Trump Orders Gutting of 7 Agencies, Including Voice of America’s Parent
President Trump has ordered the gutting of seven federal agencies, including the parent agency of Voice of America, in a move that has sparked outrage and concern among journalists and advocates for press freedom.
The order, which was issued on Thursday, calls for the elimination of the Agency for Global Media (AGM), a federal agency that oversees the operations of Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Radio Free Asia, and other international broadcasting services.
The move comes amid growing tensions between the Trump administration and the media, with the president frequently attacking news organizations that he views as critical of his administration.
Critics of the decision argue that dismantling the AGM would severely undermine the independence and credibility of Voice of America and other international broadcasting services, which are meant to provide unbiased and accurate news to audiences around the world.
Voice of America, in particular, has long been seen as a symbol of American values and ideals, providing a platform for free speech and independent journalism in countries where press freedoms are limited.
The decision to gut the AGM has also raised concerns about the impact on U.S. soft power and influence abroad. By cutting funding and resources for international broadcasting services, the United States risks losing an important tool for promoting democratic values and countering disinformation in regions where authoritarian regimes are on the rise.
In a statement, the AGM said that it was “deeply concerned” about the president’s decision and vowed to continue its mission of providing accurate and objective news to audiences around the world.
The move to gut the AGM is just the latest in a series of attacks on the media by the Trump administration. The president has repeatedly referred to the press as the “enemy of the people” and has sought to discredit news organizations that he views as critical of his administration.
The decision to dismantle the AGM has been met with widespread condemnation from journalists, press freedom advocates, and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. Critics argue that the move is a blatant attempt to silence dissenting voices and undermine the free press, which is a cornerstone of democracy.
As the Trump administration moves forward with its plan to gut the AGM, it is imperative that journalists and advocates for press freedom continue to speak out and defend the importance of independent journalism in a democratic society. The stakes could not be higher, and the future of Voice of America and other international broadcasting services hangs in the balance.