Sage Smiley

Mike Gonzalez, a Senior Fellow at The Heritage Foundation, argues against public broadcasting funding, calling for cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Sage Smiley, News Director at KYUK, highlights local public radio's critical role in providing essential information to the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region. They discuss the ongoing political battles over funding amidst accusations of bias, the importance of local journalism for community accountability, and the necessity of public media during crises like wildfires and climate change.

This episode features Senator Lisa Murkowski, a U.S. Senator from Alaska, and Sage Smiley, news director at the bilingual public radio station KYUK. They discuss the crucial role KYUK plays in emergency communications, especially during crises like the recent typhoon that struck Alaska. Murkowski highlights the devastating impact of funding cuts on public media and its essential service for rural communities. Smiley shares stories of how bilingual broadcasts save lives, providing vital updates on weather and safety in the region.