532 JOBS SLASHED – Trump Orders Drastic Cuts

A sweeping layoff of 532 positions from Voice of America underscores a significant shift in U.S. international broadcasting policy.

Story Highlights

Kari Lake announces the reduction of 532 positions at Voice of America.
President Trump’s executive order aims to cut federal bureaucracy.
Legal battles emerge as a judge blocks the director’s removal.
Concerns rise over the impact on media independence and credibility.

Trump’s Executive Order Sparks Major Layoffs

In a dramatic move, Kari Lake, acting CEO of the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), announced the elimination of 532 positions across Voice of America (VOA) and other U.S. government-funded broadcasters. This decision follows a March 2025 executive order by President Donald Trump, aimed at reducing federal bureaucracy and restructuring VOA operations. The layoffs, which leave approximately 100 staff at VOA, have sparked legal and political controversy, including a federal court order blocking the removal of VOA’s director.

Legal and Political Fallout Intensifies

US District Judge Royce Lamberth issued an order blocking efforts to remove VOA director Michael Abramowitz. This legal intervention highlights the tension between executive authority and media independence. The court’s decision mandates Kari Lake to sit for a deposition by September 15, 2025, raising questions about compliance with judicial oversight. The Trump administration frames the layoffs as a move toward government efficiency, while critics argue it undermines VOA’s journalistic independence and international credibility.

Impact on U.S. Global Media

The layoffs have significant implications for U.S. international broadcasting. Short-term effects include disruption of VOA and USAGM operations, loss of institutional knowledge, and morale decline among remaining staff. Long-term concerns focus on the potential weakening of U.S. broadcasting capacity and erosion of journalistic independence. These developments could diminish the U.S.’s global influence and soft power, as critics fear increased political control over media.

Kari Lake cuts 532 government positions at Voice of America, parent agency https://t.co/ArDQAqkzwF #FoxNews

— markwhitelures (@markwhitelures) September 1, 2025

The broader industry may also feel the impact, with heightened scrutiny of executive influence over public institutions and potential legislative responses to protect media independence. As legal challenges proceed, the future of USAGM and VOA remains uncertain, with potential consequences for U.S. public diplomacy and international reputation.