Carter arrived in Cuba this morning. Castro used to call him “Peanut Man.” I think that’s funny.
I don’t believe former Presidents should act as diplomats. Outside of office they can’t really represent any interest other than their own. It’s one thing to attend the Christmas party at the Mexican embassy, another all together to go some place like Cuba for the purposes of “dialogue.”
CARTER: It really hurt my feelings when you used to call me “Peanut Man.”
CASTRO: Lo siento mucho. ¿Qué si le llamo las “tuercas del señor?” which means I’m very sorry. What if I call you “Mister Nuts?”
If Peanut Man’s visit helps the people of Cuba in some way it’s worth it. Religious freedom especially. The 40-year-old embargo sure hasn’t.