Press handout photos here: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmDS72sx
Watch the full video here: http://bit.ly/2YZZoNV

PHOENIX – Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) told more than 300 Phoenix business, veteran, and community leaders today that for Arizona to succeed, America must invest in its role as a global leader—and that starts with American diplomacy and development programs.

“I’m proud to work every day to advance American security and economic interests and will keep working across the aisle to open new markets and opportunities for Arizona, and reinforce U.S. leadership around the world,” said Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ).

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) hosted today’s foreign policy forum in the wake of the Administration’s latest budget proposal released last month, which called for a 24% cut to the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

“As a soldier, I swore to protect our nation. So when I see American programs that keep our country safe for pennies on the dollar, like our nation’s development programs and our State Department, it makes me proud,” said General James T. Hill, USA (Ret.). “Our diplomats keep our allies close and our enemies talking; development workers fight disease, feed the hungry, and prevent the downtrodden from falling into the arms of extremists. These programs are an essential investment in our national security.”

Over 676,000 jobs in Arizona are tied to international trade, and Arizona’s exports to foreign markets total more than $20.9 billion a year—meaning U.S. international engagement isn’t just a matter of national security, it’s a strategic economic issue for the Grand Canyon State.

“Our development workers operate in some of the world’s most challenging places – with tremendous results,” said Ambassador Karl Hofmann, President and CEO of PSI. “We’re lifting communities out of poverty, delivering maternal care to remote villages, and even stopping disease in its tracks. Through our efforts, we’re saving lives and contributing to a safer, healthier world. And that’s what being a global leader is all about.”

A strong and growing coalition in the state, the USGLC’s Arizona Advisory Committee brings together more than 90 business, faith, non-profit, veteran, and political leaders who understand why American global leadership matters for Michigan.

“The USGLC is proud to have a so many of Arizona’s most distinguished leaders serving on our state Advisory Committee, and participating in such a thoughtful, compelling conversation,” said Liz Schrayer, President and CEO of the USGLC. “Events like this are important, because they permit us the time to talk with and listen to each other to explore exactly why U.S. engagement in world matters right here in Phoenix.”

Also participating in today’s forum was Mayor Kate Gallego, City of Phoenix; Olga Byrne, Director, International Rescue Committee; Glenn Hamer, President & CEO, Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Lt. Gen. John Regni, USAF (Ret.).