What Next | Daily News and Analysis Is This the End of NPR and PBS?
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Jul 2, 2025 
Brian Stelter, CNN's Chief Media Analyst, dives into the looming threat to public broadcasting as the Trump administration gears up to cut funding from NPR and PBS. He reflects on the historical significance of public media and Mr. Rogers’ heartfelt plea to Congress. Stelter discusses the dire consequences of these funding cuts, particularly for rural stations that rely on public broadcasting. The conversation unpacks the battle for federal support and the ongoing struggle to maintain independent journalism in an increasingly polarized media landscape.
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Fred Rogers' Impactful Hearing
- Fred Rogers testified in 1969 to defend funding for public media before PBS even existed.
- His heartfelt song lyrics helped secure funding in just six minutes during the hearing.
Purpose of Public Broadcasting
- The Corporation for Public Broadcasting was created to provide non-commercial programming supported by taxpayers.
- It fills gaps commercial networks don't, like scientific documentaries and educational content.
Longstanding Conservative Opposition
- Conservatives have fought public media since its inception, often citing liberal bias as a core issue.
- Despite repeated attempts, public media funding persisted due to broad grassroots and bipartisan support.