Synopsis
Democrats in New York have committed to opposing the closure of USAID, arguing that it undermines US interests and benefits its global adversaries. Key figures criticize Elon Musk's decision and emphasize the importance of USAID in US foreign policy.Key Takeaways
- USAID is crucial for US foreign policy.
- Democrats oppose the closure initiated by Elon Musk.
- Shutdown benefits adversaries like China and Russia.
- Senators emphasize legal and public opposition.
- USAID works alongside the military to combat terrorism.
New York, Feb 4 (NationPress) Democrats have pledged to resist the closure of USAID, emphasizing that it weakens the United States and benefits its adversaries.
They criticized President Donald Trump’s adviser Elon Musk, the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), who revealed the decision on Monday, questioning his legitimacy.
“We will not allow this injustice to occur,” Senator Brian Schatz declared on Monday in Washington, as demonstrators raised placards opposing the shutdown of USAID.
“We will combat this in every possible manner: through the legal system, public opinion, and the platform of Congress,” he stated.
As China expands its aid and lending initiatives globally for strategic gain, USAID serves as a crucial element of Washington’s strategy to counter it.
Senator Chris Van Hollen remarked that Musk’s attempt to dismantle USAID is “a tremendous boon to our adversaries, including Russia, China, Iran, and others, as aid plays a vital role in US foreign and national security policy.”
He referenced a post by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, who described Musk’s closure of USAID as a “clever move”.
Regarding Musk’s ties to China, he cited allegations from former DOGE co-head Vivek Ramaswamy, claiming that the Tesla leader is a China “puppet” who would heed requests from President Xi Jinping.
“USAID’s efforts operate in tandem with our military to combat terrorism and stabilize volatile regions,” Representative Don Beyer stated.
Established by Congress in 1961, “this issue should be addressed by Congress, not by an unelected billionaire oligarch like Elon Musk,” Schatz emphasized.
