Overview

• Carla Hayden, the first woman and African American Librarian of Congress, was dismissed by President Trump via email on May 8, 2025.
• The abrupt termination came one year before Hayden's 10-year term was set to expire, prompting demands for a transparent explanation from the White House.
• The administration justified the decision by pointing to Hayden's diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, which faced criticism from conservative groups.
• Democratic leaders condemned the firing as a politically motivated attack on institutional independence and vowed to explore legislative changes to limit presidential appointment powers.
• Robert Newlen, the principal deputy librarian, has assumed the role of acting Librarian of Congress until further direction from the White House.