Voice of America's prospects appear grim after appeals court order

A federal appeals court upheld the Trump administration's cuts to Voice of America, dismissing calls from journalists and advocacy groups for restoration. These cuts followed an executive order by Trump and led to layoffs of hundreds of employees. A previous ruling by a district court judge mandated a restoration of services, but the appeals court has frozen that order while it evaluates the case. Coverage from Voice of America has ceased, sparking further concern among advocates for free press about the future of independent journalism in the U.S. government.

We are devastated and concerned that this ruling might lead to further adverse reactions from the administration," Patsy Widakuswara, the lead plaintiff and White House bureau chief for Voice of America tells NPR.

Not only is there an absence of 'reasoned analysis' from the defendants; there is an absence of any analysis whatsoever," Lamberth wrote.

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