Save the U.S. Institute of Peace from Partisan Sabotage

I write in alarm over the ongoing and unlawful takeover of the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) by the Department of Government Engagement (DOGE), a Trump-aligned initiative that has violated both the letter and spirit of USIP’s founding law. The recent appointment of Darren Beattie—a known conspiracy theorist and political operative—as acting president was executed by only two ex officio board members and has no legal basis or legitimacy. Although the courts have not yet resolved the appeal of a lower court decision that found this takeover unlawful, no ruling has reversed the finding that the administration’s actions are invalid. The claim that DOGE currently has authority over USIP is misleading and without merit. Beattie’s appointment should be treated as null and void. It paralyzes the Institute and deeply damages its mission and credibility. USIP’s Vital Work Is Being Undermined For more than 40 years, USIP has served as a respected, nonpartisan institution dedicated to preventing conflict, resolving disputes, and promoting peace globally. The Institute’s strength lies in its independence and credibility with stakeholders across cultures and political divides. This hostile takeover threatens to transform USIP into a partisan tool, undermining decades of U.S. diplomatic credibility and nonviolent engagement in fragile states and war zones. George Foote, counsel to USIP, recently stated that the appointment of Beattie “flies in the face of the values at the core of USIP’s work and America’s commitment to working respectfully with international partners.” USIP staff and global partners alike understand the deep harm being done to the institution’s standing and operations while it remains under illegitimate control. Congress Must Take Immediate Action to Restore Legality I urge you to: • Speak out publicly against the illegal DOGE takeover; • Introduce or co-sponsor legislation reaffirming the independence and statutory governance of USIP; • Demand that the Department of Justice and DOGE immediately cease interference; • Hold emergency oversight hearings on this crisis, including testimony from USIP counsel and career staff. If allowed to stand, this takeover sets a dangerous precedent for the political seizure of federally chartered, nonpartisan institutions. Please act now to restore lawful control of USIP and protect its essential role in advancing peace and diplomacy.