Marco Rubio Blasts USAID: ‘Unaccountable, Unresponsive, and Off Mission’

In a blistering critique, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio exposed the deep-rooted inefficiencies and insubordination within the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Speaking candidly, Rubio didn’t mince words, labeling USAID as a “completely unresponsive agency” that consistently defies the very policy directives it’s supposed to uphold.

Rubio’s frustration with USAID isn’t new—it dates back to his time in Congress. “It refuses to align with American foreign policy,” Rubio stated. “These are taxpayer dollars, not donor dollars. Every program we fund should serve the national interest of the United States. USAID has a history of ignoring that mandate.”

Highlighting a troubling pattern, Rubio criticized USAID for acting like a “global charity,” detached from America’s national priorities. This rogue behavior makes it nearly impossible to conduct the serious oversight required for foreign aid programs. Rubio noted, “We’re spending taxpayer money here, and we owe the American people the assurance that every dollar is being spent to further our national interest.”

A Legacy of Insubordination

Rubio also expressed deep concern over USAID’s refusal to cooperate with basic oversight efforts. “People refuse to answer simple questions: What does this program do? Who gets the money? Who are our contractors? That level of insubordination is unacceptable.”

Despite delegating authority to an acting director, Rubio remains closely involved in efforts to reform USAID. “Our goal is to align foreign aid with the national interest. But in mission after mission, USAID funds programs that run counter to U.S. strategic goals. That cannot continue.”

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Aligning Foreign Aid with National Interests

Calling for accountability, Rubio emphasized that USAID is not an independent, non-governmental entity. “It’s funded by taxpayers and must follow directives from the Secretary of State, the National Security Council, and the President. For 20 to 30 years, people have tried to reform it. It refuses to cooperate. That ends now.”

Rubio’s remarks signal a clear warning: under his leadership, USAID will no longer operate unchecked. Every dollar will face scrutiny, and every program must serve America’s national interest—or face the consequences.