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With the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) preparing to place nearly all its foreign aid workers on leave, concerns are growing over potential repercussions both abroad and at home.
Health Risks and Global Impact
Dr. Joia Mukherjee, chief medical officer of the nonprofit Partners in Health, warns of the possible consequences for public health. “All it takes is one person with drug-resistant tuberculosis boarding a plane,” Mukherjee said. “It’s highly contagious and extremely difficult to treat.”
USAID supports a wide range of global initiatives, including health clinics, clean drinking water projects, and food aid programs. However, these efforts are expected to be severely disrupted by the agency's decision to furlough nearly all direct hires starting Friday at midnight, except for essential workers. The Trump administration has criticized the agency, citing concerns over wasteful spending.
Economic Effects on Farmers and Workers
Mukherjee noted that USAID funding comprises about 10% of her organization’s budget and provides jobs for many people in countries like Haiti.
“Hundreds of community health workers—mostly women living in poverty—will lose their income. That means they can no longer afford food, school fees, or other necessities for their children,” she said.
Republican Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa claimed on social media that “USAID dollars have gone into the pockets of fat cats around the globe,” a statement that billionaire Elon Musk echoed with a repost, adding, “True.”
However, a News4 analysis of congressional data found that USAID funding also directly benefits American industries. In fiscal year 2020 alone, the agency purchased $2.1 billion worth of food aid from U.S. farmers, supporting agricultural sectors such as wheat and grain sorghum.
“We support these programs because they directly benefit Kansas farmers,” said Nick Levendofsky, executive director of the Kansas Farmers Union. “Right now, farmers are facing rising costs, potential tariff increases, and falling market prices. Many are struggling financially, and that affects rural America as a whole.”
Uncertainty for USAID Employees
The Trump administration has also announced that USAID employees stationed overseas have 30 days to return to the U.S. However, workers may apply for waivers to stay longer in special circumstances, such as allowing their children to complete the school year.
It remains unclear which positions USAID considers essential, as the agency’s announcement did not provide specifics.
As USAID operations are scaled back, the impact on global aid efforts and domestic industries remains uncertain, leaving many to question what the long-term consequences might be.