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Major COVID-19 and Defense Spending Bills Target USAGM Powers

Jessica Jerreat

   Two bills approved by Congress awaiting President Donald Trump's
   signature would limit the powers of Michael Pack, the president's pick
   to lead the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which oversees Voice of
   America and four other international media organizations.

   A massive spending measure for COVID-19 relief and U.S. government
   operations approved late Monday by Congress and a previously approved
   National Defense Authorization Act both include changes limiting the
   powers of the USAGM and its chief executive, but in different ways.

   The two bills taken together could restrict Pack's actions between now
   and January 20, when Democratic President-elect Joe Biden takes office.
   And if Biden decides to replace Pack, it would provide that person with
   more leeway in making personnel changes for the first three months.

   For example, the spending measures approved by the House and Senate on
   Monday include a provision that would give the Open Technology Fund
   more time to respond to a USAGM letter proposing that the internet
   freedom fund be denied additional federal funding.

   Pack cited alleged conflicts of interest and alleged irregularities in
   his proposal to cut off future federal funds to the nonprofit
   organization that helps support internet access throughout the world.

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