[livius]

If that is true, then why are Cubans who are trying to escape to the US turned back?

I can't remember exactly when this started, but I think it was under either Carter or Clinton. At any rate, while they said it was to discourage Cubans from attempting a risky voyage, it was really to suck up to Fidel.

[Las Vegas Ron]

Thanks, guess I'll have to it the books on this one.

I've never heard the notion that Cuba was still an American Protectorate after Fidel seized power.

Not that that applies to Rubio as his parents were born before Fidel came to power.