Ben Cardin actually said...

"I have long appreciated the bipartisan support for Africa in Congress and, if confirmed, I look forward to working with you and others in Congress to continue to strengthen U.S.-Africa relations."

"As the regime in Tehran marches towards a nuclear weapon and foments terror in Yemen, Syria, Lebanon, and throughout the Gulf, we must employ some empathy in understanding the threat that our partners..."

"I am hopeful to hear from all of our nominees today on how they will advance American leadership and interests in this pivotal region of the world."

"If we want to succeed in this competition, we must find the best way forward to balance our interests while remaining the partner of choice for those in the Middle East."