Houston Daily

U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul engaged in a discussion with Secretary of State Marco Rubio at a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing titled “FY26 State Department Posture: Protecting American Interests.” The focus was on reauthorizing the State Department to align with the Trump administration's foreign policy goals, particularly in refocusing U.S. foreign aid.

During the hearing, McCaul expressed condolences for Gerry Connolly and addressed global issues under President Biden's tenure, including conflicts in Afghanistan, Ukraine, and the Middle East. He emphasized the need to counter Communist China's influence through the 1961 Foreign Assistance Act and criticized certain programs he deemed contrary to U.S. interests.

McCaul commended Secretary Rubio for seeking peace in conflict areas and discussed reorganizing foreign assistance programs under State Department supervision. He noted past efforts by Madeline Albright to achieve transparency and accountability.

Secretary Rubio outlined the benefits of reorganization within the department, highlighting its permanence and potential for improved input from Congress and career officials. He stressed that statutory changes would ensure enduring organizational structures.

The conversation also touched on immigration policies, specifically praising the "Remain in Mexico" program for reducing border crossings by 95%. McCaul acknowledged cooperation between Mexico and U.S. departments on security concerns.

Rubio shared plans to travel to Mexico with other cabinet members to discuss trade and security cooperation further. He noted positive interactions with Mexican authorities regarding cartel activities and extradition efforts but recognized ongoing challenges in migration collaboration.