The article discusses Donald Trump's efforts to dismantle the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), targeting Voice of America (VOA) and employing Kari Lake to spearhead these changes. Over 900 full-time employees were put on leave and 500 contractors were fired, prompting six VOA journalists to sue Trump, claiming violations of First Amendment rights. They argue that Congress must oversee the agency and that the cuts represent a significant blow to independent journalism, potentially leaving a void filled by state-controlled media.
Behind these cuts at the federally-funded VOA are real journalists, real people. More than 900 full-time employees were placed on indefinite leave. Another 500 contractors were fired.
The complaint says, 'In many parts of the world a crucial source of objective news is gone, and only censored state-sponsored news media is left to fill the void.'
They ask that all full-time staffers and contractors be reinstated. Defendants include USAGM acting CEO Victor Morales and Lake, who is a special adviser to the agency.
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