U.S. Official Landau Jabs at rubio with Visa Reference, Sparks Debate
mexico City – Former U.S. Under Secretary of State Christopher Landau engaged in a pointed exchange referencing visa authority, appearing to mock Senator marco Rubio following the Florida Republican’s criticism of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ recognition of the “Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence,” a LGBTQ+ religious order. The incident, highlighted in a recent El Financiero report, underscores Landau’s increasingly visible and sometimes controversial role in commenting on Mexican and U.S. political and cultural issues.
Landau’s remarks surfaced after he shared a photo on social media alongside a sign reading “El Quitavisas” – a nickname referencing his perceived power to revoke U.S. visas.when a user jokingly asked if Rubio’s visa could be revoked for criticizing the dodgers,Landau responded that “everyone” should fear “El Quitavisas.” The exchange quickly drew attention, raising questions about the appropriateness of a former diplomat seemingly wielding the threat of visa denial as a form of political commentary.
The incident follows Landau’s recent decision to revoke the U.S. visa of Melissa Cornejo, a Morena party council member in jalisco, Mexico, after she posted what he deemed “vulgar” comments online criticizing U.S. authorities’ response to migrant protests in California. Landau publicly stated he personally ordered the cancellation, adding, “Those who glorify the violence and the challenge to the legitimate authorities and to the public order… ‘fu** welcome in our country.'”
Landau’s actions and public statements have consistently drawn scrutiny, notably regarding the extent to which a former official should engage in potentially coercive commentary on visa matters. The latest exchange with Rubio adds fuel to this debate, highlighting a pattern of landau using his past position to weigh in on contentious issues and seemingly leverage the power associated with U.S. visa control.