VOA journalists take legal action against Trump administration over network shutdown
Person holding cellphone with logo of US broadcasting network Voice of America (VOA) on screen in front of business webpage on 2025 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Adobe Stock Photo)
Journalists from Voice of America (VOA) have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration and senior adviser Kari Lake, accusing them of violating the First Amendment and congressional authority through the abrupt shutdown of the U.S.-funded network.
The case, lodged in Manhattan federal court on Friday, demands the reinstatement of over 900 full-time employees and 550 contractors placed on indefinite leave. Among the plaintiffs are former VOA White House Bureau Chief Patsy Widakuswara and Press Freedom Editor Jessica Jerreat. Also joining the legal action is Kathryn Neeper, a senior official at the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM).
The lawsuit is supported by press advocacy groups and unions, reflecting growing concern over the impact of the shutdown on VOA’s operations.
Kari Lake defends shutdown as necessary reform
Kari Lake, appointed by Donald Trump to oversee USAGM, defended the decision to suspend VOA’s operations, citing widespread issues within the agency.
“Waste, fraud, and abuse run rampant in this agency, and American taxpayers shouldn’t have to fund it,” she stated. Despite her defense, the shutdown has left VOA’s homepage and streaming services inactive for over a week, sparking outrage.
Real-world consequences for VOA journalists
Lead attorney for the plaintiffs, David Seide, condemned the shutdown, noting the significant impact on VOA journalists. “Tragically, Kari Lake lives in the MAGA fantasy world, but she makes decisions that have real-world consequences for hundreds of journalists,” Seide said.
The legal battle continues to gain momentum, with similar lawsuits being filed in recent days.
Visa expirations threaten foreign journalists’ safety
For some VOA journalists, the consequences of the shutdown are even more severe. Two foreign national journalists face visa expirations on March 31, putting them at risk of deportation or worse.
A journalist, identified as John Doe 3, could face imprisonment in a country that has labeled VOA a “subversive organization.” Another, John Doe 4, faces potential persecution due to his LGBTQ identity.
Ongoing silence from USAGM and acting chief
As the lawsuit progresses, neither the U.S. Agency for Global Media nor acting chief Victor Morales has responded to the allegations.
The case highlights broader concerns about the future of VOA and other USAGM-affiliated networks, which reach over 100 countries and broadcast in 63 languages.
