Hundreds of protesters gathered near the Capitol to demonstrate against the dismantling of USAID, the agency responsible for distributing humanitarian aid globally on behalf of the United States. Led by Democratic lawmakers and nonprofit workers, the protest was in response to the Trump administration’s decision to furlough nearly all USAID employees, except those in “mission-critical functions.” Tech billionaire Elon Musk, supported by President Donald Trump, claimed to be shutting down USAID, sparking outrage.

At the rally, attendees expressed concerns about the impact of USAID’s closure on critical global assistance programs, such as the fight against Ebola. Protesters held signs blaming Elon Musk for the agency’s dismantling and criticized the lack of action by Democrats to oppose the administration’s decision. Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of soft power diplomacy in national security.

Senator Mark Warner warned that the administration’s actions could weaken U.S. global leadership and benefit adversaries like the Communist Party of China. Former USAID administrators, in a joint statement, urged Congress and the administration to protect the agency’s statutory role. Established in 1961, USAID operates with over $40 billion in federal spending, supporting humanitarian and development projects in over 100 countries.

The protest highlighted the widespread concern over the potential consequences of USAID’s closure and called for swift action to safeguard the agency’s vital role in global aid and diplomacy efforts.