President Trump has signed an executive order aimed at reducing the size and scope of seven federal agencies, including the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which oversees Voice of America.
The order instructs the leaders of these agencies to eliminate functions that are not legally required and to reduce operations to the minimum level needed to comply with the law.
The targeted agencies deal with various issues, such as labor disputes, homelessness, and community development.
In addition to USAGM, the agencies affected include the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the Minority Business Development Agency, among others.
USAGM, with its budget of approximately $270 million, provides funding to media outlets like Voice of America, Radio Free Europe, and Radio Free Asia. The agency broadcasts in 49 languages, reaching over 361 million people weekly.
This move comes after previous tensions between Trump and USAGM over editorial independence, with the president voicing concerns about its programming and staffing decisions.
The order demands that agency leaders submit detailed plans within seven days outlining which functions are required by law.
These changes are part of Trump’s broader efforts to streamline government operations and reduce taxpayer spending.
However, critics warn that the cuts could undermine important services, particularly those related to international media and community support.
The decision also aligns with broader initiatives led by figures like Elon Musk, who has advocated for cutting government programmes and reducing federal staff, though some of these efforts have been challenged by legal rulings.
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