We must send a clear message that we stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Nicaragua.

I have been working with colleagues here to sound the alarm about the authoritarian slide taking place under Ortega.

I recommend that we get rid of trade with Nicaragua. Let them trade with China.

I have got to tell you, when this tweet came out, our CODEL, including the Speaker, was just deluged with the press.

This had a real effect and creates a greater divide with the people we count on the most.

The alternative is not a good one, and that will be forced to release them.

I think that this committee will be focusing on those areas that you brought up--very important areas.

Hungary has become a mini version of Russia. It is a kleptocratic and increasingly authoritarian system.

This is unfinished business. This is weakness that Russia is simply exploiting.

Much of our work so far in the subcommittee is focused on our need as the United States to remain a leader in standing up for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

This whole situation underscores two things in particular. First, that corruption around elections and political power is real.

We do not have--the Western Balkans is not a top priority in our foreign policy toolkit.