In a significant legal challenge, unions representing U.S. government employees have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration’s initiative to dismantle the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The lawsuit, lodged by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), contends that the administration’s actions are both unconstitutional and illegal.
The legal action seeks an injunction to halt the administration’s efforts, which include issuing stop-work orders, freezing funding, placing staff on leave or terminating their positions, and appointing Secretary of State Marco Rubio as Acting Administrator of USAID. The plaintiffs argue that these measures have led to the loss of thousands of American jobs and jeopardized U.S. national security interests.
AFGE President Everett Kelley emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “Dissolving USAID is illegal and unconstitutional. The administration’s actions will cost lives and threaten the livelihood—and in some cases the physical safety—of thousands of American workers who have dedicated their lives to public service.” 
The lawsuit underscores concerns that dismantling USAID without congressional authorization violates the U.S. Constitution and could precipitate a global humanitarian crisis. The unions are advocating for the restoration of USAID’s operations and the reinstatement of affected employees to prevent further disruptions to critical international aid programs.
This legal battle highlights the escalating tensions between federal employees and the administration over the future of U.S. foreign aid and the role of USAID in global development efforts.
