Kari Lake recently shared her thoughts on her potential role at Voice of America (VOA), making it clear that while she doesn’t want to turn the government-funded outlet into a “MAGA TV,” she does hope to see a return to unbiased journalism.
“I’m sure VOA is already doing great work,” she said in a CBS News interview, “but I’m not here to make it Trump TV or MAGA TV. That’s not what this is about.” Lake, who has a background in broadcasting and has previously run for governor and U.S. Senate in Arizona, was chosen by President-elect Donald Trump to head VOA.
VOA, part of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, broadcasts news across radio, television, and online in 49 languages, reaching around 354 million people worldwide every week. It’s an independent federal agency that serves as a global news source.
While at AmericaFest, a political event hosted by Turning Point USA, Lake took aim at what she called “fake news,” claiming mainstream media has become obsolete. “They’re good for one thing,” she said. “They’re like a barometer. If the fake news is attacking someone, you should support that person.”
Later, during her CBS News interview, Lake explained her vision for VOA. She wants to make sure the staff has the resources they need to do their best work. “I want to make sure VOA is producing high-quality journalism, asking the tough questions, and focusing on what really matters,” she said.
When asked if she planned to make any major changes, Lake admitted she’d need to first get a feel for how things are currently running at VOA. “We’re talking to the world through VOA,” she noted. “I want to expand its coverage and make sure the journalism is top-notch.”
Lake also addressed concerns that she might politicize the news outlet, emphasizing that it doesn’t matter whether the reporters are Democrats or Republicans. What matters is whether they can keep their personal opinions in check while delivering fair and accurate news.
“I’ve never met anyone who hasn’t formed some beliefs,” she said. “But as a journalist, can you put those beliefs aside and report fairly?” That’s the standard she plans to push for at VOA.
Finally, Lake responded to the negative portrayal she’s faced in the media. “Sometimes I feel like I have to prove I’m not some monster,” she admitted. “The corporate media has painted such a dishonest picture of me, and I can relate to President Trump in that way.”
It’s worth noting that Trump can’t directly appoint Lake to the VOA role. A bipartisan board would need to approve her appointment, including removing the current director, Mike Abramowitz, who has already expressed his willingness to transition out smoothly.
In short, while Lake is eager to make her mark on VOA, she stresses that her goal is to ensure fair, independent journalism for a global audience.
