In a recent move that has sparked discussion, former employees of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) are returning to manage the distribution of leftover foreign aid funds that Congress had allocated prior to the government shutdown. This comes after almost the entire USAID workforce resigned last month—a situation highlighted by Secretary Marco Rubio’s recent comments. In a lighthearted tweet, he mentioned handing a role to Russell Vought, the director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget, while remarking on the chaotic state of the government shutdown.
Rubio’s dismissive attitude toward USAID’s career employees—people who have worked under various administrations and often in challenging environments—seems more aligned with a schoolyard bully rather than a cabinet member. It’s surprising, considering his time as acting USAID Administrator. Despite his apparent disdain for the agency’s staff and programs, he had significant say over USAID’s budget during his 14 years in Congress, particularly as a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
My own experience at USAID for over 17 years has revolved around making sure that funds are allocated according to the law as laid out by Congress. After testifying in a Congressional hearing, I personally engaged with then-Senator Rubio, providing him with answers to his queries and briefing him alongside senior USAID officials. He may not have agreed with every initiative, but he did support funding for many USAID programs.
Rubio’s ongoing claims of wasteful spending at USAID feel unfounded, especially considering that the agency’s budget is just a small fraction of the federal budget. The Annual Appropriations Act outlines how funds should be used for specific programs in various countries, like funding democracy initiatives and addressing gender-based violence. This can sometimes create frustration among USAID staff, who find themselves tied to narrow directives rather than being able to respond to more pressing needs in the field.
Despite these constraints, USAID has adhered to the law and managed its operations accordingly. Before any taxpayer money is spent, USAID is required to submit detailed notifications to Congress about planned expenditures, allowing ample opportunity for inquiries and concerns. However, it seems that many of these documents have now been disregarded by the current administration.
The stringent funding requirements imposed by law create little latitude for USAID to act outside the framework established by Congress. Given Rubio’s previous legislative role, his recent criticisms make one wonder if he truly respects the responsibilities he once held or if he has shifted his stance to align better with current administrative politics, thereby weakening our national security during this prolonged shutdown.
Michelle Dworkin brings over 17 years of experience with USAID, with assignments in various countries, including Colombia and Afghanistan.
