Trump Uses 'Pocket Rescission' to Cut $4.9B in Foreign Aid

Published AUG 30

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Above: A man sells sorghum on the street from an old USAID bag in Maban, South Sudan, on Aug. 20, 2025. Image copyright: Guy Peterson/AFP/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-Trump narrative

This pocket rescission takes bold steps to cut unnecessary spending on programs that don't benefit American interests. The cuts target climate activism, gender programs and international bureaucracy that drain taxpayer dollars while providing little benefit to Americans. Using this legal authority demonstrates fiscal responsibility and commitment to putting America First rather than funding foreign priorities.

Daily Caller

Marco Rubio on X

Anti-Trump narrative

Trump's decision to unilaterally cancel congressionally approved funding is an unlawful power grab that erodes the Constitution's checks and balances, particularly Congress' authority over federal spending. This maneuver undermines the bipartisan cooperation necessary to avert a government shutdown and sets a dangerous precedent for future presidents to circumvent legislative oversight on budget decisions.

The New York Times

Chuck Schumer on X