Nearing a decision on a presidential run in 2016, Jeb Bush on Tuesday pushed a muscular brand of foreign policy after what he characterized as an era of weakness during Barack Obama’s presidency.

His speech to a conservative Cuban-American group marked the second day in a row in which the former Florida governor offered harsh words for the Obama administration. His remarks drew distinct differences between himself and Hillary Clinton, the leading Democrat for her party’s presidential nomination should she decide to run.

Bush said the trade embargo against Cuba should be strengthened. Clinton, who previously backed the trade limits, now says Fidel Castro’s regime uses them as a scapegoat.

Bush emphasized American exceptionalism and called on the country to play a more robust role on the world stage.

(AP)