Voice of America (VOA) journalists have initiated legal action against the Trump administration, accusing it of unlawfully shutting down the U.S.-funded news network in a manner that violates their First Amendment rights and congressional authority. The lawsuit, filed in Manhattan federal court, highlights significant repercussions for over 900 employees and 550 contractors placed on indefinite leave due to the abrupt measures taken by the administration.

The lawsuit names several journalists, including former White House Bureau Chief Patsy Widakuswara and Press Freedom Editor Jessica Jerreat, as well as Kathryn Neeper, a senior official at the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM). The plaintiffs assert that the shutdown has led to the cessation of vital news services that provide objective reporting in regions lacking press freedoms.

The legal filing argues that “in many parts of the world, a crucial source of objective news is gone, and only censored state-sponsored news media is left to fill the void.” This sentiment echoes earlier criticisms levied against the agency, including those from Reporters Without Borders and various labor unions who have joined the lawsuit to protect press freedoms.

Acting Director Victor Morales and special adviser Kari Lake defended the shutdown, pointing to concerns over “waste, fraud, and abuse” within the agency, suggesting a need for reform. “From top-to-bottom, this agency is a giant rot and burden to the American taxpayer,” Lake stated, arguing that much of the work performed was misaligned with public interest.

The plaintiffs are seeking urgent relief to reinstate both their positions and the functioning of the American-funded broadcasts, which, according to these journalists, play a critical role in disseminating democratic values and factual reporting in foreign nations.

In addition to VOA, the larger network overseen by USAGM includes Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Radio Free Asia, and others, all of which have come under threat due to funding freezes instituted under these new policies.

"What is happening to the VOA journalists is not just a chilling of First Amendment speech; it is a governmental shutdown of journalism," stated David Seide, Senior Counsel for the plaintiffs, reflecting the dismay shared among many in the journalism community.

This lawsuit echoes a historical pattern of litigation against government efforts perceived as infringing upon press freedoms, marking another chapter in the ongoing struggle for independent journalism in the U.S.

For further details, visit NPR and The Hill.