TL/DR –
The Voice of America (VOA) has been shut down, with more than 1,000 journalists placed on leave after President Trump signed an executive order to dismantle the agency. Kari Lake, who was appointed by Trump in December to lead the VOA, supported the move, despite it occurring before she could officially take charge. Critics argue that this shutdown is problematic, as VOA has been a significant source of news for people in oppressive countries where a free press is non-existent, and its closure has been celebrated by the Kremlin’s propagandists.
Voice of America Targeted by Trump Administration
Voice of America (VOA), traditionally independent of presidential administrations, is now under scrutiny from the Trump administration. Kari Lake, a vocal critic of the media, is now at the helm of the silenced VOA.
Previously denied roles as Arizona governor and senator, Lake was appointed by President Trump in December to lead VOA. Trump stated that Lake would “ensure that the American values of Freedom and Liberty are broadcast around the World FAIRLY and ACCURATELY” – a departure from the “Fake News Media”.
However, before Lake could take control, Trump dismantled the agency by signing an executive order to “eliminate” VOA and its parent agency. Over 1,000 journalists were subsequently placed on leave.
Lake Supports VOA Shutdown
Lake supported the shuttering of the agency, describing it as a “giant rot and burden to the American taxpayer” and a “national security risk”. This is despite VOA’s longstanding role in broadcasting to regions lacking a free press since World War II.
Kremlin propagandists have reportedly celebrated the VOA shutdown as “awesome”, while concerns have been raised about the nature of reporting under Lake’s leadership.
Controversy Surrounding VOA’s New Headquarters
Lake recently posted a video criticizing the cost of VOA’s new headquarters, which she claimed was unnecessary and expensive. However, the USAGM announced that the move would save taxpayers over $150 million over 15 years.
This misinformation, if indicative of the type of reporting that would have been seen under Lake’s leadership at VOA, raises concerns about the agency’s future credibility.
—
Read More US Media News