U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “During my cooperation with heads of state and foreign ministers, I am often welcomed at hospitality facilities that are visually impressive and reflect the wealth and beauty of the countries I visit. In the United States, on the other hand, we currently do not have the ability to hold major events on a similar scale in the White House grounds for those same heads of state and senior foreign officials. Instead, we are currently forced to host such visits in plastic or canvas tents on the South Lawn of the White House, along with unsafe and unhygienic mobile sanitation services and facilities that are not worthy of our national standing… Our foreign counterparts provide first-class security arrangements for U.S. officials. It is necessary that we not only offer the same level of excellent security services, but also present these world-leading capabilities in an efficient manner and in a setting over which we have continuous control… Naturally, we should pursue all reasonable ways to reduce risks that are more predictable, including weather conditions and the physical entry of individuals, as well as emerging threats… The East Wing project is essential for this defensive and security situation. This project is not only vital for maintaining the physical security of guests, but also for advancing diplomatic relations and the interests and standing of the United States in the world.”