Tell CPB: Don’t Let Congress Undermine NPR Journalism

U.S. Senators Joni Ernst and Ted Cruz have demanded that the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) release details about a $1.9 million grant awarded to NPR last October to create a “Backstop” editorial team for final story reviews. This inquiry threatens independent journalism by injecting political pressure into editorial functions. It’s a slippery slope where journalistic decisions could become subject to Congressional approval.

Public media relies on CPB’s support to safeguard balanced journalism, and politically-motivated oversight of editorial grants undermines newsroom autonomy. If mainstream outlets face scrutiny for objective coverage, journalists cannot do their jobs without fear of interference.

We call on CPB to stand firm and reaffirm that support for news teams is not a partisan bargaining chip. Add your name to demand CPB uphold press freedom and safeguard journalists’ independence.