The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) faced a website shutdown amid fears of its potential merger with the State Department, a move critics argue undermines its independent status. Democrats highlight the constitutional issues of such a merger, emphasizing USAID's role in national security and humanitarian aid. A 90-day freeze on foreign assistance has also led to significant program stoppages and staff layoffs. Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured the continuation of life-saving programs but raised fears about the agency's future amid administrative cuts and tensions between federal agencies.