A U.S. court has issued a preliminary injunction protecting the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) from closure attempts, a move that has been celebrated by journalists, federal workers, and unions. This decision is seen as a step in upholding press freedom and preventing political interference in public broadcasting.
“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). He emphasized the significance of preserving the agency’s mission against the Trump administration’s alleged efforts to shut down the Voice of America and other media outlets under USAGM.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders described the ruling as a “major win” for Voice of America workers, reinforcing that the administration cannot dismantle agencies they disagree with. The NewsGuild-CWA also welcomed the injunction, with its President Jon Schleuss noting its role in ensuring the administration reverses its course.
David Seide, Senior Counsel at the Government Accountability Project, expressed satisfaction with the decision, calling it a step towards restoring the agency to full function. Andrew G. Celli, Jr., from the law firm Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel LLP, highlighted the Voice of America as a vital entity providing truth and hope to people under authoritarian regimes.
Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, praised the ruling as a validation of independent journalism’s role in democracy and holding administrations accountable. Amb. Norm Eisen (ret.), representing the State Democracy Defenders Fund, considered the court’s action a reaffirmation of civil servants’ legal protections and the importance of an independent press.
Tom Yazdgerdi, President of the American Foreign Service Association, noted the court’s decision as essential for upholding editorial independence and protecting the credibility of USAGM journalists. Finally, Clayton Weimers, Executive Director of Reporters Without Borders USA, called for the immediate implementation of the ruling to reinstate over 1,300 Voice of America employees.
The decision marks a favorable outcome for USAGM personnel and their unions, reinforcing legal protections for those advocating for truth in broadcasting.
