Our country's standing in the world has been on the decline over the past decade or more, and that certainly continues.
I agree with that.
To a person, they expressed to me their hope to be empowered in their roles and to have a clear understanding of the President's mission.
multiple administrations have taken those kinds of activities under the President's authority.
Make no mistake, America is uniquely blessed, and with those blessings comes a duty to lead.
You have my commitment we will work to use those tools to the full capacity that the State Department can.
We have all committed to that.
I think we have to confront it today.
There are few people like soldiers who appreciate diplomats and good diplomatic work.
I absolutely think it is important to provide diplomats with the opportunity to be successful.
I promise you I will--I will put excellent Foreign Service officers, excellent civil service officers on the task.