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Congressman Mike Quigley

Representing the 5th District of Illinois

Foreign Affairs

American leadership abroad is more necessary than ever due to a complex global landscape, evolving national security threats, and political instability around the globe. Whether in Syria, Ukraine, Western Europe or Israel, the evolving nature of our international relations requires us to continuously reevaluate what measures are necessary to really keep America safe.

While in Congress, I’ve supported a focused foreign policy that curbs runaway defense spending and instead invests in intelligence, international development, humanitarian aid, global health and direct diplomacy. I am proud to be the co-chair of the International Basic Education Caucus and belong to a number of Diaspora focused caucuses representative of the rich multi-ethnic heritage of Chicago and the Fifth District. While not perfect, I voted in favor of the Iran Nuclear deal and have fought for the continuation of the U.S. Syrian refugee resettlement effort. I have been a vocal champion for the Visa Waiver Program and have introduced the Visa Waiver Program Enhanced Security and Reform Act and the JOLT Act to make the program more secure and viable for future generations . In May 2017, I was proud to introduce the Poland Visa Waiver Act to finally allow Poland to participate in the Visa Waiver Program. And, as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have fought to fund critical programs that combat HIV/AIDS and promote international development like PEPFAR, USAID, and the Strategic Climate Fund.

Under President Trump’s Administration, I have repeatedly spoken out against his “America First” foreign policy. I believe that for the United States to be safe, secure, and prosperous in a globalized world we must engage and work with our allies. This also means that we cannot turn our back on the importance of diplomacy. I have encouraged political and business leaders alike to invest in diplomacy and development programs so that we can increase security and grow the economy here at home.

American values and culture represent our most important global exports. We must invest in a foreign policy designed at its core to build people up and tear walls down. That’s true American leadership. 


Rep. Quigley has been strongly opposed to President Trump’s “America First” foreign policy and believes this approach would leave America alone while alienating key allies.


Rep. Quigley met with the President of Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko, to discuss continued efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s democracy.


Rep. Quigley introduced the Poland Visa Waiver Act to strengthen diplomacy and increase security between our nations. He has led efforts to expand the Visa Waiver Program to include Poland for the past four Congresses.

More on Foreign Affairs

Dec 13, 2018 In the News
Rep. Quigley joins MSNBC’s “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” to emphasize the importance of responding to Russia and Saudi Arabia’s attacks on our country’s moral standing and values, and offers his thoughts on having Michael Cohen speak before the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.
Dec 12, 2018 Press Release
Reps. Mike Quigley and Jan Schakowsky sent a letter to Secretary of State Pompeo advocating for the United States’ role as a global leader in protecting refugees and asking for further information on the Administration’s plans for refugee resettlement agencies and resources in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Nov 9, 2018 E-Newsletters
This week, the American people made it very clear that they want a House of Representatives committed to American values and government accountability.
Oct 19, 2018 In the News
Rep. Quigley talks with CNN's Wolf Blitzer about the latest news on the Mueller’s Russia Investigation, and how he thinks the U.S. should respond in wake of Jamal Khashoggi's murder.
Oct 17, 2018 In the News
Quigley joins Emily Chang to discuss the alleged Chinese hack of major U.S. companies and provide the latest updates from the ongoing Russia investigation.

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