Senator Defends $20M USAID Funding for Iraqi 'Sesame Street' Program

Sen. Chris Coons argues the educational show promotes values and public health in Iraq, countering criticism of wasteful spending.

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) allocated $20 million to fund 'Ahlan Simsim Iraq,' a Sesame Street-style program aimed at promoting inclusion and mutual respect.
Sen. Chris Coons defended the program, emphasizing its role in teaching values like collaboration and peacefulness in a region affected by extremism.
The program also focuses on public health education, including disease prevention, and aims to reduce child mortality from illnesses like dysentery.
Critics, including Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the Trump administration, have labeled the spending as wasteful, with USAID facing significant budget cuts and restructuring.
A CNN poll revealed that 72% of viewers supported the funding, with proponents arguing it represents 'smart power' and an effective use of soft diplomacy.