2 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Nov 10
Summary
A three-judge D.C. Circuit panel unanimously ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration illegally removed Voice of America head Michael Abramowitz, affirming a lower-court decision.
The court said a 2020 law required approval from the bipartisan International Broadcasting Advisory Board before firing VOA and other federally funded network chiefs.
Trump had fired six of the board’s seven members days after his second inauguration, leaving only Secretary of State Marco Rubio; at least four non-Rubio members are needed for a vote, and none has been replaced.
Abramowitz, placed on leave in March 2025 and fired in August 2025, could now return as the administration still pushes to shut VOA, which it has branded politically biased.
The ruling adds to earlier judicial setbacks, including a March order voiding the firing of more than 1,000 journalists and the appointment of a Trump ally to lead VOA’s parent agency.