The Trump administration has implemented significant layoffs at Voice of America, resulting in the termination of 532 journalists, according to an announcement by U.S. Agency for Global Media acting chief Kari Lake. Approximately 100 staff members remain. Lake stated that these cuts aim to concentrate resources on coverage targeting audiences within authoritarian nations.
This decision, publicized Friday on X, intensifies existing legal disputes with federal courts regarding attempts to diminish or eliminate the government-funded international broadcaster. “This action will allow us to focus resources where they are most needed — bringing truth to people living under communist regimes and dictatorships,” Lake wrote. Voice of America, once broadcasting in 49 languages to over 360 million weekly listeners, now produces content in only four: Persian, Mandarin, Dari, and Pashto. The network falls under the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which oversees taxpayer-funded media outlets such as Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Radio Martí.
Union officials strongly condemned the action. Paula Hickey, president of the union representing VOA workers, told The New York Times that the layoffs are unlawful and demonstrate disregard for federal employees and legal procedures. Legal opposition has escalated. In April, U.S. District Judge Royce C. Lamberth mandated the administration to maintain VOA operations consistent with statutory obligations. On Monday, Lamberth directed Lake to provide sworn testimony, warning of potential contempt of court charges. Another federal judge issued a separate order on Thursday, preventing the administration from removing VOA director Michael Abramowitz.
Government lawyers contend that the International Broadcasting Act grants the administration substantial authority to adjust service levels. The law requires VOA to reach a significant audience and present a “balanced and comprehensive projection of significant American thought and institutions.” The agency previously attempted mass layoffs in June but revoked those notices after employees reported errors. Some staff temporarily returned during heightened Middle East tensions but were included in the new round of cuts. “This is not just about jobs,” Hickey said. “It’s about the United States keeping its word to the world.” Lake, in a statement late Friday, attributed the reduction in force to streamlining federal bureaucracy and improving agency operations. “USAGM will continue to fulfill its statutory mission after this RIF — and will likely improve its ability to function,” she said.