During yesterday’s National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) Appropriations Subcommittee markup, Ranking Member Lois Frankel (FL-22) spoke against House Republicans’ proposed Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) NSRP bill, which would cut critical funding that strengthens America’s soft power, prevents the spread of conflict and disease, and protects our national security.

“This is a bill that is supposed to project American leadership—through diplomacy, development, and humanitarian aid—but instead, it’s pulling back at exactly the wrong time,” said Ranking Member Frankel.

“After four years of cuts totaling $14.4 billion—a staggering 23 percent—this bill cuts another $2.7 billion. At the same time, President Trump is requesting hundreds of billions of dollars more for war. My son served in the Marines and was deployed to two wars. I know it's important for the military to remain strong. But bombs and drones respond to threats—they do not prevent them. Soft power does.”

“Diplomacy prevents costly, deadly war. Global health programs stop outbreaks before they reach our shores. Food aid and development programs reduce desperation that fuels extremism and migration. Alliances ensure we do not face threats alone,” Frankel continued. “This bill walks away from that strategy.”

“Security at home is only possible with effective, robust engagement abroad,” she said. “If we want a safer America and a more stable world, we need both: We need the strength of our military—and the power of our leadership. This bill fails that test.”

For Ranking Member Frankel’s full remarks, click here.