Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart to Continue Leading the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Subcommittee in the 119th Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. -Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) issued the following statement after being named to continue as Chair of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) Subcommittee of the House Committee on Appropriations, in addition to serving as a member of the Defense Subcommittee during the 119th Congress.

Rep. Díaz-Balart said: "I am deeply honored to continue serving as Chairman of this subcommittee, and I am tremendously grateful to Chairman Tom Cole for his exceptional leadership, invaluable guidance, and unwavering support.

"As Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds U.S. foreign policy and national security priorities, I am proud of the State and Foreign Operations bills for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, which uphold key U.S. values and priorities while saving taxpayer dollars and eliminating wasteful spending.

"The National Security and Department of State funding bill for fiscal year 2024 -which is now law- achieved the largest year-to-year funding cut out of all bills when compared to 2023 spending levels, achieving a six percent cut, the largest in recent memory. The fiscal year 2025 funding bill cuts funding a further 11% below 2024 levels.

"More importantly, these bills reestablish American leadership, which has been severely lacking under the Biden-Harris Administration for the past four years. These bills advance freedom, manifest strong solidarity with our allies, and stand firm against the malign forces threatening U.S. national security. As President Trump takes office, he will inherit a number of global crises exacerbated by the reckless policies of the Biden-Harris Administration, including the war in Ukraine and emboldened terrorists in the Middle East.

"I look forward to working with President Trump and his foreign policy team, and I remain committed to strengthening our national defense, supporting our allies, standing up to our enemies, and promoting democracy and human rights worldwide."

Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole said:

"Under the direction of Chairman Díaz-Balart, our National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs appropriations legislation has reflected America's commitment to our core values of freedom and democracy, not only for ourselves, but for all of humanity. These bills take critical steps toward ensuring Americans are safe at home and abroad, prioritizing U.S. security while reducing excessive spending. They also command American excellence by countering the destabilizing actions of Hamas terrorists, Communist China, and the growing challenges of evil authoritarian regimes. I am deeply proud of the work we have done on these bills and applaud Chairman Díaz-Balart's hard work. I look forward to continuing our efforts to protect American interests and taxpayers."

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