Secretary of State Marco Rubio Takes Control of USAID, Sparking Debate Over Agency’s Future

In a dramatic shift, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Monday that he will serve as the acting administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), confirming its de facto integration under the State Department. The move follows a controversial statement by Elon Musk, who revealed that President Donald Trump had signed off on plans to potentially dissolve the agency.

Rubio, now overseeing USAID’s functions, emphasized that its operations must align with U.S. foreign policy, calling the agency “completely unresponsive.” He also stated that while some programs at USAID are beneficial, the agency’s mission needs to be more closely tied to national interests. “There are things USAID does that we should continue, but everything must align with U.S. foreign policy,” Rubio said during a visit to El Salvador.

The restructuring of USAID has sparked fierce backlash from Democrats, with lawmakers like Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Rep. Jamie Raskin denouncing any effort to dismantle the agency. They argue that USAID’s work—spanning global health, disaster relief, and poverty alleviation—is vital to national security and international relations. Rep. Ilhan Omar, who benefited from USAID’s assistance as a child, called its humanitarian programs a reflection of American compassion.

Amid these tensions, confusion and unrest have gripped USAID staff. Employees reported receiving late-night emails instructing them to stay home, with rumors of senior leadership being fired. The agency’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., was closed, and personnel were left in the dark about their future roles. Meanwhile, signs of USAID’s identity have been stripped from its offices, and its online presence has been merged with the State Department’s.

In an escalating standoff over authority, two USAID security officials were placed on leave for refusing to grant the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) access to sensitive agency systems. Critics argue that this move jeopardizes the agency’s ability to function independently and undermines the crucial work it does worldwide.

USAID, established in 1961 under President John F. Kennedy, plays a key role in U.S. foreign diplomacy. The agency provides billions in humanitarian aid each year, fostering global stability and promoting democratic values. Despite the uncertainty surrounding its future, many USAID employees have vowed to continue their vital work, even as they face an unclear and potentially turbulent road ahead.

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