Why, America? with Leeja Miller

How Elon Is Breaking The Government

Feb 3, 2025
Elon Musk is shaking up the federal government like never before. He’s using his influence to challenge USAID, raising concerns about global food assistance. The discussion dives into how his tactics mirror the chaos seen during Trump's presidency and the dangers of concentrated executive power. Historical parallels to authoritarianism reveal alarming trends in governance. The podcast emphasizes the need for a strong judiciary and community engagement to fight back against potential overreach and protect democratic values.
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INSIGHT

Elon's Disruption Tactics

  • Elon Musk's disruptive actions in the federal government are enabled by typical governmental processes like executive orders and proclamations.
  • These processes, while typically legal, are being used by Trump to push beyond legal and constitutional limits.
INSIGHT

USAID Under Attack

  • Elon Musk is targeting USAID, the world's largest provider of food assistance, calling it a criminal organization and advocating for its shutdown.
  • This has led to a funding freeze, impacting life-saving programs and causing chaos among aid organizations.
ANECDOTE

DOGE's Intrusion into USAID

  • DOGE officials, some lacking proper security clearances, entered the USAID building demanding access, even to a SCIF.
  • USAID staff were put on leave or resigned after resisting, and the agency's headquarters were later shuttered.
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