Mann and Moran Champion Legislation to Safeguard USDA’s Food for Peace Program

TOPEKA — Two Kansas Republicans are advocating for a change in how the Food for Peace program is managed. They want to move this important international aid program from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran believe this shift can strengthen the program, which helps fight hunger globally. Food for Peace has been in action for 70 years, feeding over 4 billion people in more than 150 countries.

The push comes after previous criticisms of USAID. During Donald Trump’s presidency, there were calls to dismantle the agency due to allegations of corruption. Some officials even suggested that USAID was “beyond repair.” This turmoil caused disruptions in food aid efforts and job cuts within the agency.

Senators and representatives, including Mann and Moran, introduced bills aimed at securing the future of Food for Peace. Moran emphasized the program’s role in enhancing political stability abroad and contributing to U.S. national security. He believes the program should be closer to farmers, allowing for better efficiency and reduced waste.

“Moving this program to the USDA is a smart step,” Moran said. “It connects farmers more directly to the aid process and helps them reach international markets.”

Mann pointed out that this initiative also highlights the valuable contributions of American farmers to global food efforts. “For 70 years, Kansas farmers have worked hard to feed those in need around the world,” he said. “This isn’t just about food; it’s a way to show our values and support vulnerable communities.”

Several agricultural associations, including those for beans, corn, soybeans, rice, and dairy, support the transition to USDA. Chris Tanner, president of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, said Kansas farmers take pride in their role in the Food for Peace program.

Adam York, CEO of the Kansas Sorghum Producers Association, stressed the importance of sorghum for food security and called for prioritizing American agriculture in international aid efforts.

Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Ron Estes expressed concern over perceived waste at USAID. He criticized spending on projects like a $20 million Iraqi Sesame Street and other seemingly frivolous expenses. He called for a sharper focus on efficient use of funds to ensure that vital programs move forward.