'We make a difference every day on issues that matter to the
American people—whether it is war and peace, trade and
investment, or simply helping with a lost passport. We repeatedly
uproot our lives, and we frequently put ourselves in harm’s way
to serve this nation. And we do that willingly, because we believe
inAmerica and its special role inthe world. We also believe that,
inreturn,our government will have our backs and protect us if we
come under attack from foreign interests.
That basic understanding no longer holds true. Today, we see
the State Department attacked and hollowed out from within.
State Department leadership, with Congress, needs to take action
now to defend this great institution, and its thousands of loyal and
effective employees. We need to rebuild diplomacy as the first
resort to advance America’s interests and the front line of
America’s defense. I fear that not doing so will harm our nation’s
interest, perhaps irreparably.'