USAID Officials Resign Over Concerns About Musk’s Role and Dogecoin Promotion

A number of officials at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have resigned in recent weeks, reportedly due to internal disagreements over the agency’s increasing reliance on Elon Musk for development projects and the promotion of the Dogecoin cryptocurrency, raising ethical and strategic questions about the agency’s direction.

The officials, who held various positions within USAID’s technology and innovation departments, cited concerns about the agency’s growing partnership with Elon Musk’s companies, particularly SpaceX and Starlink, for providing internet access in developing countries. 

They also expressed unease about USAID’s apparent endorsement of Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency that has been criticized for its volatility and lack of underlying value.  The departing officials felt that these initiatives were not aligned with USAID’s core mission of promoting sustainable development and could potentially create conflicts of interest.

USAID has partnered with SpaceX to provide Starlink internet access to several countries in Africa and South America, often framing it as a way to bridge the digital divide.  However, the resigning officials argued that relying on a single private company for such critical infrastructure could create dependencies and stifle competition.  They also raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of these projects and the potential for Musk to exert undue influence over development policies.

The controversy surrounding Dogecoin stems from USAID’s apparent promotion of the cryptocurrency as a tool for financial inclusion in developing countries.  The departing officials believed that this was inappropriate for a government agency, given the highly speculative nature of cryptocurrencies and the potential risks they pose to vulnerable populations. 

They argued that promoting Dogecoin could inadvertently contribute to financial instability and exacerbate existing inequalities. The resignations highlight deep divisions within USAID about the agency’s approach to development and its relationship with the private sector.

Critics argue that the agency is becoming too reliant on partnerships with wealthy individuals and corporations, potentially blurring the lines between public and private interests.  They also express concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in these partnerships.

Neither USAID nor Elon Musk has issued a formal statement regarding the resignations.  However, sources within the agency suggest that the departures reflect a broader debate about the role of technology and innovation in development. 

Some officials believe that embracing new technologies like Starlink and cryptocurrencies is essential for achieving development goals, while others argue for a more cautious approach that prioritizes traditional development methods and avoids potential risks.