In a bold move that’s making waves in Washington, a government watchdog group led by Elon Musk has canceled $577 million in what it called “wasteful” foreign aid programs — and taxpayers are taking notice.

The agency, called the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), announced that these canceled grants were part of long-standing programs that, according to the administration, prioritized other countries over American citizens.

What Got Cut?

Among the biggest programs axed were:

• $10 million to promote gender equity in the Mexican workplace

• $12.2 million for worker empowerment in South America

• $6.25 million for improving agriculture worker rights in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador

• $3 million for inclusive work environments in Lesotho

• $4.3 million to assist migrant workers in Malaysia

• $5 million for increasing women’s workforce participation in West Africa

DOGE called these grants part of a broader pattern of “America Last” spending, with U.S. tax dollars funding overseas causes while American workers continue to struggle.

Social Media Applause

In a post celebrating the cuts, DOGE stated:

“Another win for taxpayers. Why were U.S. tax dollars ever funding foreign gender initiatives while American workers struggle? This is exactly why we need ruthless accountability.”

They also questioned how these grants were approved in the first place, urging audits of all government agencies that send money overseas.

Support from Conservatives

Many conservatives cheered the cuts, praising DOGE for pushing back against what they view as years of unchecked spending on pet projects abroad.

One supporter on X (formerly Twitter) wrote:

“Thank you DOGE!! Cutting $577 million in overseas spending is a huge win for hardworking taxpayers. MAGA FIRST!”

Trump Highlights It in State of the Union

Former President Donald Trump also spotlighted DOGE’s findings during his March 4, 2025, State of the Union address, calling out even more examples of what he called “absurd” foreign aid:

• $22 billion for housing and cars for undocumented immigrants

• $45 million for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) scholarships in Burma

• $40 million to support sedentary migrant communities

• $8 million for LGBTQ+ programs in Lesotho

• $8 million for “making mice transgender”

Trump emphasized the need for “fiscal sanity” and said it’s time to put American citizens first when it comes to how tax dollars are spent.

The Big Picture

As DOGE continues to dig through federal spending, many are expecting even more programs to be canceled — especially those seen as not directly benefiting U.S. citizens.

While critics may argue that some of these grants supported human rights and global partnerships, DOGE and its supporters say the mission is clear: stop wasteful spending and refocus on America.