I grew up with the belief that America’s strength is built on the foundation of self-reliance, hard work, and faith in the principles of freedom and responsibility. Through my service in the Army and my work in international business, I have always been deeply committed to ensuring that both our nation and our great state of Indiana continue to thrive.
We are a state rooted in agriculture, manufacturing, and strong family values. What happens in the broader world, though, should not be dismissed as distant. Cutting international assistance will directly harm our farmers, our businesses, and our families. As Hoosiers, we should be deeply concerned.
Indiana’s strength has always been its hardworking people. From our farmers, who are among the world’s most productive, to our local businesses, which are the backbone of our economy, the prosperity of our state is directly tied to the stability of the global market.The exports of Indiana farmers – soybeans, corn, and pork, to name a few – are vital to our economic health. International markets account for $2.9 billion of our agricultural and food output and the agricultural export market supports more than 45,000 jobs in Indiana (Sources: US Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC)).
These markets depend on the stability that international aid fosters, whether it’s through improving infrastructure, promoting fair trade, or ensuring that developing nations have the support they need to become reliable partners. Cutting international assistance does not just reduce our ability to help others, it weakens the global market, leaving Indiana farmers and business owners vulnerable to market volatility and global economic instability.
A lack of international support leads to weakened economies in countries we trade with, directly affecting demand for our goods. This hurts Indiana’s agricultural sector, where many families rely on consistent export markets to stay afloat. Effects will be felt across Indiana, especially rural areas that depend on agricultural success to fuel the economy.
Indiana’s businesses, too, will suffer. Many manufacturers and entrepreneurs rely on partnerships that international aid programs created. Indiana-based organizations will lose an estimated $41.7 million from terminated contracts (Source: USGLC). This means fewerjobs for Indiana workers and fewer chances for local businesses to expand.
The notion that we can isolate ourselves and cut off aid elsewhere ignores the very real fact that a world in turmoil of economic decline will eventually impact security and economic well-being at home. The safer and more stable the world is, the safer and more prosperous Indiana will be.My service in the Army taught me this directly. I saw first-hand how a strong international aid apparatus works together with our military strength to make the world safe for Americans. Responsible humanitarian aid is far less expensive than weapons.
America should lead and not retreat from the world. By investing in international assistance, we are not only helping others; we are ensuring that future generations of Hoosiers will inherit a stronger, safer, and more prosperous world.In Indiana, we understand the value of working together and creating partnerships that benefit everyone. The principles of hard work, independence, and responsibility that make us proud to be Hoosiers are the same principles that should guide our role in the world.
At the end of the day, the future of Indiana’s economy is tied to the global market. We cannot afford to ignore the consequences of turning our backs on the world. The cuts to international assistance may seem like a quick fix, but the long-term harm to Indiana families, farmers, and businesses will be undeniable.Strong American leadership on the world stage benefits every Hoosier. We must continue to invest in that leadership for the sake of our state, our children, and our future.
Nate LaMar, an international director, also served as Henry County Council President from 2009-2019.
