Trump Administration to Cut $4.9 Billion in Foreign Aid, Defying Congress
In a bold move that challenges Congress' spending powers, President Donald Trump has announced plans to cut nearly $5 billion in congressionally approved foreign aid through a process known as a pocket rescission
. This maneuver, which has not been used in nearly 50 years, allows the president to request that Congress not spend approved funds toward the end of the fiscal year, circumventing the legislative branch.
Background and Context
Trump's administration has appealed to the Supreme Court over his foreign aid funding freeze, with the funding at issue being around $12 billion that would need to be spent by September 30 if the lower court orders remain in place1. According to reports, of the $5 billion to be returned to the US budget, $3.2 billion had been allocated to the US Agency for International Development (USAID), while the remainder was earmarked for other State Department funds2.
Recent Developments
In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Trump announced his intention not to spend the approved foreign aid, effectively cutting the budget34. The maneuver, known as a pocket rescission, prevents Congress from acting on the request within the 45-day timeframe, resulting in the funds going unspent4. This is the first time this tool has been used since 19774.
The White House also notified Congress of its plans to use this legally untested maneuver to claw back more money for foreign aid programs56. The Trump administration has also tapped into international aid for an additional $4.9 billion7.
Reactions and Consequences
Critics have argued this move is an overreach of presidential power and have warned that it could lead to budgetary paralysis8. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have panned the White House's move as illegal and warned of dire consequences on the fast-approaching deadline to fund the government9. The White House, however, defended the decision, arguing that it aligns with Trump's America First agenda9.
Conclusion
In an escalating battle over who holds the power of the purse in the United States10, Trump's administration is also claiming more of Congress's constitutional power of the purse by threatening to block funding8. The contentious battle over government funding is due to lapse on September 3011.