The Trump administration’s draft executive order foreshadows significant changes to the U.S. State Department under the “America First” doctrine, sparking controversy and concern.
Key Takeaways
- Trump administration plans for a major overhaul of the State Department, potentially replacing diplomats with AI.
- Draft executive order details proposed closures of embassies and realignment of regional bureaus.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismisses the leaked draft as “fake news.”
- The draft proposes eliminating several offices focusing on global issues.
- Implementation and structural changes targeted for completion by October 1.
Proposed State Department Overhaul
The Trump administration has unveiled a draft executive order proposing an extensive restructuring of the U.S. State Department, aligning with the “America First” doctrine. The draft suggests slashing the presence in Canada and Africa, reducing embassies deemed non-essential, and possibly automating certain diplomatic roles with artificial intelligence.
Significant modifications entail merging the Canada desk to form a North American affairs office, shrinking the Ottawa embassy, dismantling the Bureau of African Affairs, and closing numerous sub-Saharan embassies, shifting priority to counterterrorism. The draft reportedly calls for a new evaluation system for Foreign Service candidates aligned with administration policies.
A draft White House executive order proposes a drastic restructuring of the State Department, including eliminating almost all of its Africa operations and shutting down embassies and consulates across the continent. https://t.co/A8EvW1p3Ih
— Abdi Latif Dahir (@Lattif) April 20, 2025
Official Responses and Criticism
The New York Times released a detailed 16-page draft order, prompting immediate reactions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio termed the report “fake news,” asserting the document’s inauthenticity without clarifying specifics. The validity of such claims remains debated.
Additionally, the proposal outlines the removal of offices supporting democracy, human rights, migration, and climate change initiatives, hinting at a shift from global responsibilities. Critics warn that such eliminations signal an insular approach to diplomacy that contradicts traditional foreign policy norms.
China will quickly fill any political/economic void we create in Africa by withdrawing from the continent… https://t.co/OTOw9CWete
— Politics1.com (@Politics1com) April 20, 2025
Implications and Future Actions
The comprehensive changes could lead to significant diplomatic job reductions as artificial intelligence takes over some roles. A buyout option is offered to staff reluctant to embrace the new structure, with intentions for completion by October 1. Skepticism swirls as some leaders suspect the draft could be another misdirection.
Speaking to Politico, one diplomat called the plan “bonkers crazypants.”
As the overhaul intends to streamline U.S. diplomacy to project American strength, concerns linger about potential diplomatic voids that could enhance rival influence in fields like African and Indo-Pacific affairs.
Sources:
- Diplomats Are Freaking Out About Trump’s Leaked Executive Order
- Trump draft executive order would make sweeping changes to the U.S. State Department – DNyuz
