-Public Affairs released by the Associated Press. 62 per cent of respondents think the U.S. should establish diplomatic ties with Cuba.

Fidel Castro has been the de facto leader of Cuba since 1959, following the conclusion of the revolution he led to overthrow Fulgencio Batista. In 1962, the U.S. imposed a trade embargo against Cuba.

In May 2002, U.S. president George W. Bush introduced his initiative for a new Cuba, declaring, "The United States has no designs on Cuban sovereignty. It's not a part of our strategy, or a part of our vision. In fact, the United States has been a strong and consistent supporter of freedom for the Cuban people. And it is important for those who love freedom on that beautiful island to know that our support for them will never waver."

In July 2006, the Cuban government announced a "provisional transfer of duties" to vice-president Raúl Castro, Fidel's brother, after the president suffered "an acute intestinal crisis, with sustained bleeding" which required immediate medical intervention. 54 per cent of respondents think it is unlikely for Cuba to embrace democracy after Fidel Castro dies or permanently steps down.

On Feb. 1, U.S. commerce secretary Carlos Gutierrez said the American government is willing to help Cuba during a potential transition into democratic rule without necessarily meddling in its internal affairs, declaring, "The future of Cuba is in Cuba. (...) If we can be of help, we are ready to help in that transition."

Polling Data

Do you think the United States should or should not establish diplomatic relations with Cuba?

When Fidel Castro dies or permanently steps down as president of Cuba, how likely is it that his regime will be replaced with a democracy?