The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) awarded Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (R-Fla.) the 2026 Champion of Freedom Democracy Award at Miami's historic Freedom Tower.
“The award recognizes his dedication to human rights, steadfast advocacy for democracy worldwide, and enduring support for those striving to build freer, more just communities," a spokesperson for NED wrote. “For more than two decades, Díaz-Balart has been one of Congress’ most forceful advocates for freedom and democracy around the world.”
Founded by former President Ronald Reagan, NED is a nonprofit organization focused on advancing freedoms and democracy worldwide.
Díaz-Balart Thanks NED For Their Recognition
Congressman Díaz-Balart thanked the group for selecting him and presenting him with the award in a landmark that carries significant meaning for many refugees.
I am deeply honored to receive the National Endowment for Democracy’s 2026 Campion of Freedom Democracy Award at Miami’s historic Freedom Tower. As the son of Cuban exiles, receiving this recognition at a landmark that welcomed so many families fleeing communist tyranny carries special meaning. It is a reminder of America’s promise and our responsibility to stand as a beacon of freedom.
Throughout my service in Congress, I have worked to ensure that those fighting for liberty have a steadfast ally in the United States. That commitment is especially urgent in our own hemisphere, where generations of Cubans, Venezuelans, and Nicaraguans have demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience in the face of decades of authoritarian repression.
As Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs, I have consistently prioritized efforts that put America’s national security first and protect taxpayer dollars, while promoting freedom of speech, independence of the press, and democratic values worldwide. Advancing these freedoms supports our interests, strengthen our allies, and counters the regimes that seek to undermine us.
I thank the National Endowment for Democracy for this recognition and for more than four decades of supporting those confronting repression around the world. I remain committed to ensuring that their voices are heard, their sacrifices are remembered, and their struggle for freedom remains a priority of American foreign policy.
— Mario Díaz-Balart (@MarioDB) October 22, 2026
"It is a reminder of America’s promise and our responsibility to stand as a beacon of freedom," Rep. Díaz-Balart wrote. “I remain committed to ensuring that their voices are heard, their sacrifices are remembered, and their struggle for freedom remains a priority of American foreign policy.”
Díaz-Balart Role In Spreading Democracy
Congressman Díaz-Balart currently serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP).
As NSRP Chair, Congressman Díaz-Balart oversees funding for U.S. nondefense international affairs, diplomacy, and foreign assistance.
He also serves as Vice Chair of the House Committee on Appropriations.
During his time in Congress, Congressman Díaz-Balart has urged presidential administrations to act against authoritarian regimes in Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Iran and China.
