On March 4, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump addressed a joint session of Congress at the U.S. Capitol in Washington. During his speech, he sharply criticised government spending, calling several initiatives an “appalling waste.” He pointed to specific budget allocations that he believes are unnecessary and do not align with American interests.
Trump has drawn attention to a $22 billion budget from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), designated for providing housing and vehicles for undocumented immigrants. He argues that such substantial funding could be better utilised addressing domestic issues affecting American citizens. This critique aligns with his ongoing emphasis on stringent immigration policies and prioritising resources for U.S. nationals.
Beyond domestic spending, former President Donald Trump has raised concerns over several foreign aid allocations, questioning their relevance to American interests.
He criticised a $45 million fund designated for diversity, equity, and inclusion scholarships in Burma, arguing that the money does not directly benefit the United States.
Trump also took issue with a $40 million initiative aimed at improving the social and economic integration of “sedentary migrants,” calling the term vague and the program’s goals unclear.
Additionally, he condemned an $8 million allocation to promote LGBTQI+ rights in Lesotho, a small African nation, describing it as an example of misdirected foreign aid that fails to serve U.S. priorities.
Reflecting his “America First” agenda, Trump’s administration has taken concrete steps to reduce foreign aid:
- USAID Contract Reductions: The administration announced plans to cut over 90% of contracts under the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), aiming to reduce U.S. foreign aid by $60 billion. This move is part of a broader effort to decrease federal government size and eliminate programs deemed to advance a liberal agenda.
- Inter-American Foundation Downsizing: The Inter-American Foundation, established by Congress in 1969 to support community-led development in Latin America and the Caribbean, has reduced its staff to one employee. This action aligns with Trump’s executive order aimed at cutting federal bureaucracy and reducing spending on various agencies.
Trump’s critiques and the resulting policy changes have sparked mixed reactions.
Supporters argue that these measures are essential to reduce excessive government spending and ensure taxpayer funds are used more effectively within the United States.
On the other hand, critics warn that the deep cuts to both foreign aid and domestic programs could negatively impact vulnerable populations, both at home and abroad, and may weaken the United States’ global standing and influence.
