“Trump Shuts Down U.S. Agency for Global Media, Labels It ‘Radical Propaganda’ Funded by Taxpayers”

In a bold move, the Trump administration has officially dismantled the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), sparking intense debate over its role and the use of taxpayer money. On Friday, President Trump signed an executive order that commands the termination of seven federal agencies, including USAGM, which oversees major broadcasters such as Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL).

As a result of the executive order, around 1,300 employees — including journalists, producers, and support staff — found themselves unexpectedly unemployed. Many of these workers arrived at the agency’s offices on Saturday, only to be locked out. They received emails shortly thereafter notifying them of their job termination, although they were assured that they would continue receiving pay and benefits until further notice.

The White House defended the move, claiming that it would ensure taxpayers no longer foot the bill for what it describes as “radical propaganda.” In a statement released by the administration, it was argued that USAGM, established in 1942 to counter Nazi propaganda, had become a “giant rot” and a financial burden on the American taxpayer. Kari Lake, appointed by Trump as the chief of VOA, echoed this sentiment, calling the agency a “national security risk” and labeling it “irretrievably broken.”

The USAGM’s networks have long been a vital source of news and cultural programming for regions where free press is threatened or doesn’t exist. With a reach of over 420 million people in 63 languages across more than 100 countries, the agency has played a crucial role in U.S. diplomatic efforts. However, critics argue that shutting down this agency undermines America’s commitment to promoting freedom of speech and democracy abroad.

The administration’s decision to dismantle the USAGM also comes on the heels of increasing scrutiny of VOA’s coverage of international issues. The network has faced criticism for allegedly sanitizing its portrayal of Hamas, and some have accused it of having a political bias. This has prompted further condemnation from Trump and his supporters, who argue that American taxpayer money should not fund what they view as biased, left-leaning media.

Elon Musk, whose Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been involved in gutting federal agencies, humorously added to the conversation by renaming USAGM temporarily as the “Department of Propaganda Everywhere (DOPE).” Musk’s comments and the administration’s decision have sparked divided reactions, with some praising the cuts as a necessary move to reduce government waste, while others believe it will have damaging consequences for global media freedom.

Veterans of the media outlets affected by the shutdown, such as Michael Abramowitz, the director of VOA, have expressed disappointment, stating that this marks the first time in 83 years that Voice of America is being silenced. Steve Capus, president of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, warned that the cancellation of funding for RFE/RL would only benefit America’s adversaries, such as Iran, China, and Russia.

While some may applaud the end of USAGM as a cost-saving measure, the long-term effects of dismantling such an influential global broadcaster remain uncertain. Critics argue that it sets a dangerous precedent for the U.S.’s commitment to free press, both at home and abroad, as well as the future of global journalism funded by American taxpayers.

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