The Trump administration is shaking up the State Department as part of its “America First” agenda, aiming to streamline operations and cut programs deemed unnecessary or misaligned with U.S. interests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Tuesday that redundant offices will be scrapped, regional functions consolidated, and certain programs eliminated.
“This approach will empower the Department from the ground up,” Rubio said, adding that a new Coordinator for Foreign Assistance and Humanitarian Affairs will absorb responsibilities previously held by the Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Human Rights, and Democracy. Rubio, who also heads USAID, slammed the department as “bloated, bureaucratic, and unable to perform” in today’s geopolitical landscape.
Today is the day. Under @POTUS’ leadership and at my direction, we are reversing decades of bloat and bureaucracy at the State Department.
— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) April 22, 2025
These sweeping changes will empower our talented diplomats to put America and Americans first. pic.twitter.com/CGWz3JrYwu
The overhaul follows a February directive from President Trump to realign the Foreign Service with his diplomatic vision. While past reports hinted at the closure of multiple consulates, Rubio’s statement stopped short of confirming any shutdowns.
