Media

I thank my distinguished friend – and Vice Chair of the full committee – Chairman Díaz-Balart for the time. The Fiscal Year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs bill makes a clear statement about American leadership: We will engage where it matters. We will invest where it counts. And we will demand accountability for every dollar spent.

Mr. Chair, I am pleased to present the Fiscal Year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs appropriations bill to the House for consideration and approval. Let me start by noting the untimely passing of our friend and colleague, Senator Lindsey Graham. As Chairman of the State-Foreign Operations Subcommittee in the Senate, we worked together closely on our top priority – national security. Senator Graham was a tough negotiator but always an honorable partner. He will be greatly missed, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and staff.

I would like to welcome Administrator Loeffler before the Committee for the first time in her tenure and thank her for being here today. I also want to the thank the Chairman of the full committee for being here today and I’ll let his remarks speak for both of us. I will just say this - the breadth of SBA’s impact is extensive, and SBA plays a critical role in the growth and development of small businesses and ultimately to the economy of this country.

Thank you, Chairman Joyce, and thank you, Ranking Member Hoyer. Welcome, Administrator Loeffler for being here today – and thank you for appearing before us today and for your continued service to the nation. America has never lacked in entrepreneurial drive and innovative vision. What has made our country exceptional is our willingness to let that spirit flourish. From our earliest merchants to Main Street today, small businesses have created jobs, fueled growth, and expanded opportunity for generations.