Voice of America staff sue Trump administration for shutting down network

Voice of America journalists have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging that the decision to put nearly 900 employees on leave and freeze funding was unlawful and unconstitutional. The lawsuit claims violations of First Amendment rights and usurping of Congress’s control over federal funding. The lead plaintiffs include former White House bureau chief Patsy Widakuswara and press freedom editor Jessica Jerreat. The lawsuit seeks immediate reinstatement of all employees and contractors and points to regulations meant to protect the network’s professionalism from political interference. The lawsuit is supported by unions, advocacy groups, and press rights organizations.

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