Trump Moves to Defund NPR and PBS by Executive Order

In an unprecedented measure, President Trump signed an executive order terminating all federal funds to public broadcasting, targeting the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) which funds NPR and PBS. The White House brands them as partisan and unnecessary. Critics argue the executive branch lacks authority to impound congressionally allocated funds, raising a possible legal challenge reminiscent of Nixon-era battles. Local stations, particularly rural affiliates, rely heavily on CPB money. Without it, they risk severe cutbacks or closure. PBS’s educational content and NPR’s national journalism could suffer, though both organizations note federal support comprises a fraction of their total budgets. Media advocates say the move stifles independent reporting; the administration calls it ending “liberal media handouts.” Congress might override or restore funding in future budget cycles, but the near-term disruption has stations scrambling.