In a dramatic legal showdown, the Trump administration faces a lawsuit alleging unconstitutional actions in dissolving the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The lawsuit, filed by the American Federation of Government Employees and the American Foreign Service Association in Washington, D.C., federal court, accuses President Donald Trump and the State and Treasury Departments of overstepping their authority. The plaintiffs seek to restore USAID's funding and operations, which have been crucial in global humanitarian efforts.
The Trump administration's plan to reduce USAID to fewer than 300 employees from its original workforce of over 10,000 has sparked controversy. The lawsuit highlights the agency's collapse, which has resulted in severe humanitarian consequences. Efforts to combat malaria, HIV, and hunger have been significantly hindered, leaving approximately 500,000 metric tons of food aid worth $340 million in limbo. As of midnight on Friday, USAID is no longer operational, according to its website.
"Not a single one of defendants' actions to dismantle USAID were taken pursuant to congressional authorization," – The lawsuit
The lawsuit argues that dissolving USAID exceeds President Trump's constitutional authority and violates the duty to execute the nation's laws faithfully. Established as an independent agency by Congress in 1998, USAID has played a pivotal role in international aid and development. The plaintiffs assert that Congress alone holds the power to dismantle the agency.
"And pursuant to federal statute, Congress is the only entity that may lawfully dismantle the agency." – The lawsuit
The repercussions of USAID's dissolution have been dire. Thousands of women and girls have died due to halted pregnancy and childbirth services, and 300 babies now face life with HIV, a condition they would not have contracted if not for the agency's collapse.
"The agency's collapse has had disastrous humanitarian consequences," – The lawsuit
"Already, 300 babies that would not have had HIV, now do. Thousands of girls and women will die from pregnancy and childbirth." – The lawsuit
The lawsuit also points to President Trump's January 20 order halting all U.S. foreign aid as a catalyst for USAID's downfall. Businessman Elon Musk, known for his close ties with Trump, has been involved in efforts to streamline federal bureaucracy, including the dismantling of USAID. Despite repeated requests for comment, the White House and relevant departments have not responded.
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