Bono's USAID Cut Claims on Rogan Podcast Spark Controversy

U2 frontman Bono sparked controversy during a recent appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast when he referenced research suggesting that cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) may have contributed to 300,000 deaths globally. The Irish rock star cited Boston University researcher Brooke Nichols' work, which concluded that USAID funding reductions could have resulted in these otherwise preventable deaths, including 200,000 children. Bono also claimed that approximately 50,000 tons of food aid was rotting in warehouses due to staffing cuts.

The comments drew immediate backlash from supporters of President Donald Trump, including former Department of Government Efficiency chief Elon Musk, who called Bono "a liar/idiot" and disputed the death toll claims. Musk, who recently stepped down from day-to-day management of DOGE and received recognition from President Trump, flatly stated on his X platform that "Zero people have died!" Other conservative commentators echoed this criticism, while some accounts supporting former Vice President Kamala Harris expressed solidarity with Bono's statements.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions regarding the Trump administration's approach to foreign aid. After taking office in January 2025, President Trump ordered a halt to most foreign aid funding and attempted to shut down USAID entirely, though this effort was subsequently blocked in court. Supporters of these measures argue they save American taxpayers money that was being used ineffectively abroad, while critics contend the cuts negatively impact vulnerable populations worldwide.

During the podcast conversation, Rogan acknowledged the complexity of the issue, suggesting that while many aid organizations do "tremendous good," there have also been problems with oversight and accountability in foreign aid programs. The host characterized some aid programs as having insufficient controls, stating there were "billions of dollars" missing and unaccounted for. The future of USAID remains uncertain as the administration's attempts to close the agency continue to face legal challenges.

The dispute over Bono's claims reflects broader debates about America's role in international humanitarian assistance and the appropriate level of U.S. involvement in global aid programs. The controversy touches on fundamental questions about the effectiveness, accountability, and necessity of foreign aid programs, as well as the human impact of policy changes in this area. These discussions occur against the backdrop of the Trump administration's stated priority of focusing government resources domestically rather than on international initiatives.