Boise City Wire

U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Brian Schatz, Tim Kaine, and Cory Booker have voiced their concerns to President Donald Trump regarding his proposal to eliminate certain entities established by Congress. The letter from the senators highlights the importance of the Inter-American Foundation (IAF) and the United States African Development Foundation (USADF), which they argue are crucial for promoting U.S. interests in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa.

“These entities play a crucial role in promoting U.S. interests in Latin America and the Caribbean and across the African continent by supporting community-driven development, fostering economic growth, and strengthening democratic governance,” wrote the Senators.

The letter stresses that these organizations have been supported by bipartisan appropriations since 1969 for IAF and 1980 for USADF. The senators argue that eliminating them through executive action would be illegal as both organizations “shall have perpetual succession unless…dissolved by an Act of Congress.”

“Eliminating or effectively preventing the IAF or USADF from carrying out their missions would not only be illegal but would undermine U.S. leadership in the Western Hemisphere and across the African continent," they continued.

The senators urge President Trump to respect existing statutes governing these foundations. They emphasize that any proposed changes should be submitted to Congress for legislative consideration.

“We urge you to respect the statutes that govern the IAF and USADF,” they concluded.

They also point out that recent appropriations bills include funding for these entities, highlighting their ongoing authorization. Additionally, any reorganization efforts require prior consultation with Congress under specific legal provisions.

In closing, they express willingness to work with President Trump on ensuring responsible governance of U.S. foreign assistance programs.