Media News Daily: Top Stories for 09/02/2025

Trump Administration Orders Massive Layoffs at U.S. Agency for Global Media

Over 500 federal employees at the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) have been laid off under a directive from President Donald Trump, marking a significant downsizing of the agency that oversees Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and other networks. Kari Lake, senior adviser to USAGM, announced the “reduction in force,” citing efforts to cut federal bureaucracy and improve agency function. The terminations affect 532 employees whose contracts end on September 30. The move follows a March executive order calling for federal agencies to operate at minimum legal capacity. (Read More) (Washington Examiner Rating)

Kristi Noem Accuses CBS of Deceptive Editing in Gang Member Interview

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem accused CBS News of selectively editing her “Face the Nation” interview to downplay remarks about Kilmar Abrego Garcia, where she baselessly claimed he was an MS-13 member accused of human smuggling. The Department of Homeland Security echoed the claim, stating four minutes were cut from the 17-minute interview. CBS defended the edit as routine for time constraints and pointed to the full version being available online. Meanwhile, Abrego Garcia’s attorneys seek a gag order against Noem and Attorney General Pam Bondi, accusing them of inflammatory comments that could jeopardize his right to a fair trial. (Read More) (The Hill Rating)

Local Broadcast Journalism Under Pressure as Streaming Surges

Local TV news stations are undergoing rapid transformation amid declining traditional revenue streams and growing digital competition. Once-reliable political ad revenue and retransmission fees are weakening, pushing companies like Tegna and WANF Atlanta to innovate. WANF recently dropped its CBS affiliation to reclaim morning slots, experimenting with a more flexible, app-ready news format. Tegna launched streaming morning shows in 50 markets, emphasizing “storycentric” content. Adrienne Roark of Tegna noted structural challenges from cord-cutting, AI-driven search declines, and reduced negotiating leverage with carriers. (Read More) (Poynter Rating)