"I am hopeful that we can get you confirmed swiftly, given the significance of the elections in August."
"Ultimately, it is up to the Kenyans to deliver these elections in a free and fair way, in a way that that is accepted by the people."
"I think we need to do everything we can to support those elections because everyone is watching."
"All three of the countries to which you are nominated are countries where stability, transition to democracy, or the sustainment of a democracy is a key part of the work you will be undertaking."
"I am encouraged by recent statements by President Kiir about allowing for free and fair elections in February of 2023."
"After four years of sustained and persistent effort by hundreds of thousands of the Sudanese people they have earned the chance to find their way forward in a democratic transition."
"If I am confirmed I will prioritize them day one, pushing for those predicate actions to be put in place so the South Sudanese people can have the democratic election they deserve to have."
"But after decades of tragedy I think they really deserve a great next chapter in their history."
"I think we are seeing it in real time. The sanctions policy in--against Russia in Ukraine, combined with other things, has certainly shrunk Russia's war aims."
"I think many on the receiving end of sanctions sort of believe that it is one and done."
"I would just maybe say to my colleagues maybe this is an issue that we ought to spend some more time on."
"I think sanctions policy and the power of U.S. leading sanctions, particularly if they are multilateral, have often accomplished good things."