In a controversial move that has sparked intense national debate, former President Donald Trump—currently campaigning for a potential return to the White House—publicly called for the immediate end of all federal funding to National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). The announcement came during a rally in Ohio, where Trump sharply criticized what he described as “biased government media that no longer serves the American people.”
A Target of Conservative Criticism
NPR and PBS have long been targets of conservative critics who argue the outlets lean left in their editorial coverage, despite their charter mandates to provide balanced and educational content. Trump labeled them “propaganda arms of the radical left” and accused them of “spreading misinformation under the guise of journalism.”
While Trump’s comments do not carry direct legislative power at this time, they carry significant influence within Republican circles and could shape the platform of the GOP heading into the 2024 election cycle. Several Republican lawmakers have already expressed support for defunding public media institutions. 
Funding at Stake
Federal support for public broadcasting in the U.S. is relatively modest. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which helps fund NPR and PBS member stations, receives about $465 million annually. These funds help support public radio and television stations across the country, especially in rural areas where commercial media presence is limited or nonexistent.
Critics of Trump’s move say cutting this funding would devastate small public stations, compromise access to educational children’s programming, and damage civic journalism—especially in underserved communities.
Reactions from NPR and PBS
NPR and PBS leadership responded swiftly. PBS President Paula Kerger stated, “We remain committed to serving all Americans with fact-based journalism and educational programming. This decision is political, not fiscal.”
NPR issued a statement calling the move “an attack on press freedom and public service media.” It also noted that while NPR itself receives little direct federal funding, many of its affiliate stations depend on CPB grants to stay operational.
Public and Political Backlash
The announcement has prompted significant backlash from education advocates, journalists, and bipartisan groups who view public broadcasting as a vital democratic institution.
Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), a frequent defender of public media funding, expressed concern: “Public broadcasting provides essential services in rural America—this decision would hurt families, children, and the elderly across the nation.”
On the other hand, Trump’s base applauded the move, seeing it as a symbolic stand against what they view as a media establishment hostile to conservative values.
What Happens Next?
While Trump’s demand has no immediate legislative teeth, it sets the stage for a renewed political fight over public media funding. If Republicans gain control of both houses of Congress and the White House in 2024, the move could become policy. Until then, NPR and PBS continue to operate under current funding arrangements—but uncertainty looms.
