Seattle City Wire

Rep. Pramila Jayapal, a member of the U.S. Congress representing Washington’s 7th district, has voiced strong criticism through a series of tweets regarding current federal policies and their impact on social welfare programs. Jayapal has been in Congress since 2017 and previously served in the Washington State Senate.

On February 15, 2025, Rep. Jayapal expressed concern over the influence of wealthy individuals on federal programs. She stated: "A billionaire who never has to worry about how he’ll pay rent or where his next meal will come from is axing vital federal programs." She further accused Elon Musk of misappropriating taxpayer money at the expense of poorer Americans.

Continuing her critique on February 16, 2025, she highlighted issues within USAID under current administration policies. In her words: "Let’s be extremely clear about what is happening at USAID: The President is letting the wealthiest individual on the planet tear apart an organization that provides MEDICINE and FOOD to the poorest children on Earth."

Later that day, Jayapal addressed claims made by Trump and Secretary Rubio concerning exemptions for lifesaving USAID programs from funding freezes. She asserted: "Trump and Secretary Rubio have said that lifesaving USAID programs, like critical food assistance, have received waivers and are exempt from the funding freeze." However, she argued that these funds remain inaccessible despite such assurances.