Statements in Support of the Kerry-Lugar Amendment

April 1, 2009

Senator John Kerry (D-MA) — Senate Floor Statement

Importance to National Security

“When our soldiers and generals join our top diplomats in demanding increased civilian capacity and increased civilian funding – even in the midst of an economic crisis – that’s when you know there is not just a growing consensus, but a real sense of urgency behind strengthening our civilian mission.”

Percentage of the Budget

“We must recognize just what a small share of our overall spending the President’s international affairs budget comprises: 1.4% of total FY2010 Budget and only 6.8% of the ‘national security’ budget, which includes defense and homeland security. Even with this year’s proposed increase in funding, the International Affairs Budget still represents just 0.35% of GDP. This sliver of our budget funds all State department Operations, foreign aid and foreign assistance programs our diplomatic programs, global health initiatives on HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis programs, and humanitarian assistance to help stabilize fragile states, reduce global poverty and assist refugees.”

Restoring America’s Leadership

“Surveying the wide range of commitments and aspirations this budget addresses, it is clear that our challenge is immense. And yet, even as we confront a crisis here at home, we cannot afford to delay the task of restoring our leadership, returning to our best traditions of civilian outreach, and restoring our influence and authority. We cannot afford to come up short on our promises to allies, to vulnerable populations, and to the world.”

Statements Following Passage of the Kerry-Lugar Amendment

Senator John Kerry (D-MA)

“This is a victory for an American foreign policy that keeps our commitments in a dangerous world and evidence that America will not walk away from our global responsibilities,” said Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman John Kerry. “The programs funded by the international affairs budget are critical for restoring America’s leadership role in the world and demonstrate our commitment to new era of American diplomacy, outreach, cooperation, and leadership.”

Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN)

“The diplomatic missions of the United States have never been more important and our national security is enhanced at a far lower cost than military spending. The President made a reasonable request for the State Department budget. That is why we have advocated its restoration.”