President Trump has signed an executive order in May 2025 to cease federal funding for NPR and PBS, alleging biased reporting. The order directs the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to halt direct and indirect funding to these networks.
The administration claims that NPR and PBS do not present fair, accurate, or unbiased portrayals of current events. The CPB must revise its 2025 grant provisions to prohibit funding NPR and PBS. This action intensifies the ongoing criticism from the administration regarding traditional media outlets.
Legal challenges are expected. Paula Kerger, CEO of PBS, stated that defunding would disrupt essential services to the American people. The CPB is also suing the administration over the firing of board members, arguing the President exceeded his authority.