The Foundation for Government Accountability (FGA) has expressed support for the America First Act introduced by Senator Mike Lee of Utah. The legislation aims to tighten eligibility criteria for various welfare, housing, education, and disaster relief programs, ensuring that federal tax dollars primarily benefit American citizens.
According to FGA, the current administration's policies have allowed over two million foreign nationals into the United States, which they argue has put a strain on taxpayer-funded programs. Under existing regulations, these individuals can access welfare benefits due to provisions in the 1996 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act. The proposed act seeks to address this by restricting such access.
Tarren Bragdon, President and CEO of FGA, stated: “Senator Lee is standing up for hardworking taxpayers, ensuring their money is spent on programs that benefit American citizens and legal residents.” He further emphasized that these reforms aim to restore accountability and fairness within the system.
Bragdon also linked the initiative to broader political themes: “President Trump made this election about the border and the cost-of-living crisis hitting American families. And voters delivered a resounding victory to his America First agenda from coast to coast.”
In advocating for these changes, Bragdon remarked: “There’s nothing compassionate about bankrupting our country to fund benefits for people who broke the law to get here.” The act underscores a priority of directing taxpayer funds towards U.S. citizens rather than those who immigrated illegally.
The Foundation for Government Accountability is a non-profit think tank focused on promoting public policy solutions aimed at creating opportunities for Americans.