A War Criminal Like Elliot Abrams
Should Be Nowhere Near US Diplomacy
Win Without War

(October 31, 2023) — In the history of US foreign policy, few names evoke visceral reactions of distrust and horror like Elliott Abrams. His career as a war criminal spans decades. Here’s merely a snapshot:

• Abrams was involved in Iran-Contra — and later pleaded guilty to two counts of withholding information from Congress over the scandal;
• He supported, defended, and championed repressive regimes, like the genocidal Guatemalan dictator Efraín Ríos Montt;
• He downplayed reports of a horrifying massacre in El Mozote, El Salvador;
• As Trump’s special envoy to Iran and Venezuela he called to pile on sanctions, recklessly disregard humanitarian concerns on the ground; and
• In September 2023, Abrams authored an op-ed inThe Wall Street Journal calling for another Muslim travel ban.

Despite this notorious track record, President Biden made the perplexing decision to nominate Elliott Abrams to join the US Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy.

If we allow someone with such a tainted track record to represent us — particularly in moments where tensions are so high — we are sending a dangerous signal that someone who disregards ethics, undermines the rule of law, and compromises national security can fail up in government.

That’s why it’s time to speak out. Diplomacy should be about more than party or politics, it’s about representing the best of our values on the global stage. Let’s ensure the Senate hears our collective voice and makes the right decision by rejecting President Biden’s baffling nomination of Elliott Abrams.

ACTION: Send a message to your Senators now and urge them to reject Elliott Abrams’ nomination to the US Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy.

THE LETTER
Dear Senator:

I write to ask you to unequivocally oppose the nomination of Elliott Abrams for the US Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy. His stained track record and notorious involvement in past controversies make him a dangerous choice for any post in public service.

Elliott Abrams’ central role in the Iran-Contra scandal, where he actively chose to deceive Congress, should be disqualifying. Further, his explicit support for genocidal regimes, like the monstrous Guatemalan dictator Efraín Ríos Montt, and his attempts to minimize the horrors of the El Mozote massacre, expose a man who lacks any moral compass.

He is simply not fit for this post. I trust you will give this matter the serious attention it deserves and vote “No” on Elliott Abrams’ nomination.