U.S. Federal Judge Halts Trump Administration’s Shutdown of Global Media Outlets

U.S. Federal Judge Halts Trump Administration’s Shutdown of Global Media Outlets

Report By Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

A federal court has blocked the Trump administration’s controversial move to shut down key U.S. government-funded international broadcasters, including Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Asia, and the Middle East Broadcasting Networks.

U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth ordered the administration to reinstate more than 1,300 employees and 600 contractors for Global Media (USAGM) operations last month.

The judge instructed the administration to resume all radio, television, and digital news services immediately, citing clear congressional mandates that prohibit any unilateral attempt by the executive branch to defund or dismantle these organizations.

Judge Upholds Congressional Authority

Judge Lamberth ruled that the shutdown violated laws passed by Congress, which have long supported the agency’s mission to provide factual and independent news to international audiences.

“These broadcasts were created to promote freedom of expression and democratic values globally,” the judge said in his decision. “The executive branch does not have the authority to end them without Congressional approval.”

Funding Confirmed by Law

The judge noted that President Trump had recently signed a funding bill that included budget provisions for USAGM. This undercut the administration’s argument that it had legal grounds to defund the agency or suspend operations.

With a 2024 budget of $886 million and over 3,500 employees, USAGM remains a crucial arm of U.S. public diplomacy, especially in regions with limited media access.