In a recent announcement by President-elect Donald Trump, former Fox 10 Phoenix news anchor Kari Lake was named the new director of the federally funded international broadcasting network Voice of America (VOA). Trump expressed his enthusiasm for Lake’s appointment, emphasizing the importance of providing a fair and accurate representation of American values globally, contrasting it with what he termed the “Fake News Media.” Established on February 1, 1942, as a means to combat Nazi propaganda, VOA was designed to communicate U.S. policies to non-American audiences, highlighting its mission to promote democracy and truth.
In her response to the appointment, Lake expressed her gratitude and commitment to advancing the goals of VOA. She highlighted the organization’s significant reach, which engages an audience of 326 million people across 48 languages. Lake’s focus during her leadership will be on chronicling America’s achievements internationally, reinforcing the network’s mission to inform and connect with people worldwide. Her appointment signifies a commitment to revitalizing VOA’s role in global broadcasting under the forthcoming leadership of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, an announcement that is expected to follow soon.
On the same evening of her nomination, Trump also announced several other significant appointments. Among them was Michael J. Rigas, who has been nominated as the deputy secretary of state for management and resources. Trump praised Rigas for his record of accountability and effectiveness in government, having previously served in various capacities during Trump’s first term, particularly within the Office of Personnel Management and the Office of Management and Budget. Rigas’s appointment signals an intent to reinforce conservative values and management practices within the State Department.
Daniel J. Newlin was appointed as the U.S. ambassador to Colombia, with Trump highlighting Newlin’s extensive law enforcement experience gained from a 28-year career with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Orlando. Newlin’s background in investigating significant crimes positions him as a strategic advocate for U.S. interests abroad. Trump expressed confidence that Newlin would be effective in strengthening economic partnerships and ensuring U.S. influence in international matters, indicating a strategic approach to foreign relations.
Additionally, Trump nominated Dr. Peter Lamelas as ambassador to Argentina and Leandro Rizzuto Jr. as ambassador to the Organization of American States. Lamelas, noted for his entrepreneurial success in healthcare and his refugee background, symbolizes a dedication to humanitarian issues and strengthening bilateral ties. Meanwhile, Rizzuto’s previous role as U.S. consul general to Bermuda lays a foundation for his new responsibilities in fostering regional diplomacy. Each of these appointments reflects Trump’s strategic selections aimed at advancing U.S. interests and enhancing international relationships under his administration.
Overall, Trump’s appointments convey a clear message about his administration’s priorities, focusing on accountability, conservative values, and enhancing the United States’ international presence. The choice of Kari Lake to lead the VOA, in particular, highlights a renewed commitment to broadcasting an American narrative that contrasts sharply with global media perspectives. As these new officials prepare to take office, their collective experiences and backgrounds indicate a possible shift in how the U.S. engages with global audiences, emphasizing a narrative of freedom and success in alignment with American ideals.
