Ben Cardin actually said...

"Promotion of human rights and democracy has been an important part of my career."

"I think it was one of the reasons why Vietnam was selected as a country to participate in the TPP because we had made significant advancements on human rights and values."

"Promoting human rights and democracy has been a top priority of mine, both during my government service and as a law professor."

"I particularly appreciate that in the opening part of your statement, you mentioned that you would represent American values and that would include upholding human rights for all."