Harvard's Burns Says Cuts to Decimate State Department

The video discusses the importance of the State Department, despite proposed budget cuts by President Trump. It highlights the department's critical role in diplomacy and international relations, emphasizing the need for personnel and training. The video also covers Angela Merkel's visit to the US and the implications for US-EU relations. It concludes with a focus on the legacy of John Kornblum and the necessity of investing in diplomatic expertise.

What is the main reason given for encouraging young people to join the State Department despite budget cuts?

• Diplomacy is as important as defense.

• The State Department offers high salaries.

• The State Department is expanding its operations.

• The State Department has a large budget surplus.

What is the relationship between defense and diplomacy according to the transcript?

• Diplomacy is more important than defense.

• They are unrelated fields.

• They are substitutes for each other.

• They complement each other.

What is one of the key responsibilities of a young officer in the State Department?

• Interviewing refugees and immigrants.

• Managing aircraft carriers.

• Running for political office.

• Designing weapon systems.

What is Angela Merkel expected to discuss during her visit to the White House?

• The US's withdrawal from the United Nations.

• The US's plans to increase tariffs on German cars.

• The US's support for NATO and the EU.

• The US's new immigration policies.

What is the potential impact of the US not supporting the European Union?

• Increase in US military presence in Europe.

• Strengthening of US-EU relations.

• Reversal of 70 years of American policy.

• Improvement in US trade balance.

Who is John Kornblum and what is his significance?

• A famous Hollywood actor.

• A military general in the US Army.

• A trade advisor to the President.

• A diplomat who played a key role in German reunification.

What is the argument against cutting the State Department's budget?

• It would lead to increased military spending.

• It would increase the number of foreign embassies.

• It would result in the loss of experienced diplomats.

• It would cause a surplus in the federal budget.