December 03, 2020

Castro Statement on Foreign Affairs Race

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Vice Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Chairman of its Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, released the following statement on the results of the Democratic Caucus vote for chair of House Foreign Affairs Committee:

“Congratulations to Representative Gregory Meeks on his election to become the next chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee — he will be the first African American to lead our committee. I look forward to working together with Chairman Meeks, particularly on our common goals such as promoting diversity at the U.S. State Department and rejoining the Iran nuclear deal. I also commend Representative Brad Sherman, who has served on every foreign affairs subcommittee, for his decades of persistent work on arms control and U.S. policy in Asia.

“To my colleagues who believed in our vision and supported my bid for chair, especially those who dedicated their time to speak on my behalf, thank you. I also appreciate the passionate advocates for their strategic organizing, and I’m proud to be part of a growing progressive foreign policy movement. I sought to conduct this race in the most transparent and accountable manner possible, welcoming new voices and participating in over a dozen virtual forums.

“We must rebuild America’s infrastructure of diplomacy, and I believe that the United States at its best can be a North Star in the world on issues like freedom, democracy, rooting out corruption, and human rights. On behalf of the people of San Antonio, Texas, and as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I’ll continue working hard to make progress.”

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