President Trump is ramping up pressure on Panama over control of the Panama Canal, even going as far as to suggest the potential use of military force to prevent China from exerting dominance over the vital waterway.

According to an overnight report from the Daily Mail, two military sources have indicated that the US Southern Command "has developed an array of potential plans to ensure America has full access to the Panama Canal."

During a CNN panel discussion last night, Scott Jennings addressed this growing concern, laying out why it is crucial for Trump to take action against China’s influence in the region. Despite attempts by a panelist to trip him up on the issue, Jennings delivered a strong and informed response, clearly explaining China's activities in the canal and why they pose a strategic threat.

You know that the black panelist (don’t know his name) thought he was going to stump Jennings when he asked him about Chinese control of the Canal, but Jennings knocked that one out of the park. This is why he has become so popular, because he’s as sharp as a tack.

Watch the full exchange below:

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.