Kari Lake is making waves again, but this time it’s not for another run at public office—at least not for now. Speaking at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, the Arizona Republican addressed swirling rumors about her political future. Despite speculation that she might challenge Senator Joni Ernst in Iowa or make another bid for Arizona governor, Lake made her intentions clear: “I am gonna go help President Trump in Washington, D.C. That’s what I’m gonna do.”
🚨 REPORT: Kari Lake issues statement on her future in politics – Az Central
"I don't want to run again." pic.twitter.com/bWhpGVDjvP
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) December 28, 2024
Lake, a staunch ally of Trump, has become a fixture in Republican circles since her controversial 2022 gubernatorial loss to Democrat Katie Hobbs. That election, marred by machine errors and allegations of misconduct, left a bitter taste for Lake. “Why put yourself through that torture again?” she said, referencing her belief that the system was “rigged” against her.
Her decision to pivot away from another campaign makes sense, especially after Trump’s apparent endorsement of her former primary rival, Karrin Taylor Robson, for Arizona governor. Instead, Lake is set to take on a new role: leading Voice of America (VOA) in Trump’s upcoming administration.
The move to nominate Lake as head of VOA is as strategic as it is symbolic. Founded during World War II, VOA is a government-funded international broadcaster tasked with promoting democracy and truth abroad. However, it has faced criticism for alleged bias, particularly during Trump’s first term, when the outlet reportedly published content critical of his administration. Lake, a veteran journalist with two decades of experience as a Phoenix news anchor, seems poised to shake things up. In a post on X, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity, calling VOA “a vital international media outlet dedicated to advancing the interests of the United States.”
Lake’s new role fits her political trajectory perfectly. She’s not retreating from the spotlight; she’s stepping onto a global stage. Her appointment underscores Trump’s intention to reform institutions he sees as adversarial to his agenda. For Lake, who has built her brand on being a vocal critic of mainstream media, the VOA gig seems like a natural fit.
While her decision not to run again may disappoint some supporters, her move to D.C. signals she’s still in the fight—just on a different battlefield. As Lake takes on this new challenge, one thing’s for sure: we haven’t heard the last of her.