1. United States
2. Maine
3. Letter

I am writing to you as a concerned constituent who is alarmed by the political targeting of the USAID's critical foreign assistance programs and people. I have friends who work for USAID and other federally-funded program abroad. Over the past month, my friends and their colleagues have been subjected to harmful and conflicting directives, and threats of being placed on administrative leave or terminated with no notice or reason. After years of dedicated service to USAID and our country, they are being abandoned and their reputations maligned. During the 90-day pause in foreign assistance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that USAID programs are under review. I'm not opposed to a review nor am I against the cutting of inessential programs. However, personnel who can speak to the objectives of these programs are being placed on leave or let go, suggesting that the determinations made may not be based on the actual needs and realities in the affected countries. The leadership of USAID is not involved or consulted in its own review process, which raises concerns. These recent decisions will have devastating consequences globally. USAID supports vital humanitarian and development projects in over 120 countries, working to prevent the spread of diseases, eliminate poverty, and provide life-saving assistance in crisis zones. Cutting these programs will lead to loss of life, particularly in areas facing widespread starvation and lack of access to essential healthcare services. I urge you to take strong action to ensure the safety of my friends abroad, as well as fight for the future of USAID. USAID cannot be dissolved without an act of Congress.