Corporation for Public Broadcasting to Shut Down After Loss of Federal Funding in Trump-Backed Bill

Cedar News

3 days ago

Corporation for Public Broadcasting Shutdown Follows Federal Defunding in Trump-Backed Bill
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), a critical source of federal funding for public media outlets like NPR and PBS, announced it will begin winding down operations. The decision comes after Congress passed a bill fully rescinding CPB's federal funding, a move strongly backed by former President Donald Trump and his political allies.
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting shutdown marks a significant turning point in the history of public media in the United States, sparking concern among journalists, educators, and millions of loyal public media viewers and listeners.
CPB's Role in Supporting NPR and PBS Ends
Corporation for Public Broadcasting Shutdown to Impact Thousands
Founded in 1967, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting has served as a nonprofit corporation that distributes federal funds to more than 1,500 local public television and radio stations across the country. With the shutdown, many rural and underserved communities risk losing access to educational programming, news coverage, and cultural content.
'This is a devastating blow to public media in America,' said Paula Kerger, President and CEO of PBS.
CPB Funding Historically Backed by Bipartisan Support
Until recent years, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting enjoyed consistent bipartisan support in Congress. However, growing political polarization and claims by conservative figures that NPR and PBS exhibit liberal bias led to escalating calls for defunding.
Trump-Backed Bill Targets Public Media Infrastructure
A Victory for Conservatives Opposed to Public Media
The bill that triggered the Corporation for Public Broadcasting shutdown was part of a broader government spending reform package championed by Trump-aligned lawmakers. Proponents argue that public media no longer needs taxpayer dollars in the age of digital media and streaming services.
'The American people should not be forced to fund biased media platforms,' said Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene in a statement following the vote.
Critics Say Move Silences Independent Journalism
Opponents of the bill warn that cutting off CPB funding undermines independent journalism, especially in communities with no access to alternative media sources. They argue the Corporation for Public Broadcasting shutdown could accelerate media consolidation and limit diverse perspectives in news coverage.
What's Next After the Corporation for Public Broadcasting Shutdown?
The CPB said it will begin a gradual wind-down of its programs over the coming months. Both NPR and PBS will need to seek private donations, partnerships, or state-level support to continue their operations at current capacity.