Trump Orders Cut to NPR, PBS Funding
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing the cessation of federal funding for National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), escalating his administration’s efforts to reshape public media.
The order, announced late Thursday, instructs the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) and other federal agencies to halt direct and indirect financial support for the two outlets, citing allegations of partisan bias.
Executive Order Details
The order mandates that the CPB Board “cancel existing direct funding to the maximum extent allowed by law and shall decline to provide future funding” to NPR and PBS.
It further requires the CPB to ensure that public radio and television stations, along with other recipients of CPB funds, do not use federal money to support the broadcasters.
The White House, in a social media post, claimed NPR and PBS “receive millions from taxpayers to spread radical, woke propaganda disguised as ‘news.’”
Public Media Response
NPR and PBS have warned that defunding could severely disrupt their operations.
Paula Kerger, PBS’ CEO and president, stated last month:
There’s nothing more American than PBS, and our work is only possible because of the bipartisan support we have always received from Congress.
Paula Kerger.
Both organizations have emphasized their role in providing credible local and national news, particularly during emergencies, and argue that cuts would harm millions of Americans who rely on their services.
Broader Context
This move aligns with Trump’s broader strategy to leverage federal funding against institutions he perceives as biased.
Since taking office in January, his administration has targeted various sectors, including academia and media, labeling them as “leftist” or “woke.”
The White House has also proposed rescinding $1.1 billion in CPB funding, equivalent to two years’ worth, as part of a $9.1 billion budget cut package.
Meanwhile, the CPB has sued the administration over Trump’s attempt to dismiss three of its five board members, alleging overreach.
Legal and Political Challenges
The order follows Trump’s unsuccessful efforts to defund other government-supported media, such as Voice of America and Radio Free Europe, which were blocked by federal courts.
As the administration pushes forward, NPR and PBS face an uncertain future, with potential disruptions to their 1,500+ locally managed stations and over 1,450 combined employees.