Judge Orders Restoration of VOA Funding, Blocks Trump Administration

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore funding and operations to Voice of America (VOA) and other U.S.-funded media outlets after ruling that their abrupt shutdown was likely unlawful. Judge Royce Lamberth found that the administration's actions, including the termination of staff and slashing of funds at the U.S. Agency for Global Media, violated federal laws and congressional appropriations. The judge criticized the administration for acting without due process and failing to consider the harm to journalistic integrity, employees, and global audiences. The order mandates the reinstatement of all employees and contractors and requires monthly compliance reports. The administration's justification for the shutdown, citing alleged bias and waste, was rejected by the court, which emphasized VOA's statutory mandate for reliable and objective news. The ruling also affects other broadcasters like Radio Free Asia and Alhurra, ensuring their continued operation while the legal challenge proceeds.