As I’ve noted elsewhere, the appeal of Cuban communism makes sense because people see basic needs being met by a government that’s antagonistic toward the US and basically overthrew rich white landlords and businesses owners. It’s a feel good story if your focus on the lowest end of the population and compare it with say Haiti where the poor don’t eat, and have limited access to schools and health care. It’s looks less appealing compared to the DR or even the rest of the Caribbean that managed to raise standards of living as well.