President-elect Donald Trump’s decision to appoint longtime loyalist Kari Lake as the head of Voice of America has had a significant impact on Arizona Republicans. Lake, who has been a prominent figure in Arizona politics, recently lost back-to-back races for governor and Senate, leading some Republicans to question her future in the state. Despite her losses, Lake’s name had been considered for key positions within the Arizona Republican Party.
With Lake now appointed to lead Voice of America, it has effectively removed her from the conversation surrounding future political roles in Arizona. This move has created an opportunity for other Republicans, like Karrin Taylor Robson, to step into the spotlight. Robson, who came in second in the Republican gubernatorial primary in 2022, is now being seen as a potential candidate for governor in 2026.
While Lake’s appointment to Voice of America may have taken her out of the running for state political positions, she is still expected to play a significant role in Arizona GOP politics. With a strong social media presence and support among the MAGA crowd, Lake remains a formidable figure within the party. Despite her loss in the 2022 elections, Lake’s popularity could have made her a strong contender for the position of Arizona Republican Party chair.
In her new role at Voice of America, Lake will oversee a multi-million dollar agency that broadcasts in over 40 languages to a global audience of millions. With her extensive experience in broadcast news, including 22 years at a Fox affiliate in Phoenix, Lake is well-equipped to lead the agency. However, her appointment is subject to approval by the head of the U.S. Agency for Global Media and a seven-member advisory board.
Former Agency for Global Media head Michael Pack faced allegations of using his position to promote the Trump administration’s agenda, raising concerns about politicization of the agency. Lake’s appointment signals a shift in leadership and a renewed focus on promoting American values and democracy through international media.
In a statement on Truth Social, Lake expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead Voice of America and pledged to uphold the agency’s mission of promoting democracy and truth worldwide. Trump also voiced his support for Lake, praising her as a beloved news anchor in Arizona who will help broadcast American values globally.
Despite her past controversies, including false claims about the 2020 election, Lake’s appointment to Voice of America marks a new chapter in her career. As she takes on this new role, Lake has the opportunity to shape the agency’s message and contribute to the promotion of American ideals on the global stage.
