119-HRES-1056 Journalist Public Summary
House resolution urging the U.S. to formally set aside the Monroe Doctrine and adopt a "New Good Neighbor" policy focused on non‑intervention, regional cooperation, and tighter oversight of sanctions; currently at the committee stage after being introduced on February 10, 2026.
Headline Summary
A House resolution says the U.S. should retire the Monroe Doctrine and replace it with a “New Good Neighbor” approach built on non‑interference, cooperation, and tighter checks on sanctions.
What It Does
The measure calls on the State Department to state clearly that the Monroe Doctrine no longer guides U.S. policy in the Americas. It urges creation of a “New Good Neighbor” policy that emphasizes respecting other countries’ sovereignty, working with regional groups, and following international law. Major proposals include: ending unilateral executive‑branch sanctions and working with Congress to lift sanctions mandated by law (including the Cuba embargo); adding stronger congressional oversight to emergency sanctions powers; automatically reviewing U.S. aid after coups; declassifying archives related to past coups and dictatorships; reforming the Organization of American States; backing climate and development financing (such as the Amazon Fund and a UN loss‑and‑damage fund); and supporting fairer voting power and pro‑growth, pro‑worker policies at international lenders.
Who’s For It
- Introduced by Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D‑NY) with several Democratic co‑sponsors.
- Supporters argue the Monroe Doctrine has too often been used to justify harmful interference, and that a partnership model—less sanctions‑heavy and more development‑focused—would improve regional stability, economic opportunity, and human rights.
Who’s Against It
- Likely opposition from Republicans and some Democrats who favor keeping traditional deterrence tools. They may argue the Monroe Doctrine still deters hostile powers, that broad sanctions are sometimes needed against abusive regimes, and that loosening them could reduce U.S. leverage or weaken counternarcotics and security efforts.
What’s Next
As of February 10, 2026, the resolution has been referred to the House Committees on Foreign Affairs, Financial Services, and Ways and Means. It may get hearings or a markup before any floor vote. Because it is a simple House resolution expressing the chamber’s view, it would not change law or require the President’s signature even if adopted.
Tone
Neutral, plain‑language overview for general readers.
Discussion