Boise City Wire

U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, delivered opening remarks at a full committee nominations hearing on September 11, 2024. The hearing featured nominees including Julie Smith for under secretary of State for political affairs, Stephanie L. Hallett for ambassador to Bahrain, Douglas D. Jones for ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Michael G. Heath for ambassador to Malawi, and Mary E. Daschbach for ambassador to Togo.

Senator Risch began by acknowledging the significance of the date: "Thank you very much Mr. Chairman. I think all of us are mindful that today is 9/11 – that day clearly changed America." He emphasized the importance of protecting the country against vulnerabilities exposed by such events.

Addressing each nominee, Risch highlighted their respective roles and challenges. For Ambassador Smith, he noted her service as U.S. ambassador to NATO during Russia's invasion of Ukraine but stressed that her global responsibilities would include addressing China as a strategic priority: "We must do more to combat China’s efforts to dominate the Indo-Pacific."

Regarding Stephanie Hallett's nomination as ambassador to Bahrain, Risch acknowledged Bahrain's critical role as an ally and its participation in maritime coalitions: "This week marks one year since the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement between the U.S. and Bahrain."

For Douglas D. Jones' nomination as ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Risch pointed out the country's political challenges and its importance for regional stability: "Bosnia still faces serious risks posed by tough economic conditions, malign foreign influence, and the secessionist movement in Republika Srpska."

Discussing Michael G. Heath's nomination as ambassador to Malawi, Risch mentioned Malawi's economic difficulties and upcoming elections: "The U.S. is committed to Malawi's ongoing democratic consolidation."

On Mary E. Daschbach’s nomination as ambassador to Togo, he emphasized Togo's role in countering violent extremism in West Africa: "We must also help open the Togolese political system to be more inclusive and democratic."

Risch concluded by addressing allegations regarding nominee confirmations: "Nothing is further from the truth... I have always worked in good faith to move qualified career nominees." He criticized the State Department’s lack of responsiveness: "The committee should not and cannot rubber stamp nominees while State continues to be unresponsive."

He underscored constitutional obligations for oversight: "These are not just words but serious constitutional obligations."

Witness testimony from this hearing is available on foreign.senate.gov.