USAID's website goes offline amid Trump's foreign funding pause
What's the story
The website of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has mysteriously gone offline. The incident comes just as President Donald Trump announced a crackdown on US-funded foreign aid and development programs, enforcing a freeze. The move has led to thousands of furloughs, layoffs, as well as program shutdowns across the globe.
Dissolution fears
Democrats express concern over potential USAID dissolution
Congressional Democrats have expressed fears that President Trump might be planning to abolish USAID as an independent agency, and merge it with the State Department. They contend that such a move would go beyond his legal authority as it entails abolishing a congressionally funded independent agency. The Democrats have emphasized the importance of USAID's work, saying it is vital to national security.
Aid debate
Trump administration's stance on foreign aid
Trump and Congressional Republicans argue that much of the foreign aid is wasteful and advances liberal social agendas. Despite being the world's biggest donor of humanitarian aid, the US allocates less than 1% of its budget to foreign assistance. The Trump administration has not commented on concerns about potentially ending USAID's independent status.
Agency's role
USAID's role in countering global influences
USAID was founded by President John F Kennedy during Cold War to counter Soviet influence. Today, it plays a key role in countering challenges posed by China's "Belt and Road" foreign aid program. The Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 established USAID as an independent agency.
Rubio's response
Secretary of State's efforts amid funding freeze
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been working to keep life-saving emergency programs running amid the funding freeze. He said USAID's programs are under review to ensure they are aligned with US national interests but didn't mention eliminating the agency itself. The shutdown has resulted in increased cooperation from recipients of humanitarian, development, and security assistance, Rubio said.