President Donald Trump signed an executive order last week to cut funding for Voice of America and six other federally funded news organizations, accusing them of being “anti-Trump” and “radical.” The order also directed agencies overseeing labor mediation and homelessness prevention to reduce operations to only those legally required, instructing leaders to minimize staff and limit their duties to the bare legal minimum.
A White House statement claimed the measure would prevent taxpayer money from funding “radical propaganda” and included criticisms of the broadcaster from politicians and right-wing media.
Critics, including members of Congress and human rights advocates, argue that defunding government-backed news outlets like Voice of America and Radio Free Asia weakens Washington’s global influence, particularly as Beijing expands its media presence. The US Agency for Global Media, which oversees VOA, is an independent entity established by Congress. In 2020, legislation was passed to limit the authority of its presidentially appointed CEO. Founded during World War II to combat Nazi propaganda, VOA remains primarily a radio broadcaster, reaching hundreds of millions worldwide each week.
Mike Abramowitz, VOA’s director, stated that nearly all of the agency’s 1,300 employees had been placed on paid leave. “VOA champions freedom and democracy by sharing America’s story and delivering objective, balanced news—especially for those living under authoritarian regimes,” he wrote. “For over 80 years, VOA has been an invaluable asset, standing against communism, fascism, and oppression while advocating for global freedom and democracy.”
The outlets are meant to provide impartial news to global audiences. The National Press Club, representing US journalists, condemned the order, warning that it threatens press independence. “If an entire newsroom can be shut down overnight, what does that say about press freedom?” the organization questioned. “This isn’t just a staffing decision—it’s a systematic dismantling that endangers the future of independent journalism at VOA.”
