Washington, DC – In response to Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s announcement that the Trump Administration will eliminate 83 percent of USAID programs, followed by a briefing from Acting Deputy USAID Administrator Pete Marocco, Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-22), Ranking Member of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) Appropriations Subcommittee, released the following statement.

"At less than 1 percent of our federal budget, U.S. foreign assistance strengthens national security, prevents pandemics, expands markets for American businesses and farmers, and promotes democracy worldwide,” said Rep. Frankel. “The Trump Administration’s reckless, secretive dismantling of USAID—without Congressional review or public hearings—is wrong, and in violation of federal law that requires consultation with Congress before any such moves.

"The impacts of these sudden mindless cuts have been and will continue to be severe,” continued Rep. Frankel. “Millions of people across the world will lose access to clean water, food assistance, and critical medical care. These cuts undermine efforts to stabilize conflict zones, creating conditions for terrorism, mass migration, and global instability—making America and our allies less safe. The void will weaken the United States' global standing and create opportunities for China, Russia, and other adversaries to expand their reach.

I shared these thoughts with Mr. Marocco during our meeting, and I will fight alongside like-minded colleagues in Congress to oppose these shortsighted and dangerous policies and work to mitigate the damage.”

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