Elon Musk Calls USAID a ‘Criminal Organization,’ Fueling Debate Over Its Future

Elon Musk has sparked controversy by publicly condemning the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), calling it a “criminal organization” and declaring that it is “time for it to die.” Musk made the remarks in a post on X, responding to reports that senior USAID officials were placed on administrative leave after allegedly blocking Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) personnel from accessing agency systems.

The controversy arises amid growing speculation that President Donald Trump intends to dismantle USAID and merge it with the State Department. According to CNN, the Trump administration is actively exploring options to dissolve the independent federal agency. White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller has accused USAID of being predominantly staffed by Democrats, fueling further political tensions.

The situation escalated on Saturday night when two high-ranking USAID officials were placed on administrative leave after allegedly preventing DOGE personnel from entering the agency’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. Sources say DOGE officials attempted to enter the premises but were initially stopped by USAID staff. Reports indicate that DOGE personnel insisted on being granted entry, with some sources claiming they threatened to call U.S. Marshals if denied access. Eventually, DOGE officials were allowed inside.

Insiders suggest that DOGE personnel sought access to security systems and personnel files at USAID, with at least two sources confirming that attempts were made to access classified information. Typically, such sensitive materials are restricted to individuals with proper security clearances and an authorized need to know.

The incident has drawn significant attention from lawmakers, particularly among Democrats who argue that eliminating a federal agency without congressional approval would be unlawful.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen, ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, expressed grave concerns on Sunday, calling the situation “incredibly serious and unprecedented.” She urged immediate clarification on whether individuals without proper clearance had accessed classified areas or sensitive information. Shaheen also announced that bipartisan senators would convene as soon as the Senate reconvenes to address the matter.

Meanwhile, Katie Miller, a Trump appointee in DOGE, appeared to confirm that classified information was accessed but insisted it was done legally. “No classified material was accessed without proper security clearances,” she wrote in a post on X.

As debates over USAID’s future intensify, questions remain about the legality and potential consequences of dismantling the agency. Congressional leaders are now calling for greater transparency and oversight in handling the matter.

For more updates on this developing story, follow our political coverage.