When the White House's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) arrived at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) offices, employees reportedly rushed to conceal items they perceived as potentially problematic. According to a USAID contractor who spoke with ABC News, staff removed Pride flags, books, and even unplugged news feeds in kitchen areas. This account aligns with Elon Musk's recent scrutiny of USAID, which he deems "beyond repair" and has targeted for closure, citing wasteful spending.

The contractor, Kristina Drye, described a tense atmosphere, mentioning that employees were unusually quiet and feared their Google Meets were being transcribed. She also noted that access to websites and computers was subsequently restricted. The White House has since publicized a list of USAID projects it considers questionable, many related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including programs in Serbia and Ireland. Other flagged projects involved LGBTQI programs, such as a transgender comic book in Peru.

Musk has claimed that former President Donald Trump supported his stance on shutting down USAID. The rapid takeover and subsequent investigation by DOGE has created uncertainty within the agency.