1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

The hostile takeover of the U.S. Institute of Peace by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is an alarming overreach that undermines the nonpartisan mission of the institute. Dismissing the board and leadership without due process, then using police force to install new management, is an unacceptable assault on this independent think tank funded by Congress. These actions by the administration raise serious legal and ethical concerns that warrant congressional oversight. DOGE's claim of pursuing efficiency rings hollow when its aggressive tactics disrupt an institution dedicated to resolving conflicts and promoting peace globally. The renowned expertise of USIP's staff, including retired diplomats, is now under threat from political motivations. As an arbiter of soft power, USIP must remain insulated from the partisan agendas that currently endanger its mandate. This situation transcends debates over budgets or bureaucracy restructuring. It is an affront to the principles of checks and balances, due process, and the very purpose for which USIP was established by Congress. Immediate congressional hearings are vital to investigate the legality of DOGE's actions, uphold USIP's independence, and prevent further encroachment on democratic norms. Defending USIP's autonomy is necessary to protect American interests in global peacebuilding endeavors.