Proposed Executive Order Could Reshape U.S. State Department

A pivotal shift might soon impact the U.S. State Department, as a new draft executive order obtained by CNBC suggests a comprehensive overhaul aimed at reforming the nation's diplomatic corps.

This 16-page undated document, seemingly ready for President Donald Trump's endorsement, proposes sweeping changes which include closing U.S. embassies in parts of Southern Africa and discontinuing divisions focusing on democracy, human rights, and international entities such as the United Nations.

The draft details significant modifications in how American diplomats are chosen and trained.

According to the document, these adjustments are designed to streamline operations, exemplify American resilience overseas, reduce wasteful practices, and align the department under an America First Strategic Approach as specified by the Executive Branch's priorities.

The proposal includes shutting down all non-critical embassies and consulates in Sub-Saharan Africa and merging various international regional offices.

Under the order, significant cuts to diplomatic operations in Canada are outlined, with future responsibilities concentrating under a markedly smaller team known as the North American Affairs Office within the Secretary of State, assumed here to potentially involve Marco Rubio.

Requests for clarification from the White House regarding this draft were not immediately answered, although Marco Rubio dismissed the report as "fake news" on social media.

Additionally, the draft prescribes the dismantling of offices and roles centering on climate, women's rights, democracy, human rights, migration, and criminal justice.

Beyond reducing embassies and consulates, the order seeks to revamp hiring protocols within the department.

In particular, the traditional Foreign Service Officer Test would be abandoned and replaced with an assessment partly based on a candidate's alignment with the presidential foreign policy vision.

The draft emphasizes that the full restructuring and transition plan is expected to conclude by October 1.

The order also permits existing foreign service and civil service personnel not wishing to participate in the new framework to opt into a voluntary buyout and transition program up until September 30.