Trump revokes Biden's security clearance, escalates foreign aid crackdown

Former President Donald Trump revoked Joe Biden’s security clearance Friday and ordered the dismantling of USAID, escalating his efforts to reshape the U.S. government.

Trump, 78, announced the decision on Truth Social, declaring Biden had “no need” for classified briefings. “JOE, YOU’RE FIRED,” he wrote in all caps.

Presidents traditionally retain access to intelligence updates after leaving office, but Trump ended Biden’s privileges immediately.

Crackdown on USAID

In a broader restructuring, Trump froze foreign aid, recalled USAID staff, and ordered the agency’s workforce cut from 10,000 to 300. The move, backed by billionaire Elon Musk, has sparked lawsuits and a federal judge paused layoffs of 2,200 workers.

Trump accused the agency of corruption, offering no evidence. “THE CORRUPTION IS AT LEVELS RARELY SEEN BEFORE. CLOSE IT DOWN!” he posted online.

USAID, which runs health and emergency programs in 120 countries, has been a key tool in U.S. foreign policy and global influence. Critics warn that gutting the agency could weaken the U.S. presence abroad, particularly as China expands its diplomatic footprint.

"We are witnessing one of the worst and most costly foreign policy blunders in U.S. history," wrote Samantha Power, former USAID chief, in The New York Times.

Trump names himself Kennedy Center chair

Trump also appointed himself chairman of the Kennedy Center, citing his opposition to certain performances.

"Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our youth — THIS WILL STOP," he posted, without specifying the event.

His takeover of the premier arts venue in Washington is expected to spark legal and cultural battles.

South Africa aid frozen

Trump halted U.S. aid to South Africa, citing a disputed law that he claims allows the seizure of land from white farmers. The Johannesburg government has denied the claims.

Musk, a South African native, has frequently criticized the government there. His Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been central to Trump’s push to dismantle federal agencies.

Legal challenges

Democrats have vowed to challenge Trump’s orders. A judge recently blocked his attempt to overturn birthright citizenship, and another paused mass buyouts of federal workers.

Meanwhile, concerns are growing over Musk’s access to federal systems. Treasury officials flagged DOGE’s activities as “the single biggest insider threat” ever faced by the Bureau of the Fiscal Service.

Adding to the turmoil, a DOGE staffer resigned after reports surfaced of his past racist and eugenicist social media posts. Trump defended him, and Musk vowed to reinstate him.

Vice President J.D. Vance dismissed the controversy. “Stupid social media activity shouldn’t ruin a kid’s life,” he said.

With legal fights mounting and global aid programs disrupted, Trump’s sweeping orders have set off a storm in Washington and beyond.