<p><strong>To the editor:</strong></p>
<p>As the Nov. 6 midterm elections approach, the media has begun to ramp up coverage of the issues. However, one area of policy has been overlooked — foreign aid.</p>
<p>Many Americans have denied the importance of foreign assistance, claiming aid renders “no results.” This is not true. Over the past few years, we have seen strong improvements in the state of global poverty. In 2015, extreme poverty rates worldwide fell below 10 percent for the first time.</p>
<p>We must also consider just how little the U.S. gives to foreign assistance. Less than 1 percent of the federal budget is reserved for foreign aid. This amounts to $30 billion annually, compared to $663 billion for defense spending.</p>
<p>Foreign aid also improves conditions at home. Economic development leads to new markets for United States manufacturers to sell their goods to.</p>
<p>Even more, foreign aid can lead to increased national security. The United States National Security Strategy is known for its “3 D’s” — defense, development and diplomacy. “Development” creates peace which stops terrorism and corruption from taking root in these vulnerable environments.</p>
<p>The Borgen Project aims to put foreign aid at the center of U.S. policy. This nonprofit uses advocacy to fight global poverty. By informing our leaders of the benefits of foreign aid, we can help pass legislation aimed at combating poverty worldwide.</p>
<p>As the election season continues, ask your candidates to fight for foreign aid. In addition, call your current leaders and urge them to support the International Affairs Budget and other legislation aimed at alleviating poverty across the world.</p>
<p><p style="text-align: right"><strong>Kelsey Napier, The Borgen Project</strong></p>
<p><p style="text-align: right"><strong>Greenwood</strong></p>
