The former speechwriter for United States Agency for International Development has called the Trump administration’s decision to freeze assistance and possibly dismantle USAID “one of cruelest acts” any democracy can commit.
USAID under scrutiny: The core of the issue
USAID, a critical component of U.S. foreign policy, has recently faced intensified scrutiny following announcements – echoed by Elon Musk in his role within Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) – that signal plans to significantly curtail the organization’s operations. It has always been a key agency in combating global challenges. From fighting food insecurity, to helping education programs around the globe.
USAID was established in 1961. Its main mission is to provide aid to developing country to support U.S. policy goals related to humanitarian assistance, global health and economic development.
Agency Operation Affected
USAID, in response to DOGE instructions, announced the placement of a substantial portion its direct-hire staff on administrative leaves. The decision affects all employees except for a small group deemed necessary to perform “mission critical functions, core leadership and specifically designated programs”. USAID is now unable to provide effective responses to crises around the globe and continue to run programs essential to millions.
It’s not just about finance that cruelty is a problem
Maany Péyvan, former USAID speechwriter and ex-speechwriter of USAID, expressed his concern in an op-ed Publication in The Atlantic. Peyvan, who spent six years at USAID before joining the CIA, discussed his previous appeals to Republicans by using “America’s Safety” as a basis for foreign aid. Peyvan says that today these tactics are no longer relevant, and the debate is moot because Musk, Trump, and others believe in “administering aid to weaken America.”
Peyvan believes that the human costs of its dissolution are a better reason to preserve USAID. He cites a moment when then-USAID Director Rajiv Shah, who was then advising Congress to cut foreign aid by 16 percent, warned of the potential death of 70,000 child victims. This figure is greater than that of the children killed in atomic explosions. Peyvan cautions that the devastation caused by dismantling USAID ‘could worsen, with an especially dire impact on vulnerable kids.
Musk, Trump and Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, are all criticised by him. He says they’re “redefining Americanness” because of their lack of compassion and generosity for others. Peyvan admits to his own focus in the past on “tactical” arguments rather than appeals to a “higher principal” that caring for other people facing hardship is part of being American.
Public Reactions & Political Discourse
The USAID debate has sparked passionate reactions across all political spectrums. Prominent figures have voiced their opinions via platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Truth Social and other social media:
- Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY): USAID funding for organizations that are alleged to be fabricating false evidence against Trump was questioned, implying possible “treason”, if tax payer money is being used to undermine U.S. Government.
- Representative Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL): USAID accused of “actively destabilizing” nations without adequate oversight. Echoing the concerns regarding corruption and accountability, they also criticized USAID.
- Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN): USAID is a lifesaving organization that promotes stability, supports people during crises, and provides humanitarian aid.
- Donald Trump Post on Truth Social about the DOGE finding “BILLIONS of DOLLARS in WASTE, FRICTION, AND Abuse,” reiterating an election promise to find inefficiencies at the federal level.
Future Direction: Uncertainty & Potential Reforms
Trump’s progress in office will likely lead to continued efforts at streamlining the federal government. Musk is expected to have a major role to play in the process as he serves in the DOGE. This raises questions regarding the future of USAID, and how committed the United States are to international aid. This debate highlights the complex relationship between U.S. humanitarian aid and domestic politics. The future role of USAID in meeting global challenges will be shaped by these forces.