The Trump administration has set off a major reorganization of U.S.-funded media, placing hundreds of reporters and staff at Voice of America, Radio Free Asia, and Radio Free Europe on leave.
A directive sent over the weekend instructed these journalists to surrender press passes, office phones, and other equipment, as part of a broader effort to streamline federal agencies. This move follows an executive order by President Donald Trump on Friday, which identified the U.S. Agency for Global Media as one of the government elements deemed unnecessary.
In an email to media outlets under her supervision, Kari Lake—a former Arizona news anchor and steadfast Trump supporter now tasked with overseeing the media agency—stated that federal grant money no longer aligns with agency priorities. Meanwhile, a post on X by White House press official Harrison Fields simply said "goodbye" in 20 languages, a gesture that appears to underscore the shift from long-standing, multilingual coverage practices.
This media shake-up is stirring global interest as it unfolds against the backdrop of restrained federal spending and widespread government reforms. For a digitally savvy, globally connected audience, the changes invite a reevaluation of the role that public broadcasting plays in an era when international news and cultural exchange are more vital than ever.
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Trump freezes U.S.-funded VOA, Radio Free Asia, Radio Free Europe
cgtn.com
