WATCH: Dem lawmakers answer USAID funding questions after bombshell report
WASHINGTON — Democratic lawmakers are standing firm in their support for funding the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), despite recent controversies surrounding the agency’s spending. When asked about reports of USAID funds ending up in the hands of terrorist-linked groups, lawmakers expressed their commitment to honoring the authorized funding levels.
The Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, has recently begun cutting funding from USAID as part of efforts to reduce costs across the federal government. In the process, it was discovered that U.S. dollars were allegedly being funneled to terror-linked organizations, including reports of funding for al Qaeda terrorist Anwar al-Awlaki to attend college in Colorado.
In response to questions about the controversial USAID funding, Democratic lawmakers emphasized the importance of upholding authorized spending agreements. Rep. Pete Aguilar of California stated, “USAID funding is authorized spending. Republicans and Democrats have agreed to those levels. We should honor those deals.”
Rep. Eric Swalwell, also from California, acknowledged that USAID funds should never support terrorist organizations. However, he raised concerns about Elon Musk’s credibility and questioned the validity of claims regarding efficiency improvements. Swalwell noted, “almost all the claims as it relates to efficiency have been proven false.”
A recent analysis by the Middle East Forum revealed that USAID and the State Department had directed at least $122 million to groups aligned with designated terrorists and their supporters. Among the findings was the discovery that USAID had provided over $900,000 to a Gaza-based charity with alleged terror connections.
Furthermore, a White House report identified instances where taxpayer dollars intended for humanitarian aid had inadvertently reached the Taliban, a designated terrorist group. These revelations have sparked calls for increased oversight and accountability within USAID funding allocations.
Progressive lawmaker Rep. Greg Casar of Texas, a member of the “the Squad” of progressive lawmakers, emphasized the importance of scrutinizing specific USAID programs while opposing wholesale cuts to the department. Casar stated, “It is perfectly reasonable to look at specific USAID funding, but I oppose gutting the entire department.”
While some lawmakers expressed concerns about wasteful spending and potential funding misuse, they underscored the need for targeted oversight and adjustments to the budget. Rep. Robert Garcia of California emphasized the importance of safeguarding funding from being diverted to support terrorist activities.
Overall, Democratic lawmakers are advocating for a balanced approach to addressing the issues surrounding USAID funding. While acknowledging the need for scrutiny and accountability, they are committed to preserving essential humanitarian assistance programs and preventing taxpayer dollars from reaching terrorist organizations.
