The Journal.
Inside USAID as Elon Musk and DOGE Ripped It Apart
Feb 6, 2025
Marcy Hirsch Robinson, a seasoned humanitarian aid worker with two decades of experience, shares her poignant reflections on the recent upheaval at USAID following political shifts. Brian Schwartz, a WSJ reporter specializing in economic policy, offers insights into how Elon Musk and the influence of DOGE are reshaping federal structures. They discuss the emotional toll on staff amid layoffs, the mission of USAID in times of uncertainty, and the broader implications of Musk's newfound power on government operations and humanitarian efforts.
25:59
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Quick takeaways
- Elon Musk's role at DOGE and his criticisms of USAID indicate a significant threat to the agency's future and funding.
- Marcy Hirsch Robinson's personal experience highlights the distress and uncertainty faced by USAID employees due to abrupt operational shutdowns.
Deep dives
Marcy Hirsch Robinson's Humanitarian Experience
Marcy Hirsch Robinson has dedicated over two decades to humanitarian work across more than 30 countries, focusing on aiding vulnerable populations. Her current role at USAID sees her leading efforts to ensure aid accessibility for marginalized groups, particularly in humanitarian crises like those in Ukraine. Marcy embodies a 'stubborn optimist' outlook, believing in humanity's capacity for good and feeling a responsibility to help during dire situations. However, the transition to a new administration brought unexpected stop work orders that abruptly halted USAID operations, leaving her and many colleagues in shock.
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