AP Post on 100 Nepal Aid Workers Sparks Conservative Backlash as USAID Cuts Bite
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 23
AP Post on 100 Nepal Aid Workers Sparks Conservative Backlash as USAID Cuts Bite
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 23
Summary
An AP social media post saying about 100 LGBTQ aid workers in Nepal turned to sex work after losing U.S.-funded jobs triggered a conservative backlash, with critics arguing it justified USAID cuts rather than undermined them.
Rubi Lama, a former HIV outreach worker featured in the video, said USAID-backed programs had provided free condoms, lubricant and PrEP before the funding disappeared, leaving transgender workers with fewer ways to survive.
Rep. Brandon Gill, Matt Walsh, Mollie Hemingway and Jack Posobiec mocked the post online, framing it as evidence that U.S. taxpayers should not fund such overseas programs.
The dispute lands after Trump ordered a 90-day pause on new foreign-aid obligations and USAID later issued stop-work orders, moves critics say disrupted programs, cut staff and canceled assistance awards.