Oversight Hearing | Indian and Insular Affairs Subcommittee

The House Committee on Natural Resources GOP's Indian and Insular Affairs Subcommittee held an oversight hearing on March 6, 2025, to examine the Department of the Interior's Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) role in fostering prosperity in the Pacific Territories and addressing external threats to peace and security, particularly from the People's Republic of China (PRC) and North Korea. The hearing featured testimony from experts highlighting the strategic importance of the Pacific Territories, the multifaceted threats posed by China and North Korea including military, economic, cyber, and influence operations, and the critical role of OIA and USAID in supporting economic development, infrastructure, and security in the region. Witnesses and members discussed the impact of recent funding and personnel cuts to USAID and OIA, emphasizing that these reductions undermine U.S. influence and national security interests in the Pacific. Several members stressed the need for increased funding, personnel, and oversight for OIA programs, as well as enhanced coordination with other federal agencies to counter malign Chinese activities such as illegal fishing, infrastructure investments, and influence operations. The hearing also addressed concerns about critical infrastructure vulnerabilities, the use of Chinese-made drones by the Department of the Interior, and the importance of maintaining consistent U.S. commitments to allies and territories to build trust and resilience against foreign influence. No specific contract awards or procurement actions were detailed, but the discussion underscored the necessity of sustained and well-managed federal funding and programs to support the Pacific Territories' economic and security needs.