1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding recent actions by the Trump administration that appear to undermine the independence of the U.S. Agency for Global Media and its outlets, including Voice of America (VOA). These actions, which include placing VOA staff on administrative leave and exerting influence over its operations, represent a troubling assault on the principles of free speech and press freedom that are foundational to our democracy. The free press is not merely a cornerstone of American governance; it is a safeguard against tyranny and a vital mechanism for holding power accountable. Efforts to control or manipulate the press are not only anti-American but also unconstitutional, violating the First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of speech and the press. This issue transcends partisan politics. It is about preserving the integrity of our democratic institutions and ensuring that the United States remains a beacon of freedom and transparency. I urge you to take immediate action to protect the independence of the press and to hold those responsible for these actions accountable. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I look forward to your response and to seeing decisive action taken to uphold the values that define our nation.