Secretary of State Marco Rubio has just unveiled a sweeping plan to slash the State Department by nearly a fifth — cutting over 700 positions, closing embassies, and eliminating entire offices that protect human rights, defend democracy, and provide humanitarian aid around the globe.

This isn’t about trimming waste, Rubio is dismantling the very offices tasked with promoting American values.

Offices like the bureau for democracy and human rights, and the one that aids refugees fleeing violence and persecution.

Programs that helped stop atrocities, stabilize conflict zones, and stand up to authoritarian regimes are being erased with a pen stroke.

He’s calling it "bloated bureaucracy" and accusing career diplomats of pushing “radical ideology.” But these are the same public servants who’ve dedicated their lives to preventing wars, supporting allies, and promoting peace.

At a time when the world is more volatile than ever, America should be strengthening its diplomatic corps, not hollowing it out.

We call on Congress to intervene and stop these dangerous cuts. Our diplomats are not the enemy. They are America’s first line of defense — and our strongest voice for peace, stability, and freedom.

Add your name to demand Congress protect the State Department and preserve American leadership on the world stage.

Photo: Eric Lee/The New York Times