Investigative report links USAID funding to biased media and political narratives

On February 13, 2025, the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs convened a full committee hearing focused on eliminating waste within the foreign aid bureaucracy, particularly scrutinizing the operations of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The discussions highlighted significant concerns regarding the agency's funding practices and their implications for independent journalism.

The hearing opened with a critical examination of USAID's financial support for media organizations, specifically the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). Witnesses raised alarms about potential conflicts of interest, suggesting that USAID's funding could undermine the independence of investigative journalism. One speaker emphasized that this situation represents "just the tip of the iceberg," indicating deeper issues within the agency's funding strategies.

Concerns were also raised about the OCCRP's tactics, which reportedly include using legal threats to silence inquiries into their operations. The organization has a substantial legal fund, described as an "offensive weapon," aimed at discouraging scrutiny. This led to discussions about the implications of USAID's financial involvement in investigations related to high-profile political events, including the impeachment of former President Donald Trump and the allegations surrounding Russian interference in U.S. politics.

Further, the committee explored how USAID transfers funds between various projects, complicating efforts to track the flow of money. This practice raises questions about transparency and accountability within the agency's operations.

The hearing concluded with a consensus on the need for reform within USAID to ensure that foreign aid is used effectively and ethically, particularly in relation to media funding. The committee plans to continue its investigation into these matters, aiming to enhance oversight and eliminate waste in the foreign aid bureaucracy.