President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Kari Lake, a vocal supporter and former Arizona gubernatorial and Senate candidate, as the new director of Voice of America (VOA). The congressionally funded broadcaster is tasked with delivering impartial news to global audiences.

Lake, a former Phoenix TV news anchor who left her role in 2021 after controversies surrounding her social media posts and COVID-19 misinformation, emerged as a prominent political figure. Known for her sharp criticisms of mainstream media and alignment with Trump’s rhetoric, she gained national attention despite unsuccessful bids for public office.

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Trump announced that Lake would collaborate closely with the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which oversees VOA, to promote “American values of Freedom and Liberty” worldwide. He emphasized Lake’s role in ensuring fair and accurate broadcasting, contrasting it with what he has previously labeled as “fake news.”

VOA, established during World War II, has faced criticism from Trump in the past, including accusations of bias and unfavorable reporting on the U.S. Trump’s remarks particularly targeted VOA's coverage of the early COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan, China, which the White House criticized during his first term.

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Lake has been unwavering in her support for Trump, including promoting unfounded claims of election fraud. Despite losing her Arizona gubernatorial bid and more recently her Senate race, Lake’s loyalty has kept her in Trump’s favor. She has written about her political journey and legal challenges in her book, Unafraid: Just Getting Started.

In related announcements, Trump named Leandro Rizzuto as ambassador to the Organization of American States, Dan Newlin as ambassador to Colombia, and Peter Lamelas as ambassador to Argentina. All appointees are notable Trump supporters or significant Republican donors.