The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) has strongly criticized President Trump’s choice to dismiss librarian Carla Hayden and has condemned what they view as an assault on truth.
Rep. Yvette Clark (D-N.Y.), the chair of the caucus, labeled Hayden’s dismissal as “ruthless,” emphasizing it shouldn’t be taken lightly.
“This action is just another chapter in the ongoing battle against the truth by the Trump administration, undermining our democratic principles,” Clark stated. “To make matters worse, they intend to replace Dr. Hayden with someone who prioritizes loyalty to Donald Trump over the independence of the institution.”
She further remarked, “We cannot permit the Trump administration to distort our history or substitute reality with fiction. This decision needs a clear explanation.”
Hayden, appointed in 2016, was notable for being the first woman and the first African American to hold the librarian position in Congress. Her term was due to end next year.
“The library serves as a great equalizer,” Hayden expressed in a video shared during last month’s National Library Week. She mentioned it creates opportunities for people from all walks of life, allowing them to choose the information and inspiration that resonate most with them.
Conversely, the conservative group American Accountability Foundation supported Trump’s decision, accusing Hayden of being “anti-Trump” and of advocating for policies they view as questionable.
“It’s time for her to go and bring in someone new!” the organization posted shortly before Hayden’s termination was announced, even suggesting Secretary of State Marco Rubio for the role.
Following the news, the organization thanked the President on social media.
Alongside the CBC, other Democratic figures, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), expressed their outrage at Hayden’s firing, calling it an “unjust decision.” He criticized the move as indicative of “mischievous political influences aiming to ban books and reshape American history.”
The CBC is now urging Republicans to “stand up and defend the integrity of the Library of Congress.”
