Washington — In a bold and controversial statement, tech entrepreneur Elon Musk referred to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as a “criminal organization,” asserting that “it’s time for it to die.” Musk made the comment on his social media platform X, igniting widespread debate across political and diplomatic circles.
Musk’s remarks were in response to a post detailing that senior USAID officials had been placed on administrative leave after reportedly attempting to physically prevent DOGE personnel from accessing agency networks. The incident underscores growing tensions within U.S. government agencies as rumors swirl about the potential dissolution of USAID.
According to CNN, two senior USAID officials were suspended on Saturday night for allegedly denying DOGE authorities access to the agency’s systems, with DOGE officials reportedly threatening to involve law enforcement. Sources claim DOGE staff tried to force entry into USAID offices in Washington, D.C., demanding access to sensitive data, including personal files and security systems.
Political Tensions Escalate
Musk’s incendiary statement coincides with speculation that President Donald Trump plans to merge USAID with the U.S. State Department. Stephen Miller, White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, has claimed that a majority of USAID employees are Democrats, further fueling partisan tensions.
“Reports that individuals without appropriate clearance may have accessed classified USAID spaces as well as American citizens’ personal information are incredibly serious and unprecedented,” said Senator Jeanne Shaheen, ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. She announced plans to convene a bipartisan group of senators to address the matter.
Katie Miller, a DOGE aide, appeared to confirm that DOGE employees had accessed sensitive materials, stating on X, “No classified material was accessed without proper security clearances.”
Operational Disruptions and Legal Challenges
USAID’s official website went offline on Saturday, coinciding with the State Department launching a new page for the organization. USAID’s X account also experienced an outage, raising concerns about operational stability.
Trump’s recent executive order suspending all foreign assistance for 90 days has led to confusion, program shutdowns, and staff layoffs. Over 60 senior USAID officials were placed on leave last week, accused of circumventing the presidential directive. Critics argue that dismantling USAID without congressional approval would be illegal.
Founded in 1961 under President John F. Kennedy, USAID has long been a cornerstone of U.S. humanitarian efforts, distributing billions of dollars globally to combat poverty, address health crises, and respond to natural disasters.
As the situation unfolds, questions loom over the future of USAID and the broader implications for U.S. foreign policy and international aid.
