Lawmakers react to the temporary closure of USAID

The Trump Administration has put a hold on all operations with the U.S. Agency for International Development, which is tasked by Congress to distribute humanitarian aid around the globe. Supporters say the Agency is rife with corruption, but some ag lawmakers warn millions of dollars of food could go to waste.

This week on X, Kansas Senator Jerry Moran warned Secretary of State Marco Rubio that hundreds of millions of dollars of American-grown food is in jeopardy of rotting at U.S. ports. Then late last night, USAID offices were shuttered globally without much notice.

In his weekly call with ag reporters, Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley said there has been a lot of waste in the program and said a 90-day waiting period is the right call.

“I think you have to separate those out, and I think before the 90 days are up, and maybe even today, you’re going to have some modifications of that. But, without a doubt, I think that USAID needs a really thorough investigation.”

USAID was started by Executive Order under President Kennedy in 1961. Congress codified its existence in 1998.

Related Stories
K-State researchers advise producers to take action, highlighting that prevention is essential for controlling tick populations as cases spread West.
Shaun Haney joined us to discuss rising concerns over farmland ownership in Canada, actions being considered by provinces and farm groups, and the potential impacts of tighter regulations.
Florida’s import rule shows New World screwworm concerns are already affecting livestock movement and market conditions.
Rep. Adrian Smith joins us to discuss the push for nationwide year-round E15 sales and legislative hurdles for getting it into the farm bill.
Lower slaughter numbers reduced 2025 red meat output even with heavier cattle and hogs.
The Supreme Court’s ruling could affect pesticide warning claims well beyond Roundup. Richard Gupton with the Ag Retailers Association joins us to explain the importance of federal pesticide labeling standards and discuss the potential impact on the ag industry and supply chain.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Jose de Jesus explains the National Pork Board’s new campaign, “Taste What Pork Can Do,” which aims to build long-term engagement with Millennial and Gen-Z consumers.
Farm legal expert Roger McEowen highlights the legal challenges surrounding stray voltage, a recent court decision, and what it means for agricultural producers.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins shared a behind-the-scenes look at the journey as part of what’s being called the “Great American Egg Road Trip.”
Rising costs are significantly extending walnut profitability timelines.
Michael Cliver discusses his recent visit to the White House with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and the Trump Administration’s “Working Families Tax Cuts” impact on ranching families.