An Associated Press social media post highlighted the challenges faced by transgender aid workers in Nepal after losing jobs due to U.S. foreign aid cuts. The post indicated that around 100 LGBTQ workers, impacted by the funding reductions, resorted to sex work to survive in a culture where few legal job options exist for openly transgender individuals.

The video accompanying the post featured Rubi Lama, a former HIV outreach worker. Lama described how USAID-funded programs previously supplied free condoms, lubricant, and HIV-prevention medication, helping many in the community. Lama noted these resources disappeared with the cuts.

“Before the funding cuts, condoms were free, lubricant was distributed, and HIV treatments, including PrEP, were available at no cost,” Lama said.

The framing of the story generated criticism from conservative voices, who questioned the rationale behind the original funding. Critics argued that the AP report inadvertently bolstered the case for defunding USAID. Rep. Brandon Gill of Texas remarked on social media, expressing gratitude that tax dollars were no longer supporting transgender workers in Nepal.

Matt Walsh from the Daily Wire offered a mocking perspective, challenging any notion of sympathy or regret over the funding cuts. Federalist editor-in-chief Mollie Hemingway accused the AP of promoting misguided use of public funds by framing support for a “trans Nepalese job protection program” positively.

President Donald Trump’s administration previously enforced a pause on new foreign development assistance and reviewed program alignments with his foreign policy. Critics claimed the review resulted in setbacks, including staff reductions and canceled awards.

Some conservative figures criticized the media’s portrayal, with Republican activist Jack Posobiec sarcastically lamenting the impact of aid cuts on the Nepalese transgender community. These discussions reflect ongoing debates about the allocation and priorities of U.S. foreign aid.