From now on, this is my repsonse/reaction article to overly simplistic calls for a rejuvenation of the USIA.
The org chart is just fine.
And I continue to think that folks think bringing back the USIA will work because, you know, it has ‘information’ in the name.
We have the tools and we have the talent.
What we need is a clear vision, direction, and commander’s intent.
And then, a willingness to let subordinates go to town.
USIA was the manifestation of segregating information from policy; USIA’s authorities were less than the organization it replaced; and, USIA was not charged with nor did it conduct an anti-/counter-political warfare mission. Today, the organizational chart as-is has the potential to surpass the relevance, integration, and effectiveness of USIA if the White House and Secretary of State would appreciate this function, hire the right person, and support and hold accountable this office and its role.
The Irony of Misinformation and USIA, MountainRunner
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Carrying the Gun 