Jimmy Carter praises Obama for ‘political courage’ on Cuba

Former President Jimmy Carter has President Barack Obama’s back on Cuba.

During an appearance Thursday morning on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” Carter said Obama showed “political courage” in reestablishing relations with Cuba.

“This is the kind of thing that has been long overdue, and I’m very proud and grateful that President Obama has shown such wisdom and also I think political courage in taking these long overdue steps,” Carter said.

Carter’s statement comes a day after Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, said Obama is ‘worst negotiator’ since Carter.

Carter, who has made trips to Havana, stressed the move will be good for both countries.

“I know the Castro brothers quite well, and I think this will not benefit them, it will benefit the people of Cuba,” Carter said. “That’s the main thing.”

And his message to Congress?

“I think this openness of communication will be much better, there will obviously be more trade, commerce, visitation back and forth, which I think will promote democracy,” Carter said. “Congress has nothing to say about which country is recognized diplomatically.”

Overall, Carter says it will have a much bigger impact than just economically.

“I think this will open up the Cuban people to the realization that they need to move towards more freedom and more democracy,” he said.