From Election Denier to Global Broadcaster: Kari Lake’s Unlikely Washington Resurrection
In a stunning political comeback, twice-failed Arizona Republican candidate Kari Lake is poised to lead one of America’s most influential international media organizations despite never holding elected office. President-elect Donald Trump announced Lake’s impending appointment as director of Voice of America (VOA) last week, capping a turbulent political journey that saw her lose both 2022’s gubernatorial race and 2024’s Senate contest.
The Phoenix Political Phoenix
The former Fox 10 anchor turned firebrand conservative politician now faces her most challenging role yet: overseeing 3,500 employees across 49 language services reaching 354 million weekly viewers. This appointment comes despite:
| Controversy | Impact |
|---|---|
| 2020 election denialism | Lost credibility with moderates |
| Abortion law flip-flops | Alienated both pro-life & pro-choice voters |
| Republican infighting | Forced AZ GOP chair resignation |
Media Rehabilitation Tour
In an exclusive CBS interview, Lake sought to calm fears about politicizing VOA: “I’m not there to make it Trump TV and MAGA TV. That’s not what this is about”. This marks a dramatic shift from her 2021-2024 campaign rhetoric where she:
- Called for jailing political opponents
- Promoted election conspiracy theories
- Endorsed Arizona’s 1864 abortion ban before reversing course
Global Media Landscape Shudders
Media watchdogs express concern about Lake’s lack of international broadcasting experience and history of spreading misinformation. Former VOA director Amanda Bennett tweeted: “This appointment dangerously blurs lines between propaganda and journalism.” However, Lake supporters argue her media background makes her uniquely qualified to counter what they call “woke globalist narratives.”
“We need someone who understands real America values beaming to the world,” said Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk during a Phoenix rally.
What’s Next for VOA?
Insiders suggest Lake may:
- Expand coverage of U.S. domestic politics
- Increase focus on border security issues
- Implement personnel changes in leadership roles
As Lake prepares for Senate confirmation hearings in January 2025, all eyes remain on whether this controversial pick can transition from partisan warrior to credible global media executive.
