President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Kari Lake, a former Arizona news anchor and Republican candidate, as the new Director of Voice of America (VOA).
Trump announced the decision on Truth Social, praising Lake’s two-decade career in journalism and her ability to communicate effectively with audiences.
“I am pleased to announce that Kari Lake will serve as our next Director of the Voice of America. She will be appointed by, and work closely with, our next head of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, who I will announce soon, to ensure that the American values of Freedom and Liberty are broadcast around the World FAIRLY and ACCURATELY, unlike the lies spread by the Fake News Media,” wrote Trump.
This appointment comes after Lake’s recent political setbacks, including her loss in the 2022 Arizona gubernatorial race and her unsuccessful 2024 Senate campaign against Ruben Gallego.
Established in 1942, Voice of America has long been a cornerstone of U.S. efforts to promote free speech and democracy abroad. The organization operates under USAGM and broadcasts news and cultural programming to audiences worldwide. Its mission, shaped during pivotal historical moments like World War II and the Cold War, remains focused on combating disinformation and advancing press freedom.
Trump’s selection of Lake signals his intent to leverage VOA as a strategic tool for enhancing America’s influence, particularly in regions where authoritarian narratives dominate, reported Fox 4 KDFW.
Lake’s appointment reflects a broader effort by the Trump administration to align VOA with its foreign policy goals.
Trump’s statement alluded to the need for a director who can adapt to modern challenges in global media. Lake’s experience as a journalist and her strong ties to the Republican base make her a fitting choice for this role. Analysts suggest that her leadership could significantly change VOA’s programming and outreach strategies, potentially reshaping its global perception.
However, the move has sparked debate about the balance between government oversight and editorial independence at VOA.
Critics have raised concerns about the politicization of VOA under partisan leadership. Historically, VOA has faced scrutiny for its dual role as a government-funded broadcaster and a champion of journalistic integrity. Observers argue that Lake’s close affiliation with Trump could challenge the agency’s nonpartisan mission.
Proponents, however, view Lake’s appointment as an opportunity to revitalize VOA and enhance its impact in countering propaganda from rival nations. Lake’s supporters believe her background equips her to navigate the complexities of global media while staying true to VOA’s founding principles.
Lake’s statement following the announcement emphasized her commitment to engaging audiences and promoting truthful reporting. She highlighted the importance of using VOA’s platform to foster understanding and combat misinformation. Advocating for transparency and dialogue, she urged parents and educators to encourage media literacy to counteract fake news.