Cole Remarks at Budget Hearing on the Department of State

Thank you, Chairman Diaz-Balart and Ranking Member Frankel. I’m pleased to be with you today for this important hearing before the newly renamed Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs. More than mere terminology, the change reflects a renewed commitment to strategic engagement and diplomacy to build a stronger and more secure future. We are leading with sharpened purpose to ensure Americans are safer at home and abroad. The work of the State Department is core to this mission and the cause of freedom – and every action and investment we make should protect and promote U.S. security, prosperity, and values.

Secretary Rubio, we know your commitment to that duty – and it’s an honor to have you with us this afternoon. From day one, you’ve acted as a force multiplier for the President, and we deeply appreciate your service to our country. As you know, Mr. Secretary, peace through strength isn’t a matter of chance. It is the result of effective policy, national focus, and marshaling resources to where they drive maximum impact. The America First agenda – which has been mandated by the people – advances that critical doctrine. It’s not about retreating from the world stage – but resetting our guiding principles.

No longer will weakness and the detrimental policies of the previous administration harm our nation. And no longer will U.S. taxpayer dollars be funneled to extreme agendas and initiatives that have undermined trust in foreign assistance programs. The Trump Administration has been clear about a new path forward.  That is why I support your efforts. Mr. Secretary, to reorganize and streamline department operations and better integrate programs with our diplomatic and strategic objectives. I’ll note that the rapid pace of certain restructuring has caused some concerns and may require adjustments. Reforms must ensure meritorious programs are not lost while also improving the benefits they deliver. 

We recognize that being accountable and effective are not binary choices, and we should ensure that deployed instruments of power support our interests, deter our enemies, and deepen our strength on the world stage. As we look to the summary of your Fiscal Year 2026 request, these efficiencies and mandates are reflected. This Committee commends this start and is eager for a complete budget to ensure you have the resources needed to:

• Carry out core diplomatic functions;
• Effectively counter China and other adversaries;
• Strengthen our alliances and critical partnerships, such as our ironclad commitment to Israel;
• Grow economic competitiveness;  
• And keep America the beacon of the free world.

Moving forward, we are committed to working with you – and authorizing committees – to ensure that the Department has the capabilities, flexibility, and people it needs to represent the full range of our interests abroad in the service of American national security.