Voice of America staff sue Trump administration over shutdown

Employees and unions of the Voice of America (VOA), along with Reporters Without Borders, have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming that the closure of the U.S.-funded news agency violates their First Amendment rights. The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York, argues that the executive order to shutter VOA undermines journalistic freedom and leaves many countries without access to objective news. Plaintiffs contend that the administration's actions are unconstitutional and detrimental to global press freedom, as they place over 900 employees on administrative leave and terminate numerous contractors. The lawsuit cites statements from Trump administration representatives describing VOA as a source of left-wing propaganda, which the agency's operators dispute. Critics argue that the shutdown aligns with efforts by authoritarian regimes to suppress independent journalism. The plaintiffs are seeking immediate reinstatement of VOA and its funding, emphasizing its role in providing crucial news to regions lacking free press.