Kari Lake Could Be the Next Director of Voice of America: What You Need to Know

Kari Lake, the former Arizona news anchor turned political figure, might soon be stepping into one of the most influential roles in global media. On December 11, 2024, former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Lake to become the next director of Voice of America (VOA), a significant step for both Lake's political career and the agency itself.

VOA is part of the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), an independent organization responsible for broadcasting news, information, and programs that promote American values worldwide. This potential appointment would bring Lake’s blend of media experience and political alignment to a global platform, aligning VOA with Trump’s vision for reforming government-funded media.

Let’s dive deeper into the story and explore what this appointment could mean for both Kari Lake and Voice of America.

What is Voice of America?

Before delving into Kari Lake’s potential leadership at VOA, it’s essential to understand the role of this agency in American diplomacy and global media.

Founded in 1942, Voice of America was established during World War II to combat Nazi propaganda, offering accurate, unbiased news as a counter to enemy messaging. Over the decades, VOA has expanded its reach, broadcasting to over 354 million people across 40 languages. Its mission? To promote American values, democracy, and press freedom while ensuring a credible voice in regions with restricted media access.

Through radio, television, and digital platforms, VOA reaches audiences worldwide, from countries where free press is limited to those in need of unbiased news. It’s a key player in U.S. efforts to counter foreign disinformation and propaganda, making the position of VOA director a high-stakes role in global communication.

Kari Lake’s Media Legacy

Kari Lake’s career in media spans nearly three decades. A former news anchor at Fox 10 Phoenix, Lake became a household name in Arizona, known for her sharp commentary and deep ties to local news. Her career in broadcasting has made her a familiar face to many Americans, but it’s her political career in recent years that has catapulted her into the national spotlight.

Lake’s political journey began with her run for Arizona governor in 2022, where she was a strong proponent of Trump’s policies and rhetoric. Despite a passionate campaign and Trump’s endorsement, she ultimately lost the gubernatorial race. Following that, she shifted her focus to a high-profile U.S. Senate race in November 2024, but once again fell short of securing the seat.

Despite her losses, Lake remains a staunch Trump ally and vocal critic of the mainstream media, particularly outlets she believes spread "fake news." Her strong stance against perceived media bias has resonated with a large segment of conservative voters, giving her a loyal following.

Trump’s Endorsement of Lake for VOA Director

Trump's endorsement of Lake as the next Director of Voice of America came through a post on Truth Social, his social media platform. In his announcement, Trump stated that Lake would ensure that VOA broadcasts “America’s values of freedom and liberty around the world fairly and accurately.” The endorsement is significant, especially considering the tensions between the Trump administration and VOA during his first term.

While presidents traditionally don’t directly choose the VOA director, Trump’s support of Lake signals a shift in how the agency could operate under a new leadership structure. The process typically involves the U.S. Agency for Global Media director nominating a VOA head, but Trump’s endorsement suggests that he may bypass the usual channels.

What Would Kari Lake’s Leadership Mean for VOA?

If Lake were appointed to lead VOA, it would represent a dramatic shift in the agency’s direction. Trump’s criticism of the media during his presidency was no secret, with him calling VOA a “disgrace” for its coverage of global issues and accusing it of promoting Chinese propaganda. Under Lake’s leadership, there is a clear expectation that the agency would undergo significant reforms.

Lake has been vocal about the need for media accountability, often echoing Trump’s criticisms of the American press. She could push VOA to align more closely with conservative values, amplifying the U.S. government’s global influence while ensuring that VOA broadcasts are free from what some conservatives view as biased media narratives.

Moreover, Lake’s position as a high-profile political figure could elevate VOA’s prominence in the global media landscape. Under her stewardship, VOA could potentially expand its reach into areas where the U.S. has been seen as losing ground, particularly in the fight against foreign state-controlled media outlets.

A New Chapter for Voice of America?

Lake’s potential appointment comes just months after VOA swore in a new director, which typically signals a period of stability and continuity. However, with the possibility of another leadership change, the agency could see substantial reforms in how it operates.

Although Lake has expressed honor in Trump’s public endorsement, her official appointment would depend on the nomination process through the U.S. Agency for Global Media. If Trump nominates someone for that role and the advisory board approves the decision, Lake’s leadership could shape the future of VOA for years to come.

The Political Context: Lake’s Endorsement and Future Ambitions

Kari Lake’s potential rise to VOA director represents more than just a media appointment; it signals a continuation of Trump’s influence on conservative media. Lake is a prominent figure in the movement to challenge mainstream media narratives, and her leadership at VOA would be a powerful tool in that fight.

Her controversial yet effective communication style, honed during her years as a journalist, could make her an effective leader at VOA. However, her previous losses in political races—especially the governor and Senate elections—raise questions about her ability to manage a government agency with such global influence.

What Happens Next?

For now, Trump’s announcement is merely a suggestion. The nomination process must go through the usual channels, and it remains to be seen if Lake will formally be appointed to lead VOA. However, if the appointment goes through, it would mark a new era for the agency, with Lake at the helm.

As the world watches, the future of Voice of America may be shaped by Lake’s leadership and the influence of the Trump administration, potentially redefining the role of the U.S. in the global media ecosystem.