In the wake of Cuban dictator Fidel Castro's death, many leaders have spoken of the man with either reverence or contempt. President Barack Obama himself gave a rather diplomatic response that seemed a bit too friendly for some, and gave "condolences to Fidel Castro’s family, and our thoughts and prayers are with the Cuban people."
His friendliness to the Cubans in regards to Castro's death did not sit well for many, as they wished for a response that leant more toward condemning Castro's past deeds of terror, death, and dictatorship. Something more along the lines of Senator Rand Paul (R-KY).
The lesson of history is that violence is inherent to socialism. To Castro's death, I say good riddance. https://t.co/S4dvK5srTG— Senator Rand Paul (@Senator Rand Paul)1480265134.0
Furthermore, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) said Obama's comments were pathetic.
President Obama issued a pathetic statement on death of dictator #FidelCastro with no mention of thousands he killed & imprisoned. #Cuba— Marco Rubio (@Marco Rubio)1480175228.0
This may have lent to the recent decision of both Obama and Vice President Joe Biden skipping Castro's funeral next week according to the White House. Press secretary Josh Earnest says reporters should "stay tuned" for announcements should any U.S. official decide to attend.
Obama is the only sitting president in 88 years that has paid a visit to Cuba. When he did so, he was lambasted for taking a picture in front of a giant mural of murderous Marxist revolutionary Che Guevara. With his words and actions far too close to friendly to communist leaders, it's likely best that Obama put some distance between himself, his administration, and Cuba.