Trump Signs Executive Order to Cut Federal Funding for NPR and PBS, Citing Bias
Former 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), accusing both organizations of biased reporting.
In the order, Trump criticized the public broadcasters, stating: “Neither entity presents a fair, accurate, or unbiased portrayal of current events to taxpaying citizens.” He instructed the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) — the body through which NPR and PBS receive taxpayer support — as well as all executive departments and agencies, to halt funding for the two outlets.
Although NPR and PBS receive some public funding, the majority of their revenue comes from private donations and other sources. For instance, NPR’s director, Katherine Maher, projected in March that the station would receive about $120 million from the CPB in 2025, which accounts for less than 5% of its budget.
Trump has long had a combative relationship with much of the mainstream media, often labeling it the “enemy of the people.” One major exception has been the conservative-leaning Fox News, which has enjoyed a closer rapport with Trump and has even seen some of its personalities take on roles within his administration.
The executive order’s practical impact remains uncertain, as Congress has already approved the CPB’s budget through 2027, potentially limiting the directive’s immediate effect.
According to NPR and PBS estimates, their reach remains significant: NPR attracts over 40 million weekly radio listeners, while PBS reaches approximately 36 million monthly viewers through its local television affiliates.
Media advocacy group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) responded with concern, warning of “an alarming deterioration in press freedom” in the U.S. under Trump and citing increasing challenges faced by independent journalists globally.
