Bush, Obama, and Bono Criticize Trump’s Last-Minute Cuts to USAID: What It Means for Global Aid

Former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush, along with musician Bono, recently expressed heartfelt concerns about the Trump administration’s impact on the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in a touching farewell video. This gathering marked the end of USAID as an independent agency after more than sixty years. Originally established by President John F. Kennedy, USAID aimed to foster goodwill and stability abroad, enhancing U.S. national security.

Obama criticized the decision to dismantle USAID, calling it “a colossal mistake.” He highlighted the significant role of the agency in improving lives worldwide, from providing essential resources to supporting economic growth in countries that once relied on aid. His sentiment resonated with many as thousands of USAID employees faced job losses and uncertainty.

Under the new plan, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that USAID would merge into the State Department, transitioning to a program named America First. This change raised concerns about the future of critical foreign assistance programs that have saved millions of lives. For instance, Bush mentioned the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a program from his administration credited with saving 25 million lives globally. While some funding for PEPFAR survived, many are worried about cuts that will limit access to life-saving services.

The emotional video included stories from humanitarian workers who recalled how USAID helped them in times of crisis. One worker reminisced about when USAID staff provided vital food aid during her childhood in a refugee camp in Liberia. These personal accounts underscore the deep connections and trust fostered through the agency’s work in communities facing adversity.

Bono shared a poignant poem during the farewell, lamenting the potential consequences of the funding cuts, including increased malnutrition and preventable deaths. His message served as a stark reminder of the human impact behind the statistics, emphasizing the need for compassion and commitment to those in urgent need.

In the background of these events, social media reactions have highlighted a growing concern over international aid cuts. A recent survey shows that 70% of Americans support continued or increased funding for foreign aid programs, reflecting a desire for the U.S. to maintain its role as a global leader in humanitarian efforts.

As the landscape of U.S. foreign aid changes, the words of these leaders serve as a hopeful reminder of the power of aid in creating a better world. Their assembly, though marked by grief, was also a celebration of the impact of USAID’s work over the decades and a call to recognize its value for future generations.

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