Dear Mr. Hovis,

          Thank you for contacting me about the United States’ foreign and trade relations. As a former Navy pilot, combat veteran and retired NASA astronaut, it is an honor to continue my service to our country representing Arizona in the United States Senate. I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts on the issues facing our state and our country. Hearing from Arizonans helps me better serve our state, and I hope you will continue to share your perspective and suggestions.

          As a border state home to seven military installations, Arizona understands the importance of foreign policy and international alliances. As a Navy combat veteran, I understand the importance of international cooperation and strongly believe in the value of diplomacy to help us achieve our economic, foreign policy and national security objectives. While the U.S. Constitution grants the President the authority to make international treaties, the Senate plays a key role in providing advice and consent on treaties. In order for a treaty to be binding in the U.S., the Senate must vote to ratify it by a two-thirds majority vote.           The United States’ participation in bilateral relationships and multilateral organizations and alliances helps us achieve our national security interests while promoting strong democratic values around the world. For instance, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a transatlantic political and military alliance, has proven a critical tool during the war in Ukraine. Since the start of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the members of NATO have worked alongside regional partners to support the Ukrainian people through humanitarian and military assistance and impose the maximum sanctions on Putin and the Russian government.

          Please rest assured, I will keep your views in mind as legislation concerning international alliances and economic partnerships come before the Senate. Our country is strongest when we work closely with our allies to achieve our shared goals. I believe the U.S. should maintain a robust role on the world stage and will always support our allies and partners as we work to tackle shared threats, including curbing Chinese and Russian influence. That’s why I voted to approve a resolution ratifying Sweden’s and Finland’s accession to NATO which the Senate passed with a bipartisan vote of 95 to one on August 3, 2022.           Through diplomatic tools such as multilateral engagements, the U.S. will be better positioned to wield global influence and respond to global challenges and threats, like pandemic recovery and climate change. As Arizona’s senator, I am committed to working with my colleagues in the United States Senate, both Democrats and Republicans, to protect our national and economic security and advance our country’s core principles and values.

          Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this issue, and I hope you will continue to contact my office with any future comments or questions. I’m committed to being transparent and accountable with all Arizonans, which is why I release my public schedule at kelly.senate.gov. There you can also sign up for my newsletter, receive assistance with a federal agency, and learn more about my work as Arizona’s senator.

Sincerely,

Mark Kelly
United States Senator