Trump Sidesteps Congress to Defund Public Broadcasting

In a late-night executive order, President Trump froze federal funds to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, effectively defunding NPR and PBS after failing to pass such cuts legislatively. Legal experts say the move defies Congress’s authority over budget allocations and sets up a potential constitutional showdown. Public broadcasting supporters warn local stations, especially in rural areas, depend on these funds for educational children’s programs like “Sesame Street.” The White House argues taxpayers shouldn’t subsidize what it calls “partisan media outlets.” NPR and PBS vow to challenge the order, calling it an overreach that undermines factual, noncommercial content. Congress could counter by overriding the order, but that requires bipartisan support. Meanwhile, smaller affiliates may face immediate budget shortfalls or closure if funds don’t flow soon.