Musk vs.USAID: What did Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX and CEO of Tesla, say about USAID?
Elon Musk referred to USAID as a “criminal organization,” come also with drastic solutions: “It should be dissolved,” he suggested. He blames the organization for funding problematic things such as bioweapon research with possible connections to the COVID virus.
Musk was also furious about allegations that USAID threatened U.S. Senator Joni Ernst during her inquiry into how taxpayer dollars were spent. Musk commented:
“A government organization should never threaten a senator trying to comprehend whether taxpayer dollars are literally being stolen or actually spent on useful endeavors.”
USAID is a criminal organization https://t.co/Xzl70dmow1
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 3, 2025
What is USAID?
USAID, or the United States Agency for International Development, is a government department responsible for America’s foreign aid. It finances various projects internationally to develop the economy, healthcare, education, and manage disasters. USAID also gets involved in political and security initiatives in certain regions. John F. Kennedy set up the administration in 1961 at the time to encourage help and stability worldwide, humanitarian efforts included.
What is the Impact of USAID?
Globally, USAID’s presence is felt in both a positive and negative light. While it aids economic growth, certain critics claim that this development comes at the expense of interfering into the domestic matters of other nations. There are people who think that aid is more of a political weapon than benevolence.
Top 5 Beneficiary Countries of USAID
- Afghanistan receives billions for reconstruction and governance support.
- Ethiopia gets funds for food security and healthcare.
- Ukraine: Benefit from military and economic assistance.
- Jordan receives financial and military assistance.
- South Sudan: humanitarian assistance for stabilizing the region.
Trump’s Position: The Developing Relationship Between Musk and Trump
Musk’s reprimand of USAID comes at a time when he is developing close ties to Donald Trump. Recently, Musk praised Trump, saying, “The more I’ve gotten to know President Trump, the more I like him. I love the guy; he’s great.” Musk further stated he supports Trump’s stance: “I appreciate his challenging the status quo.”
Trump’s administration had previously cut USAID’s budget while trying to implement changes to restructure the agency. His return to office in 2025 means that USAID would have to encounter even harsher criticism.
President Donald Trump also had good words for Elon Musk, saying, “I think Elon is doing a good job. He’s a big cost cutter. He’s doing a great job. He’s a smart guy. He’s very much into cutting the budget of our federal government.”
Trump deepened his rhetoric against USAID on Sunday by saying, “USAID has been run by a bunch of radical lunatics, and we’re getting them out.”
Controversy surrounding USAID
USAID has denied the allegations, saying its programs are not only accountable but also transparent. The agency defended its mission, stating that it remains committed to providing humanitarian aid, global stability, and economic development.
According to newer information from The Associated Press News, USAID employees were told to steer clear of the agency’s Washington office after Musk’s comments, while more than 600 staffers were locked out of the agency’s computers. Some higher-level managers were put on leave for purportedly denying access to agency systems. Though the agency is now operational, it has not made publicly available any explanation for these actions.
International humanitarian entities such as the World Health Organization as well as Médecins Sans Frontières have expressed their worry concerning the potential repercussions of a shuttering of USAID in other parts of the world. The WHO has called for the US government to change its position, warning that pulling back on USAID support could deepen humanitarian emergencies around the globe.
What Will Be The Impact On The US If USAID Shuts Down?
America may lose a significant amount of influence if the USAID stops functioning. USAID supports the maintenance of United States geopolitical interests through helping allies and stabilizing different parts of the world. In the absence of these services, developing economies would face aggravated economic and humanitarian challenges, resulting in increased instability, migration, and strained international relations.
India and China will have little effect as their level of aid is significantly lower. However, Pakistan receives considerable support, primarily focusing on security, counter-terrorism, and other developmental programs. Having a weakened USAID will change the power balance, enabling China to gain more control in international aid distribution.
What’s next for USAID?
According to the report, some top officials have already been sent on leave for obstructing access to the agency’s systems, which has hampered USAID’s functioning. With Trump back in power, one can expect USAID’s funding and influence to also decline.
Final Thoughts
The latest controversy of Elon Musk concerning USAID has already sparked heated online discussions. His criticism, buoyed by the support of Trump, could result in drastic changes. The only question remaining is what type of reform, budgetary cuts, or total abolishment does USAID face.
