The Winston Marshall Show
Michael Shellenberger - Uncovering The DARK Secret About USAID and The Deep State
Feb 25, 2025
Michael Shellenberger, a journalist and founder of Public, dives into his investigative findings on USAID's covert operations in U.S. politics. He discusses the agency’s refusal to grant Elon Musk access, linking to its broader acts of censorship. Shellenberger critiques USAID's funding of journalism aimed at undermining Donald Trump's presidency and analyzes the Panama Papers' fallout. The conversation also touches on the implications of big tech's collaboration with government and the pressing need to protect free speech amid rising censorship.
53:42
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Quick takeaways
- USAID operates not only as a humanitarian organization but also as a strategic arm of American foreign policy, influencing political narratives abroad.
- The agency is implicated in undermining independent journalism by funding organizations like OCCRP to produce reports that align with U.S. interests and narratives.
Deep dives
Understanding USAID's Role
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is often perceived as a charitable organization similar to the Red Cross, primarily aiding those in need. However, it functions as a pivotal arm of American foreign policy, engaging in soft power operations where its humanitarian work is intricately linked to strategic political goals. This has led to debates surrounding its role in foreign interventions and how its activities align with wider government objectives. The agency has been involved in operations that have been characterized as counterpopulism, a response to political shifts and movements that diverge from U.S. interests.
