OPINION:
If you surveyed House Republicans, doubtless all of them would swear that they admire former President Ronald Reagan. Yet many of them have voted to defund the U.S. Institute of Peace or even repeal the provision that established it in 1985.
To be sure, it was the product of compromise with a Democrat-controlled Congress rather than an initiative of Mr. Reagan’s administration.
Mr. Reagan’s negotiations with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to reduce the stockpiles of nuclear weapons didn’t get enough credit from his critics at the time or enough support from fellow conservatives, but they clearly demonstrated his genuine desire for peace.
It’s worth noting that neither President George H.W. nor George W. Bush tried to eliminate the agency, some military leaders have found it useful and its federal funding is minuscule.
Some on the left have joined with The Washington Post and followers of Mr. Reagan in trying to destroy this tiny but vital part of his legacy during his centennial year. Perhaps someone could inquire what they are smoking on Capitol Hill these days.
FENWICK ANDERSON
Takoma Park
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