Barbara Lee: “The Peace Corps is one of the best investments in public diplomacy that we make. There is no way that Democrats have…”

“The Peace Corps is one of the best investments in public diplomacy that we make. There is no way that Democrats have prioritized Peace Corps over veterans. We support our veterans. We support the Peace Corps. What better ambassadors do we have than young American people willing to spend 2 years overseas and build goodwill with people around the world? I know many of us have met these young people when traveling overseas or have discussed with our own constituents after they have participated in this life-changing experience. The Peace Corps account in this bill is already $20 million below its current level, endangering the return of volunteers in the field after COVID and the reopening of new sites, particularly in the Pacific Islands, where strong American diplomacy is sorely needed. Cuts are already threatening the ability to support the 5,000 volunteers across 51 countries that the Peace Corps has responsibility for. Once again, Democrats support the Peace Corps. Democrats support and thank our veterans for their service. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.”