Manatee Review

Rep. Vern Buchanan, currently serving in the U.S. Congress representing Florida’s 16th district, has recently shared several updates on social media regarding international affairs and health initiatives.

On February 3, 2025, Buchanan expressed gratitude towards President Biden and Secretary Rubio for Panama's decision to exit China's Belt and Road Initiative. He emphasized the strategic importance of this move by stating, "Thanks to @POTUS and @SecRubio, Panama has agreed to leave China’s dangerous Belt and Road Initiative, keeping the Panama Canal out of Beijing’s hands. The canal is far too critical to our national security to be subject to the Chinese Communist Party."

On February 4, 2025, Buchanan highlighted World Cancer Day as an opportunity to raise awareness about cancer's impact on communities. He stated his commitment to improving access to cancer care through legislative efforts by mentioning his support for the Lung Cancer Screening & Prevention Act: "Today is World Cancer Day, a time to raise awareness of cancer's tragic impact on our communities. We must make it easier to access cancer care, which is why I’m championing the Lung Cancer Screening & Prevention Act to ensure timely access to advanced screenings for lung…"

Later that day, Buchanan addressed chronic disease management by announcing a new bipartisan initiative with Rep. Jimmy Panetta. He noted that six in ten Americans live with at least one chronic disease and introduced the Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act: "A shocking six in ten Americans live with at least one chronic disease. Today, @RepJimmyPanetta and I introduced the bipartisan Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act—which passed the House in 2024—to expand coverage options for chronic disease treatment."