A federal judge temporarily halted an executive order by Donald Trump that sought to dismantle Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, while the court decides on a preliminary injunction to ensure its continued operations.
Quick Takes
- A U.S. district judge blocked plans to terminate federal funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
- Judge Royce Lamberth’s ruling emphasized preventing irreversible harm to RFE/RL’s mission.
- The U.S. Agency for Global Media was criticized for its arbitrary funding decisions.
- RFE/RL plays a crucial role in promoting free speech in 23 countries.
Judge Issues Temporary Restraining Order
Judge Royce C. Lamberth blocked the Trump administration’s efforts to eliminate funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, declaring it would breach congressionally mandated support. The judge’s decision reinforces the importance of RFE/RL, a broadcaster integral to promoting freedom and democracy worldwide. RFE/RL has, for decades, operated as one of the organizations that Congress has statutorily designated to carry out this policy. “The leadership of USAGM cannot, with one sentence of reasoning offering virtually no explanation, force RFE/RL to shut down—even if the President has told them to do so,” Lamberth ruled.
The court’s move grants RFE/RL temporary relief while a preliminary injunction hearing is set. The U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), accused of acting arbitrarily, agreed to disburse an already appropriated $7.5 million before the hearing.
Impact and Legal Battles
RFE/RL filed a lawsuit against USAGM, accusing it of violating federal law by attempting to cut funding. The broadcaster seeks continued financial support to maintain its operations across Europe, Central and South Asia, and the Middle East.
This legal battle underscores the significance of RFE/RL’s mission, praised by its President and CEO Stephen Capus for aligning with U.S. national security interests. “We appreciate Judge Lamberth’s thoughtful and airtight ruling to prevent USAGM from ignoring the will of Congress. We look forward to further advancing our case that it’s unconstitutional to deny us the funds that Congress has appropriated to RFE/RL for the rest of the fiscal year,” Steve Capus, the President of RFE/RL, gratified.
The organization remains vigilant in resisting censorship and propaganda efforts.
Future of Strategic Media Outlets
The dispute over RFE/RL reflects broader debates about the future of U.S. government-funded media outlets. These organizations have historically played pivotal roles in fostering freedom of speech and countering authoritarian narratives globally.
The federal court’s ruling temporarily safeguards the free flow of information, pending a further decision on RFE/RL’s funding for the fiscal year, helping to ensure the outlet’s continued operations in promoting democratic values.
Sources
1. Judge Puts A Stop To Donald Trump’s Effort To Shut Down Radio Free Europe
2. Judge blocks funding freeze for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty
