The Hill: Former members to Congress: Don’t cut foreign aid
Claudine Schneider (R-R.I.), Barbara Kennelly (D-Conn.), Lynn C. Woolsey (D-Calif.), and Mary Jo Kilroy (D-Ohio), all former members of Congress

“…The fight against global poverty is one of our country’s proudest traditions and smartest investments. From economic development to increased government accountability, from basic services like education, to life-saving programs like vaccines and food aid, foreign aid is crucial. … At a time of rising needs, any cuts to foreign aid is immoral, short-sighted, and costly — both to people experiencing disaster and displacement, and to the U.S. standing in the world. … Despite popular rhetoric, cutting aid or making it less effective won’t close the government’s budget gap or make America more secure — but it will close the door on a better future for the world’s most vulnerable communities and the future well-being of the United States. Congress must protect this small but critical part of our country’s budget to save lives, help people lift themselves out of poverty, spur economic growth, and make the world a better and safer place” (9/7).