U.S. Representative Ciscomani Highlights Arizona Priorities to Secretary of State Marco Rubio in State Department Budget Hearing

Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, U.S. Representative Juan Ciscomani questioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a House Appropriations National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs subcommittee hearing. Ciscomani, a subcommittee member, focused on Arizona's urgent challenges and strategic strengths while discussing the Fiscal Year 2027 Department of State budget request.

The discussion centered on the devastating impact of transnational crime and human trafficking on Arizona communities. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, more than 2,300 human trafficking cases have been identified in Arizona, with over 5,000 victims connected to those cases. Even more alarming, the average age of trafficked youth in Arizona is just 13 years old, four years younger than the national average.

Arizona continues to stand on the front lines of the border, confronting the consequences of trafficking networks and transnational criminal organizations that threaten public safety and exploit vulnerable children. During the hearing, attention also turned to the Western Passport Center in Arizona's Sixth Congressional District. Since taking office, Ciscomani's office has worked closely with the center to help thousands of Arizonans secure passports and access timely, reliable service.

"I continue to hear overwhelmingly positive feedback from constituents about the professionalism, responsiveness, and dedication of the employees at the Western Passport Center in Tucson," said Rep. Juan Ciscomani. "I want to personally recognize each and every staff member for their outstanding service to Arizona families, helping them navigate the passport process and ensuring these essential documents are delivered efficiently, especially in moments of urgency."

Ciscomani also raised concerns about America's growing dependence on Chinese-controlled critical mineral supply chains and the need to strengthen domestic production.

Critical minerals are essential to defense systems, energy infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and emerging technologies. Yet China continues to dominate global supply chains, creating a significant national security vulnerability.

Arizona is uniquely positioned to help change that reality. The state produces nearly 70% of America's copper supply and holds substantial untapped critical mineral resources that could be used to reduce reliance on foreign adversaries. However, permitting delays and a lack of coordinated federal strategy continue to slow progress.

During the hearing, Ciscomani asked what steps the State Department is taking to reduce U.S. dependence on Chinese-controlled mineral supply chains and how it is working to support expanded domestic production in states like Arizona.

"I thank Secretary Rubio for taking the time to hear directly about both the challenges and strengths of Arizona's Sixth District," said Rep. Juan Ciscomani. "From combating transnational crime and protecting vulnerable children to strengthening America's mineral independence and supporting critical services for Arizonans, these issues carry real consequences for our communities and our national security as a whole. As Secretary of State, he has been a strong advocate not only for Arizona, but for our country."

The representative remains focused on advancing policies that secure the border, combat human trafficking, and strengthen America's supply chains. That commitment was reinforced in recent weeks when he hosted Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum in the district. Together, they toured the University of Arizona's mining labs, among a select number of facilities of its kind nationwide, showcasing Arizona's unmatched leadership in critical mineral research and development.

The hearing underscored what Arizona offers at scale: innovation, technical expertise, and real capacity to help secure American supply chains at a moment when global competition is intensifying. From mining research to workforce development, the state continues to serve as a national hub for strengthening energy independence and economic resilience.

These efforts reflect a broader mission to ensure Arizona remains at the forefront of America's economic and national security future.

Listen HERE to part of Ciscomani's remarks during the House Appropriations Committee hearing on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget request for the Department of State and Related Programs.

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