Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) takes control of USAID, sparking concerns over sensitive data handling and agency operations.
At a Glance
- DOGE representatives gained access to USAID offices and internal systems
- Senior USAID staff locked out of systems; many placed on administrative leave
- Two top USAID security chiefs placed on leave for non-compliance
- Concerns raised over access to classified information and impact on aid programs
- USAID website went dark; uncertainty looms over agency’s future
DOGE Takes Control of USAID
In a startling turn of events, representatives from Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have effectively taken control of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The move has sent shockwaves through the agency and raised serious concerns about the handling of sensitive data and the future of U.S. international development efforts.
DOGE representatives, claiming to be State Department employees, demanded access to USAID offices. When met with resistance, they threatened to involve the U.S. Marshals Service, prompting security guards to comply. This aggressive takeover has led to a series of dramatic changes within the agency, including the removal of USAID posters and flags, and the seizure of ID badges and computers from employees placed on leave.
— MP Dr Abdillahi Hashi Abib (@MPDrAbib) November 16, 2024
Elon is not letting any wasteful government agency get away with it anymore.
One of the most alarming aspects of this takeover is DOGE’s access to USAID’s internal systems, including critical databases and financial management software. Two top USAID security officials were placed on administrative leave for attempting to prevent Musk’s team from accessing classified information. Despite their efforts, DOGE eventually gained access to this sensitive data, raising serious questions about the security of government information.
“USAID is a criminal organization. Time for it to die,” Elon Musk said.
Wow!
The sudden changes have left many USAID staff members reeling. The agency’s website has gone dark, with no information provided on when it might be restored. Some staff members interpret this lack of updates as a deliberate decision to shut down the website entirely.
The turmoil at USAID has far-reaching implications for international aid programs. With many staffers placed on administrative leave, including those involved in waiver requests for aid programs, there is growing uncertainty about the future of U.S. international development efforts. The Trump administration has issued a directive interpreted as a gag order, discouraging public statements from aid organizations.
But the Trump administration has made it clear that while USAID is being reviewed and temporarily shut down, they are working to ensure vital aid still moves forward.
“We don’t want to see people die and the like,” Senator Marco Rubio said.
