In a new case of judicial interference with the president’s agenda, the Trump administration’s efforts to dissolve Voice of America have met a roadblock as a federal judge ruled the action potentially illegal.
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On April 22, 2025, U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to dismantle Voice of America (VOA), a service established by Congress over eight decades ago.
The decision came after allegations surfaced accusing VOA of leftist bias, diverging from perceived pro-American values.
The administration’s plan to terminate the news service was met with immense resistance, leading to complex legal battles.
The judge criticized the administration for its hasty funding cuts, which were executed without sufficient analysis, affecting nearly all 1,300 VOA employees and 500 contractors who faced administrative leave and contract termination respectively.
Meanwhile, Radio Free Asia and Middle East Broadcasting Networks will continue operations, as mandated by the judge until ongoing lawsuits find resolution.
Government lawyers argued the shutdown was a temporary alignment with President Trump’s directive, yet the judicial ruling casts doubt on the legality of such abrupt actions without detailed evaluations.
This pause in VOA’s activities followed an executive order from March 14, reducing funding to the U.S. Agency for Global Media, the overseer of VOA.
Despite criticizing VOA for biased reporting, supporters claim the outlet provides crucial news to countries lacking a free press, combating propaganda since World War II.
Trump-backed cuts came surprisingly alongside the signing of congressional appropriations of nearly $860 million for USAGM, presenting a contradictory stance on U.S. journalism funding.
The court’s decision preserves the core mission and credibility of USAGM journalists, reinforcing the essential role of independent journalism in democracy.
As the legal entanglements unravel, the watchdog mission of VOA endures, at least for the time being.
The importance of maintaining transparency and objectivity in news reporting has never been more crucial, amidst allegations of bias and political influence.
Proponents argue for immediate restoration, citing VOA’s unparalleled reach in delivering authentic news worldwide.
The labor union representing USAGM workers praised the ruling, highlighting its defense of independent reporting and its place in the functioning democratic framework.
At the heart of Judge Lamberth's decision: VOA is funded by Congress and required to produce news to a wide audience around the world. Lamberth said the deep cuts to the agency are "a direct affront to the power of the legislative branch."https://t.co/GjLdN3FZKv pic.twitter.com/pJ37PeRqNv
— Kyle Cheney (@kyledcheney) April 22, 2025
