But the Trump administration wants to dismantle RFE/RL, Radio Free Asia and Voice of America. Over the weekend administration officials ordered virtually all VOA staff, who are federal workers, to stay home. They also announced a halt to grants to RFE/RL, Radio Free Asia and a handful of smaller government-funded outlets, all of which are incorporated as nonprofits but rely solely on U.S. federal funding.
“The administration does not have the power to simply do that” as the funds are appropriated by Congress and it is up to lawmakers to decide, Capus said.
Trump’s circle views VOA and the other U.S. government-supported media as biased. Both the U.S. president and his billionaire adviser Elon Musk have labeled their employees as “radical leftist lunatics” who are wasting taxpayer money.
Asked if RFE/RL will take the fight to the courts, Capus said: “We’re exploring all options. We’ve been lifted and encouraged by the support we’re receiving in Washington and around the world.”
‘Beacon of truth’
Europe has expressed indignation at Trump’s move against the U.S.-funded media outlets, which together broadcast to a worldwide audience.
“These media outlets have been a beacon of truth, democracy and hope for millions of people around the world,” the European Commission told POLITICO on Sunday. “In an age of unmoderated content and fake news, journalism and freedom of [the] press are critical for democracy.”
