Amid the Trump administration's efforts to reduce the size of the federal government, thousands of U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) workers are being impacted. A total of 4,080 employees were placed on leave earlier this week, with an additional 1,600 facing a 'reduction in force' as part of a broader campaign to dismantle the agency.
President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, have targeted USAID, citing concerns about the agency's alignment with the administration's agenda and alleging wasteful spending. This move is significant as it bypasses congressional authorization, which is typically required for such actions.
The administration's plan includes eliminating over 90% of USAID's foreign aid contracts and cutting $60 billion in U.S. assistance worldwide. While some employees will remain, the majority are being let go or placed on administrative leave.
Employees have been given a brief window to clear out their workspaces, with specific instructions on when to arrive for security screening and retrieval of personal belongings. The process has been met with criticism, particularly regarding the limited time allotted for workers to collect their items and the prohibition on bringing weapons.
Legal challenges to halt the shutdown of USAID have been unsuccessful so far, with a recent court order demanding the release of billions in foreign aid funds. However, the Supreme Court has temporarily blocked this order pending further review.
Virginia Democratic Rep. Gerald Connolly has condemned the administration's actions, calling the treatment of USAID employees unwarranted and unprecedented. He praised the agency's work in global development and foreign assistance, emphasizing their role in saving millions of lives annually.
