Chinese state media have commended President Trump’s decision to dismantle the Voice of America, calling it a propaganda tool. Critics point out the potential harm this move may inflict on America’s global standing and press freedoms. While some Republicans support the cuts, they are met with resistance from advocates for journalism and accountability in reporting.
Chinese state media have expressed approval of President Donald Trump’s decision to dissolve the Voice of America (VOA) along with other U.S. government-funded news organizations that cater to authoritarian regimes. An editorial from the Global Times characterized VOA as a “lie factory” with a notably poor record regarding China-related reporting, labeling the media outlet a “frontline propaganda tool” due to its coverage of critical issues such as Chinese military actions, human rights violations, the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic concerns in China.
The Chinese Communist Party, which exercises extensive control over its media, has been long critical of VOA and similar U.S.-funded outlets. According to the Global Times editorial, as Americans become more aware of the complexities of modern China, the narratives disseminated by VOA will lose credibility. The editorial asserted that these narratives will eventually become “a laughingstock of the times.”
The Chinese Embassy in Washington refrained from commenting further, referring to the situation as an internal issue of the United States. A spokesperson expressed the hope that media representatives would offer objective and accurate reporting on China and the bilateral relationship, which could enhance mutual understanding and trust.
The Trump administration has taken significant steps to implement severe budget cuts at the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which oversees VOA and other similar organizations. An executive order issued late last week mandated a reduction in personnel and functions at these entities to the legal minimum required. In conjunction with these budget cuts, the federal workforce has faced substantial reductions, with more than 100,000 job cuts having occurred.
All staff and contractors associated with VOA were placed on administrative leave, as communicated via email from USAGM’s Human Resources Director Crystal G. Thomas. For years, Republican leaders have criticized VOA for allegedly expressing bias against conservative narratives. Notably, President Trump accused VOA of serving adversarial interests over that of American citizens.
Public figures like Elon Musk and Richard Grenell have also voiced the necessity of dismantling VOA. Musk previously stated that no one listens to VOA anymore, describing it as outdated, while Grenell labeled it a relic of the past. Trump appointed Kari Lake, a MAGA-aligned candidate, as the senior adviser over USAGM to promote values of freedom and liberty. Despite Lake’s previous optimism about her role, she supported the decision to cut the agency, deeming it a burden to taxpayers.
Opponents of the cuts argue that undermining these media organizations could negatively impact America’s global reputation and press freedom. Steve Capus, president of Radio Free Europe/ Radio Liberty, warned that the closure of such outlets would please authoritarian regimes and strengthen America’s adversaries. Emily Bloch, president of the Society of Professional Journalists, lamented the unprecedented darkness faced by VOA, which has never before ceased operations throughout its 80-year history.
Some Republicans, including Rep. Don Bacon and Rep. Michael McCaul, expressed their support for VOA and similar organizations, acknowledging the vital roles they play in informing the public about international matters and countering adversarial propaganda. Meanwhile, Brent Bozell III, an appointee to lead USAGM, has yet to receive Senate confirmation for his position.
In conclusion, President Trump’s initiative to disband the Voice of America and related media outlets has garnered both domestic and international opinions. While Chinese state media lauds the move, citing VOA’s alleged biases, various lawmakers and advocacy groups caution against diminished press freedom and the repercussions of such cuts on American influence worldwide. The complex interplay between politics, media, and international relations continues to evolve, calling for thoughtful discourse on the future of U.S. media organizations.
Original Source: www.washingtonexaminer.com
