Armando --
I was looking forward to hearing what you thought about Bosch's documentary. I quite enjoyed it. I had not seen the footage of Castro as a young man -- he really was a compelling figure. Bosch clearly had a strong point of view (which I share, actually) but did a nice job of showing Fidel's dark side while not minimizing his abilities or impact on Cuba, the US and the world.
I also wanted to note that -- in response to many of the comments on the thread -- that many folks clearly do not understand the "Miami Cubans." There seems to be an assumption that these folks are all the descendents of Batista rather than the -- mostly -- wonderful bunch of people they are.
The Miami Cubans do fanatically support Bush -- because of Elian -- but they are not fascists, uninterested in the poor, health care or their island. I don't agree with their support of Bush (or the Diaz Balerts, Ros Lehtinen and others) but understand why the community votes the way they do -- because of Castro and the strong love for their culture and country that -- in their view -- was stolen from them. It is also important to note that many of the Miami Cubans were voting Democratic until Elian. Understanding why the Cubans supported Elian so strongly is really, really important. I'm curious as to Armando's views per Elian.
I moved to Miami right after the FBI raided the house and grabbed Elian. Right after, the Cubans ran out on Flagler and started overturning cars. I was appalled. I was already pre-disposed to not be sympathetic to the "Miami Cubans" or "gusanos" as my Mexican friends (and Castro) called them. But, over time I realized I just didn't get it. This boy represented all of these folks and their families -- a mother dying to get her little boy out of Cuba and then having Castro -- with the help of the US -- somehow snatch him back. I still don't agree with how the community reacted to Elian, how they blamed Gore and how local Cuban Democrats -- like Alex Penelas -- sold Al out. But, I understand it and think that -- if I were Cuban -- I probably would feel the same way.
Many more Cubans voted Democratic in the last election. The old guard and abuelitas on Calle Ocho (who have been the Diaz Balart's base) are on the decline. Many younger Cubans also think the Boycott (and total rejection of the regime) is foolish. These Miami Cubans will support Democrats. They -- like the rest of the Cubans -- come from an intellectually strong and diverse political culture. We can continue to increase Cuban American support. And, if we can do this, we can win Florida. But, the quickest way to make sure this doesn't happen is to embrace a 1960s glorification of Castro (and stereotype of the "Miami Cubans").
If you want "sources" about "Miami Cubans" go read the Miami New Times (www.miaminewtimes.com) online. You'll find the corruption, ridiculous support of Bosch (who lives in Miami), Brothers to the Rescue and others but also get a sense of why the "Miami Cubans" are one of the coolest ethnic groups in this country. Or better yet, go to Cafe Versailles and get a cafecito. You might actually run into Bosch and other Bay of Pigs veterans but you'll get a much better idea about what the Miami Cubans are all about. It is a crying shame that they have been at odds with the Democratic Party. We'd be the better for it if we could bring more of 'em into our tent.