Diseases cross borders, so aid must too

Monday, June 22, 2026

The Alliance for American Leadership held an event in Manhattan to urge Congress to renew funding for international aid programs that address global health and agricultural threats. Supporters argue that sustained foreign assistance is crucial for preventing the spread of diseases like Ebola and the New World screwworm in the U.S., protecting public health and economic stability.

This week in Manhattan, the Alliance for American Leadership is hosting its Soft Power Summer Hill Day, where participants will advocate for renewed congressional commitment to international assistance programs. Proponents argue that strategic foreign aid plays a critical role in safeguarding American interests, including public health, agriculture, and economic stability.

Critics often dismiss foreign aid as a form of charity with little return for the United States. However, advocates note that less than 1% of the federal budget is allocated to foreign aid, yet the benefits are substantial. These include supporting research initiatives, bolstering agricultural sectors, and aiding small businesses domestically.

Current global health threats underscore the urgency of such aid. The Ebola virus, which has resulted in 223 deaths abroad, continues to spread rapidly. Officials warn that ongoing infections overseas raise the risk of cases emerging within the United States. Additionally, a New World screwworm outbreak has recently appeared in Texas, threatening livestock industries. This progression follows the dismantling of a USAID program under the Trump administration that had previously monitored screwworm proliferation in Central America. Experts estimate potential losses to cattle ranchers could reach $2.1 billion if the infestation expands.

Advocates, including Rep. Jerry Nadler and Sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, are calling on the Office of Management and Budget to ensure that appropriated funds for foreign aid are effectively utilized to address these global health emergencies. They emphasize that these issues are not distant foreign concerns but have tangible consequences for American communities, particularly in New York.

By maintaining and strengthening international assistance efforts, supporters contend the United States can better protect its citizens and economic interests from cross-border threats posed by infectious diseases and agricultural pests. The initiative highlights the interconnected nature of global health and economic security in an increasingly borderless world.