The Trump administration is facing increasing scrutiny over its handling of classified documents within the context of dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). An alarming email recently surfaced, instructing employees to properly dispose of documents by placing them in burn bags labeled “SECRET” and “USAID (B/IO)”. Speculation has arisen regarding whether the agency preserved copies of the documents marked for destruction, especially given the ongoing litigation concerning the termination of USAID employees and the cessation of authorized grants.
The American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) has expressed alarm over these developments, emphasizing the necessity of preserving government records for transparency and accountability. “The unlawful destruction of federal records could carry serious legal consequences for anyone directed to act in violation of the law,” warned AFSA spokesperson Nikki Gamer.
Federal law, established under the Federal Records Act of 1950, dictates that records must be preserved and gives strict guidelines for the proper disposal of government documents. Experts have voiced concerns over the email directive from the Trump administration, noting that it lacks key details traditionally included in records disposal requests, raising red flags regarding adherence to established procedures.
Kel McClanahan, executive director of the National Security Counselors, filed a complaint with the National Archives and Records Administration, requesting immediate intervention in the destruction of records, indicating potential ramifications on federal employees who may require verification of their employment benefits.
USAID has faced significant changes under the Trump administration, which began broad cuts after President Trump took office in January. The administration’s newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), led in part by Elon Musk, has sought to eliminate what it perceives as waste within the federal bureaucracy.
The drastic shutdown of USAID, resulting in mass layoffs and guidance failure for many foreign service officers, has sparked discussion about the future of international development programs in the U.S. Recently, Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed that the administration would be canceling 83% of USAID programs, equating to over 5,200 contracts worth tens of billions of dollars, and transitioning the control of a mere 1,000 remaining grants to the State Department.
The effects of these changes resonate not just in federal employment but also ripple through private sectors and non-profits reliant on USAID funding, triggering widespread layoffs and operational disruptions. This evolving situation highlights the intersection of legal protocols and political agendas, drawing careful scrutiny on the integrity of our federal processes during Trump’s administration.