DOGE Left USIP Office with Water Damage, Rats, and Roaches: Report

The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) headquarters was left in a state of disrepair by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), according to a sworn statement by USIP’s chief executive, George Moose. The statement, first reported by Court Watch, details significant water damage, rat infestations, and roach problems discovered after DOGE’s occupation.

This revelation comes shortly after a federal judge ruled DOGE’s takeover of the nonprofit was illegal. While Elon Musk has indicated he is stepping away from DOGE, he and President Trump have stated he will continue to advise the administration.

DOGE initiated its takeover of USIP in mid-March, following a contentious standoff that involved USIP calling the police on DOGE staff. Moose stated that DOGE staff had effectively “broken into” the USIP headquarters, despite the nonprofit’s independence from the executive branch.

“It was very clear that there was a desire on the part of the administration to dismantle a lot of what we call foreign assistance, and we are part of that family,” Moose said, alluding to the broader efforts to dismantle the United States Agency for International Development.

While Moose initially indicated the headquarters appeared in decent condition at a May 21 press conference, a subsequent staff survey revealed a different reality. The survey, conducted the following day, documented numerous problems throughout the building.

According to Moose’s statement, the headquarters had been “essentially abandoned for many weeks” prior to USIP regaining control. He noted DOGE’s failure to “maintain and secure the building,” leading to “evidence of rats and roaches.”

“Vermin were not a problem prior to March 17, 2025, when USIP was actively using and maintaining the building,” Moose emphasized.

Staff also reported poorly maintained vehicle barriers, water leaks, and missing ceiling tiles, indicative of water damage.

USIP has now “engaged a private security firm to guard the building and premises” and has “taken over responsibility for the building’s maintenance,” Moose confirmed. The organization is working to restore the building to its previous condition.