Van Hollen, Sullivan Launch Senate Foreign Service Caucus

U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) today announced the formation of the Senate Foreign Service Caucus. The caucus will provide a bipartisan forum for members to discuss the challenges facing those who serve in the U.S. Foreign Service around the world,and collaborate and develop policy recommendations on how they can best support them and the U.S. diplomatic mission abroad.

"As the son of a Foreign Service Officer, I know firsthand the immense impact our diplomats have on furthering U.S. interests and values abroad,"said Senator Van Hollen."They serve as beacons of hope around the world, and play a vital role in keeping Americans safe from the many threats we face. The work of the Foreign Service is also critical in promoting our country's core values - of democracy, human rights, liberty, opportunity, and equality. I'm pleased to partner with Senator Sullivan to work in a bipartisan way to support the patriotic Americans who serve our nation in the Foreign Service."

"When I first came to the Senate, I saw working groups and caucuses representing every branch of our Armed Services - but no such organized support for the men and women who serve our country abroad in the Foreign Service," said Senator Sullivan. "They are posted to more than 270 embassies, consulates and other missions around the globe in often difficult and dangerous environments, and their contributions to the advancement of democracy, the rule of law and American security should be bolstered here in the Senate. I look forward to working with Senator Van Hollen on ways we can support this outstanding group of Americans abroad."

In remarks recently given at the State Department's Foreign Affairs Day Memorial Plaque Ceremony on May 5, Secretary of State Tillerson lauded the Senate Foreign Service Caucus effort, stating:

"It's a fantastic initiative on [their] part, and one that I think will serve us well, it will serve all of you well, and gives us yet another voice on the Hill."