Trump Axes VOA in ‘Propaganda’ Purge Executive Order

President Donald Trump has ordered the dismantling of Voice of America (VOA) a government-funded media outlet he brands a taxpayer-backed propaganda machine. His executive order demands VOA’s functions be eliminated to the maximum extent shifting focus to private media alternatives. The move aims to slash federal spending and end what Trump calls biased global broadcasting on America’s dime.

VOA launched in 1942 beams news in 47 languages to 280 million people worldwide. Trump argues it’s morphed from a Cold War tool into a mouthpiece for liberal agendas. He cited its $250 million annual budget as a waste better spent on border security or tax cuts.

The order directs the State Department to gut VOA’s operations within 90 days. Staff face layoffs or reassignment as funding dries up per administration plans. Supporters cheer the cut as a blow to government overreach and a win for fiscal discipline.

Critics blast the decision as an assault on free press and U.S. soft power abroad. VOA’s charter mandates objective reporting though Trump claims it’s tilted left since the 1990s. Democrats warn axing it hands rivals like Russia and China a propaganda edge.

Trump’s beef with VOA flared in his first term when he accused it of downplaying his achievements. He tapped loyalists to run it in 2020 but now wants it gone entirely. The order aligns with his pledge to shrink federal tentacles in media and culture.

The outlet’s reach includes hotspots like Iran and North Korea where it counters state narratives. Defenders say its loss could cede ground to adversaries’ disinformation campaigns. Trump counters that private firms like Fox or X can fill the gap cheaper.

DOGE chief Elon Musk backs the move eyeing $200 million in savings for his efficiency drive. VOA’s 1000 employees brace for upheaval as the ax falls fast. The order tests Trump’s power to reshape institutions he deems misaligned with American interests.

Global reaction splits with allies lamenting the signal of U.S. retreat from influence. Trump sees it as putting America first not funding foreign airwaves. The VOA’s fate now hinges on legal challenges or Congressional pushback as his order takes effect.