May 5, 2025
The White House's recent proposal to eliminate federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) in the FY26 budget has sparked widespread concern among public media supporters. This move threatens the very foundation of trusted, accessible journalism and educational content provided by NPR, PBS, and their local affiliates.
Public media serves as a critical lifeline throughout the country where commercial media outlets are scarce or nonexistent. According to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, nearly half of all rural public media stations rely on CPB funding for at least 25% of their revenue, with some depending on it for over 50% . These stations deliver essential services, including local news, emergency alerts, and educational programming, to areas that might otherwise be media deserts.
PBS and NPR have long been pillars of educational and cultural programming. From children's shows like "Sesame Street" to in-depth news coverage, these outlets provide content that educates and informs. Public media remains one of the most trusted sources of unbiased news and information in the U.S. At a time when misinformation spreads rapidly and media polarization grows, NPR and PBS continue to deliver fact-based reporting, civil discourse, and in-depth storytelling that helps Americans make informed decisions. This commitment to editorial integrity is why public media consistently ranks among the most credible institutions in national surveys—and why preserving its funding is so vital to a healthy democracy.
Eliminating CPB funding jeopardizes the availability of such programming, particularly for children in low-income or rural areas who may lack access to alternative educational resources. This is not just a rural issue; it's a national concern that affects the fabric of our media landscape and the health of our democracy.
At Soundrise, we stand firmly in support of independent media and journalism—not just as business partners, but as passionate advocates for a free and informed society. Public media is more than a platform for news and storytelling; it is a vital public service that reaches into communities across the country, especially in rural and underserved areas where media choices are few and far between.
NPR, PBS, and the local stations that carry their programming play an essential role in delivering fact-based reporting, educational content, and cultural programming that informs, enlightens, and inspires. These institutions are guided not by corporate interest, but by a mission to serve the public good—making them trusted stewards of unbiased journalism and civic dialogue.
We are committed to amplifying the voices of independent creators and ensuring that public media continues to thrive. We believe that access to accurate, impartial news and diverse storytelling isn’t a luxury—it’s a democratic necessity.
We urge our community, partners, and listeners to advocate for the preservation of CPB funding. Contact your elected representatives, support public media through sponsorship, and raise awareness about the importance of independent journalism. Public media is more than just content; it's a public service that informs, educates, and connects us all. Let's ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.
