Elon Musk’s DOGE Staffer to Lead at USAID as Marocco Returns to State Department

A key member of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) will take a senior role at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), while Pete Marocco, a major figure in the agency’s restructuring, returns to the State Department as Director of Foreign Assistance.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed Marocco’s transition, citing his efforts in realigning USAID’s mission. In an internal email, Marocco stated he was returning to ensure foreign aid benefits American interests.

Earlier this year, President Donald Trump paused foreign aid for 90 days to assess alignment with his "America First" policy. Critics argue that the cuts have halted critical humanitarian programs in countries like Sudan and South Africa.

Jeremy Lewin, identified as a DOGE staffer, will now serve as USAID’s Deputy Administrator for Policy and Programs and Chief Operating Officer. Ken Jackson, also linked to DOGE, will oversee management and resources, while Joel Borkert and Marcus Thornton take on chief of staff roles.

Jackson, who was named acting president of the U.S. Institute for Peace after Trump dismissed its leadership, reportedly entered the institute with armed police to enforce the transition. Bloomberg reports both Jackson and Borkert as DOGE members.

Musk and DOGE gained control over USAID’s financial and email systems, freezing payments and placing staff on leave. On February 3, Musk posted on X that he had "spent the weekend feeding USAID into the wood chipper." Secretary of State Marco Rubio later confirmed the administration had eliminated over 80% of USAID programs.

USAID’s overhaul marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign aid policy, sparking controversy over its long-term impact.