Former President George W. Bush, former President Barack Obama, and U2’s Bono recently offered support to employees of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) during a video conference. This meeting came on the heels of USAID’s closure amid allegations of fraud and mismanagement that stirred controversy during Donald Trump’s presidency. Bush described the termination of USAID as a “tragedy,” emphasizing its crucial role in global efforts, while Obama echoed these sentiments, calling the closure a “giant mistake” that future leaders would eventually recognize.
The discussion followed the Trump administration’s report that led to USAID’s shutdown, which was conducted without media presence but was later covered by the press. USAID, established under John F. Kennedy, was designed to provide economic assistance to other countries. However, it faced scrutiny earlier this year, with Elon Musk, the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), labeling the agency as a “nest of radical left Marxist Vipers who hate America.” On Tuesday, it was officially incorporated into the State Department.
In a heartfelt message to the agency’s staff, Bush highlighted the significant contributions USAID made, particularly through its AIDS and HIV initiative that reportedly saved millions. Bono, during the conference, read a poem reflecting on the closure and its potential impact on global lives. He expressed deep concern for those affected, stating, “They called you a con man, when you were our best.”
Responses to the shutdown extended beyond the video meeting. Hillary Clinton, a longtime critic of Trump, expressed gratitude for the dedication of foreign service officers, acknowledging their lifesaving work in a post on social media. While both Bush and Obama have previously avoided direct criticism of Trump, some remarks suggest a growing discontent with his policies.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the absorption of USAID into the State Department, claiming that previous efforts did not adequately serve American interests. He remarked on a history of inefficiencies and unmet development goals, asserting that this shift would ensure more accountability and strategy in foreign aid distribution.
The closure is part of a broader initiative by Trump’s administration aimed at eliminating waste and fraud in government programs. This effort has been met with criticism, including Bono’s assertion that funding cuts could lead to substantial loss of life. Trump’s administration has repeatedly highlighted what it sees as government waste, citing numerous expenditures as examples.
As these developments unfold, the implications for foreign aid and international support remain significant. Bush, Obama, and Bono’s reactions reflect a shared concern for the future of U.S. engagement on the global stage.
