Letter to the Hon. Mike Pompeo, Secretary of State - Timmons Urges State Department to Bring Americans Home

Letter

Dear Secretary Pompeo,

I write today concerned about the many Americans that are stuck overseas and unable to come home due to COVID-19. I commend your leadership during this difficult time and appreciate the steps that have already been taken to ensure Americans' safety. But as COVID-19 continues to be a global threat, I urge you to take swift steps to bring home those American citizens in foreign countries who are unable to return to the United States.

My office has spoken to a number of constituents who are stuck overseas themselves or who have loved ones stuck in a foreign nation affected by COVID-19. The concern is not only about the timeline for their return, but also where they will stay while overseas because of hotel closings and the lack of availability of food and supplies

I understand and appreciate that the State Department, in coordination with the Department of Defense, has helped bring over 1,100 Americans back to the United States since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak. But as the global threat of the virus increases, it is becoming more and more important to ensure that American citizens are able to return safely home in a timely manner. We have a duty and obligation to protect and assist citizens, especially during a time of crisis.

I respectfully request that you would give this matter your immediate attention, and I look forward to working with you to bring American citizens home safely. Thank you for all you and the Department have done to keep our nation and citizens safe and informed during this crisis.

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