Protesters disrupt House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing on USAID funding, demanding restoration of aid funding. Committee Chairman pokes fun at protesters for being misinformed. PEPFAR, a global AIDS relief program, receives waiver to continue despite funding freeze.
Key Points
Protesters demand aid funding restoration
PEPFAR program continues despite funding freeze
Exemption for 'life-saving' programs issued by Secretary of State
Pros
Protesters bringing attention to USAID funding issues
PEPFAR program credited with saving over 20 million lives
Exemption for 'life-saving' programs amidst wider funding freeze
Cons
Protesters interrupting a formal hearing
Criticism of wasteful spending at USAID and state department