A worker was spotted removing the U.S. Agency for International Development sign at their headquarters in Washington, DC, on February 7, 2025. The image, captured by Kayla Bartkowski for Getty Images, set a somber backdrop to recent events.
In a surprising twist on Tuesday, the inspector general of USAID received the abrupt news of his termination, just a day after his office released a critical report. The document highlighted significant issues stemming from the Trump administration’s decision to shrink the agency considerably, as revealed in a letter obtained by NBC News. Paul Martin, who had been serving as USAID’s inspector general since 2023, was informed about his departure via an email.
“In accordance with President Donald J. Trump’s directive, I am writing to let you know that your role as Inspector General of USAID is terminated, effective immediately,” wrote Trent Morse, deputy director of the Office of Presidential Personnel, in an email to Martin, which NBC News was able to access. He added a simple acknowledgment, “Thank you for your service.”
The news of Martin’s firing was first covered by CNN. The report penned by USAID’s Office of the Inspector General under Martin’s leadership sounded the alarm on several critical concerns. It pointed out that the gaps in staffing could lead to a lack of oversight, leaving the agency vulnerable to inadvertently allocating funds to entities or individuals linked to terrorist organizations designated by the U.S. The report also mentioned the unpredictability tied to the waivers for essential aid, issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. According to the document, this placed over $489 million worth of food assistance at risk, including potential spoilage, unexpected storage needs, and possible misdirection of supplies as they awaited clearance at ports, during transit, or in warehouses.
After receiving news of his dismissal, Martin quickly communicated with his team. “It has been a genuine privilege and pleasure to work alongside my OIG colleagues across the globe as we aimed to deliver impartial and rigorous oversight of USAID’s initiatives and staff,” Martin expressed in his email to his team. He added a heartfelt note for the future, “Take care of yourselves and support one another. And, as always, I am grateful for your dedication and the way you carry out your duties.”
As of Tuesday night, the White House had yet to comment on the circumstances of Martin’s removal.
