Trump Nominates Sarah Rogers to Lead U.S. Agency for Global Media Following Legal Ruling Against Kari Lake

President Donald Trump nominated Sarah B. Rogers, the Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy, to lead the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) after a federal judge ruled that Kari Lake's tenure as acting CEO was unlawful. U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth determined that Lake's actions, including a significant reduction in staff that affected over 500 employees at Voice of America and other USAGM outlets, were void due to violations of the Federal Vacancies Reform Act and the Constitution's Appointments Clause. This ruling necessitated a succession plan for the agency, leading to Rogers' nomination.

The Wrap

Kari Lake, a former local news anchor and conservative commentator, was appointed as deputy CEO of USAGM and later assumed the role of acting CEO. During her time, she implemented extensive layoffs and sought to "right-size" the agency, actions that were later challenged in court. Lake has publicly criticized the ruling and expressed her intention to remain as deputy CEO, claiming her efforts were targeted by what she termed the "Deep State."

Inquisitr

Sarah Rogers has a background in public diplomacy and has been vocal against European regulations perceived as censorship. She has previously represented the National Rifle Association and has been involved in legal challenges against social media policies. If confirmed, Rogers would oversee USAGM, which includes Voice of America, Radio Free Asia, and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and aims to enhance U.S. international broadcasting and public diplomacy.

The Hill

A spokesperson for the State Department emphasized that Rogers' nomination aligns with USAGM's mission and would strengthen coordination between U.S. international broadcasting and public diplomacy. Voice of America Director Michael Abramowitz welcomed Rogers' nomination, expressing a desire to work collaboratively to restore the agency's editorial independence.

NBC News

Critics of Lake's actions, including some USAGM staffers, have expressed relief at the court's ruling, viewing it as a necessary step to restore the agency's integrity and mission. They have called for clarity regarding the agency's leadership and its commitment to providing accurate and objective news.

The Wrap

While the ruling against Lake was clear in its invalidation of her actions, there remains contention regarding the broader implications of the Trump administration's approach to USAGM and its independence. Some sources indicate ongoing disputes about the agency's operational autonomy and the impact of political appointments on its mission.

NOTUS

• “Lake satisfies the requirements of neither the statute nor the Constitution,” — U.S. District Judge Royce C. Lamberth

NOTUS

• “We’ve been so effective over the last year that the Deep State has done everything they can to stop us, including launching malicious lawsuits at me and the agency,” — Kari Lake

NOTUS

• “I am deeply honored by, and grateful for, President Donald J. Trump’s nomination to lead the U.S. Agency for Global Media – a role I will hold concurrently with this one if confirmed. I am excited to get started and look forward to engaging with the Hill.” — Sarah B. Rogers

Inquisitr

Rogers' nomination requires Senate confirmation, during which Deputy Secretary of State Michael Rigas will serve as acting CEO. The outcome of this confirmation process will determine the future direction of USAGM and its role in U.S. international media efforts.

NOTUS