By Emmanuel Kwada
The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued a preliminary injunction today in Widakuswara v. Lake, declaring that the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) was unlawfully shuttered by the administration, Acting Director Victor Morales, and Special Adviser Kari Lake.
The ruling mandates that USAGM resume its congressionally mandated operations and safeguards the editorial independence of Voice of America (VOA) journalists, as well as other federal media professionals at newsrooms supported by USAGM grants, including Radio Free Asia.
The decision is being hailed as a triumph by journalists, federal workers, and unions, who see it as a vital defense of First Amendment rights, a bulwark against political interference in public broadcasting, and a guarantee that USAGM employees can continue their mission to deliver credible news worldwide.
The Trump administration’s illegal attempt to shutter Voice of America and other USAGM outlets was a blatant move to silence dedicated journalists and professionals who combat authoritarian propaganda with truth
“Today’s ruling is a victory for the rule of law, for press freedom and journalistic integrity, and for democracy worldwide,” said Everett Kelley, National President of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE).
“The Trump administration’s illegal attempt to shutter Voice of America and other USAGM outlets was a blatant move to silence dedicated journalists and professionals who combat authoritarian propaganda with truth. This injunction ensures they can return to their critical work while we fight to secure their jobs and mission.”
AFSCME President Lee Saunders echoed this sentiment, calling the ruling “a major win for AFSCME members and Voice of America workers who have devoted their careers to spreading freedom and truth globally.” He added, “The judge’s message is unequivocal: this administration cannot dismantle essential agencies just because it dislikes their purpose. We’ll keep pushing to fully restore VOA.”
This injunction ensures they can return to their critical work while we fight to secure their jobs and mission
The court’s action follows allegations of unlawful political interference by the administration, which unions and advocacy groups argue threatened the independence of USAGM’s media outlets. “Journalists hold power to account, including this administration,” said Jon Schleuss, President of NewsGuild-CWA. “This injunction forces a reversal, restoring broadcasts that bring hope to those denied freedom.”
Legal representatives and advocates expressed profound relief and optimism. “This is a significant victory for press freedom and the journalists, executives, and staff of Voice of America,” said Andrew G. Celli, Jr., Founding Partner at Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel LLP, counsel for the plaintiffs. “VOA is a living force, offering truth and hope to those under oppressive regimes. We’re thrilled its voice will resonate once more.”
Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, co-counsel for the plaintiffs, emphasized the broader implications: “This decision protects independent journalism and reaffirms that no administration can silence the truth without consequences. We stand with workers, unions, and journalists in this fight for transparency and democracy.”
The court has preserved their credibility and mission
The ruling also garnered praise for its reinforcement of USAGM’s role in countering global disinformation. “These networks are trusted sources of truth where it’s scarce,” said Tom Yazdgerdi, President of the American Foreign Service Association. “By upholding editorial independence, the court has preserved their credibility and mission.”
While the preliminary injunction is a crucial step, advocates acknowledge the battle may continue. “This is just the beginning,” said Amb. Norm Eisen (ret.), executive chair of the State Democracy Defenders Fund. “The court has halted an attempt to undermine a free press, and we’re proud to support this coalition in defending the rule of law.”
Clayton Weimers, Executive Director of Reporters Without Borders (RSF) USA, urged swift action: “Judge Lamberth has recognized the administration’s overreach. USAGM must now act quickly to reinstate over 1,300 VOA employees and resume delivering reliable information to millions.”
Today’s decision not only bolsters the resilience of VOA and its workforce but also sends a resounding message: the rule of law endures, protecting those who speak truth to power. As the case progresses, the coalition of unions, journalists, and legal advocates remains steadfast in their mission to uphold press freedom and democratic values worldwide.
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