The Trump administration’s decision to freeze U.S. foreign aid has led to uncertainty surrounding the future of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), with discussions about placing the agency under the authority of the State Department. Hundreds of USAID employees and contractors have been fired or furloughed, senior leaders sidelined, and foreign missions brought to a halt. The downsizing of the agency is largely attributed to Pete Marocco, who has a history of slashing funding and consolidating power within USAID. Critics argue that these cuts under the guise of “America First” are benefiting U.S. adversaries and harming efforts to deliver aid. The move has been compared to an attempt to destroy USAID rather than reform it. Democratic lawmakers have spoken out against the potential restructuring of USAID, emphasizing the agency’s independence and the need for congressional approval to make such changes. Despite the administration’s efforts to consolidate power, there has been no nomination for a leader of the federal humanitarian aid agency. The State Department and USAID have not commented on the situation. The actions taken align with recommendations from Project 2025, a report supported by conservative organizations, which called for the transformation of civil servant roles into political appointee positions and the consolidation of USAID. The impact of these changes on U.S. foreign policy goals and America’s standing in the world remains a concern among officials and experts.
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Trump’s funding freeze leaves USAID’s future uncertain
