All Democratic members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee have expressed their concerns to Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding recent actions taken at the State Department. These actions include the suspension of foreign assistance and the Refugee Assistance Program, which the 22 Democratic lawmakers on the committee believe are detrimental to core State Department programs and responsibilities.
In a letter dated Monday, the lawmakers highlighted that such steps not only undermine America's credibility but also put U.S. diplomats, American implementers, and vulnerable individuals worldwide at risk. They emphasized that these actions demonstrate a lack of understanding of the value of diplomacy, the Department of State as an institution, and the essential work carried out by thousands of dedicated public servants every day to enhance the safety and prosperity of the American people.
The State Department's decision to freeze almost all foreign aid immediately and suspend refugee admissions and assistance for newly resettled individuals in the U.S. has raised significant concerns among the lawmakers. Additionally, the elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs, as mandated by an executive order from President Trump, has further fueled apprehensions about the direction of the State Department's policies.
It is noteworthy that the letter was signed exclusively by Democratic members, with no Republican signatories. Republican House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast, on the other hand, has commended the actions taken by the administration, indicating a partisan divide on the issue within the committee.
