The Trump administration has announced that it will complete the payment of over $670 million owed to foreign aid organizations by the end of the week for completed work. Despite this, President Donald Trump and Elon Musk are continuing their efforts to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Companies and nonprofits working with USAID have taken legal action to demand the release of funds, accusing the administration of defying court orders. The Justice Department stated that payments owed to organizations not involved in the litigation will be settled by April 29, with the total amount owed to all organizations nearing $2 billion.
A federal judge has ruled that the attempts by the Trump administration and Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency to close down USAID likely violate the Constitution. Judge Theodore D. Chuang issued a preliminary injunction to block further actions until a final ruling is made. The administration has critiqued the international aid program for alleged fraud, inefficiency, and not aligning spending with U.S. interests.
In a separate development, authorities in New York City are preparing to defy a deadline set by the Trump administration to end “congestion relief” tolls in Lower Manhattan. The tolls, which vary based on vehicle type, time of day, and payment method, aim to reduce traffic congestion, pollution, and raise funds for public transit. The city is challenging the administration’s directive in court to continue the program.
Tariffs, primarily imposed on imports, are discussed as tools used to protect domestic industries and generate revenue for public programs. They can also be utilized to negotiate with trade partners. The Wilson Center scholars explain that while tariffs may seem to impact foreign producers, the costs are ultimately borne by U.S. consumers and businesses.
Photo caption: USAID workers embrace outside their Washington, D.C. headquarters after retrieving their belongings.
