Summary of “The Demise of U.S.A.I.D. — and American Soft Power”
The Daily
Release Date: February 11, 2025

In this compelling episode of The Daily, hosts David Marchese and Lulu Garcia Navarro delve into the rapid dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under President Donald Trump's administration. Through insightful discussions with State Department reporter Michael Crowley and health reporter Stephanie Nolan, the episode examines the historical significance of USAID, its role in advancing American soft power, the ramifications of its dissolution, and the broader implications for U.S. foreign policy.

1. Introduction: The Collapse of USAID

The episode opens with a stark portrayal of USAID's current state. David Marchese describes the agency as "a shell of itself," noting that its name has been removed from its Washington headquarters and that a judge has paused elements of its dismantling (00:32). This sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of what USAID has been and what its elimination signifies for American influence abroad.

2. The Origin and Purpose of USAID

Lulu Garcia Navarro provides a historical context, explaining that USAID was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy through an executive order. Contrary to perceptions of pure charity, USAID was created as a strategic tool for national security during the Cold War. Navarro states:

“It was a matter of national security. It permits us to exert influence for the maintenance of freedom.” (02:38)

Kennedy aimed to counter Soviet influence by fostering economic development and stability in developing countries, thereby promoting democracy and capitalism over communism.

3. USAID as a Pillar of American Soft Power

The discussion highlights USAID’s role in cultivating American soft power—leveraging aid to build relationships and influence without military force. Navarro emphasizes:

“USAID is building schools, building hospitals, providing people with clean drinking water... all kinds of things that help people in a fundamental day to day way have better lives in these countries.” (06:07)

Michael Crowley elaborates on specific programs, such as the HIV/AIDS response and the President's Malaria Initiative, which not only save lives but also foster goodwill and economic stability, indirectly benefiting U.S. interests.

4. Successes and Challenges within USAID

While acknowledging USAID's successes, the hosts and guests also address instances of inefficiency and waste. Navarro cites the Afghanistan-based Promote program, initially budgeted at $280 million to aid 75,000 women, which ultimately promoted only 55 women, labeling it "a complete waste" (08:59). Despite such setbacks, Crowley argues that USAID's overall impact remains positive and economically advantageous for the United States.

5. The Trump Administration’s Dismantling of USAID

The episode shifts focus to the Trump administration's aggressive campaign against USAID. Crowley recounts the abrupt cessation of USAID-funded projects, illustrating the immediate and tangible impacts:

“She (Dr. Layla) can't accept that as a doctor, as an ethical scientist... the US had suddenly withdrawn its funding and the trial was over.” (21:35)

This unilateral shutdown disrupts vital research and erodes trust within international communities, as exemplified by the halted HIV prevention trials in South Africa.

6. Impact on Global Trust and Relationships

The sudden dismantling of USAID has profound effects on international trust. Crowley narrates conversations with affected individuals and scientists who felt betrayed and isolated after the funding cuts. Navarro underscores the strategic vacuum this creates, allowing rivals like China to expand their own soft power initiatives:

“It's going to create a vacuum. And the risk here is that we have circled back to the context that led President Kennedy to create USAID.” (30:19)

7. Implications for American Foreign Policy

The elimination of USAID signals a shift from soft power to a hard power approach under Trump, characterized by tariffs and threats rather than aid and engagement. Navarro warns of a return to the “ugly American” image, where American foreign policy may increasingly rely on coercion instead of collaboration, potentially weakening global alliances and U.S. influence.

8. Conclusion: The Future of U.S. Soft Power

The episode concludes with a reflection on the long-term consequences of dismantling USAID. Navarro and Crowley express concern that undermining soft power strategies not only damages America's reputation but also cedes strategic advantages to geopolitical competitors. The rapid and haphazard approach to eliminating USAID is portrayed as shortsighted, risking the erosion of decades-long efforts to build stable, prosperous, and allied nations worldwide.

Notable Quotes:

• Lulu Garcia Navarro: “It was a matter of national security. It permits us to exert influence for the maintenance of freedom.” (02:38)

• David Marchese: “Perhaps the clearest example of how USAID exerts American soft power is through the work it's done in public.” (10:09)

• Michael Crowley: “We're a compassionate and benevolent actor. We're on your team.” (14:02)

• Lulu Garcia Navarro: “Trump and the people around him have never had much interest in the use of soft power.” (26:30)

Implications Highlighted:

• Strategic Loss: The dismantling of USAID diminishes the United States’ ability to influence global affairs through development and humanitarian aid.

• Rising Competitors: Rivals like China are poised to fill the void left by USAID, expanding their own soft power and strengthening their global presence.

• Erosion of Trust: The abrupt cessation of aid projects undermines trust with international partners and communities, potentially leading to increased instability and conflict.

• Shift in Foreign Policy: A move from soft power to hard power tactics may weaken long-term alliances and reduce America's global standing.

This episode of The Daily provides a thorough examination of USAID's pivotal role in American foreign policy and the significant repercussions of its dissolution. By intertwining historical context, current events, and expert analysis, the hosts offer listeners a nuanced understanding of how the demise of USAID not only impacts global humanitarian efforts but also fundamentally alters the dynamics of American soft power on the world stage.