Additional Coverage:
Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has taken control of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), according to congressional sources.
Over 50 senior USAID staffers were reportedly put on administrative leave and placed under a gag order. Signage was removed from USAID’s Washington D.C. headquarters, and DOGE took control of the agency’s computer systems.
USAID distributes billions in foreign aid annually.
Former President Trump praised Musk’s cost-cutting efforts. He stated his belief that Musk is doing a good job, although they may not always agree.
The takeover followed reports that two USAID security chiefs were put on leave for refusing to grant DOGE access to classified information. They reportedly believed DOGE lacked the necessary security clearance.
Musk subsequently attacked USAID on social media, calling it a “criminal organization” and a “viper’s nest of radical-left Marxists.” Trump echoed these sentiments, claiming his administration was removing “radical lunatics” from the agency.
Some speculate that the move is intended to place USAID under the State Department’s authority. Senator Cory Booker criticized the takeover, calling it reckless and illegal and warning of potential consequences for global health and migration.
The actions follow a 90-day pause on foreign aid ordered by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, impacting numerous programs and resulting in layoffs.