In a bold move aimed at reshaping the federal workforce, the Trump administration will reinstate administrative leave for most USAID employees beginning this Sunday, amidst an announcement of layoffs affecting around 2,000 workers. This decision follows a recent legal battle concerning previous attempts to reduce staffing at the agency.
Trump Administration Announces Major Layoffs at USAID
Trump Administration Announces Major Layoffs at USAID
The Trump administration confirms plans for significant workforce reductions at USAID, as thousands of employees are placed on administrative leave.
USAID employees have received an email stating the upcoming changes starting midnight on Sunday, which will affect the majority of the agency's staff. With approximately 10,000 employees currently working for USAID—two-thirds of whom are stationed overseas—the ongoing reductions could drastically change the agency's structure and operations. The federal government's strategy, led by Trump adviser Elon Musk, has been to minimize overseas spending, and both figures have been openly critical of the agency's expenditures.
This latest announcement comes on the heels of a federal judge's ruling that allows the Trump administration to proceed with their workforce reductions despite objections from employees. Judge Carl Nichols decided against making the previous pause on layoffs permanent, allowing the administration to continue its reduction plan. Key personnel deemed critical for agency functions will be exempt from these layoffs, though the exact number classified as essential remains unconfirmed.
Musk has previously voiced contentious opinions regarding USAID, labeling it a "criminal organization" and advocating for its closure, a sentiment Trump echoed at a recent conservative convention. The agency has found itself at the center of controversy, as employees await clarity on their future roles within a shrinking workforce. In an effort to restructure operations, the email to staff also mentioned funding travel for employees working overseas who may choose to return.
As the implications of these cuts unfold, experts are expressing concern over the potential effects on global health and aid efforts, particularly since many countries rely on the support provided by USAID, now jeopardized by governmental shifts in focus and funding.
This latest announcement comes on the heels of a federal judge's ruling that allows the Trump administration to proceed with their workforce reductions despite objections from employees. Judge Carl Nichols decided against making the previous pause on layoffs permanent, allowing the administration to continue its reduction plan. Key personnel deemed critical for agency functions will be exempt from these layoffs, though the exact number classified as essential remains unconfirmed.
Musk has previously voiced contentious opinions regarding USAID, labeling it a "criminal organization" and advocating for its closure, a sentiment Trump echoed at a recent conservative convention. The agency has found itself at the center of controversy, as employees await clarity on their future roles within a shrinking workforce. In an effort to restructure operations, the email to staff also mentioned funding travel for employees working overseas who may choose to return.
As the implications of these cuts unfold, experts are expressing concern over the potential effects on global health and aid efforts, particularly since many countries rely on the support provided by USAID, now jeopardized by governmental shifts in focus and funding.
