Republicans Question Biden Officials Over How US Support for WHO Benefits Americans

Republican lawmakers questioned Health and Human Services, United States Agency for International Development, and State Department officials who testified about the United States integration with the World Health Organization (WHO). In a congressional hearing titled “Reforming the WHO: Ensuring Global Health Security and Accountability” on Dec. 13, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.) raised critical questions about the United States’ continued support for the WHO amidst concerns about its handling of COVID-19 investigations and potential compliance with Chinese narratives. As one of the WHO’s top donors, contributing approximately $700 million in 2020 and 2021, with over 65 percent being voluntary, the United States holds a significant stake in the organization’s operations. In December 2021, the Biden administration pledged an additional $280 million to combat COVID-19 and provide urgent relief, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that taxpayer money is used efficiently and transparently....