Journalists File Lawsuit Against USAGM Over VOA Shutdown

A lawsuit has been filed against the Trump administration by Voice of America (VOA) journalists, unions, and advocacy groups, claiming unlawful actions led to the network's effective shutdown. The suit alleges that the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) violated First Amendment rights and congressional control over federal funding by placing over 900 employees on indefinite leave and terminating numerous contractors. Plaintiffs argue that these actions were intended to silence a news organization that does not align with the administration's agenda, as described by Kari Lake, a Trump adviser who criticized VOA as a 'giant rot.' The lawsuit includes prominent plaintiffs such as Patsy Widakuswara, VOA's White House bureau chief, and is backed by several unions including the American Federation of Government Employees. The plaintiffs seek to restore VOA's operations and challenge the executive overreach that led to the suspensions. This situation highlights significant concerns regarding press freedom and government influence over independent media outlets.