WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — After President Donald Trump’s pledge to regain control of the Panama Canal, lawmakers in Congress are taking a closer look at the key shipping channel. 

U.S. cargo accounts for about 75% of Panama Canal traffic. 

“These goods are the clothes on your back, the shoes on your feet, and the phones likely in your hands,” World Shipping Council President Joseph Kramek told Senators.

But some Senators say those goods and national security could be at risk if adversaries control the Panama Canal.

“We cannot turn a blind eye if Panama exploits an asset of vital commercial and military importance, and we cannot stay idle while China is on the march in our hemisphere,” Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) said. 

Sen. Cruz and others questioned China’s presence in the Panama Canal at a hearing Tuesday. 

It comes as President Trump promises to retake the waterway the U.S. gave to Panama in a 1977 treaty. 

“We’re taking it back,” President Trump said. 

The president argues that treaty is being violated — citing unfair fees on American shippers and China’s growing presence. 

“America is sleepwalking into a carefully laid Chinese trap,” Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) said. 

Senators like Sen. Schmitt point to Chinese ports on both ends of the canal, and China’s building of a bridge there. 

“China has made no secret of its ambitious policies to gain influence at ports throughout the globe,” Federal Maritime Commission Commissioner Daniel Maffei said. 

Maffei says the U.S. should bolster its maritime strategy. 

“All of us should lose a lot more sleep than we’re losing,” Maffei said. 

FMC Chairman Louis Sola says the Senate should take another step. 

“Confirming a U.S. ambassador in Panama is critical to advancing our national and economic interests,” Sola said. 

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to visit Panama on his first foreign trip in office.