In a huge surprise that ignited a political storm, President Trump fired Obama-appointed Librarian of Congress, ending a controversial tenure at America’s oldest cultural institution.
See the tweet below.
Carla Hayden’s termination was announced via direct email from the White House as part of Trump’s ongoing effort to drain the swamp of entrenched bureaucrats who do not align with his administration’s values.
The dismissal was delivered through a two-sentence email from the deputy director of White House personnel, Trent Morse.
It simply stated, “On behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as the Librarian of Congress is terminated effective immediately. Thank you for your service.”
Hayden was appointed by Barack Obama in 2016 as the first African American and first woman to lead the Library of Congress.
She has faced mounting criticism from conservative groups for promoting progressive ideologies under the guise of public service.
Robert Newlen, the principal deputy librarian, will serve as acting librarian until Trump names a replacement who will better represent American values.
Furthermore, the American Accountability Foundation has been particularly vocal about Hayden’s leadership, citing her promotion of “radical” content and books by known Trump opponents.
The conservative watchdog group had labeled her as “woke” and “anti-Trump,” highlighting concerns about political bias infiltrating what should be a non-partisan institution that preserves American history and cultural heritage.
While Democrats praised Hayden’s tenure for modernizing the Library and increasing accessibility, many conservatives viewed her leadership as emblematic of the growing progressive influence over America’s institutions.
The Library of Congress houses millions of books, historical documents, and artifacts central to the nation’s story and requires leadership that respects traditional American values rather than advancing partisan agendas.
Trump fires Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden https://t.co/epop5KJD8W pic.twitter.com/7I6JMO0IQX
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) May 9, 2025
As expected, Democrat leaders erupted in outrage over the decision. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer even suggested changing how the Librarian of Congress is appointed, proposing a congressional commission rather than a presidential appointment.
In addition, Hayden’s firing represents the latest move in Trump’s broader strategy of removing officials who do not align with his agenda.
At 72 years old, Hayden has declined to comment on her dismissal, having previously served as CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore from 1993 to 2016 before being tapped by Obama.
The Library of Congress employs approximately 3,000 people.
Its annual budget exceeds $800 million, which is significant taxpayer resources that should be directed toward preserving American heritage rather than advancing progressive ideologies that undermine traditional values and patriotism.
Ultimately, Trump’s decisive action signals his administration’s commitment to restoring America’s cultural institutions to their original purpose.
Such a purpose is celebrating the exceptional history without the influence of divisive identity politics or anti-American sentiment that has become all too common under leftist leadership.
