The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is facing a major crisis. Sources report that representatives from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have taken over offices. Senior officials were locked out of internal systems, many employees were placed on leave, and the newly appointed Chief of Staff resigned.
This move has created chaos within the agency, which manages foreign aid programs. Reports suggest that DOGE, led by Elon Musk, is trying to assert control over USAID, leaving many employees uncertain about the agency’s future.
DOGE Representatives Enter USAID Offices
According to sources, a group identifying as State Department employees and DOGE representatives arrived at USAID’s Ronald Reagan Building office last Friday. They demanded immediate access to all offices. Witnesses say the group looked unprofessional, comparing them to people on their first job interview.
After being denied entry, they reportedly threatened to call the United States Marshals Service. Security guards eventually allowed them in. This led to further turmoil, with two top security officials at USAID placed on administrative leave the next day for refusing to comply.
More USAID Employees Placed on Leave
DOGE representatives continued taking over, locking out more USAID employees from internal systems. Reports indicate that several staff members lost access to their work accounts and were placed on leave.
The situation worsened when Matt Hopson, the newly appointed USAID Chief of Staff, resigned just days after taking the role under former President Donald Trump. It remains unclear if his resignation was directly linked to these events.
Elon Musk Criticizes USAID on Social Media
Elon Musk, who is reportedly involved in USAID’s restructuring, has been vocal about his views. He took to his social media platform, X, calling USAID a “criminal organization” and saying it was time for it to be shut down.
His strong words shocked agency employees. A senior USAID official described the takeover as a “mafia-like” operation, expressing concerns about the speed and forcefulness of the changes. Some employees are questioning why Republican leaders who previously supported USAID have remained silent.
USAID Systems Taken Over, Financial Software Goes Down
Sources say DOGE representatives gained access to key USAID systems, including the Development Evaluation Clearinghouse and Development Information Solution (DIS), which track important agency programs. They also took control of the Phoenix software system, which manages USAID’s budgeting and financial transactions.
Over the weekend, the Phoenix system reportedly went down, leaving contractors worried about delayed payments. Many of these firms manage global supply chains, including those providing HIV/AIDS medication and other critical supplies. The situation has sparked concerns over USAID’s ability to continue its work effectively.
USAID Website Goes Offline
On Saturday, USAID’s website went down. The agency’s Chief Information Officer sent an email stating that the site was “currently unavailable” and that there was no timeline for its restoration. Employees saw this as a sign that control over USAID’s online systems had shifted entirely.
Uncertain Future for USAID
With USAID facing major restructuring, experts are debating whether this signals the end of U.S. foreign aid efforts or a strategic shift in resource allocation. Some believe that the administration may use USAID’s existing structure to redirect aid programs, while others fear the agency’s work could be dismantled entirely.
As events continue to unfold, employees and international partners are left wondering what comes next for USAID.
FAQs
1. Why did DOGE representatives take over USAID offices?
DOGE, reportedly led by Elon Musk, moved in to assert control over USAID, but the legality of their actions is unclear.
2. Were USAID employees forced to leave?
Yes, many employees were locked out of internal systems, placed on administrative leave, and had their ID badges confiscated.
3. What happened to USAID’s financial system?
DOGE representatives took control of the Phoenix software system, which later went offline, causing payment concerns for contractors.
4. How did Elon Musk react to the situation?
Musk called USAID a “criminal organization” and suggested that it should be shut down.
5. Is USAID shutting down?
It is unclear whether USAID is being dismantled or restructured, but major changes are underway.