Senate Committee Chairman Probes Union Over Alleged Cuban Government Influence Campaign

The chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions has launched an investigation into whether a major American labor federation is advancing Cuba’s political agenda. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., directed written inquiries Thursday to the International Association of Machinists (IAM), which represents approximately 600,000 members, seeking disclosure of potential collaboration with Havana’s government.

Cassidy’s action follows revelations that the IAM has made trips to Cuba, adopted policy positions favoring the regime, disseminated messaging consistent with Cuban state interests, and hosted a Cuban diplomat at a union facility where he addressed members. The union declined to comment when contacted by news outlets about the allegations.

The senator expressed alarm that union dues may be financing efforts to reshape U.S. policy toward Cuba rather than benefiting American workers. “These examples raise serious concerns that IAM Union officials have used their positions within the union to advocate for policy objectives promoted by the Cuban regime as part of a foreign influence scheme,” Cassidy wrote in his inquiry.

Cassidy referenced the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft by Cuban military jets, which killed three American citizens and one U.S. permanent resident operating for the humanitarian organization Brothers to the Rescue. He argued that workers should not be forced to fund advocacy serving the interests of hostile nations.

David Ramírez Álvarez, second secretary at Cuba’s Washington embassy, addressed union members at Machinists Hall during a U.S. Hands Off Cuba campaign event in May. According to Cassidy’s letter, Ramírez Álvarez instructed attendees on methods to support Cuban policy objectives and counter U.S. positions toward the island.

Intelligence sources indicate Ramírez Álvarez has come under scrutiny by U.S. authorities for allegedly orchestrating an influence network across American territory. He guided union participants on lobbying tactics, legislative tracking, and national activism strategies to advance Havana’s interests.

The State Department released a July report documenting connections between Cuba’s communist government and American labor organizations. The assessment alleged that Havana maintains an extensive network of union contacts nationwide to advocate for policy changes, including embargo relief and removal from terrorism sponsor designations.

Cassidy cited video evidence showing IAM leadership pledging continued support for Cuban sovereignty and self-determination, posted by the Cuban Embassy. The senator contends the union has been exploited for propaganda purposes by the regime.

The senator’s inquiry demands specifics on whether union staff coordinate with Cuban officials during work hours, if the organization has received Cuban payments, and whether it has funded individuals with regime ties. Cassidy also requested comprehensive details on all union members and officers involved in Cuba-related advocacy and any consultations with Havana’s representatives.