Staff at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have been instructed to shred and burn classified documents and personnel files, sparking concerns over compliance with federal laws. The orders coincide with a broader dismantling of the agency under the Trump administration, which has faced multiple lawsuits since commencing these actions shortly after taking office in January. The Federal Records Act of 1950 provides strict guidelines for the appropriate disposal of government documents, emphasizing the necessity for backup or archival records. Despite these regulations, instructions to destroy records have raised alarm among employees and organizations dedicated to preserving governmental integrity.
Billionaire Elon Musk, who is helping lead the agency, has found himself amidst a storm of controversies surrounding USAID's operational shutdown. Over recent weeks, USAID has effectively ceased operations, with thousands of employees either laid off or placed on administrative leave. Acting Executive Secretary Erica Y Carr communicated to staff via an email expressing gratitude for clearing out classified safes and personnel documents from a Washington DC office. Staff were told to rendezvous in the building's lobby for a comprehensive disposal event on Tuesday.
"Shred as many documents first, and reserve the burn bags for when the shredder becomes available or needs a break," – Erica Y Carr
The American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), representing USAID staff, has acknowledged awareness of the directive and emphasized that federal law mandates the preservation of government records. These records are critical for transparency, accountability, and ensuring the integrity of legal processes. In response to these developments, Mr. McClanahan has filed a complaint with the National Archives and Records Administration, urging them to "take immediate measures" to halt the destruction of records.
"There is no indication in this email order that any thought is being given to proper retention or even identifying which records can be destroyed and which records cannot," – Kel McClanahan
Further complicating matters, on Monday, Senator Marco Rubio announced on X that the administration was canceling "83% of the programmes at USAID." This decision is part of a broader temporary freeze on foreign aid, including funds managed by USAID, which has ignited disputes over the administration's authority to dismantle an agency and withhold funds previously established by Congress.
"The 5200 contracts that are now cancelled spent tens of billions of dollars in ways that did not serve, (and in some cases even harmed), the core national interests of the United States," – Marco Rubio
The situation has left many USAID employees in a precarious position. While remaining on administrative leave allows them to continue receiving pay, it has left their careers shrouded in uncertainty. Unions and other advocacy groups have mounted opposition against the administration's moves, challenging its power to shut down USAID and freeze designated funds.
Amidst this turmoil, approximately 1,000 remaining grants will now fall under the administration of the U.S. State Department. This transition aims to ensure continuity in some areas of USAID's work despite the significant downsizing.
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