Andrew Natsios

Andrew Natsios, a former USAID administrator and professor, and Dylan Matthews, a senior correspondent at Vox.com, delve into the issues surrounding the potential dismantling of USAID. They discuss the geopolitical repercussions of reduced funding, highlighting how it could weaken U.S. influence and empower rivals like China. The conversation also tackles the humanitarian crisis stemming from funding cuts, international aid challenges, and the evolution of political support for foreign aid, emphasizing the dangers of a strategy to undermine crucial agencies like USAID.

Andrew Natsios, a Texas A&M professor and former USAID administrator, shares insights on recent staffing cuts at USAID and critiques the claims of inefficiency that have sparked concern among foreign aid supporters. He delves into the agency's historical significance and its role in global humanitarian efforts. Additionally, Kay Betts discusses the legacy of the Rockport Fulton Art Colony, highlighting artist Simon Michael's impact on the local culture and the art community's evolution in Texas.

Simon Bouvier, Monocle’s Paris bureau chief, provides a deep dive into the French parliament’s newly adopted 2025 budget and the intricate political maneuvers behind it. He discusses how recent political stability might impact the economy. Meanwhile, Andrew Natsios, former head of USAID, sheds light on the ramifications of USAID’s dismantlement, especially its effects on global food security and humanitarian aid. The conversation touches on U.S.-EU trade tensions and their potential repercussions for Europe.