The State Department defended its head of Cuba policy, saying both the U.S. and Cuba are better for her service despite Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., claiming she was responsible for the Biden administration's "weak" response to how the Cuban government is treating its people. BLACK LIVES MATTER BLAMES US, PRAISES CUBAN REGIME, SOCIAL MEDIA ERUPTSThe State Department responded with a full-throated endorsement of Mendrala and her capabilities. "Deputy Assistant Secretary Mendrala has years of experience – at the State Department, White House, and on Capitol Hill -- working to support human rights and advance the cause of democracy in Cuba," the State Department said. Mendrala's State Department bio confirms she has "led educational travel delegations" to Cuba for members of Congress and others. Rubio, who is Cuban American, has been a vocal supporter of the protesters as they face retaliation from their own government.

Source: Fox News July 15, 2021 13:52 UTC