Fox News Politics Newsletter: Fast start to Trump’s second term leaves fed workers shocked

In a shocking turn of events, President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led by Elon Musk have effectively shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), leaving staffers and contractors stunned and angered. On Monday, 80% of staff across the agency’s bureaus lost access to vital systems such as travel, communications, classified information, and databases. This abrupt shutdown has raised concerns about how American citizens in dangerous locations around the world will be repatriated in case of emergencies.

USAID employees feel abandoned and left high and dry, with no guidance on what steps to take next. Many believe that the agency was hostilely taken over by DOGE, leaving them feeling betrayed by Congress and the government. President Trump has urged USAID staffers to halt aid to foreign countries or face disciplinary action.

In response to the shutdown, top Republicans in DOGE have accused USAID of obstructionism and a pattern of hindering government efficiency. The White House has labeled Democrat criticism of DOGE as unacceptable and alarming, showing a growing divide in Washington.

Meanwhile, on the world stage, there are talks of potential deployments to Gaza, but President Trump has not committed to putting U.S. troops in the region. A federal judge has blocked Trump’s birthright citizenship order for the second time, causing further legal challenges for the administration.

In Capitol Hill, Trump’s commerce pick with crypto ties has advanced to the Senate floor, while GOP rebels are pushing for significant cuts in the budget bill. Former GOP leader Mitch McConnell suffered a fall while exiting the Senate chamber, adding drama to the confirmation process.

Across America, Trump’s executive order has forced New Jersey to cancel its first offshore wind farm, highlighting the impact of the administration’s policies on renewable energy. Energy Secretary Wright has outlined his priorities for promoting energy addition over subtraction, while a New York Democrat eyeing a congressional seat has come under fire for criticizing Border Patrol and corrections officers.

Overall, the political landscape is tumultuous, with tensions running high and uncertainty looming over the future of key government agencies and policies. Stay tuned to Fox News for the latest updates on the Trump administration and Congress.