In a recent NPR/PBS News/Marist poll, less than half of Americans approved of President Donald Trump during his first 100 days in office. In a controversial move, Trump signed an executive order aimed at cutting federal funding for public broadcasting outlets NPR and PBS, labeling them as partisan and biased. This order directs the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to cease direct funding for these institutions, which provide essential news services to many Americans.
The announcement, made on May 1, raises concerns about the potential impact on credible local and national news sources, particularly during emergencies. Both NPR and PBS have previously warned that such funding cuts would have a “devastating impact” on their operations and the public’s access to vital information.
Additionally, the Trump administration has criticized various institutions in academia and media, branding them as leftist and biased, while threatening funding cuts. This has sparked debates over free speech and academic freedom, raising alarm among human rights advocates.
The CPB, established by Congress in 1967, supports over 1,500 local public radio and TV stations. The organization recently filed a lawsuit against the White House following Trump’s attempt to dismiss three of its board members. Reports indicate that the Trump administration plans to seek a rescission of $1.1 billion in funding for the CPB, reflecting a two-year budget allocation.
Overall, Trump’s efforts to leverage federal funding against media institutions highlight ongoing tensions between his administration and public broadcasting entities, raising significant concerns about the future of independent news coverage in the United States.
