Marjorie Taylor Greene PBS: House Republicans, led by Marjorie Taylor Greene, accused PBS and NPR of institutional bias at the “Anti-American Airwaves” congressional inquiry. The public media received harsh criticism during the hearing on March 26, 2025, for allegedly utilizing government funds to fund leftist programming.
Republican Claims of Bias
Greene denounced PBS and NPR news as “left-wing echo chambers” that promote a “communist agenda.” She argued that the networks use federal funding to push politically biased narratives while also influencing children through shows like “Sesame Street.”
Additionally, Greene challenged NPR CEO Katherine Maher over her past social media posts criticizing former President Donald Trump. Maher, who acknowledged regretting those comments, emphasized NPR’s commitment to unbiased reporting.
Democratic Pushback
Democrats, in contrast, dismissed the accusations as political theater. Representative Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts criticized Republicans for their fixation on public media, stating, “They’d rather go after Big Bird than address real issues.”
Representative Greg Casar of Texas even held a sign reading, “Fire Elon, Save Elmo,” referencing Elon Musk’s involvement in Trump’s government reduction efforts.
Public media is supported by NPR and PBS.
PBS CEO Paula Kerger argued in her testimony that the network provides educational and local news programming to underserved areas. Among the network’s enduring offerings, she emphasized the popularity of shows like “Curious George” and “Clifford the Big Red Dog.”
Kerger also refuted Greene’s accusations regarding “Sesame Street,” humorously clarifying that Elmo is not a member of the Communist Party.
Future of Public Media Funding
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting received $535 million in federal funding this year, most of which supports local radio and TV stations.Recent Pew Research Center surveys showed that 43% of respondents think public media should continue to receive money, despite Republican lawmakers questioning the necessity of such support.
Both sides of the controversial PBS and NPR future debate are steadfast in their stances.
Source: The New York Times
