The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), the steward of federal funding for public media outlets like NPR and PBS, has revised its bylaws to strengthen protections for its board of directors. The change, approved this week, stipulates that “no Director may be removed from the Board by any person or authority, including the President of the United States, without a two-thirds vote of the other Directors confirming such removal.” The pointed inclusion of the president in the wording has drawn attention, coming at a time of heightened political scrutiny over public broadcasting.
The CPB’s board, composed of members nominated by the president and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, governs the organization, sets policy, and determines funding priorities for public media. Each director serves a six-year term. The new bylaw appears to be a direct response to recent criticisms from President Donald Trump and some conservative lawmakers, who have accused NPR and PBS of liberal bias in their news coverage. Trump has repeatedly called for defunding public broadcasters, urging Republican legislators to cut the federal support that accounts for roughly 15% of NPR’s budget and a similar share for PBS stations.
Tensions flared last month when GOP lawmakers questioned NPR CEO Katherine Maher and PBS CEO Paula Kerger during a congressional hearing. Lawmakers pressed the executives on their outlets’ editorial decisions, alleging that coverage often skewed against conservative viewpoints. They also scrutinized the funding models of both organizations, which combine federal grants, member station contributions, and private donations. In response, Maher issued a memo this week reaffirming NPR’s mission to “serve the entire nation.” She emphasized a commitment to engaging a politically “diverse” audience and listening more closely to varied perspectives.
The CPB’s move to shield its board members underscores the fraught relationship between public media and the current administration. Supporters of the bylaw change argue it ensures the board’s independence, preventing political interference in an organization meant to serve all Americans. Critics, however, see it as an attempt to entrench leadership that they believe leans too far left. “Public media should reflect the whole country, not just one side,” said Rep. Mark Hensley (R-Texas), who attended the hearing. “If they’re using taxpayer dollars, they need to be accountable.”
For now, the CPB’s board appears insulated from unilateral removal, but the broader debate over public media’s role and funding is far from settled. As Maher and Kerger navigate these challenges, they face the delicate task of balancing journalistic integrity with the demands of a polarized audience.
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