Rubio Orders Silence on Foreign Elections: U.S. Shifts Global Democracy Policy
By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News
In a stunning departure from long-standing diplomatic tradition, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has directed American diplomats not to comment on the fairness or integrity of elections in foreign nations. The policy change was issued in a sensitive but unclassified cable dated July 17, obtained by Reuters.
The cable states that the U.S. State Department will no longer issue public statements or social media posts on foreign elections unless there is a “clear and compelling foreign policy interest.” When comments are made, they should focus solely on congratulating the winner and noting shared interests.
“Our message should be brief, focused on congratulating the winning candidate and, when appropriate, noting shared foreign policy interests,” the memo stated.
Diplomats were further instructed to avoid commenting on the legitimacy, fairness, or democratic values of any electoral process abroad. Any election-related message must come directly from the Secretary of State or the department’s official spokesperson. Statements issued without senior-level clearance are now strictly prohibited.
This policy shift comes amid mounting global scrutiny of democratic backsliding, and just weeks before Guyana’s September 1 elections.
U.S. Ambassador: Guyana Can Hold Free and Fair Elections
Despite the policy change in Washington, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, affirmed the country’s continued election support efforts. Speaking on the sidelines of a recent event, she disclosed that the Guyana Police Force has formally requested assistance from the U.S., with election security experts from Las Vegas and Miami-Dade expected to arrive soon.
“We’re coordinating with the Private Sector Commission, CARICOM, and other observers to ensure we’re not redundant,” said Ambassador Theriot. “The goal is for every polling station in the country to have international observers.”
When asked if Guyana was heading into a credible election, Ambassador Theriot responded:
“We believe this can be a free, fair, and transparent election — but only if the procedures are followed at every polling station.”
She added that regular engagements are ongoing between the U.S. mission and GECOM officials, including the Chairwoman, CEO, and Commissioners.
