Senate Democrats Push Back on Trump Agenda Over Foreign Aid Freeze

Democrats oppose U.N. ambassador nominee and legislation as foreign aid halt raises bipartisan concerns.

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee advanced Elise Stefanik's nomination for U.S. ambassador to the U.N., but several Democrats opposed it due to the Trump administration's foreign aid freeze.
The foreign aid halt, ordered by President Trump on Inauguration Day, has disrupted global humanitarian and development programs, drawing criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued limited exemptions for lifesaving aid, but NGOs report ongoing delays that could result in severe consequences, including loss of life.
Democrats have used procedural tools to block Trump-backed legislation and nominees, citing the aid freeze and other policy disagreements, though their ability to fully obstruct remains limited due to the Republican Senate majority.
Stefanik, a Trump loyalist, has pledged to advance the administration's 'America First' agenda at the U.N., including reducing funding for entities deemed counter to U.S. interests and supporting Israel's policies.