Republicans Push to Defund NPR and PBS Over Alleged Bias

Legislation introduced to cut federal funding for public broadcasters as debate intensifies over their role and impartiality.

Rep. Ronny Jackson introduced the 'No Partisan Radio and Partisan Broadcasting Service Act' to eliminate federal funding for NPR and PBS, citing claims of left-wing bias.
NPR CEO Katherine Maher and PBS CEO Paula Kerger defended their organizations during a congressional hearing, emphasizing their importance to rural and underserved communities.
Republican lawmakers criticized NPR's past editorial decisions, including its handling of the Hunter Biden laptop story, which Maher admitted was a mistake.
Federal funding constitutes a small portion of NPR and PBS budgets but is critical for local stations, particularly in rural areas, to maintain operations and emergency alert systems.
Public media advocates warn that defunding could disproportionately harm communities with limited access to alternative news and educational resources.