Donald Trump has fired Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress, in a decision linked to ongoing purges within the federal government. Hayden, who was the first woman and first African American to hold the position, faced backlash from conservative groups for her perceived liberal agenda. The abrupt dismissal drew anger from Democrats, who described her as a dedicated public servant.
In a surprising move, President Donald Trump has fired Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress, in what appears to be part of a sweeping purge targeting officials he deems unworthy of his agenda. The decision was communicated via email late Thursday afternoon from the White House’s personnel office, marking another chapter in the ongoing reshuffle within the federal government. Hayden, serving since her Senate confirmation in 2016, was the first woman and the first African American to hold this prestigious position.
The email, which has been revealed by the Associated Press, bluntly informed Hayden that her role was terminated effective immediately. “On behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as the Librarian of Congress is terminated,” it read. A spokesperson from the Library of Congress has confirmed the sudden dismissal, leaving many shocked, especially those who have hailed her contributions.
Speculation surrounding Hayden’s firing points to the conservative advocacy group known as the American Accountability Foundation. They’ve openly targeted her, claiming that she has promoted literary works deemed too radical and suggested that her progressive views conflict with Trump’s vision. On the same day as her firing, they criticized her on social media, labeling her as “woke” and called for her removal from the position.
Trump’s administration hasn’t shied away from making drastic personnel changes, from the Justice Department to the Pentagon, often after specific criticisms from conservative circles. Just a day prior to Hayden’s dismissal, the acting FEMA administrator was shown the door after voicing disagreement with plans to dissolve the agency—a disturbing glance into the administration’s approach to dissent.
Hayden’s termination has ignited outrage from congressional Democrats who were quick to express their dismay over the decision. Senator Chuck Schumer from New York called Hayden a “trailblazer” and emphasized her significant contributions to public service. Other Democratic leaders, including Connecticut’s Rosa DeLauro, echoed calls for accountability, lamenting that Hayden had been “callously fired” without a clear reason.
The Librarian of Congress plays a crucial role at a key institution located just across from the US Capitol. It serves as a treasure trove of the nation’s history, holding an extensive collection that includes writings from presidents and celebrated authors. Hayden, previously recognized for modernizing the library system in Baltimore, had worked diligently to increase accessibility during her tenure.
As more Democratic figures rallied around Hayden, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries vehemently denounced the abrupt firing, branding it as unjust. He warned that such actions reflect a broader intent to erase history and restrict access to knowledge, stating, “There will be accountability for this unprecedented assault on the American way of life sooner rather than later.”
Following Hayden’s departure, Robert Newlen has stepped in as the acting librarian, offering his services until further notice. Meanwhile, Hayden has long championed libraries as vital spaces for opportunity and equality. She famously posted on X during National Library Week that “libraries are the great equalizer,” highlighting their role in empowering communities and enriching individuals’ lives by providing access to essential information and resources.
The landscape of the federal bureaucratic sphere continues to shift under Trump’s watch, as voices of dissent are increasingly silenced, leaving many to wonder what’s next in this ongoing unraveling of government personnel.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
