Capacity building and foreign interference: Former employee explains why USAID has 'nothing to do with aid'

Mike Benz

, a former State Department official during the

Trump administration

, has emerged as a key figure in the escalating discourse surrounding government agencies, particularly the U.S. Agency for International Development (

USAID

). Known for his work in cybersecurity and internet policy, Benz has transitioned from government service to becoming a vocal critic of what he perceives as governmental overreach, focusing on issues related to

internet censorship

,

free speech

, and

foreign policy

influence.
Benz's post-government career has been marked by high-profile media appearances and a significant presence on social platforms, particularly X, where his critiques have caught the attention of tech billionaire Elon Musk. Their mutual interests in digital freedom and government accountability have aligned Benz with Musk, fueling what some are calling the "Trump-Musk war on USAID."
Criticism of USAID

Benz has been outspoken about USAID, alleging that the agency operates beyond its traditional humanitarian aid mission. According to Benz, USAID engages in activities that influence foreign policy and may even play a role in online discourse management, raising concerns about political agendas masquerading as development work. His critiques suggest that the agency has evolved into a tool for advancing specific geopolitical objectives, rather than focusing solely on humanitarian efforts.
Benz describes USAID as the central entity within what he calls the "trifecta of foreign policy establishments," alongside the State Department, the Department of Defense (DOD), and the intelligence community. In his view, these agencies manage the affairs of what he refers to as the "American empire," with USAID playing a pivotal role in coordinating activities that span beyond humanitarian assistance. "USAID isn’t just about aid,” Benz claims. “It’s about capacity building and influencing the course of events in foreign nations, often aligned with U.S. strategic interests."
He argues that USAID was established in the 1960s to streamline operations that had previously caused friction among the Pentagon, State Department, and CIA. Prior to USAID's creation under President John F. Kennedy, these agencies often overlapped in their international development efforts, leading to inefficiencies in the execution of U.S. foreign policy. Benz contends that while USAID was designed to resolve these issues, it has since grown into an influential body capable of shaping political and social dynamics in other countries under the guise of development aid.

Elon Musk's Involvement
Elon Musk has amplified Benz's critiques, frequently engaging with his content on X and voicing his own concerns about USAID's role. Musk has publicly referred to USAID as a "criminal organization" and called for its dissolution, aligning with broader efforts under former President Trump’s second term to restructure or dismantle government agencies seen as inefficient or politically biased.
Reports from early 2025 suggest that Musk’s influence extends beyond rhetoric. Through his involvement with the newly formed "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE), Musk has reportedly played a role in advocating for reforms targeting USAID. This includes the removal of key security officials within the agency, perceived as barriers to the Trump administration's reform agenda.
The "War on USAID" and Public Discourse
The so-called "Trump-Musk war on USAID" reflects a broader political movement aimed at redefining the role of U.S. government institutions. Benz’s media appearances, including interviews with figures like Joe Rogan, have further propelled his viewpoints into mainstream discourse. His critiques resonate particularly within conservative circles, where concerns about government overreach and lack of transparency are prominent.
However, Benz's background is not without controversy. Reports have linked him to alt-right circles, with allegations that he operated under pseudonyms such as "Frame Game" to promote conspiracy theories with racist undertones. These connections h