[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 80 (Tuesday, April 28, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E402-E403]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              AMERICA'S GLOBAL LEADERSHIP DURING COVID-19

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JASON CROW

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 28, 2020

  Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I would like to thank Representatives Yoho 
and Bera for their leadership in hosting this special order during a 
particularly difficult period not only for the United States, but the 
whole world.
  With more than 3 million confirmed cases across 185 countries, the 
COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that infectious diseases know no 
borders. They thrive on inequality and exacerbate societal schisms. The 
only proven way to avert an unchecked humanitarian disaster is through 
a united, global response.
  During times of crisis, it has been the United States that has 
stepped into the void to provide a path forward. This is a global 
moment that requires the mantle of bold leadership that our nation has 
assumed in the past. The path toward overcoming the specter of COVID-19 
lies not in xenophobia and isolationism, but rather an embrace of a 
coordinated international response.
  It demands we chart a course for global health that extends beyond 
the urgency of this moment into the future; so that we are prepared for 
whatever challenges lie beyond the horizon. This effort requires a 
multipronged approach to global health programs that the United States 
has the capacity and the scientific expertise to lead.
  First, we must help developing countries to improve their ability to 
more effectively combat disease. This pandemic has proven once again 
that our health security is only as strong as the international 
community.
  Second, we must recommit to helping the tens of millions of people 
fleeing war, persecution, and hardship around the world. Refugees 
already suffer from food insecurity and are uniquely vulnerable to the 
devastation of a virus like COVID-19.
  And third, we must empower Americans serving on the frontlines as we 
grapple with the pandemic. That means providing our diplomats, aid 
personnel, and servicemembers with the resources they need to maintain 
their global operations and provide emergency relief for millions of 
people around the world.
  We are strongest when we are united with our allies against a common 
foe, and there is no more ubiquitous enemy than the scourge of a 
pandemic. This is a moment when the world needs American leadership. 
That is why I call on my colleagues to support increased funding for 
the Department of State, USAID, and other federal agencies providing 
essential international COVID-19 relief. I am also calling on the 
Administration to work closely with our international partners and 
organizations to develop a comprehensive path forward to respond to 
COVID-19 and provide for our health security in the future.

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