Democrats Rally Against Trump’s Push to Shut Down USAID as Musk Confirms Plan

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.

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