Today, Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart, chairing the oversight hearing for the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) Subcommittee of the House Committee on Appropriations, addressed concerns over the management of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) under the Biden Administration.
During the hearing, Díaz-Balart criticized the use of PEPFAR funds. He stated, “Unfortunately, under the Biden Administration, the PEPFAR program was not immune from the misguided campaign to push controversial ideologies using U.S. taxpayer dollars.” He expressed concern over the program’s use of funds, alleging violations of the Helms Amendment by utilizing taxpayer money to fund abortions. “I was outraged and heartbroken to learn of this shocking betrayal—funds provided to save lives were instead used to end lives,” he added.
Díaz-Balart highlighted the importance of a review announced by the incoming Trump Administration of all foreign assistance programs. He expressed his support for this measure, “Let me be clear—given the circumstances and the gross mismanagement of the Biden Administration, a review is necessary.”
Regarding the future of PEPFAR, he emphasized its potential if properly implemented, “It is my assessment that PEPFAR has, and if implemented correctly, will continue to, make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.”
As the committee prepares for the work on the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill, Díaz-Balart noted the hearing’s role in shaping future recommendations. “I look forward to hearing from our witnesses about the successes, challenges, and opportunities as we think about the future of the PEPFAR program,” he said.
