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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.