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Foreign Aid
I understand the opposition to large foreign aid packages. I am well aware of the numerous domestic programs that deserve and require additional funding, and I have consistently supported funding for homeland security, educational improvements, veterans' benefits, the homeless, the drug war, and many other worthwhile projects.
Despite the importance of our domestic programs, however, I believe, in some instances, it is in our best national interest to give foreign assistance to deserving countries. Whether for humanitarian, diplomatic or defensive purposes, foreign aid programs directly contribute to the security of the United States. Therefore, in order to preserve our freedom, we must continue our foreign economic assistance even when we are trying to tighten up controls on spending.
Nevertheless, I will continue to make our domestic programs my primary concern. Whenever foreign aid packages come before the Senate, I will be sure to consider who is receiving the funds and how the funds are going to be spent. We certainly cannot afford to assist corrupt government officials, as has sometimes happened in the past.
Click here to read Senator Shelby's newsletter about the federal budget.
Congressional Research Service Issues Briefs
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is part of the legislative branch of the federal government. CRS, which is a department of the Library of Congress, works exclusively as a nonpartisan analytical, research, and reference arm for Congress.
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For more information on this issue, please view the following CRS report:
Foreign Aid: An Introductory Overview of U.S. Programs and Policy.
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