The Brian Lehrer Show The Senate Approved Cuts to NPR and PBS. What Happens Next?
Jul 17, 2025
LaFontaine Oliver, President and CEO of New York Public Radio, shares insights on the recent cuts to NPR and PBS funding. He discusses the broader implications for both large networks and rural public radio stations, emphasizing the urgent need for community support. The talk highlights the significant challenges ahead, including the importance of innovative fundraising and activism to protect the future of public broadcasting. Insights on how these cuts could affect local journalism and programming make for a compelling discussion.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
WNYC Faces Major Budget Cuts
- Losing federal funding means losing $3 million or 3-5% of WNYC's budget starting FY26.
- These funds support everything from content acquisition to production, plus key collaborations statewide.
Call Representatives to Fight Cuts
- Contact your representatives to oppose the rescission of federal funding for public media.
- Stay engaged until the House vote is finalized, as the outcome could still change.
WAMC's Diverse Coverage Under Threat
- WAMC covers diverse rural and urban areas stretching from Plattsburgh to Newburgh and in the Berkshires.
- The station faces a 5% budget cut, about $500,000, threatening essential community reporting and early warning systems.