I rise in respectful opposition to the amendment offered by the gentlewoman from Colorado. I share, by the way, and understand her desire to reduce spending. As a matter of fact, since 2023, as I mentioned before, I have cut spending under the purview of this subcommittee by $12 billion. The bill that we are considering right now puts forward an additional $2.7 billion in reductions. In this bill, the education and cultural exchange programs account is also reduced. It is actually $94 million below the fiscal year 2024 enacted level.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatR+42Stable$1.2M raised
Mario Diaz-Balart
Representative · Florida · Republican
Mario Diaz-Balart
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Madam Chairwoman, as chairman of this subcommittee since 2023, I am proud to be a leader in this body in providing unwavering support to our friend and ally, Israel, especially-- especially--after the October 7 terrorist attack. The $3.3 billion in foreign military financing for Israel included in this bill supports American--our--national security interests overseas. We see the same terrorists and terrorist entities that threaten Israel also threaten the United States and our people directly.
Madam Chair, to conclude, as I said just a few minutes ago, and I said it at the opening of the debate on this bill: If you are a friend or an ally of the United States, this bill supports you. If you are an adversary or you are cozying up to our adversaries, you are not going to like this bill. All of that we do, by the way, while significantly cutting spending. The reason we have alliances and partnerships has to be and is to support our own security. Our partnership with Jordan is indispensable in opposing terrorism in the Middle East.
Biography
Mario Diaz-Balart began his public service career as a legislative aide and has deep roots in Florida’s Cuban-American community. Elected to represent Florida’s 26th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2002, he has focused on transportation infrastructure, disaster recovery, and support for Cuban democracy. Diaz-Balart has authored legislation to boost federal funding for Everglades restoration and serves as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. He is known for his detailed approach to constituent concerns, emphasizing responsive, effective advocacy for South Florida’s diverse population.
Education
- Attended, the University of South Florida
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2003-PresentRepresenting Florida's 26th district
Member, Florida Senate
1992–2000Member, Florida House of Representatives
1988–92and 2000–02
Administrative Assistant, Mayor of Miami
1985–88President, Gordon Diaz-Balart and Partners (public Relations and Marketing Business)
Policy Focus
International Affairs31%
Government Operations and Politics20%
Armed Forces and National Security7%
Crime and Law Enforcement7%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Mario Diaz-Balart's record in Congress.
Disaster Recovery Funding
Secured federal disaster relief funds for Florida communities impacted by hurricanes and natural disasters.
Transportation Infrastructure
Helped obtain funding for major transportation projects, including Miami-Dade transit and highway improvements.
Support for Everglades Restoration
Championed federal funding and legislative support for Everglades restoration and environmental protection.
Cuba Democracy Advocacy
Led efforts to maintain and strengthen U.S. sanctions and democracy programs regarding Cuba’s authoritarian regime.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on AppropriationsVice Chair
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart FAQ
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