I was deeply concerned to hear early today from Matthew Heath’s family about Matthew’s attempted suicide over the weekend at his prison cell in Venezuela. Let me be clear – this is a life and death situation that should be taken with the utmost seriousness by everyone involved.

It is my intention to press the Maduro Government to allow an emergency medical evacuation so that Matthew can return to the United States and get the critical care he needs. What is important now is for the Biden Administration to act decisively and quickly.

Saving Matthew’s life is in the interest of both governments. Failing to act could well cost Matthew’s life.