Pressure on Sen. Jim Risch to Confirm Religious Freedom Nominee
The Rev. Andrew Brunson, who spent two years in a Turkish prison before being freed through the efforts of President Trump, is now urging Sen. Jim Risch (R-Idaho), the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, to confirm Trump’s pick for the religious freedom ambassador before the Christmas holiday.
Former Representative Mark Walker (R-North Carolina), nominated by President Trump, has faced delays with no confirmation hearings scheduled throughout the year. Risch has a hearing lined up for Thursday in the Foreign Relations Committee, and if he chooses to include Walker’s nomination, it could potentially be approved by the entire U.S. Senate in time for Christmas.
Brunson’s prominence as a well-known former political prisoner gives weight to his appeal, making it harder for Risch to justify any delays.
“As a pastor who was imprisoned for two years in Turkey simply for my Christian faith,” Brunson expressed in a letter to Risch, which was obtained ahead of publication. “During that time, I directly witnessed the hostility many governments show towards Christians and other religious minorities. I deeply appreciate your role in my release and America’s commitment to stand by those persecuted for their faith.”
He highlighted the alarming increase in threats against Christians globally.
Brunson stated, “Today, I must raise an urgent warning: the global persecution of Christians is escalating rapidly.” He cited several countries where believers suffer imprisonment, torture, deportation, and even death for their faith. According to Open Doors, over 380 million Christians currently face high or extreme persecution, a situation that Brunson emphasized is a serious human rights crisis.
He specifically urged Risch to include Walker’s nomination in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s agenda, which is already set for Thursday, Dec. 11, pointing out that this could be done quite easily.
Brunson remarked, “This role is not merely ceremonial; it is a vital tool of American leadership and moral clarity.” He noted that Walker, a former pastor, would effectively advocate for persecuted believers, yet expressed concern that no hearing had been scheduled despite Congress nearing its end.
Brunson’s assertion about Risch’s oversight is valid. Walker was nominated back in April, but with Christmas approaching and many Christians facing persecution worldwide, Risch has not arranged a hearing. Sources suggest Walker would easily pass through the committee and likely receive unanimous support, barring opposition from Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.), who has privately expressed concerns about Walker’s nomination. However, it’s unlikely Budd would actually vote against him, especially before Christmas.
Brunson’s request is clear: “Senator Risch, I respectfully but urgently ask that you schedule a confirmation hearing for Congressman Mark Walker this week, ideally on December 11,” he wrote.
Brunson emphasized that every week without a confirmed ambassador means a lack of representation for those suffering from persecution, stating, “A week without a confirmed Grand Ambassador is a week without a strong voice for those facing persecution in places like Nigeria and China.”
If Risch adds Walker to the committee’s agenda, he’s likely to pass through to a full Senate vote and, if that happens, Walker is expected to gain confirmation. Risch’s office seems aware of Brunson’s letter, and there’s an opportunity for him to discuss this situation on Breitbart News Radio; however, instead of engaging, Risch’s office provided a statement that included misrepresentations about the support for Walker.
Risch claimed that Walker lacked sufficient votes, without naming any senators who oppose the nomination, raising concerns about transparency.
“The SFRC processes candidates based on White House priorities and moves those for which support is clear,” Risch stated.
Brunson concluded with a call to action: “The world is watching to see if the U.S. will continue to lead on this issue or leave this crucial position vacant at a time when persecuted believers urgently need America’s voice.” He urged the Senate to confirm Mark Walker promptly before Congress breaks for Christmas.
