Congressman Mica, why do we even have foreign aid?

    I agree that we must reform and eliminate many of our foreign aid programs. To be honest, it is hard for me to understand why we lavish money on foreign countries when the United States continues to face deficits and a large national debt. In my view, many of our aid programs should be eliminated or reduced in favor of programs which increase trade opportunities for our country and directly provide economic development.

    I strongly believe that it is time for us to reexamine our entire approach to foreign aid. In my view, we have very limited resources and we should be spending our funds on promoting business, commerce and trade programs that directly benefit the United States. At a time when we are cutting spending and sacrificing at home to balance our budget, the American taxpayers should not have to shoulder the responsibility of solving the world's problems alone. Foreign aid can be useful, but we cannot keep playing the rich uncle for every country seeking a handout. Please know that I have voted to reform and eliminate foreign aid programs at every opportunity and plan to continue to do so.

Rep. Mica, should we reduce the amount we contribute to the United Nations?

    I share concerns and frustration regarding U.S. involvement in United Nations. I believe it is of benefit for everyone in the international community to work toward common and shared goals, such as fighting terrorism and protecting global stability. However, the U.N. relies too heavily on American resources and too often fails to take into account our concerns in the organizations actions.

    Through legislation passed in the 106th Congress, which I did support, we were able to reduce the amount of dues to the United Nations regular budget from 25% to 22%. Although this is a step in the right direction, the United States still bears a disproportionate amount of the financial burden. Please know I will continue to work in Congress to restructure our relationship with the U.N. to right these inadequacies while safeguarding U.S. interests and sovereignty.

Congressman Mica, what is your position on continuing US aid to Israel?

    Israel has been a long time ally to the U.S. and a continued victim of international terror. In the past, I have generally supported aid to Israel which helps maintain the integrity of Israel's defense forces and allows that nation to defend its citizens. While I have not always supported Israel's policies, I do believe that the Israeli people deserve our support.

    We have all seen on TV the terrible loss of life and destruction of property, and having personally visited the region it grieves me to see such needless killing. I believe that the United States must take steps to bring both sides to the table to support a resolution to the bloodshed. The hope for permanent peace in the region has recently improved with the election of Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and parts of the West Bank, and a resumption of dialogue. I am hopeful that the two may come to a legitimate and lasting peace, however both sides of this bitter dispute must make difficult concessions.