Trump’s Ruthless Axe Falls: USAID Workers Kicked to the Curb as Judge Bows to White House Pressure
A U.S. judge ruled on Friday, February 21, allowing President Donald Trump’s administration to place thousands of USAID employees on mandatory leave.
The decision followed a previous court order that had temporarily halted the U.S. government’s suspension of foreign aid until further review.
According to Reuters, Judge Carl Nichols lifted the initial restraining order he had issued at the start of the case. He also declined to impose a long-term block, meaning USAID employees could now face job termination.
In his ruling, Judge Nichols supported the government’s decision to freeze foreign aid. He also acknowledged Trump’s commitment to ensuring foreign workers under USAID would remain protected during the leave period.
Meanwhile, USAID employees challenged Trump’s executive order in court, arguing that shutting down an agency funded by Congress violated the U.S. Constitution.
Their representatives further accused the Trump administration of attempting to dismantle and eliminate the foreign aid agency.
Following the ruling, USAID employee representatives expressed disappointment but remained hopeful about reinstating the program.
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“We are disappointed in today’s decision and believe USAID workers are facing real harm. However, we are confident that the courts will rule against the administration’s attempt to dismantle USAID,” said Skye Perryman, a representative of the employees.
The ruling is a significant blow to thousands of Kenyan workers under the humanitarian program, leaving their future uncertain.
One of the biggest concerns is the impact on HIV/AIDS patients who rely on foreign aid for essential medications.
The court’s decision comes just a month after President Trump signed an executive order suspending foreign aid for 90 days. The move aimed to align funding with his “America First” policy.
During his January 20 inauguration speech, Trump made it clear that U.S. foreign aid would only support countries in line with American interests.
“All department and agency heads responsible for U.S. foreign development aid must immediately pause new funding and disbursements to foreign nations,” Trump stated.
Trump’s Ruthless Axe Falls: USAID Workers Kicked to the Curb as Judge Bows to White House Pressure
