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Wednesday, Jun 17, 2026
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Musk and Trump Take Steps to Eliminate USAID in the Midst of Controversy
Elon Musk and President Trump are advocating for the elimination of USAID, raising concerns about its functions, while critics challenge the legality of this action.
Elon Musk, the wealthiest individual globally and a close advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump, declared on Monday that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which operates in over 120 nations, will be 'shutting down' in a bid to downsize the government.
Musk referred to USAID as 'a criminal organization' and indicated that this decision was discussed and sanctioned by Trump.
On the same day, USAID employees were reportedly told to remain at home and found themselves unable to access their computer systems.
Despite not holding a government position, Musk, who is also the founder of SpaceX and Tesla, has taken this extraordinary step.
His unofficial group, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is leading this initiative, which has taken critics by surprise.
USAID plays a pivotal role in U.S. foreign policy, funding health and development initiatives in some of the globe's poorest areas.
Although its budget exceeds $40 billion, making it a small component of overall U.S. government spending, the agency wields considerable influence in global diplomacy.
Musk's remarks echo the longstanding rhetoric of the far-right and libertarian elements within the Republican Party, which contend that the U.S. allocates too much money to foreign aid.
Musk has leveled accusations against USAID, including unfounded assertions about its involvement in secret operations and bioweapon development, particularly regarding the COVID-19 outbreak.
While Musk's plan has garnered support from Trump and some allies, it has alarmed Democrats, who view it as an unconstitutional seizure of power.
Concerns have also arisen regarding Musk's team potentially accessing sensitive government systems, including the Treasury Department's payment infrastructure.
As the situation evolves, the repercussions for U.S. foreign policy and governance remain uncertain, with experts cautioning that the elimination of USAID could significantly affect America's influence globally.
Musk referred to USAID as 'a criminal organization' and indicated that this decision was discussed and sanctioned by Trump.
On the same day, USAID employees were reportedly told to remain at home and found themselves unable to access their computer systems.
Despite not holding a government position, Musk, who is also the founder of SpaceX and Tesla, has taken this extraordinary step.
His unofficial group, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is leading this initiative, which has taken critics by surprise.
USAID plays a pivotal role in U.S. foreign policy, funding health and development initiatives in some of the globe's poorest areas.
Although its budget exceeds $40 billion, making it a small component of overall U.S. government spending, the agency wields considerable influence in global diplomacy.
Musk's remarks echo the longstanding rhetoric of the far-right and libertarian elements within the Republican Party, which contend that the U.S. allocates too much money to foreign aid.
Musk has leveled accusations against USAID, including unfounded assertions about its involvement in secret operations and bioweapon development, particularly regarding the COVID-19 outbreak.
While Musk's plan has garnered support from Trump and some allies, it has alarmed Democrats, who view it as an unconstitutional seizure of power.
Concerns have also arisen regarding Musk's team potentially accessing sensitive government systems, including the Treasury Department's payment infrastructure.
As the situation evolves, the repercussions for U.S. foreign policy and governance remain uncertain, with experts cautioning that the elimination of USAID could significantly affect America's influence globally.