U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono, alongside Senator Tim Kaine and seven other colleagues, has formally addressed concerns to Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the Trump Administration's decision to cut U.S. foreign assistance programs in the Western Hemisphere. The senators have highlighted that these cuts adversely affect U.S. national security by hindering efforts to tackle narcotics trafficking, migration issues, and cartel violence.
The letter from the senators was prompted by Secretary Rubio's recent visit to Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. During this trip, he emphasized themes such as regional cooperation and economic partnerships but also encountered a freeze on critical national security assistance programming and USAID activities since January 24.
The senators stressed that "these programs are fundamental to advancing the exact national security priorities" outlined by Secretary Rubio during his trip. They provided examples of how U.S. assistance has been pivotal in countering migration and drug trafficking and fostering economic growth in these countries.
Senator Hirono expressed concern over the impact of the funding freeze on programs supporting migrant return processes in Central America and enhancing border security in Panama. In El Salvador, they noted funds allocated for addressing irregular migration drivers are now inactive.
Further examples include support for Costa Rican law enforcement against drug cartels and investment climate improvements linked to U.S. economic assistance programming which have ceased due to the funding halt. Similarly, initiatives promoting democratic resilience in Guatemala and health programs in the Dominican Republic are no longer operational.
The letter urged Secretary Rubio to reconsider this "short-sighted" freeze on foreign aid which they argue undermines America's safety and prosperity goals: "We urge you to closely consider the disruption caused to U.S. security interests."
Secretary Rubio is reminded of his past advocacy for limiting Chinese influence globally through foreign assistance, deemed a "major force multiplier." The senators called for reflection on strengthening partnerships via foreign aid following his trip: "Now that you have returned from your historic trip... quickly reverse this short-sighted and damaging freeze."
In addition to Senators Hirono and Kaine, signatories include Senators Chuck Schumer, Cory Booker, Chris Van Hollen, Peter Welch, John Hickenlooper, Richard Blumenthal, and Alex Padilla.