The Lawfare Podcast

Lawfare Daily: Tom Kent on the Dismantling of American Government Broadcasting

Mar 25, 2025
Tom Kent, former head of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and a seasoned expert on Russia, delves into the recent executive order that threatens American government broadcasting. He highlights the strategic importance of organizations like Voice of America in countering misinformation and promoting U.S. interests globally. Kent discusses how budget cuts and policy changes pose significant risks to media credibility. He emphasizes the vital role of effective communication and the need for reform to address inefficiencies and biases within U.S. international broadcasting.
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ANECDOTE

Soviet Reaction to Broadcasts

  • Soviets reacted hysterically to USAGM broadcasts, denouncing them regularly.
  • They invested heavily in jamming efforts, indicating perceived effectiveness.
INSIGHT

USAGM's Modern Reach

  • USAGM has evolved beyond radio, using web, social media, satellite, and TV.
  • Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty even has a 24-hour Russian-language TV news channel.
INSIGHT

Contradiction in US Policy

  • A foreign policy built on misinformation clashes with USAGM's journalistic integrity.
  • Employing journalists to correct misinformation from the Oval Office seems counterproductive.
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