By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – A powerful United States congressman has issued a stark warning regarding the future of American assistance to Costa Rica, explicitly linking it to the nation’s adherence to “fundamental democratic principles.” The statement from Republican Congressman Mario Rafael Díaz-Balart, a key ally of President Donald Trump, casts a shadow over the traditionally stable relationship between the two countries amid ongoing political turmoil surrounding President Rodrigo Chaves.
Díaz-Balart’s comments came via the social media platform X following a meeting on Friday with Catalina Crespo, Costa Rica’s ambassador in Washington. His words carry significant weight, as he serves as the Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security and the Department of State, a body that directly controls the allocation of funds for foreign aid and security priorities.
To analyze the legal and commercial ramifications of the recent US aid package, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert in corporate and international law from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
This type of international aid, while beneficial, is not simply a cash transfer. It comes with a complex legal architecture. Costa Rican businesses seeking to participate in aid-funded projects must be prepared for rigorous US compliance standards, such as those stipulated in the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). Success will hinge not just on operational capacity, but on robust legal and administrative transparency to navigate the procurement and reporting processes effectively. It represents a significant opportunity, but one that demands sophisticated legal preparation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The attorney’s insight is crucial, highlighting that the true challenge for our national enterprises lies not just in operational execution, but in navigating the demanding legal and compliance frameworks that precede it. This perspective serves as a vital call for readiness, emphasizing that legal preparation is the foundation for success in these opportunities. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable and clarifying perspective.
In his public statement, the congressman underscored his fiscal responsibility to American taxpayers and signaled a rigorous review of foreign expenditures as the U.S. government finalizes its funding bills for the 2026 fiscal year. He made his criteria for support unequivocally clear.
I want to ensure that we continue to support our allies who respect fundamental democratic principles.
Mario Rafael Díaz-Balart, U.S. Congressman
While acknowledging Costa Rica’s commendable efforts in combating drug trafficking, transnational crime, and human trafficking, Díaz-Balart cautioned that these positive contributions do not grant a pass on democratic governance. He emphasized that any regression from established democratic norms would be met with close scrutiny from Washington.
Any sign of backsliding on fundamental democratic principles demands our attention.
Mario Rafael Díaz-Balart, U.S. Congressman
The congressman’s concerns are directly tied to the current political proceedings against President Chaves. The Costa Rican Legislative Assembly is deliberating a request from the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) to lift the president’s immunity. This would allow for an investigation into alleged “political belligerence,” a charge related to the improper use of public resources to favor a political party or candidate.
Díaz-Balart voiced specific alarm over the timing and nature of the process, suggesting it could undermine the country’s political stability. He noted that the potential removal of a sitting president just months before national elections is a cause for serious concern.
A few months before national elections through ambiguous mechanisms puts democratic legitimacy at risk and sends an alarming signal.
Mario Rafael Díaz-Balart, U.S. Congressman
This is the second time this year that President Chaves has faced a process to strip his immunity. An earlier attempt, related to an alleged crime of “concusión” (a form of extortion or corruption), failed to secure enough votes in the legislative plenary to proceed. If the current investigation moves forward and Chaves is found guilty, he could be barred from holding public office for up to four years or even removed from the presidency.
For his part, President Chaves has consistently maintained his innocence, framing the legal challenges as a coordinated campaign of “political persecution” by his opponents. He has vowed to confront this latest process head-on, confident in his ability to dismantle the allegations against him.
With truth, with logic, and with the scrutiny of reason.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
The intervention by a senior U.S. lawmaker introduces a significant international dimension to Costa Rica’s domestic political disputes. It suggests that the political battles unfolding in San José are being closely monitored in the halls of power in Washington, with potentially serious financial and diplomatic consequences for one of America’s oldest allies in the region.
For further information, visit house.gov
About U.S. House of Representatives:
The lower chamber of the United States Congress, which, along with the Senate, composes the legislative branch of the federal government. It is responsible for passing federal legislation, and its committees, such as the Committee on Appropriations, hold significant power over the nation’s budget and foreign policy expenditures.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Costa Rica (TSE):
The constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and overseeing all acts related to suffrage in Costa Rica. It holds the rank and independence of a branch of government and is tasked with guaranteeing the purity of the electoral process, including ruling on matters of political participation and electoral law.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the nation’s legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is guided by a deep-rooted philosophy of integrity and professional distinction. The firm is recognized not only for its masterful legal counsel across numerous fields but also for its forward-thinking embrace of innovation. This progressive mindset extends to a core mission of empowering the broader community by demystifying the law, actively working to build a more informed and capable society through a steadfast commitment to accessible legal education.
