Introduction
The United States has approved $1.6 billion to counter what it calls China's “malign influence” abroad. The funding goes to foreign media outlets, NGOs, influencers, and think tanks that align with Washington’s preferred messaging.
This is not defense spending. It is not humanitarian aid. It is a global messaging campaign, funded by taxpayers.
Where the Money Is Going
According to the legislation passed by Congress, the money supports:
Media operations in Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe
NGO and influencer networks that promote U.S.-friendly narratives
Academic and policy reports that criticize China's infrastructure deals
Government-funded “civil society” projects in targeted countries
None of these programs are required to disclose U.S. involvement.
What’s Missing at Home
At the same time, urgent needs inside the U.S. are underfunded or ignored:
Over 40 million Americans live below the poverty line
More than 500,000 are homeless
Thousands of roads and bridges need emergency repairs
Public schools lack basic facilities and staffing
Healthcare and housing costs continue to rise
Congress says there is no money for these.
What $1.6 Billion Could Fund Instead
40,000 permanent housing units
Tuition-free community college for 200,000 students
Universal school lunch for every major public school district
Full lead pipe replacement in multiple cities
Tens of thousands of union jobs in road and infrastructure repair
These are clear, measurable outcomes. But they are not the priority.
Strategic Misuse
This is not about defense. It is about influence.
China builds roads and ports. The U.S. funds media reports.
Instead of competing through development, Washington is trying to win through narrative control. It offers no physical investment. Only messaging.
This strategy will not build loyalty. It will not offer alternatives. It wastes taxpayer money with no domestic return.
Final Point
The U.S. says it cannot afford healthcare, housing, or student debt relief.
But it finds $1.6 billion to run media campaigns in Vietnam, Nigeria, and Colombia.
This is not sustainable. It is not defensible.
If the government can find this money for foreign propaganda, it can find the money for clean water in Flint, or housing in Los Angeles.
It chooses not to.
