Government Accountability Office Probes USAGM Actions Amid Bipartisan Warnings of Illegality

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is reportedly investigating the alleged dismantling of Voice of America (VOA) and the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), actions that drew bipartisan warnings from Senate appropriations staff. The investigation follows concerns that these actions, which a Washington Post report linked to figures like Kari Lake, were illegal. The news was highlighted in a tweet by Scott Nover, a Washington Post reporter:

"The GAO is investigating Kari Lake’s dismantling of Voice of America and USAGM, the Post learned. That followed bipartisan warnings from Senate appropriations staff that her actions were illegal. My latest for @washingtonpost: https://t.co/2qpZvvydXk"

The investigation centers on a period when Michael Pack, a conservative filmmaker, led USAGM as CEO, appointed during the Trump administration. During his tenure, Pack initiated significant personnel changes and policy shifts across USAGM's networks, including VOA, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and others. These moves were widely criticized for undermining the agencies' journalistic independence and mission to provide objective news to international audiences.

Congressional staff, particularly from the Senate appropriations committee, had previously issued warnings regarding the legality of Pack's actions. These concerns reportedly stemmed from alleged misuse of funds, improper hiring practices, and attempts to politicize the federally funded broadcasters. The bipartisan nature of these warnings underscored the broad apprehension across the political spectrum regarding the integrity and operational independence of USAGM.

USAGM oversees a global network of news and information outlets, crucial for U.S. public diplomacy and countering disinformation in regions lacking free press. Its mandate emphasizes journalistic independence and adherence to a charter that prevents propaganda. The alleged "dismantling" actions, as reported, raised questions about the future direction and effectiveness of these critical communication channels.

The GAO's probe aims to determine if federal laws and regulations were violated during this period of leadership. The outcome of the investigation could lead to recommendations for policy changes, accountability measures, or further legal actions. This inquiry underscores ongoing scrutiny into the governance and operational integrity of U.S. government-funded media entities.