Rep. Sam Farr, D-Carmel, released the following statement after learning that Alan Gross was released from prison in Cuba and President Obama’s speech about modernizing U.S.-Cuban relations. Farr traveled to Cuba to meet with Gross in May and has pushed for normalized relations with Cuba throughout his career:
 
“It is long overdue for Alan Gross, his wife Judy and his family to be reunited, especially during Hanukkah. I met with Alan in May in Cuba and it is wonderful to see him back on U.S. soil. His release is the first step towards a new era of U.S.-Cuban Policy. 
 
“When I traveled to Colombia in 2012 for the Summit of the Americas with President Obama, it was clear that the United States stood alone in our antiquated policy towards Cuba. I applaud the President’s decision to join the rest of our neighbors in the hemisphere and develop a modern relationship with Cuba.
 
“Today, the President outlined a bold path forward. After 50 years, our embargo has done nothing to improve the lives of the Cuban people. I have pushed for a new policy towards Cuba and was encouraged to hear many of the changes I have fought for included in the President’s plan. I was particularly glad to hear a renewed emphasis on people-to-people engagement; the American people are the best ambassadors for American values. The President took historic steps today and I look forward to working with him and my colleagues in Congress to develop a mature relationship with Cuba.”