Federal Court Orders Reinstatement of Voice of America Employees

A federal judge has ordered the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) to reinstate over 1,000 employees of the Voice of America (VOA), reversing the Trump administration's decision to place them on administrative leave. U.S. District Judge Royce C. Lamberth ruled that the actions taken by Kari Lake, a Trump ally and former head of USAGM, were illegal and violated federal law. Lamberth characterized Lake's efforts to dismantle the agency as "arbitrary and capricious," stating that she had unlawfully assumed powers beyond her authority.

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Established during World War II, VOA has served as a crucial platform for disseminating news in regions lacking a free press. Prior to the Trump administration's cuts, VOA broadcast in 49 languages, reaching approximately 361 million people weekly. However, under Lake's leadership, the agency's operations were drastically reduced, with broadcasts limited to just a few languages and significant staff layoffs initiated in early 2025. Lake's tenure saw the cancellation of contracts with major news organizations and a shift towards partnerships with far-right media outlets.

NPR

Judge Lamberth's ruling not only reinstates the employees but also mandates the resumption of VOA's international broadcasting. He noted that the Trump administration had failed to provide a valid rationale for its actions, which included a significant reduction in funding and staffing. The judge emphasized that the agency's operational capacity was supported by bipartisan congressional appropriations totaling $643 million, which indicated a clear intent to maintain its functions.

Politico

Michael Abramowitz, the Director of VOA, expressed gratitude for the ruling, stating, "We are thrilled with Judge Lamberth’s ruling and look forward to getting back to work. Voice of America has never been more needed." The employees involved in the lawsuit echoed this sentiment, highlighting their commitment to restoring the agency's reputation and operations. They stated, "We know the road to restoring VOA’s operations and reputation will be long and difficult."

Politico

Kari Lake has faced significant criticism for her management of USAGM and VOA. Following the ruling, she indicated plans to appeal, labeling Lamberth an activist judge. Critics have pointed to her attempts to reshape the agency's mission in alignment with Trump’s narrative, which they argue undermined its foundational purpose of providing unbiased news coverage.

Associated Press

In light of the ruling, USAGM has been given until March 23 to implement a plan for reinstating the employees and resuming broadcasting operations. The agency's future leadership is also in flux, as President Trump has nominated Sarah Rogers, the undersecretary of state for public diplomacy, to replace Lake, pending Senate confirmation.

Politico

While Lamberth's ruling reinstates the majority of VOA's staff, it does not address the status of approximately 600 contractors whose positions were also terminated. The judge noted that their cases would need to be resolved through specialized administrative courts, leaving some uncertainty regarding the full restoration of the agency's workforce.

Politico

• “We are thrilled with Judge Lamberth’s ruling and look forward to getting back to work,” — Michael Abramowitz, Director of Voice of America

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• “ “This is a monumental decision, and we are deeply grateful.” — Patsy Widakuswara, VOA White House Bureau Chief

The Wrap

• “A rotund DC District Court judge wants me OUT of the agency, but despite his absurd orders and rulings, I remain in the exact same position today as I was before: Deputy CEO — where I am even more determined to finish the job,” — Kari Lake, former head of USAGM

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