Watch the full event here: https://youtu.be/1uO1JQ6Ba1E

WASHINGTON, D.C. / WICHITA – Today, Rep. Ron Estes (R-KS-04) joined Kansas political, business, and community leaders in a virtual town hall to discuss the importance of American global health, diplomacy, and development programs to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and protect the health and safety of all Americans—in Kansas and across the country.

“The health and safety of communities across America are of the highest importance, which is why Congress has already passed several bipartisan bills to address our physical and economic well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, we’re working with our allies around the globe to address these health and economic challenges and promote free and fair trade,” said Congressman Ron Estes (R-KS). “The USMCA entering into force last week is one example of how our country can continue advancing global policies that benefit the United States and our partners even in the midst of crisis. Through these efforts, we’re working to save lives, prevent the virus from coming back to the U.S., and rebuild our economy. I am committed to working with my colleagues to find common sense solutions for the good of Kansas and our country.”

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) hosted today’s online event at a time when policy makers are considering our country’s response to the pandemic at home and abroad, including resources for the State Department, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC).

“Food security is closely tied to all aspects of our lives. And that’s true whether you live in Kansas or across the world in countries like Ghana or India. Without access to safe, nutritious foods, it can affect everything from health to education and income,” said Kathryn Unger, Vice President, North America Government Relations, Cargill. “During this challenging time, Cargill is doing our part to nourish the world and alleviate hunger. By working with farmers and ranchers in the U.S. and beyond, we are helping maintain global food supplies, while connecting farmers with markets around the world.”

U.S. international engagement is crucial to deal with the pandemic, from a global health perspective as well as an economic one—an especially important matter in Kansas, where over 354,400 jobs in the state are tied to international trade and exports to foreign markets total more than $11.3 billion a year.

“We’re pleased to welcome back Congressman Estes, who joined us last year for a conversation about why American global leadership matters for Kansas”, said Jason Gross, USGLC Executive Director. “While the circumstances have certainly changed, the congressman gets that America’s role in the world is more important than ever for Kansas— not only to help defeat COVID-19 worldwide, but to get our economy back on track and protect our communities from future outbreaks.”

Many of today’s participants are members of the USGLC’s Kansas Advisory Committee, a strong and growing coalition that brings together more than 75 business, faith, nonprofit, veteran, and political leaders who understand why American global leadership matters for Kansas.