USAGM Names Deputy Director For VOA

The U.S. Agency for Global Media has appointed Christopher Wallace, a former Newsmax news director and longtime Fox News producer, as deputy director of Voice of America, a move that is already drawing scrutiny over the future independence of the federally funded broadcaster. Wallace’s selection comes at a politically sensitive moment, as critics warn the Trump administration could seek to exert greater influence over VOA’s editorial direction, raising broader concerns about the integrity of U.S. international journalism.

Wallace brings years of experience in conservative media, having held senior roles at Newsmax and contributed to programming at Fox News. Supporters of the appointment point to his managerial background and familiarity with broadcast operations as assets that could help modernize VOA and expand its reach. However, detractors argue that his professional history signals a potential shift in tone or priorities at an organization historically guided by a mandate for nonpartisan, fact-based reporting to global audiences.

Wallace would likely work under VOA Director Michael Abramowitz at the agency, which produces U.S.-style journalism for international audiences. Wallace previously worked as Newsmax’s vice president for news and news director, leaving the right-wing network in October. His previous stints included 14 years at Fox News, some of which as an executive producer, and producing roles at PBS News and CNN.

Voice of America, established during World War II, operates under a charter that requires it to present accurate, objective, and comprehensive news while representing a broad spectrum of American thought. The U.S. Agency for Global Media, which oversees VOA and other outlets, has faced increasing political pressure in recent years, with debates intensifying over how closely its leadership aligns with the administration in power.

The appointment follows a series of leadership changes within USAGM, fueling concerns among journalists and press freedom advocates about whether safeguards protecting editorial independence will hold. Some observers fear that even subtle shifts in leadership could influence coverage decisions, particularly in politically sensitive areas such as U.S. foreign policy or domestic affairs with international implications.