In a surprising shake-up, hundreds of staffers from Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Asia, and Radio Free Europe found themselves locked out of their offices and placed on administrative leave. This abrupt change came after an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump labeled the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) as an "unnecessary" federal bureaucracy.
Local media reports reveal that employees received urgent emails instructing them to surrender their press passes and equipment. USAGM, which supports VOA and its sister outlets with a 2024 budget of nearly $886 million and about 3,500 staff, has also severed contracts with its international broadcasters.
More than 1,300 VOA employees were reportedly placed on administrative leave over the weekend. Trump ally Kari Lake, nominated to lead VOA, stated that the agency is "a giant rot and burden to the American taxpayer" and described it as "not salvageable," hinting at plans to drastically downsize its operations under the law.
This dramatic move is part of a broader governmental effort to trim what critics have labeled as radical propaganda and excessive bureaucracy, echoing similar cuts across other federal agencies. While some Republicans accuse publicly funded media outlets of conservative bias, the decision is expected to face challenges since Congress holds the constitutional power of the purse.
The sudden shake-up has drawn comparisons to major corporate restructurings in today’s fast-paced digital era, leaving many both shocked and curious about its long-term impact. Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story! 😮
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VOA staff put on leave, Trump ally says agency 'not salvageable'
cgtn.com
