The National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) commends President Donald Trump for nominating a strong candidate to the position of Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, a position that serves as the principal advisor on international religious freedom to both the president and the secretary of state.

The president’s nominee, Governor Sam Brownback, has a distinguished record of support for religious freedom, and a wealth of experience in politics, serving as a U.S. representative, senator and governor. We urge Senator Bob Corker to promptly schedule confirmation hearings.

“At a time when religious believers in many parts of the world are facing intense persecution, we need a strong voice to promote the human rights and religious freedom of every human being,” NAE President Leith Anderson said. “We pledge to work with Governor Brownback in advocating for religious freedom for all around the world and to pray for wisdom and courage as he takes on new responsibilities and faces new challenges in his post.”

The Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom position was created by Congress as part of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998. The NAE worked to secure passage of this legislation.