Senate confirms Fla. broadcast executive head of office overseeing US broadcasts to Cuba

Senate confirms director overseeing VOA, TV Marti

MIAMI — The U.S. Senate has confirmed the new director of the office that oversees the U.S. government’s broadcasts to Cuba.

The Senate confirmed Dick Lobo’s appointment on Thursday. He awaits being sworn in by the White House.

Lobo is expected to oversee Voice of America and Radio and TV Marti. The former president of the PBS Tampa affiliate is a veteran journalist who once interviewed Fidel Castro and is the grandson of Cuban immigrants.

Critics of the Miami-based Radio and TV Marti say the staunch, anti-communist tone of the programs has been ineffective and question whether anyone in Cuba watches the television broadcast.

The Broadcasting Board of Governors welcomed Lobo’s confirmation, saying he brings outstanding qualifications to the job.

Online:

Radio y Television Marti: www.martinoticias.com/