Millions of US tax dollars sent to rightwing European thinktanks. Did any Trump supporters vote for that? | Arwa Mahdawi

In February 2025, Donald Trump, the former president of the United States, took to Truth Social to denounce the US Agency for International Development (USAID) as "corrupt" and "spending taxpayers' money on ridiculous projects abroad." His rhetoric was aimed at promoting his own "America first" agenda, which he claimed would focus on improving life within the country rather than on international aid.

Following Trump's pronouncement, USAID was effectively shut down, with most of its staff placed on indefinite administrative leave. This move was framed as part of Trump's campaign to prioritize domestic issues over foreign aid.

However, this decision was met with criticism, particularly from those who argued that the agency's work abroad was essential. One of the most egregious lies propagated by Trump's supporters and right-wing media outlets during this period was the false claim that USAID was spending millions on condoms in Gaza. This claim, which was repeated without any evidence, served to further discredit the agency and its legitimate efforts.

The betrayal of the American taxpayer, who was told that their hard-earned money was being squandered on such frivolous projects, was seen as a stark example of political opportunism and a disregard for the needs of both the American people and the international community.