NPR's Chief Content Officer Resigns

Edith Chapin, NPR’s editor in chief and acting chief content officer, announced her decision to step down on Tuesday in a message to colleagues. The veteran news leader’s departure comes shortly after a Republican-led Congress, citing claims of liberal bias from President Trump, voted to eliminate federal funding for public broadcasting.

Chapin emphasized that her decision was personal and not influenced by Congress’s actions. 

In a brief interview, she revealed she informed NPR CEO Katherine Maher of her choice two weeks prior, catching Maher by surprise. “I’ve held two major executive roles for two years, and I need a break to ensure I’m always performing at my best for NPR,” 

Chapin said. She plans to remain with NPR until September or October 2025.

Edith Chapin

Congress’s vote, driven by Republican accusations of left-leaning bias and wasteful spending at NPR and PBS, threatens federal funding promised under the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson. This marks a significant challenge for public media’s financial stability.

In a staff memo, Maher praised Chapin’s contributions, calling her “an indispensable partner” and a “steady leader” during her first year as CEO. Maher noted she would share details on transition plans and interim leadership later.

Chapin joined NPR in 2012 from CNN as chief international editor, rising to senior vice president of news and editor in chief. In 2023, then-CEO John Lansing unified NPR’s reporting, shows, and podcasts, appointing Chapin as acting chief content officer for the new division. She declined the permanent role, citing the need for someone with a different skill set to shape NPR’s content strategy and mission. She has served in the acting role for nearly two years.

Reflecting on her departure, Chapin acknowledged the timing is challenging but said, “There’s never a good time. I needed to set a date and share my decision.”