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President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday night aiming to dismantle seven additional federal agencies, part of his broader push to shrink the government and reduce federal oversight.
Among the targeted agencies is the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which oversees Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and Radio Free Asia—news organizations that broadcast in 49 languages to an estimated 361 million weekly listeners worldwide.
Under Trump’s order, agency heads must eliminate all non-statutorily mandated functions and reduce their operations to the legal minimum.
Trump’s Challenge to Congress Over Voice of America
The USAGM is a congressionally chartered independent agency, meaning Trump’s move could face legal and political pushback. Congress previously passed a 2020 law limiting the president’s power over the agency, reinforcing its editorial independence.
However, Trump has long criticized Voice of America’s reporting, alleging bias against his administration. His decision to place Kari Lake, a staunch ally, as a special adviser to the agency has already sparked controversy.
Other Agencies Targeted for Closure
In addition to U.S. Global Media, the order seeks to dismantle or drastically reduce six other agencies:
- Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service – Helps resolve labor disputes and prevent strikes.
- Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars – A nonpartisan think tank promoting global affairs research.
- Institute of Museum and Library Services – Funds and supports libraries, museums, and archives.
- U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness – Coordinates federal efforts to prevent and end homelessness.
- Community Development Financial Institutions Fund – Provides financial assistance to struggling communities.
- Minority Business Development Agency – Supports the growth of minority-owned businesses.
Trump has ordered agency leaders to submit their compliance plans within seven days to Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
Elon Musk’s Influence on Government Downsizing
Since taking office, Trump has worked closely with billionaire Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency to cut federal staff and programs. This week, the Education Department announced more than 1,300 job cuts, with additional agencies expected to follow suit.
While Musk’s team claims its efforts have saved taxpayers billions, its data has faced criticism for inaccuracies, and some agency cutbacks have been blocked by federal courts.
On Thursday, judges ruled that thousands of recently fired federal employees must be reinstated, challenging Trump’s aggressive government reduction strategy.
What’s Next?
Trump’s latest executive order will likely face legal challenges—particularly regarding the USAGM’s independence and the legality of slashing key federal programs. However, the move signals his administration’s commitment to dramatically reducing the size of government.
As agency leaders submit their compliance plans, Congress and federal courts may ultimately determine how much of Trump’s order takes effect.
