The United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) is reallocating over $17 million in agency funds, amidst deep cuts, for undisclosed “mission support,” as revealed in a memo by senior adviser Kari Lake obtained by POLITICO.
Lake, a staunch supporter of President Donald Trump, is spearheading efforts to reduce USAGM’s budget as part of the administration’s initiative to downsize government operations and penalize media outlets deemed critical of the president.
Financial Reallocation Details
The memo outlines the retrieval of $7.2 million from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, $3 million from Radio Free Asia, $5 million from the Middle East Broadcasting Networks, and $2.18 million from the Open Technology Fund. Lake’s communication mentions that these funds will be directed towards “mission support,” without specifying further.
Senators Briefed on Fund Transfers
Additionally, Lake has offered to brief senators on the financial transfers, indicating a level of transparency in the process.
Employee Cutbacks at Voice of America
Simultaneously, Lake has issued termination notices to a significant number of Voice of America employees, constituting an approximate 85% reduction in workforce under USAGM’s jurisdiction.
Reactions and Legal Actions
Senate Foreign Relations Committee ranking member Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) criticized Lake’s actions, attributing them to empowering authoritarian regimes like Iran, the Chinese Communist Party, and the Kremlin. Shaheen expressed concerns about the unchecked spread of propaganda in the absence of US-backed independent media.
Furthermore, a federal district court judge has mandated USAGM to fulfill the intended funding for the Open Technology Fund, a nonprofit advocating global internet freedom, for the remainder of the fiscal year.
Upcoming Congressional Testimony
Despite the lack of immediate response from Lake’s agency and key senators’ offices, the House Foreign Affairs Committee is slated to hear testimony from Lake on June 25, providing an opportunity for clarity on recent developments.
