Democratic lawmakers protested outside USAID headquarters in Washington, D.C., opposing the Trump administration’s move to shut down the foreign aid agency. Elon Musk, who is leading federal cost-cutting efforts, confirmed that the government is actively working to dismantle USAID.
Democratic lawmakers gathered outside USAID headquarters in Washington, D.C., on Monday, denouncing the Trump administration’s plan to shut down the foreign aid agency.
Representatives Gerald Connolly, Don Beyer, Jamie Raskin, and Senators Chris Van Hollen and Christopher Murphy led the demonstration, warning that eliminating USAID would weaken U.S. global influence and cut off critical humanitarian assistance.
Most USAID employees were instructed to work remotely as the administration moves forward with downsizing federal agencies.
Elon Musk, who is leading Trump’s government efficiency initiative, confirmed in a discussion on platform X that USAID is one of the key agencies targeted for elimination.
Speaking alongside Republican Senators Joni Ernst and Mike Lee, Musk stated that work is already underway to dismantle the agency. The conversation also included former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who expressed support for the move.
A senior White House official later revealed that the administration is considering merging USAID with the State Department, restructuring its operations.
Critics warn that eliminating USAID would reduce U.S. diplomatic influence, cut foreign aid programs, and impact disaster relief and development projects worldwide.
With the administration pressing ahead with federal restructuring plans, the future of USAID remains uncertain, fueling tensions between the White House and Democratic lawmakers.
Read next
09:34
Record Wealth
Elon Musk has reclaimed his position as the world's richest individual, surpassing Bernard Arnault on Forbes' 39th Annual Billionaires list, while President Donald Trump has seen his wealth more than double, highlighting significant shifts in the global financial landscape.
09:24
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for April 2nd, covering the latest developments you need to know.
08:11
JFK investigation
Oliver Stone and James DiEugenio testified before the U.S. House on April 1, 2025, urging a reopening of the investigation into John F. Kennedy's 1963 assassination, citing new documents and inconsistencies in the official account.
05:52
The White House confirmed on Tuesday that President Donald Trump will impose a new wave of tariffs on Wednesday, escalating fears of a deepening global trade war. The announcement, set for 4 p.m. ET in the Rose Garden, marks the culmination of weeks of warnings and speculation.
04:58
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton have both pledged to defend the country’s national interests as the United States signals possible tariffs targeting Australian beef exports.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment