Voice of America Staff Files Lawsuit

​Six journalists from Voice of America (VOA), including former White House bureau chief Patsy Widakuswara, have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging the recent shutdown of the U.S.-funded news organization.

The plaintiffs argue that the closure violates the First Amendment and exceeds presidential authority, asserting that only Congress has the power to manage and fund such agencies.

The lawsuit seeks to overturn parts of President Trump's executive order that led to the cessation of VOA's operations and to reinstate the media outlet. 

The decision affected over 1,300 employees, who were placed on leave following directives from the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), led by acting director Victor Morales and adviser Kari Lake.

It has also impacted other U.S.-funded media organizations, including Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Radio Free Asia. Critics argue these decisions undermine the United States' ability to promote democracy and provide unbiased news globally. ​

The plaintiffs are requesting immediate judicial intervention to restore funding and resume operations of these media entities, emphasizing their role in delivering objective news to regions lacking a free press. ​

Original Author: Natalia Ovchinnikova