On Thursday, President Donald Trump abruptly terminated Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress, effective immediately. The firing was communicated through an email from Trent Morse, deputy director of presidential personnel, and later confirmed by a Library spokesperson. Hayden, appointed by President Obama in 2016, was the first woman and first African American to hold the position, which has a 10-year term. Before her appointment, she served as CEO of Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore.
Hayden’s dismissal follows her recent testimony before Congress, where she discussed her efforts to modernize the Library’s operations. Her firing marks the second such incident within a week, as Cameron Hamilton, acting FEMA director, was also dismissed after testifying. Democrats have criticized the decision, alleging it reflects an unfair targeting of a public servant. Rep. Joe Morelle emphasized Hayden’s dedication to public service and hinted at introducing legislation to shift the appointment authority of the Librarian to Congress.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also called for congressional intervention, suggesting that the Librarian should be appointed by a congressional commission instead of the president. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries labeled the decision as “ignorant,” warning it would adversely affect libraries and American public services. Hayden was recently targeted by an organization that accused her of promoting “woke” agendas, which applauded her firing. Critics see this move as part of a broader strategy by Trump to undermine democratic institutions and influence the landscape of American history and education.
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