USAID Chaos Under Trump Administration

SOURCE www.npr.org
Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes acting director of USAID amid Trump administration's pause on federal foreign spending and layoffs at the agency. Chaos ensues at the agency with hundreds of layoffs and furloughs. Some Democratic members of Congress oppose the administration's efforts. President Trump suggests dissolving USAID might not require an act of Congress. The situation is ongoing and evolving.

Key Points

  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes acting director of USAID
  • Trump administration halts most of USAID's programs
  • President Trump suggests dissolving USAID may not require act of Congress

Pros

  • Efforts to align USAID's work with national interest and foreign policy of the United States

Cons

  • Chaos at the agency due to sudden pause on foreign spending and layoffs
  • Democratic opposition to administration's actions
  • Uncertainty about the future of USAID