Elon Musk’s sharp critique of USAID as a “criminal organization” ignites a firestorm of controversy, with President Trump considering major changes to the agency’s operations.
Top Takeaways
- Elon Musk labels USAID a “criminal organization,” alleging involvement in “rogue CIA work” and bioweapon research.
- President Trump echoes Musk’s sentiments, calling USAID leaders “radical lunatics” and hinting at potential agency shutdown.
- House conservatives rally behind Trump and Musk, supporting the scale-down of USAID.
- Concerns raised about national security and fiscal management amid USAID’s uncertain future.
- Democrats criticize the undermining of USAID, warning of potential negative implications for U.S. interests abroad.
Musk and Trump Unite Against USAID
In a surprising turn of events, tech mogul Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump have joined forces in a scathing critique of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), despite lacking official government status, has thrust USAID into the spotlight with serious allegations of mismanagement and security concerns.
Musk didn’t mince words when he dubbed USAID a “criminal organization,” accusing it of engaging in unauthorized CIA activities and even bioweapon research. Trump swiftly backed these claims, describing USAID as an agency “run by radical lunatics” and suggesting significant changes may be on the horizon.
Because USAID is/was a radical-left political psy op https://t.co/Th10uk7dQe
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 3, 2025
USAID Under Siege
The fallout from these accusations has been swift and severe. USAID’s online presence was disrupted, with its X account disabled and website taken offline. More alarmingly, around 60 senior USAID staff were placed on administrative leave, allegedly for attempting to circumvent Trump’s executive order to freeze foreign aid. Two top USAID security officials were subsequently put on leave for denying access to DOGE personnel, further intensifying the controversy.
Conservative Support and Democratic Backlash
House conservatives have rallied behind Trump and Musk’s efforts to scale back USAID. Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) didn’t hold back in his criticism, stating, “USAID is a corrupt governmental organization run by unelected bureaucrats created to shovel taxpayer dollars to Democrats’ pet projects overseas.” This sentiment is echoed by other Republican lawmakers who view the agency as wasteful and potentially harmful to national interests.
I don’t think people fully appreciate what a big deal it is to shut down USAID.
Democrats used it as their piggybank to enrich rabid activists who paid themselves enormous sums. Then they donated to Democrats. They also used it to fund fake news too.
Major $$ problems incoming.
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) February 3, 2025
Democrats, however, have pushed back strongly against these moves. Rep. Diane DeGette (D-Colo.) warned, “USAID is critical in advancing U.S. national security interests, providing humanitarian aid, and strengthening global stability. Musk is an unelected billionaire with no authority to make these decisions. This isn’t governance, it’s authoritarianism.” Democratic Senators have also requested updates on the situation, expressing grave concerns about potential national security implications.
Uncertain Future for USAID
As the controversy continues to unfold, the future of USAID hangs in the balance. Reports suggest that Trump may be considering integrating USAID into the State Department, a move that has both supporters and critics. While some argue this could streamline operations and reduce costs, others warn that the State Department lacks the capacity to effectively manage USAID’s complex projects. As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: the role and structure of USAID in the coming years will likely look very different from what we’ve known before.
