A group of House Republicans, led by Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN), has introduced legislation to repurpose frozen foreign aid funds for enhanced deportation of undocumented immigrants. The Restoring American Sovereignty Act aims to redirect funds initially frozen by President Trump's executive order, which paused most foreign aid for 90 days to allow for review.
The bill has garnered support from House Freedom Caucus members, including Reps. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and Tom Tiffany (R-WI). Rep. Ogles criticized the Biden administration's handling of the border crisis and what he termed wasteful spending by agencies like USAID. Rep. Tiffany echoed this sentiment, referring to USAID as an "international money laundering scheme" and advocating for taxpayer dollars to prioritize American security. Rep. Biggs also criticized USAID funding, alleging it supports projects in countries hostile to the U.S.
This legislative push comes amidst Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) crackdown on USAID, with reports indicating imminent administrative leave for nearly all overseas USAID employees. Republicans have long raised concerns about USAID's management, alleging misuse of taxpayer funds for LGBTQ initiatives and other social programs abroad. They also accuse the agency of obstructing GOP oversight attempts. Conversely, Democrats have criticized these actions, questioning Musk's authority and expressing concerns about the impact on crucial international initiatives, including health research in Africa.
The proposed legislation is concise, stipulating that funds frozen under President Trump's executive order can be reallocated for deportations. Rep. Ogles, a staunch Trump supporter, has previously introduced bills authorizing Trump to purchase Greenland and proposing a constitutional amendment allowing for a third presidential term.
