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| Katherine Maher |
On Friday, July 18, 2025, NPR CEO Katherine Maher discussed the future of public radio in an interview on NPR, addressing the recent Congressional decision to strip over $1 billion in funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB).
Maher highlighted the severe impact of these cuts, particularly on rural stations, noting that some, like those in Alaska, rely on federal funds for up to 70% of their budgets. She warned that the cuts could force many stations to reduce services or shut down entirely, affecting local news and emergency alert systems critical for public safety in nearly half of U.S. states. Maher emphasized the immediate impact, citing a prior executive order that already cut $30 million in educational programming, affecting shows like "Daniel Tiger" and "Sesame Street."
Maher expressed concern about the loss of federal funding, which supports 246 NPR member stations, with $100 million of the $121-122 million annual public radio budget going directly to these stations. She cautioned that without this funding, rural communities could lose access to vital information.
Looking forward, Maher confirmed NPR is already engaging in discussions for the FY26 fiscal process to secure alternative funding, though she noted the urgency as some stations’ budget years have already begun. She remained optimistic about public media’s survival, stressing its importance to American communities and her commitment to its mission despite calls for her resignation. Maher argued that focusing on leadership changes would distract from the broader goal of ensuring public media’s future.