Senator Mike Lee Introduces Bill to Withdraw US from UN, Citing $18 Billion in Annual Contributions

Washington D.C. – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) has introduced legislation, dubbed the Disengaging Entirely from the United Nations Debacle (DEFUND) Act, calling for the complete withdrawal of the United States from the United Nations. The bill, co-sponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Rick Scott (R-FL), addresses concerns over national sovereignty and fiscal accountability, arguing that the UN has outlived its usefulness to the United States. The proposed legislation comes as the U.S. contributed over $18 billion to the UN in 2022, making it the largest financial donor.

Senator Lee articulated his strong stance on social media, stating, "> This message is poorly timed, and the UN is in no position to lecture anyone about fundamental rights. In any event, the UN has outlived its usefulness to the United States. It’s time for Congress to #DefundTheUN." He further elaborated in a statement that "No more blank checks for the United Nations. Americans' hard-earned dollars have been funnelled into initiatives that fly in the face of our values, enabling tyrants, betraying allies, and spreading bigotry."

The DEFUND Act seeks to repeal critical acts binding the U.S. to the UN, such as the United Nations Participation Act of 1945, and would cease all forms of U.S. financial support, including assessed and voluntary contributions. It also prohibits U.S. involvement in UN peacekeeping operations and revokes diplomatic immunity for UN officials within the United States. A companion bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) and House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-MI).

Critics of the UN, including those supporting the DEFUND Act, point to perceived inefficiencies, an "anti-American agenda," and instances of the organization "placating Hamas terrorists and the Chinese Communist Party." Representative Roy highlighted concerns over entities like UNRWA and China's role on the Human Rights Council, arguing that the UN "doesn’t deserve one single dime of American taxpayer money."

A potential U.S. withdrawal could have significant global political, economic, and diplomatic consequences, as the U.S. has been a foundational member since 1945. While proponents emphasize restoring national sovereignty, opponents warn it could weaken U.S. influence on the world stage and complicate international cooperation on critical issues. Public polling in April 2024 showed mixed feelings, with 52% of Americans viewing the UN favorably, a decrease from 57% in 2023.