Lawsuit Challenges Federal Funding Cuts
National Public Radio and three local stations have filed a federal lawsuit against President Donald Trump, claiming his recent executive order to eliminate public funding for NPR and PBS is unconstitutional.
Stations Join Legal Action in Washington
The lawsuit, filed Tuesday in Washington, D.C., includes NPR, Colorado Public Radio, Aspen Public Radio, and KUTE, Inc. The plaintiffs argue that the executive order violates the First Amendment by targeting public media based on its content.
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Executive Order Accuses NPR of Bias
Earlier this month, Trump signed an order directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and other federal agencies to halt funding to NPR and PBS. The order also instructs them to eliminate indirect financial support. Trump alleged the broadcasters show “bias” in their reporting.
First Amendment at the Center of Dispute
In the lawsuit, NPR and the stations argue the executive action is “textbook retaliation” for reporting the president finds unfavorable. They claim it represents “viewpoint-based discrimination” and interferes with their right to editorial independence and expressive association.
Broader Implications for Public Media
The case marks a significant legal challenge with broader implications for public broadcasting’s protection under the Constitution. The plaintiffs say the order threatens not only their funding but also press freedom nationwide.
Keep up with NPR’s lawsuit against the Trump administration with us on Que Onda Magazine.