Marco Rubio Responds to Survey on Diplomat Morale and His Role as Secretary of State

Survey on Diplomat Morale

• 📌 A survey by the American Foreign Service Association revealed strikingly low morale among career diplomats.
• 💬 Some diplomats reported feeling unable to freely express opinions and that their input is not welcomed.
• ⚠️ A significant number of diplomats are reportedly considering career changes due to these issues.

Secretary Rubio's Response to Morale Concerns

• 🗣️ Secretary Rubio acknowledged the survey, noting it originated from a union survey.
• 🚀 He stated that foreign service officers are currently more empowered at the regional bureau level than ever before.
• 💡 Rubio highlighted his practice of sending cables with notes to turn ideas into policy proposals, emphasizing a shift towards ideas originating from the field.
• ✅ He expressed pride in changing the department to foster ideas from the bottom up, not just top-down direction.

Clarification on Travel Schedule and Role

• ✈️ Rubio addressed questions about his travel schedule, explaining that many leaders visit the US, requiring his presence.
• 🗓️ He cited attending a NATO foreign ministers meeting and a leaders meeting, as well as hosting leaders from Rwanda and the DRC, as reasons for his travel.
• 🌐 He asserted that there is a lot of work to be done and that leaders are constantly coming to the US for meetings.
• 🤝 Rubio believes the current approach will yield huge dividends for future secretaries of state.