Trump Administration Cuts USAID Workforce and Places Staff on Leave

Major Workforce Reduction at USAID

The Trump administration has significantly reduced staffing at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), placing nearly all personnel on administrative leave and eliminating approximately 1,600 U.S.-based positions. This move is part of a broader effort led by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to streamline federal operations and align foreign aid with the “America First” policy.

Mass Administrative Leave and Job Cuts

Effective from 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, February 23, 2025, all USAID direct-hire personnel, except those in mission-critical roles, have been placed on leave. The agency has also begun implementing a Reduction-in-Force, affecting approximately 1,600 U.S.-based employees.

Legal Challenges and Judicial Approval

This decision follows a federal judge’s ruling that allowed the administration to proceed with its plan, despite ongoing legal challenges from employee unions.

Concerns Over National Security and Crisis Response

Critics argue that dismantling USAID undermines U.S. national security interests and hampers the country’s ability to respond to global crises.

Elon Musk’s Role in the Restructuring

Elon Musk’s involvement through DOGE has been pivotal in this restructuring, emphasizing the elimination of perceived inefficiencies within USAID. However, this approach has faced resistance from various federal agencies and unions, particularly concerning directives requiring employees to justify their roles or face termination.

“Trump Administration Cuts USAID Workforce and Places Staff on Leave”