WASHINGTON, D.C. — In light of President Trump’s proposed budget cuts, many political leaders worry about the potential defunding of numerous humanitarian and environmental programs across the nation. Unfortunately, these budget cuts will have a profound effect on U.S. foreign aid, which currently represents a mere 1 percent of the federal budget. Amongst those concerned is Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS), who avidly supports the International Affairs Budget and stands against these detrimental budget cuts.

In his efforts to lift millions of people around the world out of poverty, Sen. Moran has focused on food aid as co-chair of the Senate Hunger Caucus. He previously chaired the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees the funding for various USAID and USDA global food programs. He remains a member of this subcommittee and the State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee.

Alongside these endeavors, Sen. Moran has been in support of the International Affairs Budget, which aims to increase funding for foreign aid, provide food and resources to struggling nations and allow more opportunities for impoverished people to lead healthy and successful lives. This budget funds political relations overseas, security assistance with foreign allies, health clinics and schools in developing countries and humanitarian relief from natural disasters. This foreign aid creates opportunities and jobs in developing countries. By funding these programs, the U.S. helps promote economic, political and social stability around the world.

“Fighting global hunger is not only the right thing to do, it also reduces conflict and civil unrest and promotes stability in regions important to our national interests,” Sen. Moran said. “These funds will provide life-saving assistance to millions suffering from hunger and food insecurity in these nations.”

Food shortages in several of these countries have led refugees to leave camps and return to war zones to feed themselves and their families. The Islamic State uses necessities including food as an incentive to recruit soldiers in Syria. When governments struggle to feed their people, chaos and violence quickly ascend.

Unfortunately, President Trump’s budget cuts could take huge steps backward in cultivating the developing world. Sen. Moran continues to stand at the forefront of fighting global poverty and funding food aid programs that strive to promote developing countries. By contacting members of Congress to protect the International Affairs Budget, U.S. citizens can help those struggling in the developing world to receive the opportunities to lead healthy and successful lives.

– Brandon Johnson

Photo: Flickr