Elon Musk reveals Donald Trump’s support for shutting down USAID amid ongoing foreign aid debate

Elon Musk recently shared that former President Donald Trump voiced his opinion that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) should be dismantled. Musk made these comments during a conversation with a group of journalists, where he explained that Trump privately agreed that USAID was inefficient and should be “shut down.”

This statement has sparked attention, especially given the ongoing debates in the U.S. surrounding government spending and foreign aid. USAID, created in 1961, is responsible for overseeing U.S. foreign aid programs, working in over 100 countries to address poverty, promote democratic governance, and support economic development. Its funding comes primarily from the U.S. government, although it also works in collaboration with various NGOs and international organizations.

Musk's remarks about foreign aid align with his broader views on government spending, which often criticize inefficient use of taxpayer money. He has expressed his preference for market-driven solutions instead of government-managed initiatives in several areas.

According to Musk, during their discussions, Trump expressed frustration with how USAID operates, suggesting that the money allocated to foreign aid could be better spent addressing issues within the U.S., such as improving domestic infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

This reflects a long-standing debate in the U.S. regarding the role of foreign aid. Advocates of USAID argue that foreign assistance helps advance American values, strengthen global alliances, and promote national security.

Critics, however, contend that foreign aid is a drain on U.S. taxpayers and should be reduced or eliminated in favor of focusing on domestic priorities.

The topic of foreign aid has long been contentious in American politics. While some argue that aid is essential for global stability—especially in conflict zones or regions affected by economic collapse or natural disasters—others believe the U.S. should prioritize its internal challenges.

This debate became more prominent during Trump’s presidency, which included proposals to slash the foreign aid budget, including that of USAID. However, these proposals met resistance from Congress, and much of the foreign aid budget remained intact.

Musk's comments have generated mixed reactions. Some conservative voices have supported the idea of cutting or even abolishing foreign aid, framing it as an unnecessary expense.

On the other hand, there are concerns that such a move could damage the U.S.'s standing in global affairs, with critics arguing that programs like USAID help maintain influence and stability in key regions, benefiting U.S. interests abroad.

In contrast, supporters of foreign aid emphasize its role in promoting the country’s diplomatic efforts and long-term stability in the world. They argue that scaling back these initiatives could harm the U.S.'s global reputation and ability to project soft power.

Musk’s remarks, although private, highlight a larger debate over the future of U.S. foreign policy and government expenditure.

Whether the U.S. will eventually move to scale back or eliminate USAID’s operations remains uncertain, but the conversation about the country’s priorities in international relations is sure to continue, especially as new leadership shapes policies in Washington.