Former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, alongside U2 singer Bono, addressed USAID employees Monday as the agency was officially shuttered under President Trump’s administration. The closure followed investigations by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), with its former head, Elon Musk, branding USAID as wasteful and ideologically radical.
Obama condemned the decision as “a colossal mistake,” calling it a tragedy that undermines critical global development work. Bush, who rarely criticizes Trump publicly, highlighted USAID’s role in saving 25 million lives through AIDS and HIV programs. “You’ve shown the strength of America through your good heart,” he told staff.
Bono recited a heartfelt poem, saying, “They called you crooks. When you were the best of us.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio, acting USAID administrator, announced the agency’s functions would now be absorbed into the State Department, arguing USAID had long failed to align with U.S. interests.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also praised the dedication of foreign service officers. The decision has sparked strong bipartisan criticism, with many calling for a future reevaluation of the agency’s dissolution.
