Careful with cuts, not all wars are won with guns

For those who believe that stability around

the world can be ensured only at the end of an American gun barrel, the Trump administration’s recent budget proposal is a godsend. However, President Trump’s trade-off of cutting billions of dollars from dozens of other federal agencies leaves much to be desired. A troublesome instance of a proposed cut is one that affects the State Department and the Agency for International Development. As USA TODAY highlighted, $70 million would be cut from the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund, which allows the commander in chief to provide aid for “unexpected and urgent refugee and migration needs worldwide.” The president seems to believe that non-governmental organizations should be left responsible for such issues. However, leaving this pressing matter to others is simply not in America’s best interest.

In fact, choosing not to help those most in need overseas can have repercussions for national security. After all, many individuals who join violent, radical groups are often impoverished and feel disenfranchised by foreign powers. Few would doubt having a strong military is smart. However, if Trump’s military spending increases come at the cost of crucial “soft power” tactics, then he may find himself in a perpetual loop of needing more gun barrels. Neil Decenteceo Borgen Project Gainesville, Fla.