President Donald Trump’s efforts to dismantle USAID stand in stark contrast to the support shown by Melania and Ivanka Trump during his administration.
Quick Takes
- Donald Trump is attempting to shut down USAID, despite previous support from Melania and Ivanka.
- Melania Trump praised USAID during a 2018 tour of Africa, highlighting its successful programs.
- Ivanka Trump led the “Women’s Global Development and Prosperity” Initiative, a USAID-backed program.
- Trump criticizes USAID for “waste and abuse,” citing specific projects he deems frivolous.
- The contrast between Trump’s actions and his family’s support raises questions about US foreign relations.
Trump’s Shift on USAID
Donald Trump’s stance on the US Agency for International Development (USAID) has undergone a significant transformation since his time in office. Initially, the agency received support from key members of his family, including First Lady Melania Trump and his daughter Ivanka. However, Trump’s current efforts to dismantle USAID align with his “America First” policy and attempts to reduce government spending.
Trump has labeled USAID a “tremendous fraud” and has targeted specific projects for criticism. He has cited grants to an LGBTQ group in Serbia and funding for electric vehicles in Vietnam as examples of what he considers wasteful spending. These actions represent a significant shift in US foreign aid policy, with potentially far-reaching implications for America’s global engagement.
Melania Trump’s Support for USAID
In stark contrast to her husband’s current position, Melania Trump was a vocal supporter of USAID during her time as First Lady. During a 2018 tour of Africa, she praised the agency’s successful programs and emphasized America’s commitment to global development.
“We care, and we want to show the world that we care, and I’ve partnered and am working with USAID.” – Melania Trump
Melania’s “BeBest” initiative collaborated with a USAID literacy program in Malawi, further demonstrating her commitment to the agency’s work. She consistently highlighted the importance of American investments abroad for building stronger societies.
Ivanka Trump’s USAID Initiatives
Ivanka Trump also played a significant role in supporting USAID during her father’s administration. She spearheaded the “Women’s Global Development and Prosperity” Initiative, a USAID-backed program aimed at empowering women in developing countries. This initiative underscored the Trump administration’s initial commitment to using foreign aid as a tool for economic development and women’s empowerment.
“We know there’s a correlation between gender inequality and conflict, there’s tremendous amounts of research. There’s a reason today, the president signed WGDP as a national security presidential memorandum, It is in our domestic security interests to empower women.” – Ivanka Trump
Ivanka visited Africa in 2018, supporting female entrepreneurs through USAID-backed projects. Her work emphasized the link between gender inequality and national security, presenting a nuanced view of foreign aid’s role in advancing US interests abroad.
The Current Controversy
Despite the previous support from his family members, Donald Trump’s administration has moved to undermine USAID investments and diversity-related initiatives. A White House memo accused the agency of being unaccountable and funding unnecessary projects. This shift has led to significant controversy and concern among international development experts.
A judge recently blocked Trump’s order to suspend over 2,000 USAID workers, but his administration continues efforts to cut foreign aid. This ongoing battle highlights the tension between Trump’s desire to reduce government spending and the established role of USAID in promoting US interests abroad through development assistance.
— 4th Estate News (@IVthestate) February 2, 2025
Implications for US Foreign Policy
The contrast between Trump’s current stance and the support previously shown by Melania and Ivanka raises important questions about the future of US foreign relations and the legacy of USAID initiatives. As the debate continues, policymakers and citizens alike must grapple with the complex role of foreign aid in advancing American interests and values on the global stage.
The outcome of this controversy will likely have significant implications for US soft power and diplomatic efforts worldwide. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the competing visions within the Trump family and broader political landscape will shape the future of American foreign aid policy.
Sources:
- Trump’s Efforts To Dismantle USAID: A Controversial Shift After Support From Melania And Ivanka
- Trump calls USAID a ‘tremendous fraud.’ His wife and daughter promoted its work
