Secretary Rubio Presents FY27 State Department Budget to Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Secretary Rubio: Thank you for inviting me. There’s much to discuss today. I want to emphasize that our foreign policy centers on the national interests of the United States—protecting our country’s security, economic vitality, sovereignty, and future.

We are committed to American leadership that serves American interests. Over time, foreign policy has at times drifted from that focus. The national interest requires prudent decisions, often choosing between less-than-ideal options to best serve the United States and minimize harm. This reality shapes our day-to-day choices.

America remains the world’s sole superpower: the largest economy, the most powerful military, the reserve currency holder, and the lingua franca of international commerce. Yet this power is meaningful only when it protects the people who created it and those it is meant to defend.

The United States government is not a charity; it is a winner. We exist to secure our nation and its people for the future. The State Department carries out U.S. foreign policy through diplomacy and aid, guided by national interests since January 2025.

In the Western Hemisphere, a coalition of more than a dozen friendly nations has aligned to address shared security and economic prosperity—the result of two decades of focus. While some challenges remain with Nicaragua, Cuba, and Venezuela, and Brazil and Colombia navigate elections and leadership hurdles, the region now boasts American allies, friendly leaders, and a shared direction. We must operationalize this progress and counter the past twenty years of neglect and external influence that has harmed both U.S. interests and the peoples of the region.

I am proud of the reforms in foreign aid. Legacy programs often failed; the new model places aid under the State Department’s strategic oversight. It’s not only about funding but achieving measurable outcomes that align with U.S. interests and meet the needs of those most in need.

Foreign policy must align with economic, border, and energy policies—critical pillars of national strength. A nation that cannot build vessels, produce medicine, manage immigration, or secure resources cannot defend its people or interests.

Consequently, our foreign policy is reoriented around the foundations of national strength. The FY27 budget reflects this shift. Congress will shape the final outcome through significant debate and reform. We anticipate constructive engagement to produce a robust spending bill.

I look forward to your questions. Thank you.

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