A bailout for human life

What does $50 billion get you these days?

Not as much as it used it, at least according to the headlines. The U.S. government is doling out that amount right and left to various mega-industries in the form of "bailouts" and Madoff singlehandedly swindled his clients out of a similar amount.

However – last week the U.S. government decided it could not afford to spend $50 billion to save and improve the lives of millions of men, women and children around the world. Instead, it cut almost $5 billion from the International Affairs Budget. This is an extremely dangerous and short-sighted move by Congress.

The International Affairs Budget funds essential diplomatic and development programs that improve the lives of millions of people around the world, while protecting our national security, promoting economic prosperity, and demonstrating our humanitarian values. Secretary Clinton, Secretary Gates and other respected military leaders support increased funding for the International Affairs Budget as essential to national security and to implementing a "smart power" strategy in U.S. foreign policy.

A mere 1.4% of the entire FY10 Budget request, our nation cannot afford to shortchange these vital programs, especially during these difficult economic times. Our support for the Kerry-Lugar Amendment to restore critical funding to the International Affairs Budget will ensure America has the "smart power" tools and resources it needs to strengthen U.S. national interests and restore America's image abroad.

Senator Burr and Senator Hagan must support the Kerry-Lugar Amendment to restore the full FY10 International Affairs Budget in the Senate Budget Resolution and oppose any further cutting amendments.