On March 18, 2009 the House Foreign Affairs Committee held its third hearing in an ongoing investigation into the proper role of the military in the government's foreign assistance efforts.  Committee Chair Howard L. Berman (D-CA) set the direction for the discussion by asking "And what are the implications of putting a military face on development and humanitarian activities?  How does this affect the way we are viewed in the world, and what is the practical impact on USAID’s ability to carry out development projects?"

On March 23 the Obama administration announced appointment of three top Treasury officials: Neal Wolin as Deputy Secretary, Lael Brainard as undersecretary for international affairs, and Stuart Levey to continue as undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence. The Levey appointment raises concerns about possible continuation of Treasury's hostile policies toward charities during the Bush administration.