By seeking to eliminate USAID, President Donald Trump’s administration is further tarnishing America's reputation on the global stage, portraying the U.S. as selfish and indifferent, even when help is desperately needed.
USAID plays a crucial role in responding to humanitarian crises, addressing global health issues and promoting long-term development. Its budget of $40 billion in 2023 is less than 1% of the entire federal budget and is a fraction of what the U.S. spends on defense or entitlements.
By cutting funding to an agency that works to address global challenges like food insecurity, poverty and education, the U.S. isn’t just pulling back; it’s pulling away from the global community.
USAID was created in 1961 by former President John F. Kennedy during the Cold War as a non-military tool for foreign assistance. The goal was to counter Soviet influence while promoting U.S. values abroad. Its mission was rooted in fostering global stability by helping countries improve their economies, health systems and education while also strengthening democratic values.
By providing humanitarian aid and development support, USAID hoped to build strong international partnerships, prevent the spread of communism and enhance U.S. global leadership. Although its mission has evolved since the Cold War, its core purpose of promoting peace and stability through sustainable development remains a central part of U.S. foreign policy.
However, now USAID faces criticism from prominent figures such as Elon Musk, who has called the agency a "ball of worms and claimed that it is politically biased. Musk has repeatedly criticized USAID on social media, arguing that it’s overly partisan and supports "radically left causes" around the world, even accusing it of promoting "anti-American" ideas.
This criticism ignores a key point: USAID's work is focused on addressing global crises that transcend political divides. It’s about saving lives, supporting health systems, improving education and helping rebuild economies in some of the most vulnerable countries. For example, in 2020, USAID responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by providing over $11 billion to assist developing countries in tackling health issues and improving pandemic response capabilities.
USAID is always on the front lines, responding to emergencies from wars and natural disasters to health crises like pandemics. Just last year, it was instrumental in places like Ukraine, providing provisions for their war against Russia. In Ethiopia, USAID provided support to avoid conflict, climate shocks, and food shortages, helping to mitigate the effects of the ongoing famine in the region.
In addition to immediate disaster relief, USAID is also focused on long-term solutions. For example, in Jordan, the agency gave over $1.23 billion in exchange for the country cooperating with U.S. interests, such as providing intelligence support and housing Syrian refugees. This investment not only helped stabilize Jordan but also advanced U.S. strategic objectives in the region.
Whether it’s rebuilding economies, improving healthcare, or increasing access to education, USAID’s work is about sustainability. By cutting support for these efforts, the U.S. is making a policy decision that reflects poorly on its values.
Critics might argue foreign aid doesn't directly benefit the U.S. In reality, by helping other countries develop stronger, healthier, and more stable societies, USAID not only saves lives but also strengthens U.S. influence abroad. Investing in global health, education and infrastructure creates a safer world for everyone, including the U.S.
The competition for global influence is intense, and USAID has been a vital tool in keeping the U.S. at the forefront of global development and diplomacy. Getting rid of USAID is not just a budget decision — it’s a strategic mistake.
It jeopardizes lives, weakens relationships with allies and makes the U.S. appear to no longer care about the global community. With the world facing urgent challenges like pandemics, climate change and conflict, USAID’s work is more needed than ever. Cutting its funding or trying to shut it down would send a dangerous message about the U.S.'s place in the world.
Ultimately, dismantling USAID isn’t just harmful to the world — it’s harmful to the U.S., too. America is built on values of cooperation, support and leadership, and USAID reflects those values on a global scale. Trying to shut it down only weakens the U.S. and undermines its role as a global leader.
Abby Waechter is a junior studying strategic communications at Ohio University. Please note the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Have something to say? Email her at aw087421@ohio.edu.
