National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs

Mr. Secretary, thank you for being here today to discuss the fiscal year 2024 budget request for the Department of State, and thank you for your service to our country.

Before I get to the budget, I want to start by raising concerns on what I believe have been serious blunders that have damaged relationships with our allies and emboldened some of the most dangerous, anti-American actors throughout the world.

Here are some examples.

The abrupt withdrawal from Afghanistan resulted in the creation of 13 new Gold Star families and the horrific abandonment of those who risked their lives to help us.

Now, women and girls are trapped in their homes, unable to receive an education, and are raped, maimed, or killed if they dare to attempt to earn a living, read a book, or walk outside without a male escort.

I want to welcome Amanda Bennett, the CEO of the United States Agency for Global Media.

Ms. Bennett, you are at the helm of an agency that is tasked with providing free, independent information globally, including in the most repressive media environments.

The timing of this session, so early in the cycle of our hearings, should send a clear signal of the priority we place on this agency and its important mission.

It is no secret that I am a strong supporter of that mission. As a Cuban American with the strongest admiration for pro-democracy movements, I can attest to the importance of American-sponsored information and broadcasting in Cuba and around the world.

Congress's support for international broadcasting dates back eight decades, beginning with Voice of America during World War II.

Good morning, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield. Welcome to the Subcommittee's first hearing of the 118^th Congress on oversight of the United Nations.

While the President's Budget has been delayed, this Subcommittee has important oversight work that must be done to prepare for our next appropriations bill. This includes a review of our engagement at the United Nations where the United States is the largest donor providing over $12 billion annually.

This significant investment from the American taxpayer is not exempt from the expectation that we see U.S. interests being advanced.

The American people want to see a United Nations that supports, not undermines, our security and that of our allies and partners around the world. Unfortunately, the UN too often fails to deliver.