Trump draft executive order would make sweeping changes to the U.S. State Department

President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were present at a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Oval Office of the White House on April 7, 2025.

A leaked draft executive order obtained by CNBC suggests significant changes on the horizon for the U.S. State Department. The draft outlines plans for a “disciplined reorganization” of the country’s diplomatic service, including the closure of American embassies in Southern Africa and the elimination of bureaus focused on democracy, human rights, and international organizations like the United Nations.

The proposed changes aim to streamline mission delivery, project American strength abroad, reduce waste and abuse, and realign the Department with an “America First Strategic Doctrine.” The draft order also calls for the consolidation of regional bureaus under four main categories, while drastically reducing America’s diplomatic presence in Canada.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s office would oversee State Department operations in Canada under the draft order. The White House has not yet commented on the leaked document.

The proposed changes also involve the termination of offices and positions within the department related to climate, women’s issues, democracy, human rights, migration, and criminal justice. Hiring practices would be revamped, with a focus on candidates who align with the president’s foreign policy vision.

The draft order sets a deadline of October 1 for the completion of the reorganization and offers a buyout and transition program for current personnel who do not wish to participate in the new structure.