The Trump administration has enacted layoffs affecting 532 journalists at Voice of America (VOA), leaving approximately 100 staff members, as announced by U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) acting chief Kari Lake. Lake stated the cuts aim to concentrate resources on coverage targeting audiences in authoritarian countries. This decision, publicized Friday on X, intensifies legal disputes with federal courts over attempts to downsize 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. VOA, once broadcasting in 49 languages to over 360 million people weekly, now produces content in four: Persian, Mandarin, Dari, and Pashto. It's part of USAGM, overseeing taxpayer-funded media outlets, including Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Radio Martí. Union officials swiftly condemned the move. Paula Hickey, president of the union representing VOA workers, told The New York Times the layoffs are unlawful and demonstrate disregard for federal employees and legal processes.
Legal resistance has increased. In April, U.S. District Judge Royce C. Lamberth directed the administration to maintain VOA operations according to statutory obligations. On Monday, Lamberth ordered Lake to provide sworn testimony, warning of potential contempt of court. Another federal judge issued a separate order Thursday, preventing the administration from removing VOA director Michael Abramowitz. Government lawyers contend the International Broadcasting Act grants the administration considerable leeway to adjust service levels. The law mandates VOA reach a substantial audience and present a “balanced and comprehensive projection of significant American thought and institutions.” The agency previously attempted mass layoffs in June but retracted those notices after employees reported errors. Some staff temporarily returned during heightened Middle East tensions in the summer, but were included in the latest cuts.
“This is not just about jobs,” Hickey said. “It’s about the United States keeping its word to the world.” In a late Friday statement, Lake stated the reduction in force aimed to lessen federal bureaucracy and improve agency operations. “USAGM will continue to fulfill its statutory mission after this RIF — and will likely improve its ability to function,” she said.