Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., plans to introduce a bill Thursday to authorize the president to purchase the Panama Canal and put it under U.S. control.

“President Trump is right to consider repurchasing the Panama Canal. China’s interest in and presence around the canal is a cause for concern,” Johnson said in a statement.

“America must project strength abroad — owning and operating the Panama Canal might be an important step towards a stronger America and a more secure globe.”

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