A new report from the Congressional Research Service (CRS) confirms that President Donald Trump does not have the power to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) without congressional approval.
This revelation comes as Trump faces increasing backlash over his efforts to freeze foreign aid and restructure government agencies.
Congress Confirms Trump Cannot Shut Down USAID
The CRS report, released Monday, makes it clear that USAID was established by Congress and cannot be dismantled without legislative approval.
The report cites the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998, which briefly allowed the president to reorganize USAID.
However, that authority expired in 1999. While Trump can shift certain responsibilities between USAID and the State Department, he must first consult with Congress and follow legal procedures before making any major changes.
Trump’s decision to involve billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has intensified the controversy.
Musk, now heading the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), announced on X (formerly Twitter) that he was working to shut down USAID.
He claimed to have Trump’s full support in this effort. This announcement immediately triggered a wave of criticism from lawmakers and international humanitarian organizations, who see USAID as a critical force in global development and disaster relief.
The Trump administration wasted no time acting on its plans. Within the first week, it imposed a 90-day freeze on nearly all foreign aid programs.
Dozens of USAID officials were placed on leave, and two senior security officials were removed after they refused to grant DOGE access to restricted agency areas.
These drastic measures sparked widespread protests across the country.
Demonstrators took to the streets, condemning Musk’s involvement and accusing the administration of undermining U.S. humanitarian efforts.
Congress Pushes Back Against Trump’s Moves
Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees and Foreign Relations Committees have voiced serious concerns over Trump’s actions.
Many lawmakers argue that the administration is overstepping its authority and violating established laws governing USAID’s operations.
Some have called for congressional hearings and investigations to ensure that USAID funds are not misused or arbitrarily frozen.
The Biden administration may step in and challenge Trump’s efforts in court, arguing that they violate congressional authority.
Legal experts predict that this battle could set a precedent for how much power a president has when restructuring government agencies.
The situation remains fluid, and the fate of USAID hangs in the balance as political and legal battles continue to unfold.
Trump does not have the authority to shut down USAID without congressional approval.
His decision to involve Elon Musk has only escalated tensions, drawing fierce criticism from lawmakers and activists.
Meanwhile, Congress is taking steps to push back against the administration’s actions, and legal challenges could soon follow.
This developing story could shape the future of U.S. foreign aid and presidential authority in government restructuring.