A Texas congressman has sparked debate after mentioning Albania during a broader U.S. political fight over how taxpayer money is used for foreign assistance programs.

Rep. Brandon Gill (R-Texas) criticized U.S. government funding for certain overseas projects, pointing to a State Department-funded initiative in Albania that he described as an example of taxpayer money being used for progressive cultural programs abroad.

“I challenge the Left to be straightforward with the American people and explain why taxpayer dollars should be funding queer feminist discourse in Albanian society or drag shows in Ecuador” Gill said in remarks shared from a congressional setting.

Gill was referring to a U.S. Department of State-funded project listed at $16,500 that described its goal as fostering “a united and equal queer-feminist discourse in Albanian society” and amplifying “intersectional narratives for positive change.”

The project became one of several examples highlighted by Republican lawmakers who have criticized some foreign assistance programs, arguing that American taxpayer money should prioritize areas such as national security, economic development, and humanitarian assistance rather than social and cultural initiatives.

Supporters of programs like these argue that U.S. foreign aid has long included support for civil society, human rights, and anti-discrimination efforts around the world. They say such initiatives are part of American diplomacy and efforts to promote equality and reduce discrimination.