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Subject: Defend Global Stability: Protect USAID
Dear [Recipient],
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I am writing to express my deep concern regarding recent efforts to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), an agency that plays a critical role in advancing U.S. values and addressing global humanitarian needs. USAID’s work—providing life-saving assistance in health, education, food security, and disaster relief—is vital not only for vulnerable populations around the world but also for promoting U.S. foreign policy and national security interests.
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Constitutional Concerns
USAID was established through the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and operates as an independent agency within the executive branch. The dissolution of such an agency would constitute a significant departure from the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to oversee and approve the creation and dismantling of federal agencies. As Representative Don Beyer (D-Va.) recently stated, “USAID was established by an act of Congress, and it can only be disbanded by an act of Congress.” By attempting to eliminate USAID without Congressional approval, this decision risks undermining the constitutional principles of separation of powers and legislative oversight.
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Humanitarian Consequences
The actions to dismantle USAID pose significant risks to millions of people around the world who depend on U.S. aid for survival. In regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa, Haiti, and Sudan, USAID supports vital health programs, including efforts to fight HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis. Its contributions to combating hunger and providing emergency relief are also essential in regions devastated by conflict and disaster.
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In Sub-Saharan Africa, USAID is critical in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS, providing treatment and care to millions of people in countries like Nigeria and Uganda. The cessation of these programs could lead to increased mortality and a resurgence of preventable diseases. Similarly, USAID’s assistance in Sudan is vital in alleviating food insecurity and providing medical care in one of the world’s most conflict-ridden areas.
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In Haiti, USAID’s health programs, such as AIDS prevention and maternal health care, are among the most significant sources of care in a country with limited medical resources. The shutdown of USAID’s operations would not only result in the loss of these services but also exacerbate the economic and social challenges that Haiti is already grappling with.
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Global Stability and U.S. Interests
USAID also plays a key role in promoting democratic values and stability in regions facing authoritarianism, corruption, and instability. By withdrawing from global development efforts, the U.S. risks losing its influence in critical regions, ceding ground to competitors like China and Russia. These adversaries are increasingly asserting their influence by offering aid and investment in areas where the U.S. once led.
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The decision to dismantle USAID sends a troubling message to the world, undermining the U.S.’s long-standing commitment to global leadership and humanitarian aid. Moreover, it risks weakening U.S. alliances and partnerships in regions where America’s presence and support are most needed.
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Conclusion
I strongly urge you to oppose all efforts to dismantle USAID and to continue supporting the agency’s mission of promoting human dignity, advancing global health, and supporting democratic governance. USAID has been a cornerstone of American foreign policy for decades, and its dissolution would have devastating humanitarian consequences for millions of people, compromise U.S. national security, and weaken our moral standing on the global stage.
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Please consider the far-reaching implications of this decision. I respectfully ask for your leadership in ensuring that USAID remains intact and continues to carry out its vital mission.
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Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
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Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Backgrounder
Backgrounder
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) plays a pivotal role in providing humanitarian aid and fostering global development. With its mandate to reduce poverty, promote democratic values, and address humanitarian crises worldwide, USAID has been instrumental in supporting countries in need. However, the Trump administration’s decision to reduce or restructure USAID’s operations presents significant concerns, both from a constitutional and humanitarian perspective.
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Constitutional Challenges
The dissolution or drastic reduction of USAID, an agency established by Congress under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, could pose constitutional challenges. The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to control federal agencies through appropriations and oversight, and any attempt to eliminate such an agency would require legislative approval. While the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998 temporarily granted the President reorganization authority over USAID, this authority expired in 1999. Dismantling the agency without Congressional input could bypass the necessary democratic process, potentially leading to legal challenges. As Representative Don Beyer (D-Va.) stated, "USAID was established by an act of Congress, and it can only be disbanded by an act of Congress" (Federal News Network, 2025).
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Humanitarian Crisis and Global Impact
The shutdown or severe reduction of USAID’s operations would have devastating consequences, particularly in developing countries that rely heavily on U.S. aid for critical services. Here are some key regions and sectors that would be deeply impacted:
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Sub-Saharan Africa: USAID plays a critical role in combating diseases like HIV/AIDS and malaria in countries like Nigeria and Uganda. The cessation of these programs would likely result in increased transmission rates, further destabilizing these already vulnerable regions (Wired, 2025).
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Sudan: USAID provides crucial food assistance and health programs in Sudan. The withdrawal of these services could exacerbate food insecurity, displace families, and leave populations at risk for disease outbreaks and malnutrition (American Friends Service Committee [AFSC], 2025).
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Haiti: USAID is integral to Haiti’s healthcare system, particularly in treating diseases like AIDS. The closure of these programs would not only hinder disease prevention but could lead to preventable deaths, further straining an already fragile healthcare system (Reuters, 2025).
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Latin America and the Middle East: USAID supports various grassroots programs addressing human trafficking, medical aid, and community development. Without this support, the region could see a rise in social unrest, increased poverty, and further destabilization in areas already struggling with conflict and instability (CBS News, 2025).
Potential Consequences for U.S. National Security
The dismantling or significant reduction of USAID could undermine U.S. national security interests. Foreign aid, including humanitarian assistance, is a powerful tool for diplomacy and strategic influence. By cutting essential programs, the U.S. risks losing influence in regions critical for diplomatic relations and military strategy. Humanitarian aid often acts as a form of soft power, fostering goodwill and stability in volatile areas. Reducing U.S. engagement could allow adversaries like China and Russia to increase their influence through alternative development aid programs (The Brookings Institution, 2025).
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Conclusion
The potential dismantling or significant reduction of USAID presents both a constitutional challenge and a humanitarian crisis. The agency’s work in health, food security, education, and disaster relief supports millions of vulnerable individuals worldwide. Without USAID’s contributions, the U.S. would not only breach its constitutional obligations but also undermine global efforts to address pressing issues such as poverty, disease, and conflict. This decision should be a cause for concern for Americans who value global leadership, humanitarian principles, and the stability of both the U.S. and the world at large.
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Wired. (2025). The USAID Shutdown Puts Millions of African Lives at Risk. Retrieved from https://www.wired.com/story/the-usaid-shutdown-puts-millions-of-african-lives-at-risk/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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American Friends Service Committee (AFSC). (2025). Shutting Down USAID Makes Us Less Safe. Retrieved from https://afsc.org/news/shutting-down-usaid-makes-us-less-safe?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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Reuters. (2025). Trump's Aid Freeze Keeps Life-Saving Programs Shut, Sparks Mayhem. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trumps-aid-freeze-keeps-life-saving-programs-shut-sparks-mayhem-2025-02-08/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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CBS News. (2025). USAID Shutdown: Grassroots Groups Impacted. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/usaid-shutdown-grassroots-groups-impact/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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The Brookings Institution. (2025). The Strategic Importance of USAID in U.S. National Security. Retrieved from https://www.brookings.edu (Note: this is a placeholder for the citation—please confirm or replace with an actual source).