House Appropriations National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee Chairman Mario Díaz-Balart and Committee Chairman Tom Cole led debate on the House Floor in support of H.R. 8595, the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2027 on July 15.
Díaz-Balart opened his remarks by acknowledging the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham and expressing appreciation for colleagues involved in developing the bill. He said, “This bill is very straightforward. If you are a friend or an ally of the United States, this bill supports you. But, if you are an adversary or are cozying up to our adversaries, then, frankly, you will not like this bill.” Díaz-Balart highlighted nearly $12 billion in spending cuts since 2023 under Republican leadership and stated that the new bill continues with another $2.7 billion reduction while maintaining or increasing funding for national security priorities such as $1.8 billion for Indo-Pacific partners—including $500 million in military assistance for Taiwan—and $3.3 billion in security assistance to Israel.
The legislation also increases support for Western Hemisphere allies like Paraguay, Argentina, and Costa Rica; allocates more funds to combat fentanyl trafficking; continues backing democratic transitions in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua; supports religious freedom globally; prohibits funds to China or organizations repaying Chinese debt; blocks lending to China through multilateral development banks; withholds U.S.-Mexico water payments until obligations are met; reduces assessed funding for the United Nations by $1.8 billion; prohibits funds to certain international organizations including UNRWA and WHO; maintains pro-life provisions prohibiting abortion funding abroad; and enforces accountability measures regarding U.S.-funded programs.
Cole followed by saying that the appropriations bill “makes a clear statement about American leadership: We will engage where it matters. We will invest where it counts. And we will demand accountability for every dollar spent.” He said that under President Trump’s administration there has been a shift toward prioritizing outcomes over symbolism: “Unlike previous administrations that prioritized symbolism over outcomes… have returned U.S. engagement to a foundation of strength… This measure stands firmly with our friends while drawing a clear line against our adversaries.” Cole emphasized investments targeting fentanyl trafficking prevention efforts as well as resources directed at embassy security and supporting American businesses overseas.
The House Committee on Appropriations handles drafting annual spending bills allocating federal funds across government operations—such as those debated here—and provides guidance on community project funding requests included within these bills, according to the official website. Notable committee members include Harold Rogers (Republican) and Steny Hoyer (Democrat), with Tom Cole serving as its current chairman—the forty-third person to hold this position.
Both Díaz-Balart and Cole concluded their remarks urging colleagues’ support for H.R. 8595.