Gaetz wants to abolish U.S. Agency for International Development over ‘leftist ideology’
WASHINGTON, D.C. (FLV) – Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., introduced legislation to end the United States Agency for International Development, arguing that the organization is pushing “radical, leftist ideology” instead of spreading diplomacy.
“USAID does not serve a meaningful purpose,” Gaetz said in a press release. “It is used as a slush fund for international wokeism. Therefore, serious lawmakers in Congress should support its complete abolition.”
The agency was created in 1961 through an executive order by President John F. Kennedy.
“USAID leads international development and humanitarian efforts to save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance and help people progress beyond assistance,” its mission statement reads.
Reps. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., Eli Crane, R-Ariz., Paul Gosar, R-Ariz., Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., have all signed on to co-sponsor the legislation.
Gaetz argued that a 2022 Heritage Foundation report highlighted the ways that the agency has “weaponized foreign aid” to push left-wing ideologies around the world.
“Among these programs were those supporting abortion, gender equity programs, and climate alarmism,” he said. “The legislation will also rescind the unobligated funds made available for the agency and transfer all other assets or liabilities to the Secretary of State.”
The organization introduced its “LGBTQI+ Inclusive Development Policy” on August 2.
”At USAID, we stand for the principle that no individual should be discriminated against, silenced, or attacked because of who they love or how they express themselves,” Agency Administrator Samantha Power said.
The policy seeks to recognize that “LGBTQI+ development strengthens livelihoods, economies, and democracies.”
“The American people will not tolerate government-funded degeneracy at home, and we certainly will not accept its force-feeding abroad under Old Glory,” Gaetz closed.
