Recent Commentary

  • Women Take Reins of Power in Latin America, But Not in U.S.

    The Progressive, Jan 16, 2011

    The inauguration of Brazil’s first female president is a stark reminder that the United States lags far behind its Latin American neighbors in electing women to power.

  • U.S. Policy Toward Colombia Desperately Needs Reassessing

    The Progressive, Nov 26, 2010

    With Republicans regaining control of the House, the pending U.S.-Colombia free trade accord is now more likely to be approved, as is more U.S. military aid to the government there. Both policies deserve an honest reassessment.

  • Marijuana Legalization Could Ease Mexican Drug War

    The Progressive, Oct 22, 2010

    Passage on Nov. 2 of California's Proposition 19, which aims to legalize recreational marijuana, could help ease the spiraling violence of Mexico's drug war. An approved Prop 19 gives Mexico the breathing room it needs for a fundamental course correction.

  • Obama Should Take Stronger Stance Against Ecuador Coup Attempt

    Unpublished, Oct 02, 2010

    The Obama administration needs to take a stronger stance against the recent coup attempt in Ecuador. Undemocratic power grabs in Latin America will continue unless Washington ends its habit of sending mixed messages.

  • Upcoming Climate Change Summit Could be Decisive

    The Progressive, Apr 15, 2010

    Poor countries and small island nations deemed the global climate talks in Copenhagen last year a death sentence. Bolivia is now leading efforts to build a bolder and more democratic initiative, hosting the World People’s Conference on Climate Change and the Rights of Mother Earth from April 19-22 in the city of Cochabamba.

  • Mr. President: Don't Make Colombia Another Afghanistan

    The Progressive, Aug 20, 2009

    The Obama administration should reconsider its decision to escalate U.S. involvement in Colombia's long-running civil war. The White House already has its hands full with Iraq and Afghanistan; it does not need to be drawn deeper into another bloody conflict.