Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-22), Ranking Member of the House National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Subcommittee, participated in a visit to the United Nations and a field hearing at the United States Mission to the United Nations, hosted by U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz.

At the hearing, Frankel emphasized that strong, consistent U.S. leadership at the United Nations is critical to advancing American interests and promoting global stability.

“The United Nations remains one of the few forums where countries from every region come together to confront shared challenges,” said Ranking Member Frankel. “The United States is most effective when we lead—not when we retreat.”

Frankel underscored that while reform and accountability are necessary, sustained U.S. engagement is essential—particularly as conflicts, public health threats, displacement, and humanitarian crises continue to rise worldwide. She also commended Ambassador Waltz’s efforts to combat antisemitism as an example of the importance of remaining engaged and at the table.

Alongside her Democratic colleagues, Frankel raised concerns about recent cuts to U.S. funding and participation in UN institutions, warning that inconsistent engagement risks undermining U.S. credibility and creating openings for adversaries. She added that reform must go beyond budget cuts and be measured by results, like more children vaccinated, fewer going hungry, more in school, greater empowerment of women and girls, and fewer conflicts that require U.S. military intervention.

To watch Rep. Frankel’s full remarks, click here. To watch her questions to Ambassador Waltz, click here.

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