Secretary of State Marco Rubio appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on June 2 to discuss the Department of State’s fiscal year 2027 budget request. Rubio emphasized that U.S. foreign policy is focused on defending national interests, including military and economic security, sovereignty, and the future prosperity of the country.
Rubio said, “Our foreign policy is one that’s solely focused on the national interest of the United States of America – on the defense of our country, both its military defense and our security, but also our economic security and the vibrancy of our economy, our sovereignty, and our future.” He added that American leadership should always serve American interests.
During his remarks, Rubio highlighted achievements in U.S. relations within the Western Hemisphere. He described a coalition of more than a dozen friendly countries aligned with U.S. objectives for security and economic prosperity in the region. However, he noted ongoing challenges with certain governments such as Nicaragua, Cuba, Venezuela, Brazil during its election cycle, and Colombia.
Rubio discussed changes to foreign aid programs under his tenure: “The foreign assistance that remains is being brought under the strategic direction of the State Department. So we’re not just providing money; we are also seeking outcomes.” He said reforms are aimed at targeting aid to areas most important to U.S. national interests.
He concluded by stating that this budget continues efforts to reorient foreign policy around foundational elements like economic strength and border control: “A country that cannot build ships or produce medicine or control immigration or access vital resources cannot defend its people… Our foreign policy continues to be reoriented around the real foundations of national strength.” Rubio acknowledged Congress’s significant role in shaping final appropriations.