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4w ago

Rubio’s State Department Overhaul Advances with Office Closures and Staff Cuts

The reorganization consolidates USAID programs, reduces domestic offices, and prioritizes emerging threats, sparking concerns over diminished U.S. soft power.

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Overview

  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio has initiated the early implementation of a reorganization plan that eliminates 132 State Department offices and transitions 137 others, with a 15% reduction in domestic staff planned by July.
  • The restructuring includes the near-elimination of USAID, with 90% of its $40 billion programs being merged into the State Department, centralizing foreign assistance under regional bureaus.
  • A new Bureau of Emerging Threats has been established to focus on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, reflecting a shift in U.S. diplomatic priorities.
  • Critics argue the reorganization sidelines human rights, equity, and global health functions, potentially weakening U.S. diplomatic influence and soft power.
  • The Counter Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference Hub staff has been placed on administrative leave as the department moves to shut down the controversial office.