May 9, 2025 Story by: Editor
In a move that has ignited widespread controversy, President Donald Trump has abruptly dismissed Carla Hayden from her position as Librarian of Congress.
Hayden, appointed in 2016, was the first woman and first African American to hold the role. Her termination, communicated via email from the White House’s Presidential Personnel Office, is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to remove officials perceived as opposing the president’s agenda.
Hayden, who was nominated by former President Obama, was confirmed by the Senate with a 74-18 vote in 2016. Her 10-year term was set to expire next year.
The dismissal follows criticism from the conservative American Accountability Foundation, which accused Hayden of promoting “radical” literature and opposing Trump. The group had called for her removal, labeling her as “woke” and “anti-Trump.”
Hayden’s firing has drawn sharp rebuke from congressional Democrats. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer praised Hayden as a “trailblazer” and condemned the firing as unjust. House Appropriations Committee’s Rep. Rosa DeLauro described the dismissal as “callous” and demanded an explanation.
During her tenure, Hayden was recognized for modernizing the Library of Congress, expanding access to rural and digital communities, and preserving national heritage. Her efforts included digitizing collections and promoting inclusivity in library programs.
Robert Newlen, the principal deputy librarian, has been appointed acting librarian pending further instruction.
Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and members of the Congressional Black Caucus issued the following statement:
“On both sides of the aisle, Dr. Carla Hayden is widely respected and considered an exceptional leader and steward of one of our nation’s most historic and prized treasures. During her tenure at the Library of Congress, the People’s Library, Dr. Hayden was committed to safeguarding our nation’s history and intellectual legacy.
“President Trump’s callous move to dismiss Dr. Hayden is not to be taken lightly. This decision is the latest move in the Trump Administration’s ongoing war against truth and our democratic values. To make matters worse, the administration will likely attempt to replace Dr. Hayden with an unqualified sycophant who is more committed to Donald Trump than the independence of the institution.
“We cannot allow the Trump Administration to whitewash our history and replace facts with fiction. This decision cannot stand without explanation. We are calling on every Republican to stand up and defend the integrity of the Library of Congress.”
Source: AP News / Congressional Black Caucus (CBC)
