Marci McCarthy Chairman | DeKalb County Republican Party
Marci McCarthy Chairman | DeKalb County Republican Party
Former President Donald Trump and entrepreneur Elon Musk have launched a campaign against the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), criticizing its operations and calling for significant changes. The agency, often perceived as having ties to intelligence activities, is under scrutiny by both figures.
Trump has expressed his intention to overhaul USAID, stating that it is managed "by a bunch of radical lunatics" and asserting that efforts are underway to remove these elements. His remarks were shared on social media, drawing attention to his ongoing battle with what he refers to as the "Deep State."
Elon Musk has also been vocal in his criticism of USAID. He labeled the agency as a "criminal organization" and called for its dissolution. Musk highlighted concerns about USAID's financial support to EcoHealth Alliance, which allegedly conducted research on coronaviruses at the Wuhan lab using U.S. taxpayer funds.
Musk shared a post claiming that USAID funneled $53 million into gain-of-function research at the Wuhan facility, suggesting this contributed to the creation of COVID-19. He questioned whether taxpayers were aware their money was used for such purposes.
The controversy surrounding USAID has garnered international attention, with El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele commenting on the issue.
In related developments, two top officials at USAID have been placed on leave after reportedly refusing access to classified information requested by Musk's team.