A U.S. federal judge ruled on Tuesday that Elon Musk's attempt to unilaterally dismantle the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) likely violated the Constitution. The judge ordered the immediate restoration of employee access to electronic systems and halted the shutdown process. District Court Judge Theodore Chuang stated that Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had "overstepped the authority of Congress," the sole body empowered to abolish federal agencies.
In addition to restoring communication and payment systems, Judge Chuang mandated the submission of a written agreement within two weeks to ensure USAID can reoccupy its headquarters at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, D.C.
USAID was among the first agencies affected by the budget cuts under the Trump administration, leading to massive layoffs and the elimination of 80% of its programs. On March 10, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the cancellation of 83% of USAID's programs, resulting in the termination of 5,200 contracts. Rubio defended this decision, claiming that "tens of billions of dollars" had been spent on initiatives that were either ineffective or detrimental to the fundamental national interests of the United States.
Critics, however, warn that dismantling the agency could weaken U.S. global influence and harm vulnerable populations who rely on humanitarian aid. The reduction in USAID funding has also impacted international organizations and independent media, especially in Cuba. The suspension of grants has forced media outlets like Diario de Cuba and Cubanet to seek alternative funding sources.
Pablo Díaz, director of Diario de Cuba, has reached out to readers for support to maintain their journalistic efforts amidst the funding cuts. "Journalism needs resources, especially in a country like ours," he stated.
Cuban activist Laritza Diversent of Cubalex warned that without USAID funds, monitoring human rights violations in Cuba will become more challenging, although she assured that her team will continue working with the resources available.
The ruling is a setback for the Trump administration and Musk, who also faced a strong rebuke from U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts over Trump's escalating rhetoric against the federal judiciary.
Implications of the USAID Shutdown Block
What was the reason for blocking the USAID shutdown?
The shutdown was blocked because a federal judge found that Elon Musk's actions likely violated the Constitution by overstepping the authority of Congress, which is the only entity that can eliminate federal agencies.
How did the funding cuts affect USAID?
The funding cuts led to massive layoffs and the elimination of 80% of USAID's programs, significantly impacting their operations and reducing their influence globally.
What were the criticisms against the USAID cuts?
Critics argue that reducing USAID's funding weakens U.S. global influence and harms vulnerable populations dependent on humanitarian aid.