During Donald Trump’s presidency, USAID faced significant challenges due to proposed budget cuts and structural changes. The administration aimed to reduce foreign aid spending and bring USAID more tightly under the State Department’s control, raising concerns about the agency’s independence and future operations. Many USAID workers worried about job security and the potential shift in focus from long-term development goals to short-term political interests. Critics argued that these reforms could weaken the agency’s ability to deliver humanitarian assistance and promote global development. However, Congress frequently pushed back against the administration’s proposed cuts, restoring funding and preserving some agency autonomy. Despite this resistance, the period was marked by uncertainty for USAID employees, as they navigated shifting priorities and the potential for reduced influence on the global stage.
Uncertainty Looms for USAID Workers Amid Trump-Era Reforms
