Elon Musk Labels USAID a ‘Criminal Organisation’ Amid Growing Tensions with Trump

Washington, D.C. – Elon Musk, appointed by former President Donald Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has launched a scathing attack on the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), calling it a “criminal organisation” following an alleged confrontation at its Washington headquarters.

The dispute erupted when members of Musk’s cost-cutting task force were reportedly denied access to secure areas of USAID’s headquarters, sparking tensions between the two parties. According to reports, USAID’s Director of Security, John Voorhees, and his deputy, Brian McGill, were suspended after blocking DOGE personnel from entering classified areas due to lack of security clearance. However, reports, including one from CNN, indicate that access was eventually granted.

Musk’s fiery remarks came shortly after the incident, with the billionaire taking to his social media platform, X, declaring, “Time for it to die,” while criticizing USAID’s operations. His comments echo Trump’s broader agenda to significantly reduce or potentially eliminate foreign aid, a position the former president has staunchly maintained throughout his political career.

The White House has dismissed media reports surrounding the incident, with Communications Director Steven Cheung labeling the claims as “fake news.” In response, Katie Miller, a DOGE official, clarified on X that no classified materials were accessed without proper security clearances.

The altercation has intensified speculation that Trump is preparing to dissolve USAID entirely, especially after the agency’s official website went offline over the weekend, replaced with a skeletal page under the State Department’s domain. This has fueled concerns that USAID could soon be merged with the State Department, further tightening control over foreign aid.

Bipartisan Criticism and Growing Concerns

Democratic lawmakers have voiced strong criticism of Musk’s involvement in the government, especially given his unelected status and significant influence within the Trump administration. Senator Chris Coons of Delaware accused Trump’s team of dismantling USAID, citing recent layoffs and harassing tactics used against agency employees.

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez raised alarms over the potential national security risks, stating, “This is a five-alarm fire. The people elected Donald Trump to be President – not Elon Musk.” She warned that allowing a billionaire with personal foreign business interests access to classified government information was highly concerning.

Senator Elizabeth Warren echoed similar concerns, stating that the consequences of dismantling USAID could have far-reaching implications for global stability and U.S. influence.

Trump’s Push Against Foreign Aid

Meanwhile, Trump has reignited his criticism of foreign aid, particularly targeting South Africa over its controversial land expropriation policies. The former president announced that he would freeze all future aid to South Africa, citing the government’s decision to allow the confiscation of white-owned land without compensation. “The United States won’t stand for it. We will act,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, calling for a “full investigation” before any further aid is allocated.

USAID played a significant role in disbursing the nearly $440 million in U.S. aid to South Africa in 2023, a fraction of the $72 billion allocated in foreign assistance to 180 countries last year. With over half of that amount distributed through USAID, Trump’s stance marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy.

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As the situation unfolds, tensions between Musk, USAID, and the Trump administration continue to mount, raising questions about the future of U.S. foreign aid and the role of private individuals in shaping government policy.