[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 20 (Wednesday, February 9, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E182]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       SUPPORT FUNDING FOR USAID

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                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 9, 2011

  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the Republican 
Study Commission's proposed cuts to the U.S. Agency for International 
Development. This proposal comes as USAID undergoes systemic reforms 
that will bolster American power, fortify our national security, and 
realize long-term savings. Budget slashing now cuts these reforms off 
at the knees and seriously jeopardizes our international security and 
standing.
  USAID is transforming itself into a modern development enterprise. 
Like any good business enterprise, USAID has put a laser-sharp focus on 
delivering the highest possible value to its shareholders, the American 
taxpayers. Already, USAID has launched efforts to increase efficiency, 
dramatically reduce contracting, strengthen evaluation and oversight, 
and promote capacity development. Taken together, these complex 
initiatives will enable USAID to achieve better results faster at lower 
costs.
  And lower costs mean that USAID can be a better steward of taxpayer 
dollars. As Defense Secretary Robert Gates said, ``Development is a lot 
cheaper than sending in soldiers.'' Truly, an ounce of prevention is 
worth a pound of cure. USAID civilian efforts do the essential front-
end work to prevent violence in the first place by strengthening 
democratic governance, promoting rule of law, and supporting 
infrastructure growth to eliminate the root causes of conflict and 
develop peaceful, secure states. When countries are stable, the 
likelihood of extremist elements diminishes and vibrant economic 
markets and partnership for U.S. exports emerges. USAID is helping to 
create strong local capacity so that development assistance is no 
longer necessary. USAID is truly working itself out of a job. What 
could be more cost-effective than that?
  Finally, international development is not a partisan issue. It is an 
American value that reflects our fundamental belief in progress and 
peace. When we invest in foreign assistance, we promote international 
stability and build strong allies. USAID has laid the foundation to 
become a more effective, efficient, transparent instrument of our 
national security apparatus and diplomacy toolbox. Now more than ever, 
USAID needs Congressional support to fully realize these reforms and 
restore American power abroad. I strongly urge my colleagues to 
reconsider this misguided proposal.

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