Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement on the death of Cuban Dictator Fidel Castro:
"For the first time in decades Cuba has awoken to a world free of the tyrant Fidel Castro, who spent his lifetime brutalizing his people. Fidel Castro abused the human rights of Cuban citizens and watched Cuba sink further and further into poverty. Even as families were torn apart and millions fled to the shores of America through whatever means possible, the Castro regime refused to yield power.
"The current ruling regime is still governing the island with an iron grip. It is time to bring hope where hope has been limited, and it is time for the people of Cuba to choose a government through free and fair elections.
"The United States must continue to pressure the current regime to promote a free and open democratic society that allows for political, social, and economic freedom for all."